I am a hardcore Aquaclear fan, never had trouble ith them, or getting parts for it (like the intake extensions)..........I tried a penguin, just couldn't do the job, same with those tetra ones.......i own 5 Aquaclears and all are at least 1-2 yrs old and they work wonderfully........you mentioned a piece missing......that is probally why so loud, the piece may have had something to do with keeping it quiet. Just because the filter works without the piece, doesnt mean the piece is not important or has a job to do.....my Aquaclears I take the lids off, only so I can plant some Flowing type marginal water plants - like veronica beccabunga, watercress etc...., to flow down and quiet the drop of water - my tanks normally have turtles in them, so can;t fill it all the way or put a hood on it......
I am glad you found a filter that suits you, but it sounds as though you had a defective filter/motor.
