If the opportunity is available, look at Fantasea and Ikelite side by side to compare the design, features, and whatever else you feel is important. I compared the two and remained happy with my Ikelite purchase.
Another factor is which ports you need, which is determined by what lenses you will buy. Fantasea's product range is not as broad as Ikes.
Last, what is your strobe strategy. If you like Ike strobes, then the Ike housing particularly makes sense. If you are looking at other strobes, then Fantasea may be more viable.
Last, search the boards for discussions on the two companies. Although the posts may not be about your particular camera, you can get a feel about each company, their designs and their customer service.
Last, cost may play a small part (plus Fantasea comes with free insurance for a year). For you total dSLR rig, the couple hundred dollar difference between the two is a small amount compared to cost of the entire setup.
After that, get off the fence, buy something, take some pictures, and post them on ScubaBoard!
David
Disclaimer: I have an Ikelite housing for my D80 and Ikelite strobes. I have never owned anything buy Fantasea, although I have looked at it.
Why not buy the Fantasea housing for the D40x? I am also interested in buying a housing for my D40 at some point but would like to buy a cheaper option if there isn't anything wrong with it. It looks like one could buy the Fantasea housing for $1050 vs. $1400 for the Ikelite and even more for the Aquatica. Also, isn't it an advantage to have a transparent housing so that you can see leaks immediately? I'm a total newbie to underwater photography so would really appreciate any advice.
