We've been looking at hoods lately too. And are likely to go with an Abakka insert and custom made copper shell by a local metal smith. They are willing to custom make the insert and get good reviews.

Thanks. Appreciate other opinions as well.

Man, I thought the GWers would have been all over this question.

BTW I called Modern-Aire. Their 40" 300 series stainless 600CFM is $1531 shipped. 22.5" depth.

I have a Modern Aire, but it's a 34". I love it. I bought it at a Kitchen Center.

Yes both Modernaire and Abakka will do custom fora modest up charge. We are going with the remote blower. The shape of the abakka worked
Out better for our space

How much extra is a remote blower setup?

In my recent hood search and research, I found that Modern Aire uses Abakka blowers for their remote set ups. I needed a pyramid/chimney style for over an island, which needed to be customized for our sloped ceiling. I also wanted a remote blower. Had it narrowed down to Modern Aire or Prizer, (BlueStar's parent co.) Decided on the Prizer, because of it's seamless construction, although a bit more $. I believe they do inserts as well. prizerhoods.com