| Hi Steve,
In the past, open cell foam & other mats were so dense that dead bacteria could cause channeling. Spacing would allow water to move around an obstructed spot and still wet the entire mat just after the obstruction. Many people are still spacing and/or cutting up J-mat, not knowing why, just that someone else said that's the way it’s always been done. Japanese mat is very open and hard to channel.
Matalla isn't better, other than it's more rigid. That rigidity isn't often needed, J-mat is rigid enough. The different densities diminish one of the benefits of J-mat. A denser media will plug easier and there is less oxygen/surface area. If your oxygen is marginal or the water flow ceases, the oxygen will deplete much faster. Don’t chase that comment on denser media.
Not many old timers bother with Matalla. It’s appears to be something that’s more profitable for dealers.
And J-mat is cheaper.
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