I agree that the "new" stand has a nicer look, but in my opinion, with SW always being dripped/spilled down the front, I believe that the old cabinet is probably much easier to clean. I am glad that I received the old instead of the new for that reason. The new one does have a better look, but would not be as easy to wipe down.
Good question about the bulbs though. One of my is burnt out, or loose, or something because only one is working today. I will have to remove the plastic screws, take out the clear shield, and check it out. Waiting for hubby to help, because I always break stuff. I am already worried that I would drop half of the plastic screws into the tank, lol.