Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers - Which Humidifier to buy?

I have been reading on this topic for several days and have not been able to come to a decision on which type of humidifier to buy. I live in a 2 story home that is 1 year old with a finished basement. I have forced air heating and AC split into 2 units--the upstairs (1300Sq ft) and the downstairs with basement (2100Sq ft). I have plenty of room around the units and condensation pumps on both systems.

Questions:
1-First I would like to see which type of system do you guys recommend (Powered unit or by-pass). I have heard that the by-pass is harder to install and it hurts the efficiency of your AC. Are there any down sides to the powered unit?
2-Second is there a serious difference between the Honeywell & Aprilair, which do you recommend?

Thanks for all your help.

1- I perfer the by-pass unit, there less to go wrong, and no noise. Just as long you know to close the damper on the by-pass in the summer no efficiency is lost..

2- Both brand are good. They are pretty much the same of how it works. Most of the Honeywell Humidistat are pretty basic. Aprilaire has some what complex but it already has an outdoor sensor if needed.

Id go for the Aprilaire 700 power unit for the home you have . They work very well and easy to put in.