Download accelerator does seem to be spyware of some sort...I can't give you details of what it does, but a search on the words might...especially in Google groups.

I use both DLExpert and Star downloader with success. Lately, Star has gotten the most praise in the alt.comp.freeware group, but that may just relate to who is posting. Anything in that list at Pricelessware will work ok. It may come down to simply how YOU like the interface and features *smile*

Being on cable (which I hope to do soon), the speed is not the issue as much as the convenience. I kind of like the way DLExpert saves and displays stuff I have downloaded....I often just use the built in thing in my browser (Opera, mostly) but there the records are not kept permanently. With a download manager, you can set it like an alarm clock and set all sorts of parameters you want it to follow.

Your choice....