Suggestion for new tank for cichlid fish

Question
I wanted to ask you a question regarding the best setup tank for cichlids?  I all ready have a 40g community tank and I have learned from my mistakes regarding cycling and fish.  But, what I would like to create is a new cichlid tank and take the time to do everything properly.  Can you recommend what is the best tank setup?
Size?
What type of filters? Underground?
Any specific types of tanks?  Accrylic or glass?
Protien skimmers? (which i dont know what they are used for)
Anything that I can simply look on ordering online and build a nice tank versus buying a large tank from a fish store and find that the equipment provided is sub-par.  Price is a factor but I would rather purchase better parts slowly than cheaper pieces all at once.  

I found that I enjoy the looks of the fish, with cichlids, than regular community fish and I just want to do it right.  I appreciate your time.

Answer
Glad to hear that your willing to take the time necessary to do things right, on of the first mistakes people make are adding fish before the tank is ready for them.

The size of the aquarium is dependent on how many fish you plan on keeping and the type, South American Cichlids require a larger tank then African's normally do cuz they normally get larger.

As for Acrylic or glass, it really doesn't matter, its more personal preference.

Protein Skimmers are for salt water tanks and really serve little purpose in fresh water aquariums.

For filtration I prefer to use hang on the back power filters with a bio wheel or bio substrate, UG filters get dead spots and can cause problems with the bacteria in the aquarium causing spikes in ammonia.  Get a good submersible heater, keep the aquarium temp in the 78F area.

Anymore questions please let me know and good luck.
Craig.