Begining construction on stand..(Pics)

[Majestic_Aquariums]

A quick suggestion if I may-Home Depot carries a 3/4 maple plywood here at $56.00/sheet. It is what they call paint grade, and yet it looks quite nice stained as well. As far as stain, I would recommend an oil based transparent, or preferably even an alchol base-tends to absorb to maple or birch quite well.
As far as mouldings-your'e right. They got you by the ..... there. It adds up quick. Maybe primed pine? Would have to paint to contrast the woodgrain finish, but it is a more affordable alt. if you don't want MDF
Robert.