I have been on Altace and Plendil. Altace caused throat problems and Plendil caused rapid heartrate and palpatations. I'm now on Benicar but mine is with the HCTZ. It took about 30 days for me to see any results on the Benicar but after that it has been very consistant.
Before Benicar 142/76 - 173/87
With Benicar 113/67 - 129/70
That may not be perfect for some but it's the best control I've had in years
Cass

I agree with zuzu on the 40 mg.

Alternatives:
Since you got good results with a CCB in the past why not try verapamil, a calcium channel blocker that is VERY different from the Plendil (feldipine) and Norvasc (amlodipine)
There is a new transurethral heating process that often cures BPH in an office visit. Give a look.
THe HCTZ often makes ALL the difference in BP control It was the first and is close to the strongest drug, especially for people who readily retain water from excess salt. MANY people neeed a diuretic to get enough "kick" out of the ARB's.