Camera Accessories advice

[mubs]

I was looking at the Olypus web site for accessories available for the C-4000 Zoom. They had:

1. CLA-1 Lens Adapter Tube (41-43mm)
2. Step Up Ring (43 to 55mm)
3. Filters

I believe #1 is required if one wants to just protect the lens, even. The threads are on an outer tube, and when the camera is turned on, the inner tube with the lens moves out. So to use a UV or clear protective filter, one will need to use #1. This tube apparently also steps up the size from 41 mm to 43 mm.

I am totally clueless as to Olympus says that to use a filter, both #1 and #2 are required. Can't one just use a 43 mm filter directly on #1?

43 mm filters are available. Can somebody please clue me in on this?

As far as filters go, there seems to be enormous variation in pricing. Examples from Adorama's web site:

43mm UV Filter:
-----------------------
Tiffen Glass .... $9.45 
Sunpak Filter ... $9.95 
B + W Haze Glass $19.95 
Hoya Glass ..... $22.50 


43 mm Polarizing Filter:
----------------------------------
Sunpak Circular ........... $17.50 
Adorama Circular Glass .... $17.95 
Hoya Circular Glass ....... $29.95 
Tiffen Circular Glass ..... $34.95 
B + W Circular Coated Glass $74.95

I don't want the best one, but I don't want something crummy either. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I have no knowledge of filter brands and manufacturers.

Thanks very much.