I enjoyed Cowboy Bebop, but that's just MY opinion. I can only offer it and you can either accept it or decline.
Cartoon Network should not have FLCL. A lot of cartoon network fans (not anime fans) will just complain that it's stupid and makes no sense. That's why a lot of people hate the biggest anime poison that's responsible for giving people the wrong idea about anime: Dragonball Z. Honestly, I can't stand how this show carries on. I've only seen a couple episodes and I just dont see how anyone can see that as watchable.
As for dubs...
I hear the old akira dub was good, but I've heard the new one and it sucks. I'll somewhat give a dub a chance at least, but most of the time I prefer subs. Currently I'm watching GTO on DVD and I havent even heard the sub. The dub is pretty darn funny.
Atomsk: I just told my friend (His nickname is Kaneda) about your DVD/VHS:Video and Audio idea and he says 2 words. "Thank god". I'll take a copy of that if you actually do it
I wonder how the new Akira Live action movie will turn out...