On Fri, 10 Jan 2014 03:28:17 -0800 (PST), Sonny
Is there a preference, these days, for the type of glass, plate or
tempered, to be used in such cabinets? I know there are code
requirements in/for home construction, but recently I've wondered
about considerations or preferences for such cabinets.

Depends on what you're building and/or where the glass is going to be
used. For cabinet work such as entertainment centers, I have a
preference for 3/8" acrylic, usually a darkened colour. It's much
lighter than glass and easier to work.