Multichannel filter design criteria

Given an array of hydrophones at known locations in space, how should we design the array so as to maximize the output SNR? The problem has been "solved" by using (1) array pattern concepts and (2) multichannel filter concepts. We show that the two approaches are equivalent and then ask: When viewing the array as a multichannel filter should we design the array so as to maximize the SNR, i.e. is this a good criterion? By using the equivalence between the two abovementioned approaches, we show that the answer in certain eases is no, and develop an alternate criterion for these cases.