Caps don't necessarilly have a better absorption than tabs, just depends on how the tabs are manufactured and their contents. Some of the multis with the "best" ratings are those in tab form. I agree, though, there are definately better multis out there than Centrum or Centrum look-alikes.
Do some checking around and compare ingredients, any analyses, prices, etc. I've found that Naturol's "My Favorite Multi" (I know, dumb name) stacks up well in regard to competitors. There are definately others that are better, but you can end up paying over $40-50/month for some of them.