There was a previous question that concerned itself with the bible,
and I'm  curious if a simliar verision of the quran is recommended in
english.  I am quite partial to the recommendation of "Life
Application Study Bible, New Living Translation" recommended in
://www.google.com/answers/threadview?id=317443

I understand that there is a continuing debate concerning the
translation of the quran into alternate languages other then the
orignal arabic, however I'm after a academic and intellectual
understanding of the quran (and islam) rather then a spiritual
understanding.  I am interested in as much context as possible of the
various verses in the quran.

The Message of of the Qur'an Translated and Explained by Muhammad Asad
has extensive explanations and has been helpfull to me in my studies.

In muslim world the english translations of Quran by Muhammad
Marmaduke Pickthall and Yusuf Ali are considered quite good and enjoy
a great deal of respect.
Regards
Lahoria

The most common translations are those of Pickthall and Yusuf Ali.

However, if you want an objective, factual, context-rich explanation
of the meaning of the Arabic text, I highly advise using this title:

Rough Translation of the Meaning of The Noble Quran
In the English Language by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan 

The book version contains comments from At-Tabari, Al-Qurtubi and Ibn
Kathir and excerpts from relevant ahadith (Prophetic narrations) from
Sahih Al-Bukhari.

The most contextually accurate, detailed and respected commentary
works on the Qur'an is written by Ibn Khatir and carries the Arabic
name: "Tafsir ibn Kathir". It can either be found on www.tafsir.com or
a translation can be purchased (although they usually come in a large
multitude of volumes).

For aya-specific (verse specific) questions, you can ask the scholars
at http://www.islam-qa.com or refer to Google Answers once more.

Lastly, for biographical information about the Prophet (peace be upon
him) and his Companions, refer to the highly detailed and historically
accurate "Ar-Raheeq al-Maktoom" (The Sealed Nectar), available online
at:

http://www.masmn.org/Books/Safiur_Rahman_Mubarakpuri/Raheeq_Al_Maktoom/index.htm

All of these works are of academic nature and live up to the highest
standards of authenticity and accuracy among Islamic scholars.

Best of luck in your search.

Goto http://www3.alislam.org/index.jsp and click on Short Commentary.

If you need a hard copy, feel free to order online, or drop me a line
and i'll send you one.

If, after reading that you still require more information, there is a
five volume commentary (in english) that you are welcome to purchase.

Let me know if this is of any assistance.

.

The best english translations of Quran is published by (Saheeh International).

Please see this http://store.talkislam.com/b5269.html