Okay this is my first thread and post. From what I read online and multiple forums this place, IMO, has the best knowledge of info. So I'm hoping to get my questions answered by knowledgeable people. I tend to read a lot and research the specific topics I'm looking at but usually I need clarification on some questions I have or suggestions. I just need help pointing me in the best direction. If I'm gonna spend the money I might as well get the best for my buck by putting in the time to research and asking questions.

I'm more of a car audiophile then home/studio audiophile. Some of the audio stuff I used in my cars were Audison, Hertz, Stereo Integrity, Image Dynamics, Rainbow Audio, Sundown Audio, etc. Just to give you an idea of what equipment I use so you know that I expect quality as much as value.

I have a set of Audioengine A2's coming in by the end of the week and I need an active/self-powered/self-amplified subwoofer to complement those speakers.

So to follow the sub sticky:

1. My Budget:

My budget would be around $100-$150 shipped. I would like to keep it as cheap as possible but at the same time don't want to sacrifice a quality subwoofer.

2.Size requirements/limit:

Anywhere from 8" to 10" but preferably 8" because they need to fit under my computer desk which in the area I plan to put it in has dimensions of 27in length 48in height.

3. Room dimensions

This will be in my game room which has a computer desk chairs, HDTV, PS3, etc, etc. But again it's gonna be under my computer desk. The dimensions for the area where I plan to put the subwoofer are above but as far as room dimensions go, 1944 Cubic Ft in the game room.

4. Primary uses

This will be used primarily to complement my Audioengine A2s. Music is #1 on my priority list, Movies is #2 and then games are #3. 60% Music, 35% Movies, 5% Games.

5. Listening habits

My listening habits are like normal. I like to listen to music at a tame level, cranking it up once in a while listening to mostly R&B, Jazz, Acoustic, Rock & Pop, etc. I like it up high on movies so hearing the sounds like a small mini movie theater at my computer desk.

6. Appearance requirements

I like a black finish if possible but it doesn't matter since it's under my computer desk again.

7. Time frame

I'm in no hurry to get it. I'm willing to wait.

I just need a complementary powered subwoofer for my A2's that will take care of the low level frequencies when I listen to music and watch movies. From what I gathered and research, these are the subs I'm looking at right now.

Dayton SUB-80 HT 8"
TSC-ASW-8 8"
Energy ESW-8"
Polk Audio PSW10 10"

Any other suggestions or which of these is considered best for my applications. Input is appreciated.

From what I heard and read is that it's not good getting down-firing subs because they tend to break more and easier, is there some truth to that?

I know it's better to get a separate amplifier but because I'm on a budget and I'm just using it for my computer desktop I just need powered sub.

Would I lose quality if I connected the sub with RCA male to 1/8 mini jack male to my computer's sound card?

Thanks for looking and hoping to get knowledgeable & helpful responses that will help me pick the best choice for my money.

First off, welcome to the AVS Forum. :)

I just need a complementary powered subwoofer for my A2's that will take care of the low level frequencies when I listen to music and watch movies. From what I gathered and research, these are the subs I'm looking at right now.

Dayton SUB-80 HT 8"
TSC-ASW-8 8"
Energy ESW-8"
Polk Audio PSW10 10"

Any other suggestions or which of these is considered best for my applications. Input is appreciated.

You can add the tSc ASW-10 to the list since it is currently $150 and there is a 10% discount coupon lying around.

I can attest to the quality of the ASW-10 subwoofer since I own one, I can't speak for the others you've mentioned. Do note that the ASW-10 goes 5Hz lower than the ASW-8 but is also $50 more expensive.

As mentioned by other members here, the ESW-8 and ESW-10 subwoofers made by Energy are essentially the same as the ASW-8 and ASW-10. So the difference both subwoofer line-ups would only be in aesthetics.

From what I heard and read is that it's not good getting down-firing subs because they tend to break more and easier, is there some truth to that?

No truth to that, it doesn't make a difference on quality whether the subwoofer is front-firing, side-firing or down-firing.

I know it's better to get a separate amplifier but because I'm on a budget and I'm just using it for my computer desktop I just need powered sub.

What do you mean get a separate amplifier? A separate amplifier along with new speakers?

As you just said all you need is a powered sub, and a powered sub already has with it, an integrated amplifier.

Would I lose quality if I connected the sub with RCA male to 1/8 mini jack male to my computer's sound card?

I have no knowledge of that question so I will leave that for somebody else to answer.

Thanks for looking and hoping to get knowledgeable & helpful responses that will help me pick the best choice for my money.

You're welcome. :)

Thanks for your input anyone else?