Hi -

I really need your help with a sub recommendation for my media room. Here are the Details:

1. Budget: $599 - $1299. I could go a tad bit higher on the budget if I have to in order to get what you recommend.

2. Size requirements: No restrictions

3. Room dimensions: 23' X 20' X 9.1'

4. Primary uses: 100% HT/TV

5. Listening habits: I like it loud when watching a movie. Not foundation shaking loud, but loud enough to feel the bass and make you feel like you're in the movie. However, sometimes I just sit back and watch HD Cable with my wife. I still want some bass, but I still would like to be able to carry a conversation. Is that possible?

6. Appearance requirements: Something tasteful, and black.

7. Time frame: Yesterday, today, or next week.

8. Search the forum: I did and the choices are amazing, and the pricing is all over the radar. Here's an inside note: I hesitate with online subs due to a bad experience with Oppo. The DVD player broke exactly one day after the warranty expired. I'm not opposed to online but the quality has to be there. Returning a broken sub via FedEx is something I will not enjoy...

Here's What my friends recommend: Definitive Tech Supercube I or II, Paradigm, etc. These subs are readily available at local A&V stores around me.

I've researched SVS, HSU, and Outlaw but I have no idea what to choose due to the information listed above. I can't go out and listen to them at a box store...

For the size of my room, my listening pref's, budget, etc., what would you recommend? Please let me know. Thank you.

Suprised to hear that about Oppo. They are supposed to have exceptional customer service. As for the ID subs, if you post your location, I'm sure that you will find people in your area that will let you audition one. Unless you are able to get a good deal on a store sub, you will likely get more bang for your buck with ID. For your size room, you are likely to need a sub towards the top of your price range.

There are many, many very good choices in that range for you to choose. If you have no size restrictions, skip the Supercubes and go large. Take good look at the new Epik line, the SVS PB12-Plus or PC12-Plus, the larger eD subs in your price range, or perhaps even one or two HSU 3.3's.