Looking for a musical subwoofer @ $500>


Had some thoughts, but figured I would ask here as I was given some great advice for my previous amp/preamp questions: https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/amp-preamp-or-avr-for-home-stereo-and-entertainment

System sounds great btw! Parasound A23, Integra 80.3, KEF Carina II's, Technics turn table, and a Blu Ray Player. 

Anyhoo - I could use some more bass. The KEFs get down to 55hz but a lot of my music goes lower and I don't want to compromise... to a point. 

Looking for a sub capable up 25-30hz on the low end with anywhere from 8-12" driver for less that $500. I came across the Klipsch R-12SW and the reviews were stellar, especially for the price. Want this for music more than Home Theater, but both would be nice. I've even read that the Pioneer SW-8 or 10 is a fine unit for the price. 
I know of names like Sunfire and Velodyne, but I wonder if it's worth buying into those companies if I can only afford the lower end products.

Also, my guess is that buying a used subwoofer is like buying a used race car... expect it to be driven, hard. 

Thanks in advance!
128x128samgoldenberg

Showing 2 responses by returntomusic

Whoops sent my response off before it was finished by mistake.
Two subs may help achieve a smoother in room response and more output. I would be surprised if the two "cheaper" sub option would be as well built as the low end SVS or HSU subs. I would also compare warranties, vendor knowledge/advice and tech support.
Don't know the starting prices for Hsu and Outlaw, but they are two companies, (along with SVS), that are specialists in high quality budget subwoofers.
I believe SVS has a generous trial program (45 days in home with free shipping BOTH WAYS!). I'm not familiar with the Hsu or Outlaw in home trial.
 SVS also have a nice tool, (Merlin), on their website to match your speakers to their subs, it is fairly exhaustive in terms of main speaker listings, but I don't think your speakers are on the list. I would give them a call at their 800 number and get a staff recommendation. The online tool not only acoustically matches several sub choices to your main speakers, but they typically are a good match "budget wise". My take on SVS is they don't try to oversell. Another option is to try a couple of Pioneers, or Dayton subs (Parts Express), as two subs should provide