Looking for a cheap sub...

I second Phasecorrect. If you can find a used REL anywhere close to your budget, I would jump on it.

Nothing is worse than a really crappy sub. I would hold out and get the HSU VFT-2. It really is a nice subwoofer, and will lighten the load on the rest of your system.

Your speakers are not flat to 30 regardless of what the specs say. I know "full range" 10k speakers that are not flat to 30. This sub won't be flat to 30, just a whole lot closer, while letting the receiver and speakers do what they can above 80. In the end your room probably won't allow for these flat responses.

You should be able to find a VFT-2 for very close $300. Anything over $350 is a joke for a used VTF-2.

Marty

I would also hold out for a used Hsu. Unlikely to find a used REL for under $500.

I have 2 of these. 1 I bought new the other I picked up used for $400. These can be had easily for < $500. I lived with 1 for 1.5 years, adding the second has really made the difference from a really good HT to an unbelievable HT experience. I'm not sure about using it for music as mine are dedicated to HT. I would say this sub's best quality is it's tight/quick bass, not boomy at all ( sealed cabinet design ).

I don't have experience with REL but did have at 1 time, an energy sub, a psb subsonic 6, the M&K is in a whole other league.

good luck.
craig.

Hello,
With your budget of $300, I can recommend a Dahlquist PDQ1200 or PDQ1500, both of which can be purchased on Ebay for approximately $120 for the 1200 and $200 for the 1500.
I own a REL Storm, and purchased the PDQ1200 for $104 shipped(could not pass it up for the price!), and IMO it does a credible job considering the price!