SVS does not make the greatest subwoofers on earth. Probably some crazy expensive subwoofer that costs more than some cars would be the greatest. However, SVS makes great subwoofers, all of which are a good value. The company is solid and reliable, with good customer service and good warranties. You cannot go wrong with SVS. And at your price of $500, SVS probably cannot be beat.
Hsu is also a good company, with excellent subwoofers for the money. You probably can't go wrong with one of them either. I personally would go with SVS, but Hsu is an excellent choice.
This.
It's one thing if a company designs and makes excellent products, but no matter what, they'd miss one or two.
This is where the word service is, in Customer Service. It's how the company would make up for their mistakes.
I've only heard positive feedbacks from SVS customers.
Hsu, on the other hand, I've heard mixed stories. You should do more research to find out if this is true or not. Their own forum is a good place to start.
If I ever need another house shaker, I'd go with SVS.
I bought A5-350 (excellent sub for thr buck, when working) from eD, and although I had to pay to get it repaired once, the fact that they're no longer around bugs me more than product being unreliable.
On top of that, they lied and cheated their customers towards the end of their operation days. Even when as far as editing the forum posts.
Thing is, I bought it from eD, even after learning about thr whole AV123 fiasco.
Those who still remember, or even victimized, should be able to elaborate the details.
Bottom line is, buy from an ID company that has the most track record, since they're most likely will be around if you ever need anything in thr future.