Trouble deciding on a subwoofer under $200

[ThumperSD]

PLEASE take the time to read my post =)

I have been looking at subwoofers for the last month and am having trouble deciding on one that is under $200 (preferably under $150). I was initially considering a Dayton SUB100 but it seems that I can get a better quality BIC for a little more.

It will be used 80% for music/15% gaming/5% movies. I am aiming for the best music quality for hip-hop and electronic music, I dont care for movies.

Here is where the subwoofer will be placed. The apartment room is 10ftx12ft.

So now down to the subs I am considering:
BIC F12 - $185, front firing, brand new, a little more than I would like to spend
BIC V1220 - $70 (Craigslist used), down firing, best value if it is in good condition
BIC V1020 - $140, down firing, brand new from amazon
PA-120 - $230, a lot more than I would like to spend
Dayton SUB100 - $125 from Parts express, front firing, I've heard it sounds boomier than BICs

Im not sure whether a down firing or front firing would best benefit my setup. I am pairing it with some BX5a M-audios. I want clean, tight, crisp, non-muddy bass. Again, this is strictly for MUSIC!

 

[GranteedEV]

Out of those i'd probably spring for the dayton, though i'd probably really end up going with a lavasub 8" in this price range.

 

[sholling]

You'll want a front firing - front ported sub in that spot.

 

[corey]

Have you thought about used? Try craigslist.org

 

[anamorphic96]

Pioneer has a new 8"sub for 139.00 which should be perfect for your application.

I would also second the suggestion for the 8" Lava sub. While I have not heard it they seem to be garnering a good reputation for a new company.

But for that spot you have chosen the Pioneer should work well.

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Products/HomeEntertainment/Speakers/Home+Theater+Speakers/ci.SW-8.Kuro

http://www.lavasubs.com/8_inch/powered_home_subwoofer.html

 

[KEW]

If your receiver can handle the subwoofer crossover, I'd get a pair of these as b-stock for $180. They spec out better than the Pioneer, and using a pair of subs improves your odds of getting the clean, tight, crisp, non-muddy bass you are after (you need to understand that muddy base is often more a matter of resonances in the room than the nature of the subwoofer).

Note that this is a close-out product, normally, the pioneer would represent an excellent value.

Product details:
https://www.outlawaudio.com/products/finals95.html

B-Stock prices (note shipping is free):
https://www.outlawaudio.com/mofcart/bstock.html

On the benefits of Dual subs:
http://www.audioholics.com/tweaks/get-good-bass/two-subs

More on room effects:
http://www.audioholics.com/tweaks/get-good-bass/an-easy-solution-to-subwoofer-calibration

Getting a pair of decent subs and placing them intelligently will give you good, clean, and tight bass. A single sub tucked in the one available spot is a crap shoot and can result in bass that destroys the sound quality of the rest of your system (I speak from experience).

Cheers,
Kurt

 

[cantonguy]

Wow I cant believe no one recommended the BIC America F12. It's way better than the Dayton and new Pioneer sub. Go to AVS forum and you will find that most people would agree.

 

[Matt34]

Rumor has it Audioholics might be reviewing a Lava sub.