need help with a subwoofer

Hi, Dumboat. See the post I made below about Widescreen Review mag's reviews of sub-woofers. Refer to that post before reading this one, so my comments make sense.

Since you asked about the Hsu models, this is how WR mag rated them:
1. Model TN825: average score = 3.83 ($400) A decent, middle-of-the-raod performer.
2. Model TN1225HO: average score = 4.46 ($300 for passive version; $800 with 200-watt amp) A good performer - lowest rating for any factor was 4.0.
3. Model VTF2: average score = 4.125 ($499) A solid, middle-of-the-road performer. A good value, also, when price is considered.

Hope this extra info is useful in addition to the material in my other post.

Howdy. I am using an M&K MX 700 sub. They have two models that are recommended for those of us not using them for HT. The great thing about M&K subs is the ability to adjust the frequency cutoff to properly marry them with your monitors. The model I have is the smaller of the two, which is fine for anything other than very large rooms. New is about $1300. Don't forget to really learn the proper placement of a sub within your room. Charlie

Too bad about your experience with the Rel dealer - does "not customer friendly" mean that he wouldn't let you listen to them? If he will, try to listen to the Strata & Storm. Personally I preferred the Storm but our ears may differ. You didn't indicate the size of your room but I assume it's not huge and that music is more important than HT. If so, you can't beat Rel imho.

Bought a VTF-2 (with latest crossover upgrades) based on reviews and trying to save a few bucks. Doesn't work in my setup - has a bit of an overhand which gets in the way (notes don't decay fast enough?) Yours for $375 plus shipping if you're interested.

As for wife factor, you can get the Rels with beautiful woodgrain finishes, for extra money. Or just let the wife drape them with her favorite fabric - won't affect the sound.