Newbie question.. Preamp and Sub

Buy a REL Strata III or Storm III. One of the best brands for music listening. This sub connects directly to the amp speaker terminals (does not interfere with speaker connections). It "listens" to the amp output and just fills in the bottom frequencies below where your speakers cut out (you can dial this in on the back of the sub). Buy one, others here will agree.

I'd have to second argent. I listen only to 2 channel music, from chamber classical through to AC/DC, depending on mood. I bought a Rel strata 3 and it's wonderful. No boom, just depth, and impossible to hear where it takes over from the mains. I have to admit I didn't demo any other subs ... it wasn't necessary. RELs are a bit pricey, but have great resale, so I wouldn't worry about losing money. It probably would not serve well for HT, though, as its strength is speed, rather than SPL.

I do use the Strata III for home theater, but for large rooms would recommend the Storm III. As it is I may upgrade to the Storm III, and my room is 15x20. For some real home theater punch try the REL Q201E.