I have a Klipsch RW 8 sub and really like it for the money. It is musical and fast, not thumpy or muddy at all. I think I paid $250 for it new from an Internet discounter a few years ago. It is very compact and goes down to about 32 Hz. Great for a small room.
The RW 8 is no longer available new, but the RW-10d (10" driver) is for about $500 new. You could probably find one of these 8 or 10 inch driver Klipsch subs used for $300 or less. If you go this route, make sure you get the Klipsch with the "RW" model number, because some of their other subs are less impressive.
The recommendation above for a Hsu sub is also a good one. If you can find a used REL for $300 or under, buy it.