Subwoofers - Front Firing or Down Firing - Which Sounds Best?

I'm totally happy with what my single B&W sub is doing. I only wish it would go lower. Technically, it is producing sound in the lower, 20-ish, frequencies but probably down 5db or more. Its amp+cone just can't pump out the gusto. The 200 watt ASW-650 is nominally a twelve inch cone. Actual measurement is more like 10 1/2 - 11 inches. That's kind of meager by today's standards. I'd like something (or two) that will occasionally rattle my windows. That's all.  

That's where I was. Had one Talon Roc sub that seemed to do everything right, except it just wouldn't go low. Exactly like yours, it was just way down at those low frequencies. It is, or was at the time, a really highly regarded and powerful sub. Oh well. 

The solution was to add more small subs. With those the bass extends so low and flat and articulate its hard to believe. Its not just that there is more volume and deeper, there is definition and character way beyond anything I ever even imagined was there before. Its not me, and its not my subs. All the guys who have done this have the same experience. Its the DBA. Just get more subs. You will see.

@dweller .
I would suggest the new Vandy 3 subs. Though not inexpensive, it should give you the ability to get those 20-ish frequencies, as well as integrating seamlessly with your speakers with the integrated equalizer. Though, you do need to buy the high pass filter.
And, Vandy subs are built like tanks, so they should last 20 years, at well.

Bob 

OP,

You didn’t say anything about your room dimensions. The 200 watts, single sub probably inadequate (don’t think you want to rattle your windows...lol). I would recommend adding a second sub to improve bass response.

I am using a pair of REL’s (500w) in a room 30”w x 15”d, they produce very musical bass and complement my main speakers fabulously.

Yes, I actually bother to read such drivel. Otherwise, how you gonna know its drivel? We read him so you don't have to!

Knowing I have the power to make @millercarbon 's knee jerk whenever I want to, as often as I want to is what keeps me going.  I feel like I can bypass his frontal lobes and directly stimulate his knee-jerk response long before he has the opportunity to process anything consciously is a little overwhelming.  I love it.