Best Subwoofer for music and movies

The REL line of subs is very hard to beat for use with both music and movies. I have recently auditioned a number of subs, and particularly liked the REL Q201E (MSRP $1600). I do not like "boomy" subs, nor am I particularly enamored with the subs that are intended primarily to reproduce LFE from movies. Vandersteen also makes an excellent sub-woofer unit, but it is best used with a full Vandy system. You will find a number of good subs out there, including the brands you mentioned - but I'd take a hard look at the REL's is good MUSIC reproduction is high on your list of criteria.

Bag End Elf 1 (stereo) x-over w/ 2 18inch S-18's!

For the price I like the Hsu Research VTF-2 ($499). It isn't the ultimate in low-end impact but it is very musical and works well for movies. They also sell subs that will extend below 18 hz; but they sell for about twice the price.

I agree with REL. Go for the Storm III. See Audioreview and Hifi Choice web sites for reviews.

I've had excellent results with the Vandersteen 2W series. A little tricky to wire up but ultimately the wiring scheme actually is a positive; no real bass management problems to solve other than placement and dynamic balance with the main speaker pair if using a single sub. (note: this wiring method is not possible with many integrated amps/AV receivers-check before you buy.) Overall a great product, especially considering the (typical for Vandersteen) very reasonable price.