I've had a range of subs in both my home and car, and I got fed up and finally built my own.

I'd probably go used, depending on your location. Craig's List and EBay offer some very good deals. I'd make sure you go at least 12" simply because a 10" sub will have difficulty reproducing tones below 28Hz. If you want to stick with Polk, which I understand, that starts you at the PSW125. The PSW125 is around $300 retail, but it looks like it can be had closer to $200 on EBay.

If you're looking for a new finished subwoofer, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better value than the BIC Venturi V1220. A finished 12" sub and 200 watt BASH amp at $180? It's a good deal.

If you're DYI inclined you can pick up a Dayton SA240 Sub Amp for $100 and pair it with either a Dayton RSS315HF-4 (12" sub) or a name-brand car audio 12" sub like a Kicker Comp12. You'll have to build your own box, though, which is a project unto itself.

Good luck whatever you choose,

Boz

Go used via Canuck Audio Mart; you'll likely get a far better sub at a much lower price going used than you would shipping from the states.

At about $150 you're probably looking at a 10" powered sub in the 150 watt range, which should be more than sufficient.

Happy gaming,

Boz

Read the Headphone FAQ sticky at the top of the forum, and come back with any questions you might have.

Happy gaming,

Boz

First, read the Headphone FAQ sticky, particularly the section regarding Surround Sound. Then read this thread. This should help you figure out whether "surround sound" is worthwhile to you.

Good luck,

Boz

A $200 set of headphones will often sound as good if not better than a $1,500 home theater.

As for the AV40's, it sounds like they may be faulty. They are going to sound better than your existing speakers, audiophile or not. The internal amplifier or crossover could have been damager, the tweeter might have disconnected, or there could be another, unknown issue; exchange them.

If you are unable to exchange them with a local retailer, contact M-Audio directly and let them know about your issue. Most reputable manufacturers will have a satisfaction guarantee, particularly on this type of product. They may offer to exchange your item if you request it, or even an upgrade. You'll have to make a pretty convincing argument for the latter, though.

Good luck,

Boz

I know this is an old bump, but I wanted to give a big thanks to everyone that provided input on this purchase, and to share the results! I am now able to run World of Warcraft at its highest settings in the native resolution of my monitor, and it's a HUGE difference:

Thank you all again,

Boz

If you're looking for more emphasis on bass, try the Shure SRH750DJ Headphones or, if those are too pricey, something in the JVC HARX line. If you want to stick with something in the Audio Technica line, try the ATHM50S.

All of the aforementioned will give you substantially more bass response, and are generally well-regarded as quality headphones.

Good luck,

Boz

There is a sticky at the top of the forum called, "Headphone FAQ," which contains headphone recommendations in a variety of price ranges and styles.

Good luck,

Boz

The world is projected to hit seven billion people by October 31, 2011 according to the UNFPA. The actual number may or may not have already happened, these are estimates after all, but the number is symbolic: How long is the world sustainable on its existing resources if it is sustainable at all with its existing population? Will innovation save the human race? What about collateral species? Is there a solution?

And are population controls, be it government-enforced such as the one-child rule in China or better access to contraceptives, a possible solution?

Regardless of the implementation, yes or no as to viability?

Boz