Best Subwoofer?

I've been very impressed with the vandersteen 2W series subwoofers. Outboard crossover makes for very seamless integration with good quality mains pair. Work best in stereo pairs, of course, and can drive all but the largest rooms to any reasonable level. Tight and precise. Adjustable "Q" on the newer line. Kinda difficult to find good used ones, however (in my experience). Even new, reasonably priced.

I just acquired a Definitive Technology PF15TL+ sub. For $700 list, I am truly amazed. This baby sports a 500w amp and 15" woofer - a vast speed improvement over the PF15TL version. I cranked up No Mystery by Return To Forever, and my neighbor was rendered impotent for three days(?). Honestly, after auditioning B&W, Phase Tech, and Velodyne, I was sold on the Def Tech for sound vs. value. GOOD LUCK!

The best of all ? REL STUDIO. period. Forget about the smaller models,although good performers for the money. if you are the person who says: i own the best speakers ever made.. try the STUDIO, take your time to adjust it and settle down, be overwhelmed what it does ! You will never ever want to part with it !

I can't believe that no one has mentioned the Muse 18!

I agree that the Vandersteens are best for all the reasons that "MWP" points out. But I believe one additional reason they are the best is their speed. They use 3-8" drivers. THe speed and accuracy of the 8" drivers cannot be matched by ANY 12"-15"-18" drivers due to mass - see Physics 101.