The issue is, to deliver big sound to hit a modest price point, subs are ported and underpowered. This gives a big, boomy sound that is fine for home theatre but sound like crap for music. Sealed subs (no port) will sound much crisper, however, because they aren't ported you need a ton of power to deliver the same volume as a ported, especially in home theatre applications.

Two line deliver big on this and still maintain modest pricing.

The NHT B-12d which will go down to about 27hz, is 500w yet is clear and detailed. However it is $799. The NHT B-10d will go to 29hz, has a 300w amp and is $599. The 10 is best suited for a smaller room.

If you want deeper bass than 27hz, the Sunfire HRS line will deliver. There is an 8", 10" and 12" that deliver 22hz, 20hz and 16hz respectively and all are 1000w. However, they are $850, $950 or $1050 respectively.

Full disclosure, I own an HRS 12 and have a slightly higher end Sunfire Tru 8" sub.

I think the website is nhthifi. It is easy enough to order directly from them.

I have no idea what the issue is with the Marantz BluRay. It sounds like it might be a setting in one of the menus. You may want to call Marantz for support.

David Harper wrote:

Has anyone here ever heard a subwoofer that DOESN'T sound muddy and boomy? if you have, which one is it? I've given up on them.

I have the NHT B12D.

It is a sealed acoustic suspension design, which tends to give a more linear response with tight control.

Highly recommended.