I am on a tight budget. If I buy the VP150, M22s, and QS8s, do I need to buy an EP350 or can I use another manufacturer's. I like the EP350, but that is a large part of my budget and I know I can get other subs for less. Would this be a mistake or should I stick to the same brand for all speakers?

JohnG

you could also consider the EP 175, if you cannot afford the EP 350.

a subwoofer is less of a problem matching than, say, your fronts and center, but it is my preference for sound and appearance to have all the same company speakers.

which other subs are you considering? surely other members would have insight on other subs you are thinking of buying.

I just purchased an Axiom setup, but I already had an Adira Rava sub. One of the best subs for the price, $399, sealed 12" 250W. Just do a search on any of the home theater forum sites and you will find lots of info on it. I just got the M60, VP150, QS8 and the sub fits right in with it. I got the sub in back so it doesn't match my nice boston cherry Axioms but black works with most speaker looks. Performace wise I think any quality sub can be made to blend in with other speakers. As long as its calibrated to work with them. Just look at all of the SVS owners out there.......

As the others posted to this thread have mentioned, a sub is less critical of matching the compliment of speakers around it. Simply aim for balance in your purchases as compared to the satellite speakers.

There are numerous sub manufacturers that make quality pieces. Some are better than the models mentioned, some are worse. However, as you indicated your budget is the limiting factor. If you plan your purchases, you can probably colour match all pieces.