1. My room is 10.5 x 17
2. 95% movies and video games
3. Size is not an issue. I have a nice area in the corner and actually I prefer bigger to add to the coolness factor!
4. Massachusetts
5. I have looked in craigslist but since I don't know most of whats out there I don't know what is a good sub nor do I know what is a good price.
6. I am willing to buy new.
I have looked at SVS...the issue with them is their availability for purchase (unless you buy right from them) and the cheapest one they sell is $600. I have no experience with the other brands you mentioned. (hsu, velodyne, or epik)