Hey Kitchener,
A used Paradigm Servo 15 and a Behringer "Feedback Destroyer" parametric EQ ought to just squeak in under your budget. The former go for $800-1000 used and the latter $100-150 new at pro music shops. Details on how to use the "BFD" EQ to control standing wave problems can be found at the AVScience, Audio Asylum, and Cult of the Infinitely Baffled forums. This combination of a real sub (no teensy chuffing distortion machine here!) and up to 12 bands of precisely adjustable EQ ought to work in all but the tiniest rooms... On one provision- That you spend som e time finding the best spot for the sub BEFORE applying EQ.
A used Paradigm Servo 15 and a Behringer "Feedback Destroyer" parametric EQ ought to just squeak in under your budget. The former go for $800-1000 used and the latter $100-150 new at pro music shops. Details on how to use the "BFD" EQ to control standing wave problems can be found at the AVScience, Audio Asylum, and Cult of the Infinitely Baffled forums. This combination of a real sub (no teensy chuffing distortion machine here!) and up to 12 bands of precisely adjustable EQ ought to work in all but the tiniest rooms... On one provision- That you spend som e time finding the best spot for the sub BEFORE applying EQ.