If i was you id head over to the DIY forum and ask the guys to help you build a sealed sub
Given a budget of $1000 you can build a great sealed sub and have enough money for a BFD, although REW can seem like a hassle once you get going its really easy
not to mention the guys here can help you with any problems, and Bruce's BFD guide is great and easy to understand
Although a DIY sub is a lot of effort given a budget of $1000 you can achieve a better result if you do your homework. Not only that but you mentioned the looks... Well if you build it you can build it the shape you want it and finish it the way you want it
Given that budget id probably build a sealed twin 15 inch sealed box with Tempest X drivers and an EP1500 amp, you should be able to build a box yourself and have enough for a BFD etc and come in at around $1000
Of course all this assumes you have the time and knowledge to build it... Having said this trust me with the information on HTS it wont take long to learn and building a sealed box is fairly easy
trust me a decent DIY sub will perform much better providing its done right than anything on the comercial market. Not only this but there is a real sence of pride and enjoyment when its finished and fired up for the first time. Not to mention when people come over and are amazed by the performance and ask where and how much the answer that you build it is great.
Now head over to the DIY forum and get started... just to help you here is a quick guide
1. suitable driver, 15 inch reasonable Xmax etc for a sealed box (two are even better if you can afford space and it its within budget something like the Tempest X or ED's 15 driver hey even their 13inch brute)
2. Decent power amplifier (start with Behringers EP series, the 1500 might be enough but if it can be afforded go for the 2500 and dont forget the fan mod)
3. MDF, simple really but build it strong with bracing/double thickness front baffle (18mm with 36mm front)
4. BFD to get everything nice and flat when its finished
Honestly if you have the time build it yourself, hey even get you dad to help you
make a thread in the DIY section and we can all help you more from there with specifics on Drivers, amps and enclosure design
You wont be disapointed
Edit: Oh and welcome to the shack hope you enjoy your stay here... and dont worry about us were all nice really