A paper coaster is a small round piece of absorbent paper on which a drinking glass can be placed.
MDF is usually not as good sounding as wood, depending on the footer. But, with Cardas/Ayre myrtle wood cuboids the ultimate sound varies with the positioning under the component, as well as the underlying flat surface material, so you could start with MDF if it is already in your possession.
I have experimented in different systems with the Cardas myrtle wood cuboids ("block" is not a fancy word when advertising this item) on different pieces of wood furniture, on maple slabs, on granite slabs, on formica surfaced plywood, and even between two stacked components (one should never admit this) with satisfactory results, because there are so many variables.
These cuboids can be placed on top of component cabinets to damp the component, and change the sound in a subtle way, which can be better or worse, so you just have to be flexible with this sort of inexpensive, helpful "tweak".
Sometimes, there is no precise "right or wrong" answer to a question which makes it possible for you to decide for yourself, and not have to feel you did something "wrong".
MDF is usually not as good sounding as wood, depending on the footer. But, with Cardas/Ayre myrtle wood cuboids the ultimate sound varies with the positioning under the component, as well as the underlying flat surface material, so you could start with MDF if it is already in your possession.
I have experimented in different systems with the Cardas myrtle wood cuboids ("block" is not a fancy word when advertising this item) on different pieces of wood furniture, on maple slabs, on granite slabs, on formica surfaced plywood, and even between two stacked components (one should never admit this) with satisfactory results, because there are so many variables.
These cuboids can be placed on top of component cabinets to damp the component, and change the sound in a subtle way, which can be better or worse, so you just have to be flexible with this sort of inexpensive, helpful "tweak".
Sometimes, there is no precise "right or wrong" answer to a question which makes it possible for you to decide for yourself, and not have to feel you did something "wrong".