Outer Platter Rings

I use the VPI brand with my Aries 3 turntable.  It is self centering so no adapter required.   I noticed an immediate improvement when compared to a screw down clamp only.  Bass was more controlled and soundstage increased.

 Outer rings are nice when you have a record that is a little warped. I am sure this is probably very table dependent. But on my Clear Audio Innovation Wood, I prefer the sound without the outer ring. To my hear the ring deadens the sound a tiny bit.

Ok, so there are positives like flattening the record and more controlled bass, but also contradictory results like increased soundstage and deadened sound. 

lostbears: Which model ring do you use?