I dont think there is anything wrong with Grannyring hearing or perception ... the differences he is hearing between the livelier GIK traps and his former Echo Buster and DIY attempts may be that the GIK traps are using a FRK (Kraft Paper facing) glued to the face of the ridge fiber board before covering the fiberboard/traps
This FRK facing will reflect some of the Mid and Treble energy back into the room due to its reflective nature and may be the reason that Grannyring is hearing a livelier presentation with the GIK traps vs Echo Busters and his DIY attempts
LOL as I also have college and post college aged children. They come back for a season and then scatter
Money isnt everything ... but it sure keeps the children in close touch (;-)