I just did take the little spike stands away and rested the TT spikes on the maple block. Then I threaded up my 2 belts and now the motor pulley is too high for the platter and won't stay on. I remembered I had 3 small myrtlewood blocks and placed under the spikes. Put the belts on and I swear it sounded better than before. It doesn't make sense that by taking out that the half inch high dampened spike stands would make a difference but it was a positive one. A warmer sound with a richer bass. Tell me it's not true. But I was a happy listener all afternoon. I replayed U2 SBS which is a little dry and shrill anyway and now its much better.