#1 I tried shorting pins and found no appreciable change. Make sure if you try this, not to insert said pin into an output jack. #2 Vibrapods made some difference but not huge and not always an improvement. Audio points and Still points are the real deal. #3 I would rather listen to Elton John (I dislike his music) than spend the time attempting to have cords intersect at right angles.
Suggestion for #4 Try some GIK panels in your room. They are reasonably priced.
Suggestion for #4 Try some GIK panels in your room. They are reasonably priced.