Randy,
I can heartily recommend purchase of the maple platform. The difference is readily audible. I presume the maple is neutralizing a cabinet resonance. (Perhaps, Lou can jump in with his thoughts.) I'm using the platform in combination with the EquaRack footers and the combination is an incredible improvement for the money. You get more bass extension which is higher quality and more articulate. A composer friend of mine who uses a subwoofer good to 20Hz was astounded by the improved bass response in my room after inserting the tweaks. Secondly, the higher frequencies are cleaner and clearer. Finally, the overall presentation is cleaner and more coherent. Unexpectedly, the noise floor drops and my systems needs less power to produce adequate listening levels. My theory is that the speakers are no longer having to work so hard to overcome vibrations transmitted back into the cabinet and drivers. As another buddy of mine remarked that "the speakers have a better grip on the music".
I'd be interested in "hearing feedback" aa from others regarding these upgrades, especially those folks who have tried other isolation products such as the Mapleshade, etc.
Lou, I'll see you at RMAF, if not sooner!
Mark