People were putting bricks - actual house-building bricks, on their components back in the 80's, claiming it helped the sound. Never tried it myself, but perhaps there's something to it.
A New Use for VPI Flattening Ring
I was minding my own business listening to a CD, when I put the VPI ring on top of my Ayre amp. I couldn't believe it, but there was a new found focus...a clarity, an ease that wasn't there without the ring. The timbre, etc. remained exactly as before....just the increased and welcomed focus. What's up??