I think there is this knee-jerk assumption by audiophiles that components can't sit on their own feet. As you have experienced, adding aftermarket footers can cause you to lose bass or whatever. If the system is muddy, this can be a blessing, but I personally believe that most people who actually listen to music would prefer a system with a bit more "padding" or richness in the lower end. As you are doing, you have to try them and decide if they are genuinely making the listening experience more pleasurable on the whole.
Gingko Isolation platforms
Have any of you tried them? They look incredible, especially for the cost. Do any of you use isolation under your tube gear or TT?