I've been using an acrylic slipmat, and to my ears it made a slight improvement to the sound, tightening the overall instrument presentation and separation. This acrylic platter does the same, with greater impact. Eliminating the resonance that is inevitable with a metal platter, even when damped, is worth the price of admission. Its anti-static nature is also a major feature. Aesthetically, it looks great. I love the transparent sheen on its own, and the way it picks up the color of the vinyl is great!