You're correct, I haven't heard if the egg-crate stuff is worthwhile. I used a pad only and have no complaints. One thing I did do as a precaution is build a 3-1/2" platform at the end of my room where all my components are sitting. I had the carpet wrapped up and over the platform. Of course, I used pressure-treated 2x4s to frame the platform. On the front edge, I added a piece of 1/2-round trim (over which the carpet was also wrapped) to make the finished edge look a little better. My wife was leary about the platform, but thinks it looks great now.
