My H-K T-45 turntable has its original mat, which seems very stiff--I
have a hunch it would be brittle if I bent it.

Would it make a significant improvement of I replaced it? If so, which
(reasonably priced) mats do the job? This seems like one of those areas
that is vulnerable to faith-based "audio voodoo," but if I can really
improve the sound for $25, I'd like to know about it. Thanks in advance
for your replies.