What's wrong with looking for optimal? I agree most I've seen in LFS vat doesn't really qualify but I have seen some. Also, I wasn't around in the hobby years ago when actual reef rock was available. I've heard that was much different that what you get today.
I would search LFS (bottom of bin if they'll let you look - if not, find another LFS), friends, upgrading personal tanks, anything I could to seed a tank I'm starting up. Not saying quality live rock like that is plentiful, just optimal. Doesn't have to be a lot either, just a large piece or two will help immeasurably.
My point was mostly, live rock doesn't have to be ocean rock as that honestly can have some significant issues with it. I think going dry to eliminate those issues is too far the other way as you lose solid environment start which makes establishing the reef tank easier.
If you have to pick only between dry and ocean rock - that's a tough call if recommending to someone as both have different issues that different people will have a different take on. And I don't think one clearly outshine the other. I know what I picked when I had that choice and I dealt with the consequences and ended up with a tank I liked.
I would search LFS (bottom of bin if they'll let you look - if not, find another LFS), friends, upgrading personal tanks, anything I could to seed a tank I'm starting up. Not saying quality live rock like that is plentiful, just optimal. Doesn't have to be a lot either, just a large piece or two will help immeasurably.
My point was mostly, live rock doesn't have to be ocean rock as that honestly can have some significant issues with it. I think going dry to eliminate those issues is too far the other way as you lose solid environment start which makes establishing the reef tank easier.
If you have to pick only between dry and ocean rock - that's a tough call if recommending to someone as both have different issues that different people will have a different take on. And I don't think one clearly outshine the other. I know what I picked when I had that choice and I dealt with the consequences and ended up with a tank I liked.