Jamal, Meeze, and myself may seem like we are coming off like dicks, but we are only giving him the information to optimize his xp/hr potential, and also his amount of invites given while seeking/not seeking. We are telling him the best way to level up, and it's a hell of a lot more fun.
Couple of things to add to this...IFF you're not planning on doing anything as a group, I have no problem with continuing leveling solo. You won't be changing anyone's gaming experience besides your own. If you plan on partying at all, then get everything being deemed necessary by 'vet's.
Secondly, like Blaze said...if you don't want to hear what people have to say, don't freaking ask it. I will NEVER come up, /c you, and then be like...ugggh, why are you using such and such. If you ask what is necessary, be prepared for it.
Third, Ruffy you are in no position to deem what is luxury or what is standard equipment. It's no offense to you, but rather than arguing you should be taking notes...you don't have to go around and /c people to see what you should be wearing, you're getting the advice handed to you on a silver platter. Throwing that back in our faces is just piss poor...which reminds me of a good thing to remember that applies to this game:
The 6 P's:
Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance
Finally, to the arguments about 'this is a game, games are supposed to be fun':
I can't fathom anything more exciting than seeing hard work pay off. Even if the acc is only +3 over spectacles, knowing you busted your ass for the pcc will make you feel a million times better when you obtain it. You think its not worth the struggle, but the feeling you get when you get to write
/equip Neck "Peacock Charm"
into your macros more than makes up for it.