That is exactly what I would suggest. Don't trust the lfs for any advice, and impulse buys should be avoided IMO. It is better to make a list of stuff you like, ask about it here, weigh the advice you receive, and make a more informed decision.
Great! Ill probably call ahead, find out what corals are in stock, research, post on here, then possibly buy it!!
Also, while you guys/gals are here, i have some questions on the coral type abbreviations, what is lps, sps, softies, and any other abbreviations that i missed mean? Sorry, i feel dumb asking, but i have too!
thanks