hmm in that case then you're not optimally geared for perp/refresh. There are really only 3 pieces of refresh gear to aim for...
the horn +2, moonshade earring and stearc subligar. I kid you not on the subligar. It's ugly but it does the job well (and is way easier to get and ultimately more useful than auger's brais), because really, those are the limiting factors in terms of obtaining a strong refresh set.

I do get what you mean by freeing other slots from perp, but those are very limited options.
Even with a Nirvana (90) and its -7 perp, all it frees up for you is 2 gear slots if you gear for optimal refresh upon perp, which are either
1) hands and ring, of which ring has no real alternative options. (keep feet and body on)
2) feet (keep body, hands and ring)

This is of course assuming Celestials. with Fenrir, it could free up hands and feet and allow you to tack on 1 more tic of refresh from Serpentes. On Carbuncle, 2 more tics with a refresh body included. Both are massive independent MP gain playstyles that can be considered for various situations.

In the end, given the current perp cost level, it depends on whether you feel the flexibility in gear options afforded by a higher perp staff are worth the effort. I'm personally of the opinion that they do not, because I believe avatar damage is primarily BP based and when I BP its not in perp gear anyway.