You don't need to be maxed to make the turn ins for the artisan specs and tools.

My Alchemist has all i55 accessories, Ixal hands, Artisan specs and tool, AF boots, Patrician's body and legs, Militia offhand. Only 2 melds on the offhand all else that can be melded is maxed. Spirits of Salt is well within reach.

And yes, if a piece takes pentamelding to max you probably need an IV. But not necessary. Figure it out. You can blow up a LOT of IIs and Is before you hit the cost of a IV.