Why not this.

[Denmo]

-Introduce higher lockout timers on end-game content (yes yes, casuals will bitch blah blah.)

I'm casual, and you wouldn't see me bitching about that. I'd just work it into my casual schedule. OH look, I only planned on playing Garuda 2-3 times this week! Looks like this is no problem for me.

What's that? You want to play Garuda 50 times this week? Too bad, Mr. Hardcore. Lockout timers~

[Viritess]

I really have no issues with folks wanted to do content as often as they want, i think Drop rate really needs to be on a sliding scale, especially in this game where you can be many classes.

I really think its best setup mechanics that allow the players more choice in their rewards for their first drop along with good odds, and then slide the drop rate down as you get your drops. Want a lance first, get a high droprate for the lance.

Want weapon number 7 of 7, much lower drop rate. Completionists get the fuzzy feeling of having all 7 weapons. And people who just don't have the time can atleast get something for their favorite class more easily.

Personalized Drop rates on a sliding scale will help ensure that people can still play/fight/and raid fairly often even if we kept the current timers. While still allowing better odds and a more rewarding experience.

I can't help wonder why a conversation about Raids and drops always has to have only 2 answers. As if theres no other way then the same way its been done hundreds of times.

Multi day lockouts are no fun, especially if your practicing with new LS members, or trying new things. When your have a large group of people on lockout theres even less going on. If people want to run something many many times i encourage them to do so, and would hate to force them not to.

But at the same time Static Drop rates are hardly fun either, especially without the ability to trade/swap/choose what your after in the first place. No one wants duplicates they can't keep or sell. No one wants a weapon for a class they dislike more then the class they love.

As i suggested earlier in the thread i truely belive the best route for FF14, with the armory system as it is/will be, Is to design a Character centered, Sliding scale (diminishing returns so to speak) Droprate. The drop being a a Transitional item that can be Turned in/crafted/or altered on the spot to the weapon of your choice.

Two sides can argue at eachother till their blue in the face (fingers?), but untill we find middleground nothing will change, including the arguments, name calling and dissatisfaction.