AI vs EQ/Mast/Primo – Why the Shift in Philosophy Over Time?

[Survivalism]

I’ve noticed that a lot of experienced users seem to go from “test + AI” in early cycles to “avoid AIs at all costs” later on.

I’m curious how much of that shift comes from:

– Understanding how DHT-based compounds (Mast, Primo) or EQ can replace the need for estrogen management
– Learning from experience that crashing E2 feels worse than running it slightly high
– Chasing that “dryer” look and mistaking it for better health
– Or realizing that compounds like EQ, Mast, and Primo aren’t just estrogen management tools — they add their own anabolic contribution

That last point changes the picture. When someone replaces part of their test dose with a non-aromatizing compound, they’re not just reducing estrogenic load — they’re changing the entire hormonal balance while keeping total anabolism intact. In contrast, an AI removes estrogen but doesn’t replace what it takes away, which often leaves cycles feeling flat or brittle.

And that raises the real question: if these compounds can help shape a more stable hormonal profile, why is Test + AI still the go-to for beginners?
Maybe it’s just easier to control and understand one variable at a time — or maybe the “simple first cycle” idea has been repeated so long that it’s now dogma.

Either way, the mindset clearly shifts with experience. I’d like to hear how others interpret that evolution — especially those who’ve moved from early Test + AI setups to AI-free stacks built around DHTs or EQ.

 

[xrayphoton13]

I’ve noticed that a lot of experienced users seem to go from “test + AI” in early cycles to “avoid AIs at all costs” later on.

I’m curious how much of that shift comes from:

– Understanding how DHT-based compounds (Mast, Primo) or EQ can replace the need for estrogen management
– Learning from experience that crashing E2 feels worse than running it slightly high
– Chasing that “dryer” look and mistaking it for better health
– Or realizing that compounds like EQ, Mast, and Primo aren’t just estrogen management tools — they add their own anabolic contribution

That last point changes the picture. When someone replaces part of their test dose with a non-aromatizing compound, they’re not just reducing estrogenic load — they’re changing the entire hormonal balance while keeping total anabolism intact. In contrast, an AI removes estrogen but doesn’t replace what it takes away, which often leaves cycles feeling flat or brittle.

And that raises the real question: if these compounds can help shape a more stable hormonal profile, why is Test + AI still the go-to for beginners?
Maybe it’s just easier to control and understand one variable at a time — or maybe the “simple first cycle” idea has been repeated so long that it’s now dogma.

Either way, the mindset clearly shifts with experience. I’d like to hear how others interpret that evolution — especially those who’ve moved from early Test + AI setups to AI-free stacks built around DHTs or EQ.

No one is saying to avoid AI. That's only for trt that you should try to find a dose that makes you feel best and doesn't require AI as it's probably not great to be on an AI long term, especially arimidex, as it's bone catabolic. AI use has also been shown to cause loss of elasticity in vessels over time in some studies.

You still need AI with test + masteron as masteron doesn't lower e2. though it can mask high e2 symptoms.

Eq is a toss up as to whether it will lower e2 in you based on your genetic makeup. See here: Primobolan / Equipoise Crashed my E2 – Help!

You should start with testosterone only, not test+AI as your first cycle. You only add AI if bloodwork shows it's necessary. Change one variable at a time so you know what things feel like and how you respond.

Yes the different AAS can replace some of the anabolic load of test. Some people just can't run really high testosterone so you run what you can and add another AAS to bring up the total anabolic load to keep growing. Each one can bring a unique look with it as well. And like you mentioned they can control estrogenic sides to varying degrees.

Test + AI can still get you huge like anything else but it's also boring. It's more fun to branch out and explore different compounds and see the results of each. But look at the testosterone threads in the steroid spotlight subforum. After branching out for a few years many people come back to just running high test.

 

[Yonith]

That last point changes the picture. When someone replaces part of their test dose with a non-aromatizing compound, they’re not just reducing estrogenic load — they’re changing the entire hormonal balance while keeping total anabolism intact. In contrast, an AI removes estrogen but doesn’t replace what it takes away, which often leaves cycles feeling flat or brittle.

Not exactly. The AI is helping LOWER E2 bc there’s so much extra from the test. If you’re flat and brittle from an AI then you’re most likely taking too much and crashing your E2