Tom I use these Super Starter Rubberized Moss is what I think the hydro supply guy said it was. Either way, u can just get them at any hydro place, They're called starter plugs. They're so much better than rockwool, IMO. U don't have to condition them like rockwool. U just put ur seed in it a lil pH balanced H20 and Voila, in less than 2 days u got ur sprout. Yes usually mine are sprouted by the 2nd day.
this pic was from 2 days after I placed the seed in the plug. And Here's a pic of it 2 days after that.
I don't presoak or nothing. just place seed in moist starter, which they naturally are. I keep mine in the fridge till I need them. Then let them come to room temp before using them. After u place seed, place a few drops of water and I use one of them seed starting humidifiers. They work good for clones also. So I spray the top of the tent and cover with a black plastic bag cover and within 48 hours all my seeds are sprouting over the surface of plug and ready for light. Around my way the plugs run $6.50 for 25 or $12 for 50. Check them out man I highly recommend them. -Dodge