Perlite not recommended for cased substrate? Interesting. I have been growing for a long time (and always case), the last year or so I switched from using an ultrasonic humidifier to perlite. I find it much easier to control humidity by using perlite. Now my casing stays moist and I don't have to worry about moisture build up on the shrooms and casing.But Buffalo Trance is absolutely right, it is one more step at which you could run into problems. When I was first starting out (some 20 years ago) we didn't have PF Tek...and casing rye grain substrates was standard method...it took me a while to get the casing mix, moisture content and initiating pinn set down. But you have to learn sometime, right. Success your first time will go a long way in building your confidence.
Which ever way you go...the best of luck to you.
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Peace, Love & Light