I had my S/W aquarium set up in 1979 and although there were no SPS available, I thought I'd reflect some of the other big differences.
First, since there was no internet, information was stovepiped through independent channels. We just didn't have the knowledge nor the availability.
Most impressive to me is to look at pictures of the old tanks, with the coral skeleton decorations. Since I was in South Florida I still have some monster elkhorn skeletons along with several other types. Doesn't anyone have any pictures to post?
Finally, the discovery of live rock as a filtering source was not in handd. For a while there, someone must have made a lot of money from all of the gadgets that were thought to be required. Although I still find myself wanting to purchase lots of toys!
Reminiscing is so much fun.....
Wrassta