Dry lager yeast - starter?

[johnp]

Im wondering if its recommended to make a starter for a dry lager yeast (saflager).

I think common knowledge is to not make a starter with dry yeast, but is that because its cheap? This yeast was ~$7 (lhbs was out of liquid German lager yeast), and Mr. Malty is saying its not quite enough to inoculate a lager at 1.055.

Thanks!