IMO you don't even need soft water for them to breed... i have about 100 freeswimming gbr fry right now... my water is 7.2... i have had great luck with my gbrs spawning.. good luck
dang fish monger that was a little harsh i was merely pointing out that they are not as easy as some others. between low quality stock comin in to most lfs, the fact that they are a soft water species and the fact that they like their heat i just dont like recomending them for beginner breeders in a 10 gal tank. honestly they are prolly my favorite fish, but in this situation i stick by the shelldweller suggestion.