I'd use real plates if I could.
I'd settle for trainning plates. I now use fake plates that I will fill up. I just want to make sure they weight the same thing as the real one and don't deform from the filling.
I also ordered a EI LVAC to wear under my RRV.
If I can't source real BALC armour at a right price, I will make my own using 1000D cordura. Not bullet proof, but same consitency and weight. I have a real Lvl IIIA BP vest to compare.