Is Malaysian driftwood really any different than standard driftwood?

nope, you're right :) malaysian driftwood does sink unlike standard driftwood. it's also a lot prettier haha anyways, you can try boiling the driftwood to open up the "pores" and let out all the tanins before putting it in your aquarium, or you can continually soak the driftwood for a week. just empty out the water every time it gets discolored. boiling might smell up your house with a not so nice odor...and you have to boil for like a couple of hours. people have boiled it a whole day, so yea...umm i don't think the driftwood would dramatically change your ph but it may lower it a little i think...and goldfish could really care less haha as long as there's nothing pointy sticking out they should be okay. the moss should work as a carpet and cushion if they bump into the driftwood. goldfish are so clumbsy...>.<...well i hope i helped!