I haven't played in a bit, but if you have a good Mil monarch I would go offensive first. The extra pips for generals (especially shock early) is great, and being the only person with force march gives you a massive advantage and will force other people's hand in also getting FM quickly (unless they significantly outnumber you).
If you think you really be fighting a lot of players very early, then probably quantity.
If you think you really be fighting a lot of players very early, then probably quantity.