This is true. Me and my sub both agrees that it's hotter to NOT tie someone up when they are beeing whipped for example. Means they have to hold position with no help from ropes and the like! While others consider bondage an integral part of bdsm.
And yes everyone into bdsm likes really different things, can handle different levels of pain, finds different things humiliating etc etc. So I'll have to repeat that the important thing is finding someone who shares your interests and needs.