If you have an MP3 and buy different springs you are really wasting your money if you spend the extra dough on different shocks. The Tokico's are good for at least another inch lower. And having the adjustability is nice, but how often will you be adjusting the dampening. If you frequent the Auto-X's then yes upgrade the shocks, since stiffening up the shocks will help you a little. I say if you have the money and want to do it right......fork out the dough for something rare, worth while, and definately track proven. In other words buy the JIC's. Sure you'll pay a bit more, but you will definately be satisfied with what you have. All the fellow Protege owners will be green with envy.