the current shocks work fine, but,,,they are a little tricky to get used to, a little more complicated to assemble and get consistent..
If you wait just a month or so, the new shocks will be released, will be uber nice.
alternatively, most guys are currently using Tamiya shocks, as these are the best shocks on the market....For now anyways
also, if you wish to use the low towers, and retain the kit shocks, cut 2mm off the end of the shock shaft, and 2mm off the ball cup. this will enable you to get low enough ride height with the low towers.
as for hopups, a oneway (if your track suits one), and maybee the alloy rear hubs, as they allow finetuning of the rear Roll centre, they also provide better geometry.
otherwise, the alloy hingepin mounts are good =)