I rode on H&R sports with stock shocks for two years, no problems. Upgraded to Koni adjustables about a year ago. You can get away with a mild drop, but the lower you go...the quicker the stock shocks will blow.

Same with camber...the lower you go, the more you'll need it. With a mild drop you can get away without, then as you go lower, you'll probably need the rear first, then if you go real low (2.5" or so) you'll need the front camber kit.

You can DIY the springs with basic tools and a spring compressor and torque wrench.

If you go that route, I have some DIY pics with steps and torque specs, hit me back.

Get a friend and it'll take maybe 3-4 hrs your first time.