Get AEM pads if you need more stopping strength but none of the semi-metallic traits of: squealing and lots of dark-colored dust on your wheels. I don't have them on but I've had Axxis Metal Master (semi-metallic) pads on a 00 AV6 and a 98 Civic LX. They both grind and produce lots of visible dust. AEM's are ceramic. And Honda's are decent overall. Plus if you go with Honda's, they give you the shim AND the shim grease.

Hey XHondaTech, I have a question for you on Unorthodox Racing underdrive pulleys. As a Honda tech, do you feel that the absence of a harmonic dampener on the UR underdrive crank pulley can cause long-term engine damage? There are two camps to this story and one side says that that harmonic dampers are now more used for eliminating vibration and harshness that may transfer to the inside cabin. Your thoughts? Thanks.