im using a completely stock 4l80, i think the stock converter is fine for what im doing with it as i run mostly street tires and couldnt hook a stall anyway. I have yet to get a sub 2.1 60', and im still running 11's no problem. Switching to manifolds from the tube headers will knock 3-400rpm off my spool time though, but im adding 200lbs of stuff to it at the same time. Plans are for a Fuddle 3000 when i do buy one though.
Oh, and i wouldnt dream of going to anything else, this car is so fun its sick. Still gets 20+ MPG to boot. Heres some vids if you want to know.
BTW, the EVO runs low low 11's at 120, rx-7 is side by side with him.
Gary