I just recently installed Akebono Ceramic pads on my front brakes, and Top of the line Wagner Metallic pads on the rear (not the cheap autozone ones). So far its tough to tell, and it might just be in my head but the pedal seems to have a less spongy feel and a little more responsive. I had the stock pads on for about 37k miles. Eventually i'd like to add the Stoptech brake package but thats in time.

 

how worn were your old pads? I remember replacing my front pads and felt the same way (less pedal travel). But I think it's just because the new pads are thicker comparing to the worn out pads.

 

They werent in that bad of shape actually. I had already purchased these and i got some track racing at limerock coming up so i just put the news ones on. Like i said it could be in my head but i do feel a slight improvement. After driving my friends 06'wrx limited, i can say that the new brakes are very good. I was considering upgrading to the 06' brakes but thats just more weight and my car is heavy enough as it is. Eventually i would like to upgrade the rotors and lines.