a lot of good info here. i'd just add that some of this comes down to preference and is a little subjective. I prefer a stiffer ride as long as it equates to better handling and confidence. I like feeling more of the road when i drive. You'll definitely hear people saying that their BDS kit is a better ride than stock. I've never had a BDS lift, but it's known as a great quality lift, and i think what people are really saying is that the ride is a lot more confident and handling is better controlled. You're definitely going to have a stiffer ride regardless of what you do. Tire size, sidewall, type, psi etc have a big impact in ride quality as well.
If i hit the lotto tomorrow, id buy a BDS lift. Realistically, im sticking with bilstein 5100's as i don't need that type of ground clearance as a true lift would bring.