I have run AALs in several Jeeps. My MJ came to me with a half-length AAL and it's too stiff. Also, my local spring shop confirms that these can also break springs. Fortunately, most of the AALs now available are the full-length variety.
Personal preference, but I like the ride with a full-length AAL better than stock OEM springs. I would not use extended shackles by themselves, for the reason already given above -- the increased articulation also accelerates spring fatigue, causing sag and in extreme cases breakage.
Shocks: I like Monroe. I have tried KYB "Gas Adjusts" and Racho 5000s and found both the be unacceptably harsh. I like a "firm" suspension, but not a kidney breaker, and that's how I e felt with the Ranchos. The KYBs were too resistent to small pavement cracks -- I felt every single one.