I don't see any need to go manual. Man, superstreet pros do it with ATs all the time. You can fix the Auto tranny to shift like a manual when you want to and then drive it like an Auto again. Check out these guys out of NJ:
http://www.importperformancetrans.com/index.shtml
I'd recommend finding an H22 Engine from an Auto Prelude and place that in your Accord and build up your powerplant to where you like it. Then go to a local performance Auto Trans shop or the guys I mentioned and setup your Trans to where it compliments your Engine. There's a gentleman here at my office with a Chevy Silverado with a Performance Auto Trans and it pulls like a pack of elephants at your drawers.
It'll definitely save you money and maintenance in the long run.