If the choice is between a clutch or DSMlink, go with a cheap clutch and do both.
The tranny will take the power until the parts fatigue and shit the bed. Even fully built trannies are still 99% stock parts! In your case, the center diff is your biggest liability. They can be bought for 400-500 bucks (I ran Speed Design units, and Shep I believe offers his own version as well). I could swap them with the tranny in the car in about an hour. If you pull the tranny for a clutch swap it's even easier. At least you can see and get at everything more easily.
ACT 2600s are good to over 500 whp and cheap. Twin discs hold more power, but the main benefit is being able to actually shift fast. You won't believe the difference. They are expensive though. The one in the EVO cost me around 1800 bucks. There are some ~1100 dollar options for the DSMs, most people seem to run the PTT offering. FWIW I ran the ACT 2600s on my 2g right up to the bitter end, but a twin disc clutch is a very wise investment if you can swing it.