I silicon my Protostar and it works fine for me, though it’s responsive at first though. It could just be my silicone job. About the pads, I have never put new pads in instead of flow able silicone, so I can’t say.
All throws take different sizes, and everyone has different preferences. So if you want to try IR PADS or flowable or yoyofactory pads. Everyone has their preference! It’s what you like and what fits.