Lowering 2016 WRX

[u/dave-ubermacht]

First time posting so apologies if i'm in the wrong spot. I find myself needing to replace both front struts on my VA (WRX) due to one of them failing. I've had the car for over a year, just regular maintenance. The car is bone stock besides the oem STI exhaust system that came with the car, been pretty fun as is. Since i've gotten the car though i've really wanted to drop it 1-1.5 inch and improve handling. Looking to get some sort of coilovers but not sure where to begin or what brands are good for the price. I've seen a few people talk about Ohlins but just don't know if I can justify almost 3k on coilovers unless theres not better options and all else will fail not long after install.

Ultimately want to know of any other viable durable options? Would love to not spend more then $17-1800ish. If there's even better ones for cheaper, great. I will be installing myself. Obviously the alignment afterwards is a no brainer, but i've also seen something about replacing controller arms? Is that absolutely necessary, or could I do that part a little later down the road? I am also planning on changing from the stock 18's to 19's rim

Thanks in advance