HQ 2 star gear when melded right gives more DD stats in addition to ~+600-700hp. And a dead DD = No DD when compared with Darklight. If I remember correctly I had both more Critical Rate and Determination than an "equivalently" geared Darklight monk. That being said it is still inferior to binding coil gear. HOWEVER - Some encounters it may be beneficial to use the accesories (way more hp and surivability) than Allagan provides.
http://i42.tinypic.com/v5jxjr.jpg