I used the stock exclusively for 1 week.  Since you don't need to know much to use it, it's a great way to wet your feet.  A lot of files wouldn't slice properly with stock software, so I put them in a "print later" folder and printed what I could. 

Week 2 I learned how to reset the filament cartridge chip with Arduino to use 3rd party filament.  I started slicing with Slic3r and used Notepad ++ to add in the bits needed so that you can open the .3W file in XYZ software and print it.  It's a great way to make sure that your Slic3r settings work properly, but it takes a LONG time for the printer to heat up and get started printing this way. 

Week 3 I flashed repetier and got used to Repetier host, but you have to have the computer hooked up the whole time, or the print stops.  I learned how to  code in OpenScad and designed my first STL files, and got to toy extensively with different filament temperatures and bed temperatures during the prints, which you cannot do with stock.

Week 4 I have setup Octoprint on a Raspberry Pi, and can now start and monitor my prints over a webcam from anywhere in the world.  I have gone through 3 packages of gluesticks and have started exploring tape, mod podge, and hairspray for better/easier bed adhesion.  I got an xbox kinect with AC adapter and used Skanect to do 3D scans and print them.

That brings me up to today.  In two days it will be 1 month with my Da Vinci.  I think it has been a GREAT way to start with 3D!!

In the future:  I'd love to try PLA or PetG.  Heavily considering an E3D v6.

Yes, you should able to install repetier on a 2.0/2.0A. 

See this link:

https://github.com/luc-github/Repetier-Firmware-0.92

I am not sure if you will be able to go back to stock though.  I know on the 1.0A you cannot but you can on the 1.0.  Perhaps someone else can tell you for sure.

If you are newer to 3D printing I would get comfortable with it at stock before you convert it but that is ultimately your choice.

Good Luck!

Thanks for the reply !

See this link:

https://github.com/luc-github/Repetier-Firmware-0.92

I am not sure if you will be able to go back to stock though.  I know on the 1.0A you cannot but you can on the 1.0.  Perhaps someone else can tell you for sure.

If you are newer to 3D printing I would get comfortable with it at stock before you convert it but that is ultimately your choice.

Good Luck!