I have a couple of projects using poplar. I plan to use a stain pre conditioner and then apply stain. Both products are water based.

Two questions

1 Any thoughts on the Minwax pre conditioner as a good product? I have used Charles Neil's conditioner but with shipping it is way more expensive although I provides excellent resulus. I have never used the Minwax brand.
2 Is it OK to just use the stain as final coat, or, do I really need to apply a clear topcooat of finish?