1. Improved performance means quicker charging time
2. 1 or 2 Amp charging comes on quick chargers. The one you have only puts out 125 mAh. I think the charger you have is meant to accurately cycle your batteries - its not a quick charger. I got a Revo quick charger and Rx battery off eBay for $26 shipped. Charges the pack in about an hour.
3. If the Futaba charger is a "wall brick" type of charger, its not likely to be a quick charger either. Check the output amperage. You may be stuck with overnight charges.
4. From what I've read, NiMh packs are not that fussy about discharging, but you should not fully discharge the battery and put it away. Always keep the battery partially charged with some juice.