Best heads for my 78 pontiac 400 motor

I'd like to pump up the HP in my 1978 with some extra compression. Not looking for a race motor, would just like to get more of what the late 60's early 70's motors were like. The Edelbrock heads are 87cc and provide a 9.5:1 ratio which is nice but I don't have $2000 nor do I need something that extravagant for a street motor. I won't be racing, just looking for a little more zip

Have you considered just having the heads you have worked on? my local shop (dover cylinder) and a few hot rod shops will rebuild and rework your valves to make them larger and flow better. One can even cnc port and polish them. Call around. I had the same problem with my 72 455 Trans Am, but I just restored it to stock.

What type of performance boost can I expect for what kind of cost?

Okay, I'm "late arrival" here...

If you could tell us what heads you have currently, a good recommendation can be forthcoming. The casting number is exposed on the external portioin of the exhaust ports (6X, 4X, 12, 16, etc.).

Pontiac V8 heads are quite "unique". All the "buzzwords" that apply to the "other" brands doesn't necessarily apply here.

The largest valves that will physically "fit" in the chamber are 2.11" intake and 1.77" exhaust. ALL true "performance" heads are so equipped.

9.3:1 is the highest recommended for using 93 octane with iron heads.

The best Pontiac head porters do NOT use "cnc" machines. Butler Performance is considered the "premiere" Pontiac shop. We're (CVMS) also well-known for good running Pontiacs.

Outline your current parts and "where you want to be", and we can make specific recommendations.

Jim