Ignition Question

I'm looking to upgrade my ignition system to a high perfomence system, i got a new distributor in mind already but i buddy of mine said that i would need an ignition box as well, what the heck are they, what do they do and do i really need one? The distribuator says it can work with or without one if that helps any.

hey man, u dont need a new ignition box if ur just wanting to put on a new cap and maybe wires or somthing, the box kinda regulates and tells ur engine how much umph!! to put into the spark, a MSD or Holley Box can give u more spark energy which means...more power. let me know if that helps