340 Heads Recommendations- Aluminum vs Cast J

From what I understand, Speedmasters should still be sent out to be "checked". J heads are what 200 diollars plus the cost of rebuild so say $700 for Js vs 1200-1800 for speedmasters its all what you want to spend. I have a set of Js in the machine shop now waiting for the estimate I dont see it being more than 500. Also are you racing or street restoration? If racing yes go with aluminum as they will end up being ported at some point right?