Why am I drawn to the aluminum??

Because of the initial post I figured the EQs were out of the equation... But - they are another excellent choice if you're open to them - MUCH cheaper than either other option and easier to source because everybody has or can get them reasonably. They are also sold bare and the ports are excellent as cast... not as light as the RPM magnums but no heavier than a factory head - unlike the Indy/RHS ;).