Why am I drawn to the aluminum??

Seems sad they went to the pedestals. Wonder why. Maybe lower production cost?
I also wonder, in the real world does it matter much?
Is it worth the extra for the Hughes shaft system?

Shaft mount is much more sturdy for high lift and high rpm. Only reason to go with pedestal rockers is lower cost. For mild combos I wouldn't think you gain much with shaft rockers if it costs extra. If it's a serious effort street or racing application I would definitely get the shaft mount or at the very least a stud girdle.

This article shows how much stud rockers can flex:
http://www.cpgnation.com/forum/matters-control-stud-mount-vs-shaft-3860.html