596 head performance mods

So I probably won't be able top get away with the lift that I want unless I have the spring seats cut?

This is an area that I'm not very knowledgable on...

According to your first post I see your wanting to run about .520 lift. That's no problem at 1.7" installed height using single springs that are properly selected. You just need springs that the rated coil bind is 1.13" or less. You only need to have the spring seats cut if you want to use dual springs.