Two questions on a 400 build

Recently I've purchased a full 1976 400 engine with a 727 transmission. With my mind reeling with ideas to swap into my '73 duster, I'm wondering if I can get by with a steel 440 crank offset ground to get close to a 470 engine. 440 Source seems to shy people away from this idea and push to purchase their new cranks. This is understandable and their cranksets look incredibly sexy, but so is more money in my pocket. Anyone have good luck with offset grinds and longivity issues? And what combos? Also, would the stock A833 4-speed connect without difficulty onto the 400 or would I be better off using the 727 with a good torque converter? I love a 4-speed but I know people get by quite well with the 727 in bigger engines.
Any help and suggestions would be appreciated.

D