retard timing mechanically?

How would one retard timing with out the popular msd btm. Seems that 400 is a lot for an electrical box. Paying for the name? Is there some type of mech dizzy that can be setup to work?
I know the timing makes or breaks the motor due to detonation.
I'm in the very early stage of planing and learning but every time I search timing retard it comes up with the msd or I seen a pro comp one that didn't have good reviews.