advice on heads

Ok, that's a little more info. The rationale for getting more power is BS. I could outrun any old cars with stock suspension with my Neon on the highway. They are just not that good at high speeds. So I'd have that conversation...lol.
In terms of heads - the EQ heads would be the first choice as replacements. They don;t come as assemblies - they are bare. And they are Magnum based - no LA valvetrain will work. You can get them made for the standard LA intake - so no special manifolds needed. They are limited by lift - but you aren't anywhere near that so you're good. So you need to look at the cost of heads, valves, springs, retainers, and locks, rockers and stands, and pushrods. None of that is big dollars for your intended use but it's not a case of $300 heads and you're good. Your head guy is on target with his work and your use. So I wouldn't discount the LA heads either - you'll be at that figure for the EQ Magnums too, but they will flow more overall and where your cam wants it.