Manual trans swaps: Cheapest vs Easiest vs Best Performing vs Best Driving Experience

Interested myself. From what I have heard is stay away from the A833 OD due to the 1-2 ratio falling off so much. Not sure if all are the same ie truck vs pass car. They can be had pretty cheap. Had a full set-up (bell, trans, clutch, PP, shifter, etc) locally for $950 but passed on it because of that. Anyone using one with small block?

edit..Sorry if this is hijack ignore but OP may be interested in this direction.