66' Barracuda and 273 with headers

So I decided on having the 273 for my 66 Barracuda re-worked at a good machine shop where money flows like water just to get them to talk to you. LOL!
Honestly, Larry's Auto Machine in Groton, CT is a amazing shop for custom machine work on the East Coast. Gary the owner has been racing Mopars since we were kids.

They want me to use headers in my prized beauty. UGH! let the opinions fly here.
So I said "SURE." why not. I'm down to 2 headers in my research. I've read all the posts in the search bucket. I'm down to the Doug's 1-5/8" DGHD450 just over $1k
and the TTI 1-5/8" step headers TTI 636A273-C5 at just over $1000

I've had both brands in 67-76 A bodies in the past and very happy with both.
This 273 needs some breathing over the stock iron straws. I have a mini starter already.
I have a TTI "X" 2.5" exhaust already with FI tech fuel injection.

I like the idea of the Doug's with 1-5/8" tubes the whole way. This 273 will not be pushing a lot of flow (small CI) so scavenging exhaust makes sense. But I'm told you need manual steering only.

The TTI are stepped headers 1-5/8 to 1-3/4" a tad bit bigger and supposedly works with PS and my 904 with center console shifter. They are supposed to be above the center link position. All pluses.

WHO HERE: has a 273 early A with 904 trans and either header?
I need to chat with you if possible about your choice. Waiting 6-8 weeks or more for headers at over $1000 per set is too much for me to make a "trial by error" judgement call after the fact.
Thank you,
Joe