Mild Built 340 Timing/tuning help?

I understand each engine is unique, but would anybody be able to possibly give me a "ballpark" answer to these questions?

1. Total timing. I have heard around 34-36* is recommended. Would that roughly apply to this mild built engine as well? Good place to start 32 and go from there.
2. Mallory dist. springs -- what spring combo(timing curve) would be a good place to start? I would start advancing around 1100-1200
   
3. What is the best way to determine initial adv? By ear really see where it likes without kicking back during start.

Bonus points for a really dumb question. I have never personally heard engine ping, and I have read many times to pull as much advance as possible without pinging. What exactly is the noise I should be listening for, and would it only be under acceleration? Kind of like marbels in a can hard to describe.

Anyways, thanks in advance, and forgive my stupidity! :D Hey we all were at one time!

Hope it helps.