340 to 416 stroker build need advice

Put me in the same camp as Moper.

500hp doesn't need studs or a girdle. Studs aren't a bad idea, but, not required. There are some stock cast crank 360's cranking out 575+ hp, spinning close to 7500rpm, running around that have nothing but a set of studs in the mains. An R block is a really good idea when going to 600+.

Here's another way to save a buck. Find a set of used Ede's, you'd have to have the guides and valve job checked anyways, so used is a good approach here. Surface and have them ported and you can come in at under 2K ready to bolt on. I have one set that I have about $1600, flow in the 295 range at .600 lift, set up for a .650-.675 roller, and done by a local head porter with a solid reputation. I've bought used Ede's for anywhere from 550-1000 for a pair depending on what they were, ported on the high side.

I wouldn't take what someone says from a company that has something to sell you as gospel. Hughes has some nice products, but, they aren't the only game in town.

Good luck with it