Another thought is the higher ratios on a small block improves the PR angle slightly because it moves the top end of the PR towards the shaft, closer to where it should be but still not great.

With a higher ratio and smaller cam you should get better valvetrain action because the lifter and PR need to move less to get the same valve action.

All that being said I would recomend the highest ratio you can afford and run a smaller cam to keep the same net valve action.

You could make it work good on a SB because they have shorter pushrods and lighter valves than a BB and if you run an 8mm valve it is even lighter and you can run chevy LS style beehive springs with very light retainers.