For BB’s, the block seems to be the only real place where we have to pay the Mopar tax. There isn’t a $3500 solution for the 800-1000 hp guys like the basic GM block offerings, that cost half the price of a Callies or Bill Mitchell block. It’s either use a stock block, keep the tune safe and risk it, or spend $7k or better for a serious race block.
An aluminum BBC is just as expensive as an aluminum Mopar block if not more. A dart block lists for $9700 and the Brodix block starts at $6300 but most would opt for the $8000 Brodix block as a starting point. Now comparing a Mopar steel block to a BBC there is about a $3k difference you can get a Dart Big M for about $3500 but no options and most order additional options when buying one. Last one I got in was $5700 with a few changes, .904" lifters and 55MM cam.
