Headgasket or new pistons?

[blizzind]

I'm sure that this question has been answered before, but I haven't been able to find it. I just picked up a spare 2jz engine to build up a few days ago. It has 170,000 miles on it, but was driven by an older lady who didn't run it hard. I plan on doing a mild rebuild (replace all the rubber and rod bearings), but I don't know if I should just keep the stock pistons and just get a thicker head gasket to lower the compression to 9.2:1, or get a set of standard size 8.5:1 compression pistons and a tt head gasket. My goal is to reach around 500rwhp. I would like to reach that goal and be able to boost up a little more (mid to high 600's) without having to break too deep back into the engine. Would I be better off just getting a gasket and seal kit from XSpower, or getting some lower compression pistons. I'm thinking the pistons because I can't see 17psi on 9.2:1 compression pistons pushing into the 500's reliably. Maybe I'm wrong though.

[LexusFTW]

Obviously a HG is going to be cheaper than buying a set of pistons. Personally, I would just do the HG and keep the stock pistons. There are numerous success stories where people lower compression with a HG change and stock pistons and make great numbers.

[Gunnar]

I have the GTE headgasket with stock pistons. I like the ~9:1 CR since it still feels a lot peppier out of boost around town than an ~8.5:1 car I drove.

[blizzind]

If I run more than 17psi with the 9:1 compression, would I be risking anything? Assuming that everything else is done right.

[LexusFTW]

It's all in the tune. If you have the ability to control timing then you're good to go.