Kessler is very talented with what he does; he's always my first choice. Doesn't hurt that his shop is about 2 miles from me as the crow flies. However, as with all mad geniuses, getting his attention is difficult; don't expect to have an engine in any kind of hurry. That, and he's heads-down with Spec Miatas lately (those guys spend money a lot more freely than present company).

Blake Meredith has built for me whole engines and various components (e.g., head prep); I've been extremely satisfied with his quality and value.

I've no personal experience with King, but their reputation is very good.