I would not say that, when I get 6 cylinder engines I do not pay more than $20 for them, guys usually just want you to pick up the engine & get it out of there way.
With pistons, you have to take the engine completely apart & go through the whole thing.
If you find a decent cylinder head, clean off the old gaskets & install just the head. Much easier.
I believe I have a couple 194 cyl heads.
But I agree, getting a valve job, guides, valves etc, can get pretty pricey.
MBHD