I need a little schooling on manual transmissions

[70c10stepside]

One day, I would like to go 5-6 six speed. What are my options? I need od. Right now the truck has a th400 with 4.11 gears. Its about to be my dd. The motor is pushing 400-500 horse, and it is a small block. When ever I can do this, I'd like to keep it as low budget and simple as possible. From the way i am able to take it, it still has manual peddle assembly, as it use to have a Muncie 4 speed, but my father swaped that over in the early 90s. He just, cut out the clutch peddle.. The main reason I am wanting the swap, is to have it back to a standard shift. Doesnt have to be any close gear ratio or anything special.. Just, something to drive