Do most builders go with the FF tubular lower control arms?

I currently have '97 donor front lower control arms. These limit (I believe) the front wheel width to 7". That becomes a problem because I'd like to go with at least 9" wheels in back. I'd like to put 17x9" wheels all the way around so I can rotate tires and also get the best deal on a 4x wheel/tire package. For the cost of the lower control arms, I'm figuring I'd save at least half the price initially on having the ability to get a 4x wheel deal rather than two 2x sets. Plus the added advantage of rotating tires. Make sense?

Is there also a significant benefit in the handling?