HI Mark,
Thanks for your comparo; always helpful for people to consider their options.
The phono pre is now available on the GK-1M version, and will also be available with the GK-1R, which hopefully will be on the streets within a month! (I received the third batch of prototype pcbs last night!! This is quite a tricky design, took three iterations to get right.)
Per-Anders, you'll be reassured to know there are no pcb or design errors anywhere in the GK-1 and phono option, but after you have examined the schematics you might let me know your opinion!! (but you might have to buy one to get the schematics, unless there are digital pirates out there.........!)
BTW, the phono option on the GK-1, on today's exchange rate, is just $US137, so I'm heaving a sigh of relief to know I come in just under your cutoff!
Cheers,
Hugh