Hi Nick,
Good question.
The GK-1R requires two additional pcbs, one, the digital control board, and the other, the keypad pcb for the pushbuttons. Both are quite straightforward, and connected together with ribbon cables which I supply pre-built.
The manually switched input pcb is swapped for a relay input pcb; no more complex, in fact simpler by a small margin since you don't have to install a five position four pole wafer switch.
However, two more pcbs inevitably means more complexity, and more opportunities for making little mistakes. We are dealing with DIP ICs here, so soldering skills are a little more finely honed than the analogue pcbs. OTOH, the instructions for the GK-1R are probably the best I've done, so it's all swings and roundabouts.
On balance, yes, the R is more complex. However, the instructions are clear, and the boards are simple to assemble, but there are many more steps. Mounting it all in a box is more difficult as a result, and so there is a little more metal work.
I prefer the remote because I'm a lazy old bugger, but that's not everyone's choice, as some like the manual version. Sonically there is no difference.
Sorry Nick, your call!!
Cheers,
Hugh
