I went ahead and voted for the Egret II.
I did some search back in the last several Egret II group orders, and if history were to be believed, I can easily afford one. I think the prices I've seen them sell for were simply the US prices based on desirability, not necessarily what they seem to go for in Japan.
Of course if the cabs end up being insanely expensive in comparison to what they've sold for in the past, I may have issues, but even if it is, there's going to be a gap of time until payment is due, and what I have in hand is more than enough to cover the costs of what they went for in group orders historically.
Now just to wait.
And as far as people talking about new people around here. I understand your frustration, but this forum is basically the only place these group orders take place. As I don't currently own anyway to play MVS titles (and I sure and heck can't afford AES titles), the vast majority of content on these boards is lost to me. This will be my first cabinet, so I look forward to becoming a more active member of the community.
Edit: Darn typos!