While I agree that the extra few bucks for the A2 would've been more than worth it, it's still going to show nice gains.
There were two different head configurations for the j32a1's, and Matt got the second generation, which has 35mm intake valves, which are only 1mm smaller than the A2's.
Since it looks like he is swapping the IM/runners/throttle body from the A2, all that will be left on the A1 that is different from the A2 is the lower CR pistons and the 1mm difference in intake valves. It'll still be a nice upgrade from the j30.