In a Whelen it means going from 2500 to 2600fps (at best) with a 250gr slug
Actually I imagine 25-50 FPS might be more realistic.
Reloading one is about like reloading the other and unless there is a lot more powder needed to reach the same velocity, which there may be, with the A.I. as the standard I can't see much difference.
As stated at the begining I agree that to spend money to convert to the A.I. would not be practical. My real question is whether or not it is a big disadvantage to own the A.I. version?