Yeah its unlocked, i dont know how simple or complex it is to unlock the machines, but my guess would be that it entails loading patched files to the game's harddrive to bypass eamuse's hold on the unlockables.
Haven't heard about SVGL getting IC cards yet, you can buy them on BMS for $8.00 flat, mailing included. I got mine in a couple days thru BMS, but you have no control on the design you get.
I played it quite a bit today, seemed mostly okay. Almost passed the Core and World Tour sets but got served by Colours of Sorrow and Sin. But I think that was more me sucking, and not the screen.