I have the 6:1 and I use it for topwater. It's a great reel and I have no issues or problems. I put a 96mm Metanium handle on mine because I prefer a longer handle.
As for deep cranks, I suppose the 6:1 would work fine for cranks up to 10 foot or so. I prefer a 5:1 (or my Zillion 4.9:1) for deep cranks, but everyone has their own style.
Like others have said, it is just a Curado I. However, for a few dollars extra you can have something different that not everyone has. To me, it was worth it, but to others it might not be. Go with whatever makes you happy, because at the end of the day, that's all that matters.