Can report that the Noritake CU16025-UW6J works and fits perfectly. Just have to cut the 16 pin header down to 14 (pins 15 and 16 are for an LCD backlight). They are pricey but much easier on the eyes, and the viewing angle is huge.
Looks better in person too, photos don't really capture the warm vacuum glow.
A more adventurous person could probably look at the schematics and pull some now unnecessary parts (the contrast trimmer has no effect on the VFD for one), but I was lazy and followed the build instructions as is.
