I think the main difference is that for every planet in K1, the starmaps were the endpoint of every planetary quest. You went through quests to get to them, because of them.
In K2, the masters appeared during the quests - they weren't the climax of the quest, but an element that surfaced toward the end.
It's a matter of personal opinion, obviously, but I like them both in different ways. The masters though, did provide more stimulating conversation.