Thanks for the explanation, that was what I thought, but saw a few groups sharing the cost with phantoms (unless I was understanding it wrong).
If phantoms did want access to BF4 Premium the way you describe (as in no DLC downloads, only in game items/premium status) they could put in a small amount for that. Right? Not sure if anyone would want that, but if anyone did it would make the resells a bit cheaper even if it was only a few bucks.
I can get BF4 PS3 for $47.51, so I might be interested in doing a BF4 PS3+PS4 group (+premium for resells).