RE: Is this thing released yet?
If the quality supplied on this model is improved it will be worth the extra 100 bucks. However, if I have to spend two days sealing down and heating out wrinkles on the poorly applied monocote than it's not worth it. GP is great about putting out some cool arf's, but the quality leaves much room for improvement.
Of course when you read reviews most quality issues never make the print. The exception I have seen lately is the review of the GP Stearman in R/C Report done by Gordon Banks. His review was right on the money a called out the errors and quality issues with the plane.
Don't get me wrong, GP brings value and fun models to the market. One more step up in the quality area would be nice though.