My thoughts:
1) Waves finally got the preamp gain structure right, but the Master knob only adjusts overall level. No audible saturation or extra gain with the Master knob. This is no go for me.
2) It seems like they didn't emulate the schematics, but rather put together multiple measured values, as they say in the video teaser. When you turn the gain knob while the signal is being processed you can hear little clicking noises as if the values are adjusted in small steps.
3) External IR is a nice option. Auto phase alignment and level adjustment of IRs is great. It's the only thing I like about this bundle. Still not worth the price for me. YMMV.