Picked up my 1218 this afternoon. I'm quite impressed with it so far. The sounds, detailing, smoke effects, etc are all impressive as I would expect out of such a model. My checkbook is hurting but running and studying the locomotive has definitely helped ease that pain a bit. It's got the feline stamp of approval as well... 
The O-72 minimum curve is definitely a necessity as certain detail parts nearly bottom out even on that diameter curvature. I've noted that mine does not like making left hand turns on O-72 curves as the fireman's side forward running board step comes into contact with the back side of the headlight and pilot handrail. I assume they're all this way simply based on the attention to detail without cutting corners to make it work. The right hand running board isn't as long so it isn't an issue when going around a right hand turn. Obviously larger than O-72 curves would be best for this, I simply don't have room for them in my current living arrangement.
A bit of a "walk around" tour in photos. Excuse the makeshift apartment dining table photo studio and so-so iPhone photo quality 
