I'm quite happy with my UV-9G that I bought last month (after the upgrades were made). It came with the programming cable, so I have been updating the radio via CHIRP to my heart's content. Yes, the antenna seemed slightly canted during installation (probably due to the antenna mold itself, not the radio), but it sits straight and works fine. I picked up a shoulder mic that I like as well. The radio and mic have found a nice home on my fishing vest when necessary.
I bought a second UV-9G, but it was defective, so the replacement should arrive today. Hopefully it will behave as well as the first one. Funny thing, the second one showed up with a headset which was not listed in the ad. Looks like I got a bonus!