I've been running a few tests on the quad over the last 2 nights comparing recent software versions from 1.8 though to 1.9 including dev versions, the differences in setup (more complex on tx) and control show that the programmers out there are do a fantastic job on the updates.
Imho I've been running 1.8p2 with great success recently and decided to try 1.9 to compare. The quad reacts so much quicker and smoother on my setup than its ever done, the autolevel feature (adxl345) was initially a pain to setup and initiate but really worth the effort in the end.
There's quite a few quads in the club now and I'd seriously recommend you take a couple of hours and learn the basics on the trimming and programming of these machines, It does make a difference to the flight handling and ease of use.
Basic PID adjustments can/will make your quad a better flyer when adjusted correctly.
Baro is next on the list for altitude hold, I have it on the TRI for ap use
Holds are getting better with reports of only 1/2 metre deviation gained with minor mods to the baro housing.