Derek what exactly is the second version giving you that the first didn't? Everyone is advising to go for it but I can't quite see what I will get that makes it worth shelling out again. I realise it is "better" but to what degree?

A quick release would be ideal. (There are far too many products out that require tools of different shapes and sizes - and that really is a pain in the field).

David
The main difference is that the base plate is now one piece, and the shoulder mount upgrade will attach to the new baseplate version. I believe the shoulder mount itself will not attach to the v1 baseplate (which was two separate parts screwed together)
My interest was getting the shoulder mount for hand-held shooting, and since I had the v1 baseplate, I needed to upgrade. It's well worth it, since the ergonomics of the EX3 really suck for long hand held shooting situations, especially if you have v-mount batteries and multiple receivers attached! I'm really hoping Jeff comes out with a quick-release for the shoulder mount, so when it's not needed it can be quickly removed. I also have found with the shoulder mount attached, my camera is moderately better able to sit on a table. Since I am using a Bebob v-mount battery system (with a Lectro receiver mounted on the side of that) my camera is severely off-balance and would not even sit flat on a table without tipping over. Jeff also said he may be working on some counterbalance ideas in the future....

Derek, appreciate the detailed reply.