The Object Gizmo has been updated (in Beta) so you can use the keys to toggle dedicated Rotate, Scale or Translate modes (press R, S or T). These allow even easier control of object manipulation.
Also added were the speed changes mentioned previously, as well as a refinement of the Terrain Raise/Lower tool. Each stroke will "max" out at a particular height (based on radius and strength). I was able to re-write this to be a little more responsive too.
A few other bug fixes are included.
For those wishing to try the latest changes, go to the Betas tab and enter "ScienceTrumpsIgnorance". This will unlock the latest Beta 1.5.1.0.
Enjoy!