I think it is excellent despite the fact that I can't really stand any of the actors - the lead bloke is too glam, that Gwen is just wrong, etc. However, in a weird way I suppose the casting works.
My overall opinion of the show is excellent even though I wasn't too keen on the 'fairys at the bottom of the garden' episode. The one last week, with the cannibals, was top quality viewing. I didn't brown my pants but it sickened me - which I suppose was its objective.
I agree with you on it being ''terrific production standards'' because it is extremely well shot on very good locations. I actually like the Torchwood base, I think that is a very good location.