Have to say, I always look forward to round 2 more than round 1.
For round 1, we're presented with a batch of items, but it's not like we're voting on them or anything. So, as interesting as they might be, any discussion of the items is, when it comes down to it, irrelevant to the competition. Well, unless you're one of the 32. Then I suppose it's very relevant!
In round 2, on the other hand ... that's when the rubber hits the road :)
I've only looked back at the archives for previous competitions, but looking back, it seems like round 2 was where the distinctive voices and styles of most contestants really shone through.