One of my favorite layouts is a 1.5" pin stacked 1.5" from pap; so you have a triangle, Pin-Pap-CG all 1.5" apart, pin on line from PAP to finger. As you said, early revving, smooth arcing reaction. About as even a reaction as I know how to get. I've never tried a 1.5" pin w/ cg in grip center, so that part of your question I can't answer.
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"I do desire that we may be better strangers." Willie the Shake, As You Like it(III,ii)
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