The 1-2 shift is definitely not the most smooth for this transmission. Here's some tips I have had success with:

1) Let off the gas completely before depressing the clutch. The clutch is linked to the ECU and will cut power when you depress the clutch.

2) 2nd needs a bit more gas per clutch than the other gears, I usually give 2nd quite a bit more gas to smoothly transition.

3) Don't be afraid of reverse. Yank that thing straight down into 2nd. I am really deliberate with the 1-2 shift as opposed to the 3-4 shift which is like butter in my car.

4) For fun, turn off the T/C and redline 1st and drop the clutch into 2nd. I can usually chirp the tires pretty good into 2nd, and I think this is the fastest way to accelerate because the T/C will jump in otherwise.

5) If all else fails, start in 2nd. Its not too bad every now and then and is much smoother than using 1st if you have other people in the car.