Last time I was here, I came with 3 girls, who got in immediately and I was directed into a separate line. Then I proceeded to wait in line for 2 hours before I was able to see the front desk where patrons were paying cover. During those 2 hours, I watched people pay an extra bill or two to the line ushers to cut to the front of the line. I'm assuming that this is one of the reasons why the cheap "I-already-am-going-to-pay-$55-to-get-in" line is barely budging... haha. I also discovered that you can get the pre-sale tickets online before 8 pm (I believe...) for $30 (depending on the event) and you won't have to wait in line! SO DO THAT!
It does take a little planning but I would totally recommend it!