I don't have a lot of input here, but I do mow 3+ acres regularly with a Simplicity Legacy that has a 48" deck. ( that was necessary when I bought it to get between large rocks, etc. on the property) I also have owned a BX22, and have used both on the same land. The Simplicity is roughly the equivalant of the X700 series JD in size, and weight. I found a huge difference in the smoothness of the steering over a long day of use in favor of the SCUT. Most GT's use cast spindles in sleeves that sometimes need to be greased more than once per mowing in my experience. I would look closely at the ruggedness of those components, and the ease of mounting the mower deck, material collection system (if you are interested in those), and other things that you will use every time you use that tractor. I have rough ground, and many obstacles, and small areas that are a bit steep, and a Sears GT lasted one year here so that flavors my opinions too. I also own a Kubota B2620, and the original intent was to perhaps mow with that. After using it for a while on my land, I'm not so sure that I want to do that now, though I still haven't decided for sure. If your ground is rough at all, I wouldn't look much at anything below the X700 series, or the various SCUTS. My Legacy has been OK, but I have replaced the fuel pump, and now need to replace the starter solenoid, and a few other cheaper parts this spring. I have between 500-600 hours on it now. I had the Simplicity version that is roughly compared to the X500 series, and I replaced the steering components three times in 1400 hours. I may trade my Simplicity in this spring so I'm following this thread with interest.