When I was in the process of purchasing a new tractor in the fall of 08', I was contemplating the same setup that you are. Currently, I was cutting 7 acres of my total 11, with a 72' IH Cub. It was an 11 hp tractor (I know seems low as heck, but it would turn a 5ft belly mower without a problem as long as it was running like a top and the mower had sharp blades), with a 3 speed (not including reverse), gear mesh transmission. The only real gripes I had about it were that it was under powered (really though that was only if you didn't stay on top of cutting the grass), and it was slow (the fastest you could cut grass was in 2nd gear, which I would estimate was around 3 mph at pto speed....yeah I know, talk about slow, it would take me 7 - 8 hours to totally cut the place, now it takes me 3 - 4 with the 3320), but the biggest gripe was that it had seen it's "time", it was worn and it was old, and I was tired of fixing it. For the past 3 season it had had something go wrong with it that wouldn't allow it to run at its top performance. Insert buying a new tractor
My first choice for a new tractor was the 790/3005 (790 is the previous model, 3005 is the new production model which is just a 790 with the 3005 badges). I liked the simplicity of it, the price, and the gear mesh transmission. I was used to shifting and didn't mind it so I never even placed the hydro on my radar, I was content. But, there were a few reservations with the 790, such as the weaker hydraulics and the issue of the mid mower only working with the R1 tires. In the end I ended up passing over the 790/3005 and going to the more efficient gear transmission that is the PowrReverser on the 3320 (you should check one out, no clutching when changing directions and gears can be shifted while in motion, but that's another story for another time).
Overall though, I think a 790/3005 would work perfectly for your needs. But, the mid pto will most likely have to be added by the dealer or yourself, depending on where you buy it and which ever you prefer. Even with adding the mid pto and a mid mower, I don't think you could justify the extra cost of the 2520. I would also suggest checking out the 3032e or 3038e if you plan on buying new. They're value line tractors that come standard with a 2 speed hydro transmission, (I suggest at least test driving a hydro so you get an idea for one) and the option of a frame mounted loader (as opposed to the removable, quick-tach loaders).
Good luck with your purchase.
