I come away from this discussion with the conclusion that NONE of the transmission designs currently available are necessarily "inherently" superior to another. Structurally, they will all perform, with outstanding reliability; given proper operation and maintainance.
There are operational attributes; however, that make one design inherently superior to other transmission types when comparisons are based upon the type of work being performed.
Gear transmissions; either collar or snychromesh excel with heavy ground engagement chores; plowing, discing, cultivating and in situations where operations are conducted in large acreages with long distances when mowing, baling, etc.
Hydraulic reverser or shuttle shift transmissions also excel under work conditions that conventional gear transmissions tend to shine. However, these transmissions have the added advantage of clutchless forward and reverse movement. This use option is very beneficial when front loader operations are a routine function.
HST or hydrostatic transmissions excel in work environments where operations involve close quarters and/or precision movement of the machine and implements. It is also the easiest transmission for inexperienced operators to operate. Most industrial-use heavy equipment utilizes this type of transmission.
Therefore, the decision to buy a tractor with a specific transmission type should not be based upon the criteria of a "more reliable and superior transmission design" but rather more upon how the machine will be utilized and the personal, individual "tastes" of the purchaser.
I sincerely hope this was a helpful distillation of the previous comments.
AKfish
