I guess I don't see the need for an AWD push mower because I've never had a problem, but I'm young I guess and can still muscle a mower. The Toro TimeMaster seems expensive for what it is. At 1000 dollars you're only 500 bucks from an entry level lawn tractor, and you could have a good used commercial walk behind as well. I don't like the idea of the timing of the blades via a toothed belt, though I understand both Deere and Simplicity do this with their mulch only decks and have for some time. Still, if I had the cash and needed a walk behind I'd go Ariens 34" all day, or a different used commercial mower.
Lawnsite.com is a great site for this sort of research. That's for lawn service providers, so their advice and culture is geared towards that but it beats getting advice from someone who mows for 30 minutes a week but considers themselves and expert.