Garcia used aluminum all the way back in the 70's for their roun d reels. They have held up well as I get about 10 or so a month of the pre 1980's for rebuilds. Most gears are still fine.

I believe my core 100's have Aluminum gears

I too like the Tournament Pro's, but will wait and see, I fish with a guy that has one now, but it's only been a week.

I fish with core's & steez's now, but would like to add 2 more setups that's a little cheaper but still lite and under $200, lew's or smoke's maybe?
Tried a 50e but was not smooth at all and only got worst over a months time, might have had something wrong with it

I work with Aluminum all the time I would take a exotic alloy to match a brass gear durability.

I picked up a Lews combo a few months back. I've used it for spinners, worms, and cranks. Its a nice all around reel.