BX5450 Snowblower vs. Deer blower

[Toyboy]

Hi Guys, I don't think this has been brought up before, if so, bear with me.
My buddy has a Deer similar size to the BX models, and has told me that Deer offers a gear box kit to replace the chain drive on his blower. Deer and Kubota blowers look very similar to the point of maybe having the same manufacture. He's converted his and says it's very quiet now and has urged me to look into it.
What's your thoughts on this arrangement?

 

[GreensvilleJay]

With my BX23S running at 2500, I seriously doubt I'd notice any difference between chain versus gears.
It would be interesting to see ACTUAL db readings from IDENTICAL units though.
If you know the number of teeth on the 2 sprockets, you know the ratio and could cost out making a reduction box(3 gears,6 bearings,layshaft, housing, oil )