Nick you state that the transmission on an intermeshing helicopter is much more complex. I disagree after having worked on and worked with both the Kaman H-43 and several models of Bell products. The transmission in the H-43 is basically a large truck rear end where output is driven up instead of out. These transmissions are extremely strong and quite simple (if you can consider any helicopter component simple). Also the extra gearbox(es) going to the tail rotor are eliminated thus removing complexity so I feel that the argument of more complex is not really a factor.
Also having logged under both the Huskie and the UH-1H with identical powerplants I can say from experience that the Huskie is more efficient. Especially at high temperatures and altitudes.
Just my $.02
Brian