Questions about Mediators

[Masquerade]

So I've read about what these are supposed to do - merge specialists together, presumably in order to efficiently use item specialist population.

However, from what I've read the specialist you receive from the merge isn't guaranteed to be a dual-skill one, and its level depends on the rank of the item and not the level of the specialists merged. On top of this, it says that merged specialists don't contribute to attribute bonuses when leveling an item.

With all this in mind it seems to me as though mediators aren't really worth the trouble, is that correct? A small follow-up question is do these specialists appear in later games and do the mechanics involving them stay the same?

[KarmaTheAlligator]

Never had a non-dual specialist after a wedding, not sure where you saw that. I did however get some that weren't supposed to be possible from the parents.

Yes, level depends on the rank of the item (maybe with some other factors, from what I remember).

And that's correct, they don't help level an item.

It's worth it if you intend to use dual stat weapons, or just want to have stats as high as possible.

Don't remember seeing them in Disgaea D2, but then again maxing stats in there doesn't rely on stat innocents. Haven't played D3, D4 or D5.

[Bob of Mage]

When I am diving into items that I never intend to use in battle (say I need to get to a level 60+ court gate, or some armsmasters), I stick a mediator and some specialists in just for the added return they offer. It isn't much, but it adds up over time.