I never noticed the Gossamer crankset shifting badly, but I definitely do notice the Tiagra crankset shifting extremely well. The Gossamer usually makes the shift (unless I haven't moved the lever far enough), but sometimes it skates along the ramps for a revolution or two before it goes into gear. The Tiagra shifts very cleanly in most circumstances.

FWIW, I use the Gossamer with an FD-5603 (105) front derailleur and Ultegra 6603 shifters. I use the Tiagra with 4603 (Tiagra) front derailleur and shifters.