Hi everyone.

I'm considering buying the Tome of Battle/allowing it into my game. But I'm very concerned that it will make the core (and other splatbook) melee classes obsolete. I definitely understand that the normal melee classes are way underpowered compared to the spellcasters. But while the ToB classes may be more balanced, do they completely outshine the Fighter, Barbarian, etc. (Frenzied Berserker foolishness aside)?

I'm going to be DM'ing for a group based largely of newbies, and while I could easily put the ToB classes to use with my NPCs, I think the more complex maneuvers rules might be too much for them or slow things down. I certainly don't want to just replace all of the core melee classes with the homebrewed versions that may or may not be balanced in comparison with the classes the rest of my group will be playing (no offense to the creators of said homebrewed classes).

Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!