I for one am trully faithful to the Rider Waite. I have two right now, one I use for me and one for the others, but I do intend to get a Tarot of the New Vision for readings that involve me and the others. I've had my issues with my decks, especially my first one, but we've finally having a peaceful and efficient relationship. I do prefer the RWS style and I don't need the change. I tried to look closer to the Marseille deck, but indeed it's too complicated and I am too used to Rider Waite, that I can't connect to other decks. Anyway, I think that RW is the best choice for beginners, especially because it has inspired so many other decks and it is very expressive in its simplicity. I also recommend reading Waite's notes on the cards and his opinions, and of course other experts. It has helped me a lot. I still use my own notes on cards (I've gathered info from various books and sites), and learn interesting things, like the origin and history of a certain card, facts, symbols, etc. I do my own intuitive reading, but I'm still not confident enough as to not use my notes too (as in selecting what I feel is needed from all the meanings). It really depends on what kind of person you are, how you like to learn, how you acquire info better. I always understand things better after I have documented enough on the subject.

I agree with you about the Rider Waite Isionahtar!