Something to consider is trying to look at your character as a part of a lineage. You slowly accrue wealth regardless of how often you die. The only real reason I prefer hardcore is because the economy self-regulates itself and the first few weeks is really great when it comes to being a sellers market...Ambush for me next week! I could never do a hardcore server, I get way too attached to my characters in games.
I don't think there will be much of a difference for melee unless I missed some changes. Vaal Pact got hammered, but it was probably a bit too strong. The change to general leech just means you won't be filling up health long after you are done hitting stuff. Unless you were relying a lot on hit and run I doubt you'll notice it.Pumped for this. Really hope melee isn't as bad as it looks with the life nerfs and new bosses.