Hi all!
Perhaps I can be of assistance...it will be interesting to hear feedback on this idea anyway.
I break down the classes into component parts and then give them a rating derived from logical comparisons of myriad aspects.
1. Ability Scores
+1/4 Levels = +0.025 per Level
2. BAB
Good = +0.2
Medium = +0.15
Poor = +0.1
3. Class Features
Either based on feats or integrated spell levels.
1 feat per level adds +0.2 (so a Fighter with 11/20 would add +0.11)
Integrated Spell Levels
Wizard/Sorceror = +0.375
Cleric = +0.3
Druid = +0.25
Bard = +0.15
Paladin/Ranger = +0.1
4. Feat Progression (not bonus feats from class features)
1 feat/3 Levels = +0.066
5. Hit Dice
d4 = +0.125
d6 = +0.175
d8 = +0.225
d10 = +0.275
d12 = +0.325
6. Saving Throws
Each Good Save = +0.06
Each Poor Save = +0.03
7. Skill Points
Int +8 = +0.08
Int +6 = +0.06
Int +4 = +0.04
Int +2 = +0.02
8. Equipment
Level of PC wealth = +0.2
Level of NPC wealth = +0.125
So a reasonably balanced class or prestige class level will add up to between +0.8 and +0.85 before adding Equipment.
The easiest Class to deconstruct is the Fighter.
eg. Fighter Class Level (Deconstruction)
Ability Scores CR +0.025
BAB (As Fighter) CR +0.2
Class Features: +11 Feats/20 Levels CR +0.11
Feats (+1/3 Levels) CR +0.066
Hit Dice (d10) CR +0.275
Saves (one good) CR +0.12
Skills (Int + 2) CR +0.02
Each Fighter Level = CR +0.806 (0.8)
with PC Equipment = CR +1.006 (1)
For less obviously rated class features try and rate the ability in terms of a feat. Is the ability as good as a feat? Weaker? Stronger? Or an actual feat itself already?
eg. Many of the Rogues class features are equivalent to feats so these are easily rated as such.
I believe anyone can deconstruct/reconstruct and balance any class/prestige class using the above method.
Generally I would suggest allowing a +/-5% rating to still be balanced, no point trying to be too exacting.
Incidently the Cleric and Druid Classes are +10% stronger than most other classes. The Mystic Theurge Prestige Class is +30% stronger than most other classes.
Any questions/comments?