Shadowknight - will probably give you the most solo bang for your buck. I wouldn't avoid Shadowknight just because you have a Necro. Although they share some spells they are nothing alike. This class will give you the most individual playability, so if you want the option of soloing, this will be your best bet, especially with a 5k budget. In terms of raiding, they have almost zero utility
Gear options: Set of Crusty armor (around 2k) Mace of Shadowed Soul (800p) and Silver Chitin Hand wraps (2k)
Paladin - Will give you less solo potential, with a much higher group utility. Still provides that super nice snap aggro that Shadowknights are so good at, but with the ability to help your group a lot more with heals and especially Lay Hands when things go south. Don't expect to be doing much soloing 50+ unless your gear is really good. Loses effective raid ranking ability at 60. Will spend a good deal of your time healing.
Gear options: Set of Crustacean Shell Armor (Around 2k) Sword of the Morning (400p) and Silver Chitin Hand Wraps (2k)
Warrior - Has probably the most expensive gearing requirements and the toughest road to 60. Your only option in this era if your desire is to continue tanking at 60 however. While leveling, solo will be slow, holding aggro will be a little annoying in groups and honestly it's a bit dull. Once you hit 60, that's when the class truly comes alive. There's nothing like standing toe to toe with a mob that hits for 800 damage and feeling all the Clerics focus on you.
Gear option: Set of Crustacean Shell Armor (2k) Venomous Axe of the Velium Brood (1k) and Silver Chitin Hand Wraps (2k)
Crustacean armor is pretty low AC, so in all three you will want to replace it as soon as you can, but there's almost no better armor out there when you're gearing on a budget. Whatever you choose, good luck and have fun!
I have a 60 Warrior, 53 Pally and 48 Shadowknight. I've truly enjoyed all three and you will have fun no matter which you pick!
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