New Bard Questions

[Machtunes]

Hello!

I am new to p1999 and I decided to roll a bard. I wanted to maybe get some general tips and tips on gearing.

When I can I'll be soloing maybe with AoE kiting or playing in a group/trio with a few friends that have been here for a while.

My friend that if he can find some good gear with an 8k budget he would so any advice would be appreciated. I know that I can level naked etc, but since the whole thing is new to me I'd like to be geared a bit while learning how to play the bard the way I want to.

Thanks!