Getting Started As a Bard (Tips Requested)

[ocman1]

I have always wanted one, and after seeing some of the fun that Bards can have, I am ready to make the move. Problem is, I don't have ton of plat to fund it (maybe like 4 to 5 hundred.

Can anyone help me with some cheap recommendations as to gear that gives me better bang for my buck?

I will find and configured macros and such myself unless anyone has any easy ones to share.

Thanks in advance and see you in-game as Gaiansbane, Welven, or Wracking.