Newbie 12 Shaman Seeking Advice

[Gerf]

Hey,

I played back in Velious era casually. Only ever got a Ranger and Cleric up to mid 30s. Excited to play again and started a Barb Shaman that I've got to lvl 12. Right now I'm trying to solo wisps in NK. I had just a couple of questions and am happy for any general advice too.

Right now I'm wearing almost all cloth and using the hammer from the Tribunal Initiate quest (http://wiki.project1999.com/Summoned:_Hammer_of_Wrath). Wisps are actually still quite tough, but doable, though the exp and drops have been a little disappointing. I have around 70 plat saved up. Is banded armor the best thing for me to buy at this point? Would a weapon or different armor serve me better? I haven't been to EC yet so no idea what the economy is like. Is it easy to find someone selling what you're looking for?

Also, my lvl 14 spells look lackluster. Root will be nice but my current DoT's already feel weak. Is getting to 19 going to suck? Is it easier to group that stretch?

Any helpful tips at all much appreciated.