This site was created in 2009 - I am working on updating this to 2020 game play with the 130 level cap.
Oh right! I forgot the instruments, this is vital for certain groups since different ones have different bonuses to them.
The instruments aren't all that expensive. While you're levelling I wouldn't spend an arm and a leg getting the crit versions of these, but when you hit level 40+ these instruments will stay with you for a long time, so it's worth getting the one that will have the most use for you. Just find a nearby Grand-master Woodworker to help you out!
The only instruments that I value and often switch between are the Theorbo, Harp and Drums. The others either provide no in-combat bonus or it's pointless in comparison to the three mentioned above. There are a few new instruments out there after Book 7 was released that add the same bonuses as these below, but not as big as the current crafted. So stick with these for now.
· Exquisite Superior Theorbo
This is your bread and butter instrument for grouping. Anything that gives you a bonus for aggro management is a big deal.
· Exquisite Superior Harp
This is a good soloing instrument. The decreased power consumption from ballads is nice, especially if it's going to be a long and difficult fight for which you can't stay in War-speech.
· Exquisite Superior Drum
Drums in the Deep! Favourite of soloers and PvPers. The extra damage is nice but I wouldn't use this one for a sustained fight as I value the ability to heal over those few points of extra damage.
· Exquisite Superior Lute
Decreases the power cost of your anthems...you have three of those. Not worth an instrument slot really.
· Exquisite Superior Flute
Decreases the power cost of your songs. Most of these are on cooldowns too long to justify using this in combat. So I wouldn’t bother with the Flute, except if your playing ABC files!