Kalibano
Build Designer. Having fun since 2006!
Welcome to my build repository! I've been playing since 2006, and I play to have fun: I don't really care about 'the META'. I have 23 alts, so I actively play practically every class and race available in the game. I design all my builds fully from scratch. Hope you find them useful, and constructive comments/ suggestions are always welcome!
9. Kali's Bard Spellsinger Inquisitive HYBRID CHA Ranged/Caster build
DDOBuilder (v2) file for this build. You can find and download Maetrim's DDOBuilder (v2) here.
Preface to the build
This thread aims to provide the very 'core' of the build:
DISCLAIMER: nobody in real life has been injured on the making of this thread, and nobody will suffer injuries in real life if they try it. DDO is an awesome game, and trying-and-testing + making changes to suit your specific play style are a very healthy aspect of the game. It's how you learn and get better! Try not to stress too much about what some people have to say about how you play your game. Not everyone gets that this is a game, that people are not the same, and don't want the same things! The Mountain has many paths. Have fun!
Aims of the build
Primary aim(s):
1. Ranged DPS:
3. and with occasional AoE Insta-kills:
mostly for the neg level de-buff on failed save, as no significant investment in necromancy, but on a few occasions the insta-kill works
4. De-buffs (mostly WILL saves, which synergises with key Illusion ['Weird' + 'G. Color spray'] AND Enchantment ['Mass Hold', 'Otto's'] spells:
My preferred Quickbar layout (in case it's useful):
A. Charisma for ranged combat:
Further notes from the U70 ranged combat changes:
C. Doubleshot = 62% [since U70, the doubleshot penalties when fighting in Dual Crossbow style have been removed]
Doubleshot Breakdown:
> Crit damage multiplier boost = +1 (16-18/ x3, 16-20/ x4):
F. 11 Sneak Attack die
SA die breakdown:
G. DR bypass (on main weapon)
Note: DR breaker weapon also available via weapon swap
H. Fortification bypass = 58%
I. Dodge bypass = 8%
J. Helpless damage = +68%
K. Extra damage:
N. Spell DCs:
N.B. The values below are NOT inclusive of the de-buffs outlined earlier in section 4.
One of the key reasons for going Shadowdancer was to make use of all this free Illusion support being there.
O. Main Spell Powers:
P. Survivability & Defenses (after all, soul stones do zero dps):
Some info on how incorporeality (e.g. Ghostly) and concealment (e.g. Blur and Displacement) are reduced in reaper mode.
My understanding is that this info is based on player testing, not officially from the Devs. Info below (inc link) from the DDO Wiki:
I share some strategies for general defensiveness and survival in this thread. Come visit if you feel it could be useful to you!
The 'core elements' of the build
Class(es): Bard (20)
Race: Tiefling Scoundrel
Alignment: Chaotic Good (Non-Lawful because Bard restriction)
Main stat: Charisma (level ups here)
Starting stats (36 pts): STR: 08/ DEX: 16*/ CON: 16/ INT: 08/ WIS: 08/ CHA: 20
Weapon type(s): Heavy & Light Crossbows
Feats:
Heroic enhancements: 85 = 80 + 3 (Racial tomes) + 2 (Universal tome)
N.B: Multi-selector choices:
N.B: ED multi-selector choices:
Spells:
Suggestions for gear
(not part of the core build: choices based on what supports the main aims of the build best, with the intention to suggest/ inspire)
Gear Set bonuses:
Gear:
(PS: Some choices ref gear cater to a much larger personal scheme/tetris where items need to get shared between several alts at endgame, where I normally play in reaper mode 6-10 skulls).
More Gear Set suggestions & planners in this thread.
Most important augments to slot:
Main Filigree Set bonuses:
Filigrees: 14 = 4 (Minor Artifact) + 10 (Weapon sentient gem)
Filigree master plan:
I am always happy to read, consider and respond to constructive comments/ suggestions / feedback that are provided in a polite and friendly manner. I welcome discussions with anyone who is capable (and willing) to do this. Some discussions may lead to both parties simply agreeing to disagreeing - that's absolutely fine, everyone is entitled to their opinion after all!
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| If you would like to contribute towards this effort, any donations will be greatly appreciated. If not, please don't worry: sharing is caring! Just sit back and relax, and enjoy the builds! |
9. Kali's Bard Spellsinger Inquisitive HYBRID CHA Ranged/Caster build
DDOBuilder (v2) file for this build. You can find and download Maetrim's DDOBuilder (v2) here.
Preface to the build
This thread aims to provide the very 'core' of the build:
- show how it started: its key aims
- indicate the key decisions that can be made to achieve those aims: stats, skills, feats, heroic enhancements, epic destinies
- all numbers are based on what a first-lifer (or someone with minimal past lives) would have, unbuffed, outside of reaper mode (they do, however, include equipped gear and partially completed filigrees). They are real characters, and those are the numbers I can offer.
- numbers are indicative of the potential minimum amounts that can be achieved with the investments that were proposed
- provide a 'photo' of what your character could look like at endgame during quite a few lives of their 'TR hamster wheel' journey
- show the 'foundations' to be built upon, if a player decides to embark on the 'TR hamster wheel' and go out there to hunt for rare bonuses
- gear choices are NOT part of the core build, but rather one of the most important ways to invest in the key elements of the core build to make the aims work. It has been added here simply to suggest options/ inspire. No promises are being made towards keeping this updated upon the release of new content.
DISCLAIMER: nobody in real life has been injured on the making of this thread, and nobody will suffer injuries in real life if they try it. DDO is an awesome game, and trying-and-testing + making changes to suit your specific play style are a very healthy aspect of the game. It's how you learn and get better! Try not to stress too much about what some people have to say about how you play your game. Not everyone gets that this is a game, that people are not the same, and don't want the same things! The Mountain has many paths. Have fun!
Aims of the build
Primary aim(s):
1. Ranged DPS:
> AoE
> 'Improved Precise Shot' (feat)
> Inquisitor's 'Shoot Later [T4]'
> {+60% dmg; +2 crit threat range & multiplier}
> Shiradi's 'Pin [T1]'
> {+30% dmg}
> Single-target (e.g. bosses)
> Shiradi's 'Hunt's End [T3]'
> {+250% dmg +20 crit range}
> 'Archer's Focus' (feat)
2. interweaved with Crowd Control:
> AoE spells/abilities:
Enchantment {vs Will Save}
> Spellsinger
> 'Mass Hold Monster [T5]' {multiple enemies become held in place, causing helplessness, for a max of 6s per caster level}
> Bard spells:
> 'Otto's Sphere of Dancing' {A magical sphere that compels all enemies who enter it to dance}
> 'Mass Charm Monster' {group of enemy monsters are charmed and will fight as trusted friends and allies}
> 'Mass Suggestion' {suggest enemies to fight as your allies for 6s per caster level}
Illusion {vs Will Save}
> Feydark Illusionist
> 'Greater Color Spray [C3]' {enemies are sprayed with illusions of color to be Dazed, Blinded, and/or Silenced. Dazed effect by this spell won't be removed by damage, and causes helplessness. Saving throw for each effect}
> Bard spell
> 'Color Spray' {enemies are sprayed with illusions of color to be Dazed, Blinded, and/or Silenced. Saving throw for each effect}
Evocation {vs Fort Save}
> Bard spell
> 'Greater Shout' {an ear-splitting yell that stuns targets in its path}
Perform skill {vs Will Save}
> Bard
> 'Fascinate' (auto-granted class feat)
> Single-target spells:
NO Save
> Bard spell
> 'Otto's Irresistible Dance' {a single enemy feels an undeniable urge to dance}
Enchantment {vs Will Save}
> Bard spell
> 'Hold Monster' {a single enemy becomes held in place, causing helplessness, for a max of 6s per caster level}
> Ranged (AoE):
NO Save
> Shiradi
> 'Pin [T2]' (Slow for 12s, vs moving enemies, on hit)
> ... improved by 'Otto's Whistler [T3]'
(Immobilise for 6s, vs non-moving enemies, on hit)
(Dance for 6s, vs moving enemies, on hit)
> 'Prism: Stay Loud [T2]' (Deafness, 25% chance, both ranged & spell casting)
> Shadowdancer
> 'Paranoia [T3]' via sneaking + activating 'From the Shadows [T4]' (Blindness, on vorpals)
3. and with occasional AoE Insta-kills:
Mainly
Illusion {vs Will Save}
> Shadowdancer
> 'Weird [T5]'
mostly for the neg level de-buff on failed save, as no significant investment in necromancy, but on a few occasions the insta-kill worksNecromancy {vs Fort Save}
> Spellsinger spell
>'Wail of the Banshee [C6]'
Secondary aim(s):4. De-buffs (mostly WILL saves, which synergises with key Illusion ['Weird' + 'G. Color spray'] AND Enchantment ['Mass Hold', 'Otto's'] spells:
NO Save
> -1 Will Saves for 10s, stacks 3 times, upon casting offensive Illusion spells (including Greater Color Spray)
>Feydark Illusionist's 'Twist Reality [T1]'
> Darkness {applies sneak attack vulnerability / -3 PRR, MRR and Spell Penetration per stack, max 3 stacks}, for 12s; on rolls of natural 20
> Shadowdancer's 'Bring Darkness [T4]'
> -1 Saving Throws & Armor Class; and -2% Fortification, stacks up to 10 times; upon dealing damage to enemies
> Shiradi Champion's 'Track [T4]'
Enchantment {vs Will Save}
> Bard spells:
> -2 attack, saves, skill checks and weapon dmg, on failed save. Also applies Weaken Will (-5 to Will Saves for 15s), even on successful save
'Crushing Despair'
> -3 Will Saves, for 15s, even on successful save
'Hypnotism'
> -10 Will Saves on failed save, while in the fog
'Mind Fog'
5. Moderate offensive casting (mostly Sonic + some Force):
> Sonic damage:
> AoE spells/abilities/effects:
NO Save
> Machrotecnic:
> 'Tonquin's Thunder Hammer [T2]'
Evocation {vs Fort Save}
> Bard spells:
> 'Horn of Thunder' [Sonic + Electric]
> Greater Shout'
> SLA: 'Shout'
> Single-target spells/abilities/effects:
NO Save
> Spellsinger:
> 'Reverberation [T2]'
> Tiefling Scoundrel:
> 'Fiendish Arpeggio' (auto-granted racial feat) [Sonic + Fire]
> Force damage:
> AoE spells/abilities/effects:
NO Save
> Shadowdancer:
> 'Weird' (Force dmg per caster level on failed Will save followed by a successful Fort Save vs the insta-kill effect). The damage itself cannot be saved against.
> Single-target spells/abilities/effects:
Illusion {vs Will Save}
> Feydark Illusionist:
> 'Shadowblade [T2]' (mostly to proc de-buff via 'Twist Reality [T1])
6. Strong Party buffs via enhanced 'Bardic Inspiration' song:
> Spellsinger
> 'Spell Song trance [T3]' {+1 morale spell DC's & 10% morale discount on spell point costs}
> 'Song of Arcane Might [T4]' {+1 morale bonus to caster level for all spells}
> 'Frolic [T4]' {target gains Freedom of Movement for the duration of your song}
> 'Arcane Aid [T4]' {+3 Music Bonus to Spell Penetration}
> 'Spell Song Vigor [T5]' {restores spell points over time for the duration of your song (2 spell points every 2s)}
> Epic feat
> 'Inspiration Melody: Excellence' {+2 competence bonus to all stats}
7. Moderate support healing:
> Spellsinger
> 'Sustaining Song [T4]' {applies a temp fast-healing effect for duration of song; heals for 2d3 every 2s}
> 'Heal [C6]' (spell)
> Bard
> 'Soothing Song' (auto-granted class feat @ lvl 8)
> 'Mass Cure Moderate & Light Wounds' (spells)
Key stats & synergiesMy preferred Quickbar layout (in case it's useful):
A. Charisma for ranged combat:
> To-hit via Feydark Illusionist's 'Familiar Flourish I [T1]'
> To damage via Feydark Illusionist's 'Familiar Flourish II [T2]'
> High Diplomacy skill:
> Agro management:
> 'Ask Questions First [T3]': +20 Diplomacy; -10% cooldown social skills for 60s
> Inquisitive's 'Hit the Streets [C2]': grants an extra copy of Diplomacy
> Inquisitive buffs upon using Diplomacy:
> +2 PRR, MRR, AC, 5% Fort bypass per stack (for 20s, stacks 5 times)
> 'Observation [T2]' + 'Improved Observation [T3]'
> +2 Dodge (ignores cap) per stack (for 12s, stacks 5 times):
> 'Preparation [T3]' while 'Ask Questions First [T3]' is active
B. Attack speed bonus = 35%:
Feats
> +20%: 'Rapid Shot'
Enhancement bonus
> +15%: Haste (spell)
> Dual crossbow reload speed = +20% (stacks with Rapid Shot)
Feats
> 'Rapid Reload'
Further notes from the U70 ranged combat changes:
- The baseline attack speed of Repeating and Dual Crossbows has been reduced slightly.
- Rapid Reload's bonus for all Dual Crossbows has been reduced from 40% to 20%.
- The bonus to Reload Speed from Rapid Shot for Repeating and Dual Crossbows has been reduced.
C. Doubleshot = 62% [since U70, the doubleshot penalties when fighting in Dual Crossbow style have been removed]
Doubleshot Breakdown:
Feats
> +10%: 'Doubleshot' (Epic Destiny feat)
> +2%: 'Harbinger of Chaos' (Epic Destiny feat)
Heroic
> +5%: Inquisitive's 'Hit the Streets [C2]'
> +5%: Inquisitive's 'Martial Inquisition [T4]'
Epic Destinies
> +6%: Shiradi Champion's 'Phase Double [T2]'
> +5%: Shadowdancer's 'Shadowstriker [T3]'
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> +15% artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +8% enhancement bonus
> +4% insightful bonus
Airship Buffs
> +2%: 'Archery Range'
> buffable to 92% in reaper mode
[Dread Adversary's 'Reaper Strike [T1]']
D. Weapon Critical profile = 16-20/ x3:→ Critical threat range
Base
> 19-20: Heavy Crossbows
Feats
> +2 feat bonus: 'Improved Critical: Ranged' (feat)
Heroic enhancements/spells
> +1 competence bonus: Inquisitive's 'True Seeing [C4]'
= 16-20
→ Critical damage multiplier
Base
> x2: Heavy Crossbows
Heroic enhancements/spells
> +1 competence bonus: Inquisitive's 'True Seeing [C4]'
= x3
→ Average extra damage from weapon crit profile = +52%:
Overall Critical Profile Multiplier = 19 + 'Crit Units' / 19
'Crit Units' = (threat range) x (multiplier -1)
Critical threat range 16-20 = 5
Critical damage multiplier = 3
'Crit units' = (5) * (3-1) = 10
Overall Critical Profile Multiplier = 19 + 10 / 19 = 1.52 = 152% (100% base damage + 52% extra from crit profile)
> Crit damage multiplier boost = +1 (16-18/ x3, 16-20/ x4):
Epic Destinies
> +1 on 19-20 rolls: Shadowdancer's 'Just a Taste [T5]'
→ Average total extra damage from weapon crit profile on 19-20 rolls = +63%:
Overall Critical Profile Multiplier = 19 + 'Crit Units' / 19
'Crit Units' = (threat range) x (multiplier -1) + 2 * (19-20 bonuses)
Critical threat range 16-20 = 5
Critical damage multiplier = 3
19-20 bonuses = 1
'Crit units' = (5) * (3-1) + 2 * (1)= 12
Overall Critical Profile Multiplier = 19 + 12 / 19 = 1.63 = 163% (100% base damage + 63% extra from crit profile)
E. 11 imbue die: Sonic dmg (scales Spell Power)> Tiefling Scoundrel's toggle 'Bloodsong I [C1]'
Imbue die breakdown:
+5 die Feats
+2 Harbinger of Chaos
+3 Scion of Feywild (@lvl 30)
+3 die Heroic enhancements
+3 Inquisitive (Core 4 + T2 & 4)
+1 dice Augment
+1 Emerald of Arcane Empowerment
+2 die Filigrees
+2 Reverberation (set bonus: 2 pieces)
= total 11 die, sustainable 100% of the time
F. 11 Sneak Attack die
SA die breakdown:
+7 die Epic Destinies
+7 Shadowdancer (C1-4 + T2)
+3 dice Set bonuses
+3 Legendary Wallwatch (3 pieces)
+1 dice ???
+1 ???
= total 11 die, sustainable 100% of the time
G. DR bypass (on main weapon)
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> Chaotic: Dino Bone weapon 'Icefang'
> Crystal: Dino Bone weapon 'Meltscale'
> Byeshk: Dino Bone weapon: 'Meltscale'
Note: DR breaker weapon also available via weapon swap
H. Fortification bypass = 58%
Epic Destinies
> +15 Shadowdancer's 'Grim Precision [T3]'
> +03 Shadowdancer's 'Cut to Soul [C4]'
> +05 Shiradi's 'Viision [C2]'
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> +30 Wallwatch set bonus
Airship buffs
> +05 'Trap Workshop'
I. Dodge bypass = 8%
Epic Destinies
> +5%: Shiradi Champion's 'Vision [C2]'
> +3%: Shadowdancer's 'Cut to the Soul [C4]'
J. Helpless damage = +68%
Base bonus
> +50%
Epic Destinies
> +10%: Shiradi Champion's 'Cruelty of the Hunt [T4]' (while in Shiradi Mantle)
> +3%: Shadowdancer's 'Cut to the Soul [C4]'
Airship Buffs
> +5%: 'Game Hunter'
K. Extra damage:
> Extra Weapon dmg = +1.25{W]:
Feats
> +1[W]: 'Point Blank Shot'
Airship Buffs
> +0.25[W]: 'Ninja Assassin'
> Extra Ranged Power = up to +20:
> 'Arcane Warrior' (feat): Your offensive spells grant you a stack of Arcane Warrior: Physical (+1 Melee and Ranged Power), each of these stacks to 20 times and each stack lasts for 12 seconds.
> Rune arms:
> Imbue damage on each weapon attack (scales 200% Ranged Power)
> Magical Blast damage, max tier 5 (scales respective Spell Power)
> Charge speed:
Epic Destinies
> +15%: Machrotectnic's 'Tinker Tailoring [T1]'
> Shiradi Mantle (chance to proc on weapon damage)
> 'Prism mantle [T1]'
> 'Prism: Stay Loud [T2]'
> 'Prism: Double Rainbow [T3]'
> AoE light damage (Celestial Explosion)
> 'The Everstar' returning bolts [conjured from The Hallowed Splinters Heavy Crossbow]
L. Burst damage:
> from 2 epic strikes at the same time:
1. Shiradi
> 'Hunt's End [T1+3]' (v nice dmg when followed straight by Inquisitive's 'Shoot Later [T4]')
2. Shadowdancer
> 'Paranoia [T2]' (via sneaking + activating 'From the Shadows [T4]')
> Shadowdancer's 'Shadow Mastery [T5]'
M. Audience with the Queen buffs {when resting at a shrine, effects last for 10 minutes}
> Double: +5% Doublestrike and Doubleshot
> Power: +10 Melee and Ranged Power, +20 Universal Spell Power
> Efficacy: +1 to all Spell DCs
> Evasiveness: +5% Dodge
> Physical Endurance: +10 Physical Resistance Rating
> Magical Endurance: +10 Magical Resistance Rating
> Vital: +10 Positive, Negative, and Repair Healing Amplificatio
> Saves: +1 Determination Bonus to Saving Throws
N. Spell DCs:
N.B. The values below are NOT inclusive of the de-buffs outlined earlier in section 4.
> Illusion = 108+
Breakdown:
A saving throw against most standard spells has a DC of :
10 + (the level of the spell) + (your bonus for the relevant Ability) + (any relevant items and or buffs)
10 + 6* + 43 + 49 = 108
* Bards cast max level 6 spells.
{Spellcasting ability modifier}
+43 (CHA modifier)
{Illusion bonuses}
+49
Feats {+9}
> +1: 'Spell Focus: Illusion'
> +1: 'Greater Spell Focus: Illusion'
> +1: 'Epic Spell Focus: Illusion'
> +4: 'Scion of the Feywild'
> +2: 'Embolden Spell' (metamagic)
Heroic {+6}
> +4: Spellsinger cores [2-5]
> +1: Spellsinger's 'Blue Marigold Crown [T2]'
> +1 morale bonus: Spellsinger's 'Spell Song Trance [T3]'
Epic Destinies {+10}
> +4: Epic bonus: Shadowdancer cores [1-4]
> +3: Shadowdancer [T3]
> +3: 'Greater Shadowdancer Spell Focus' [T5]
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses) {+18}
> +3 artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +2 profane bonus (set bonus)
> +6 equipment bonus
> +3 insightful bonus
> +0 quality bonus
> +2 sacred bonus
> +2 enhancement bonus (Gianthold augment)
Filigrees (inc Set bonuses) {+5}
> +2: 'Eye of the Beholder' (4-piece set)
> +2: 'Otto's Irrevocable Power' (4-piece set)
> +1: 'Lunar Magic' (3-piece set)
Airship Buffs {+1}
> +1: 'Archwizard'
Note: Some ED/Heroic SLA spells reach higher DCs:
> Weird = 20 + Highest of INT/WIS/CHA modifier + Illusion DC bonuses
20 + 43 + 49 = 112 (vs Will)
> Greater Color Spray = 17 + Highest of INT/WIS/CHA modifier + Illusion bonuses
17 + 43 + 49 = 109 (vs Will)
N.B. Strong support for Illusion DCs mostly already there, while investing in Enchantment:
> Spellsinger [C2-5] + [T2]
> Shadowdancer [T3]
> Scion of the Feywild
> Magewright's Spectacles, and set bonus
One of the key reasons for going Shadowdancer was to make use of all this free Illusion support being there.
> Enchantment = 109+
Breakdown:
A saving throw against most standard spells has a DC of :
10 + (the level of the spell) + (your bonus for the relevant Ability) + (any relevant items and or buffs)
10 + 6* + 43 + 50 = 109
* Bards cast max level 6 spells.
{Spellcasting ability modifier}
+43 (CHA modifier)
{Enchantment bonuses}
+50
Feats {+9}
> +3: 'Spell Speciality: Enchantment'
> +4: 'Scion of the Feywild'
> +2: 'Embolden Spell' (metamagic)
Heroic {+7}
> +4: Spellsinger cores [2-5]
> +2: Spellsinger's 'Prodigy [T5]'
> +1 morale bonus: Spellsinger's 'Spell Song Trance [T3]'
Epic Destinies {+10}
> +4: Epic bonus: Shadowdancer cores [1-4]
> +3: Shiradi Champion [T3]
> +3: 'Greater Shadowdancer Spell Focus' [T5]
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses) {+18}
> +3 artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +2 profane bonus (set bonus)
> +6 equipment bonus
> +3 insightful bonus
> +0 quality bonus
> +2 sacred bonus
> +2 enhancement bonus (Gianthold augment)
Filigrees (inc Set bonuses) {+5}
> +2: 'Eye of the Beholder' (4-piece set)
> +2: 'Otto's Irrevocable Power' (4-piece set)
> +1: 'Lunar Magic' (3-piece set)
Airship Buffs {+1}
> +1: 'Archwizard'
> Evocation = 96+
Breakdown:
A saving throw against most standard spells has a DC of :
10 + (the level of the spell) + (your bonus for the relevant Ability) + (any relevant items and or buffs)
10 + 6* + 43 + 37 = 96
* Bards cast max level 6 spells.
{Spellcasting ability modifier}
+43 (CHA modifier)
{Evocation bonuses}
+37
Feats {+4}
> +0: 'Spell Speciality: Enchantment'
> +2: 'Scion of the Feywild'
> +2: 'Embolden Spell' (metamagic)
Heroic {+5}
> +4: Spellsinger cores [2-5]
> +1 morale bonus: Spellsinger's 'Spell Song Trance [T3]'
Epic Destinies {+7}
> +4: Epic bonus: Shadowdancer cores [1-4]
> +0: Machrotecnic [T3]
> +3: 'Greater Shadowdancer Spell Focus' [T5]
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses) {+15}
> +3 artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +2 profane bonus (set bonus)
> +6 equipment bonus
> +0 insightful bonus
> +0 quality bonus
> +2 sacred bonus
> +2 enhancement bonus (Gianthold augment)
Filigrees (inc Set bonuses) {+5}
> +2: 'Eye of the Beholder' (4-piece set)
> +2: 'Otto's Irrevocable Power' (4-piece set)
> +1: 'Lunar Magic' (3-piece set)
Airship Buffs {+1}
> +1: 'Archwizard'
> Casting ability: Charisma = 97/43+
CHA breakdown:
Base {+20}
> +18 (character creation)
> +2 (character creation - Tiefling Scoundrel: +2 CHA)
Level up {+8}
> +8 (+1 @ lvls 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28 and 32)
Tome {+8}
> +8 inherent bonus
Feats {+2}
> +2 competence bonus (Inspiration Melody: Excellence)
Heroic {+9}
> +2: Spellsinger [T3+4]
> +4: Spellsinger's 'Maestro of Life and Death [C6]'
> +2: Inquisitive [T3+4]
> +1: Feydark Illusionist [C2]
Racial {+1}
> +1: Tiefling Scoundrel [C2]
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses) {+32}
> +3 artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +2 profane bonus (set bonus)
> +15 enhancement bonus
> +5 insightful bonus (Augment)
> +3 quality bonus
> +2 festive bonus (Augment)
> +2 exceptional bonus (Dino weapon)
Filigrees (inc Set bonuses) {+12}
> +4: 'Raid: 'Reverberation'/'Sanctified Fervor' (single filigree x2: weapon + Minor artifact)
> +2: 'Raid: 'To Hell and Back'/'Embraced by Light' (single filigree)
> +2: 'Eye of the Beholder' (single filigree x2: weapon + Minor artifact)
> +2: 'Otto's Irrevocable Power' (single filigree x2: weapon + Minor artifact)
> +2: 'Lunar Magic' (single filigree x2: weapon + Minor artifact)
Spells/Potions/Scrolls {+2}
> +2: 'Yugoloth: Essence of Seduction' (potion)
Airship Buffs {+2}
> +2: 'Old Sully's Grog Cellar'
Reaper bonus {+1}
> +1: Dire Thaumaturge tree 'Reaper's Arcanum III [C3]' {this works out of reaper mode too}
Note: it takes 11 reaper points to acquire this. I am mindful this is not something everyone will have access to, but I listed it since it seems like a goal that can potentially be achieved in the short term.
Total = 97/43+
> buffable to 99/44+
Spells/Potions/Scrolls {+2}
> +2: 'Lasting Elixir of ability' (potion) {I personally use on high reapers only}
> More detailed comments on 'Spell DCs: hybrids vs pure casters' in this post.
O. Main Spell Powers:
> Extra Spell Power = up to +40 Universal SPw:
> 'Arcane Warrior' (feat): Your weapon and unarmed attacks grant you a stack of Arcane Warrior: Magical (+2 Universal Spell Power), each of these stacks to 20 times and each stack lasts for 12 seconds.
> Extra damage on offensive spellcasting:
> Shiradi's 'Prism mantle [T1]' + 'Prism: Stay Loud [T2]' + 'Prism: Double Rainbow [T3]'
P. Survivability & Defenses (after all, soul stones do zero dps):
> The image above 
includes:
includes:> +5 CON Tome
> 'Rage' spell
> Temporary HPs: 'Greater Heroism' spell + 'Ballad Melody: Greatness'
> Values @ lvl 32, out of reaper mode
> % Hit Point bonus = +10%
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> +10% legendary bonus (set bonus)
> Damage Avoidance
> Light armor:
> allows evasion
> higher max DEX bonus = higher Dodge chance
> no Arcane Spell Failure (ASF) for bard spells
> Max DEX bonus to armor = 28
Armor
> +20: Light armor (Legendary Wildwood Vest)
> +0: 'Sapphire of Armored Agility'
Epic Destinies
> +6: Shadowdancer 'Lithe [T2]'
Airship Buffs
> +2: 'Fencing Master'
> Dodge cap = 27%
Base bonus
> 25
Airship Buffs
> +2: 'Fencing Master'
> Dodge chance = 21% {capped @27}
Feats
> +4 music bonus: 'Inspiration Melody: Heroics'
Heroic
> +2: Inquisitive's 'Hit the Streets [C2]'
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> +13% enhancement bonus
Unknown source
> +2%: ???
> buffable up to +10%, ignores Cap:
> Inquisitive's 'Ask Questions First [T3]' {When you use Diplomacy on an enemy while this is active, you gain a stack of Preparation (+2% Dodge that ignores Dodge Cap). Each stack of Preparation lasts 12 seconds, and acquiring a new stack resets the duration. Preparation can stack up to 5 times. Duration: 60s, Cooldown: 2 Minutes}
> Incorporeality = 10%
Augments (inc Set bonuses)
> +10: 'Legendary Wraithborn Emerald'
> Concealment = 20%-50%
Spells
> +20%: 'Blur' (lvl 2 spell)
> buffable to 50%: 'Displacement' (lvl 3 spell)
Some info on how incorporeality (e.g. Ghostly) and concealment (e.g. Blur and Displacement) are reduced in reaper mode.
My understanding is that this info is based on player testing, not officially from the Devs. Info below (inc link) from the DDO Wiki:
> Evasion
{on successful Reflex save: no dmg, instead of half dmg}
> Shadowdancer's 'The Darkest Luck [C3]'
> Damage Reduction
> PRR = 125 {55.56% less dmg from slashing, bludgeoning and piercing attacks}
Breakdown:
Armor
> +20: Light armor PRR (BAB*1)
Feats
> +3: Ballad Melody: Greatness
Gear bonuses (inc Set bonuses)
> +30 artifact bonus (set bonus)
> +30 profane bonus (set bonus)
> +33 enhancement bonus
> +0 insightful bonus
> +0 quality bonus
Filigrees (inc Set bonuses)
> +2: 'Otto's Irrevocable Power' - CON (rare) single filigree
Gear: Mythic bonuses
> +2: Armor
> +1: Bracers
> +1: Boots
Unknown source
> +3%: ???
Grant total = 125
> buffable up to +10:
> Inquisitive's 'Observation [T2]' {When you use Diplomacy on an enemy, you gain one stack of Observation (+2 to Armor Class, +2 to PRR, +2 to MRR). Each stack lasts 20 seconds before being removed. This stacks up to 5 times}
> Elemental resistance/protection
Racial
> +34 {Fire}: Tiefling Scoundrel's 'Infernal Ancestry' {bonus = character level, permanent}
Airship buffs
> +15 {Fire}: 'Sign of the Silver Flame' {permanent}
> Energy Absorption
Airship buffs
> +15% {Fire}: 'Sign of the Silver Flame' {permanent}
> +15% {Acid & Cold}: 'Shrine to the Devourer' {permanent}
> +15% {Electric & Sonic}: 'Stormreaver Memorial' {permanent}
> Immunities:
Tiefling Scoundrel
> Fear: 'Infernal Ancestry' (racial feat auto-granted @ lvl 1)
Shadowdancer
> Energy Drain (negative levels): 'Shadowstriker [T3]'
Spells/potions
> Mind-affecting effects (e.g. charms & compulsions): 'Protection from Evil' potions
Items
> Magic Missiles: 'Shield' clickie
N.B.: found in 'Kind of a Big Deal' quest, in the Twelve.
The 'core elements' of the build
Class(es): Bard (20)
Race: Tiefling Scoundrel
Alignment: Chaotic Good (Non-Lawful because Bard restriction)
Main stat: Charisma (level ups here)
Starting stats (36 pts): STR: 08/ DEX: 16*/ CON: 16/ INT: 08/ WIS: 08/ CHA: 20
* +3 DEX tome req for Improve Precise Shot feat
Skills: Perform/ Heal / Use Magic Device/ Diplomacy / Spellcraft/ Tumble (20 points)/Weapon type(s): Heavy & Light Crossbows
Feats:
Heroic enhancements: 85 = 80 + 3 (Racial tomes) + 2 (Universal tome)
N.B: Multi-selector choices:
> Spellsinger
> T1: 'Musical Studies'
> T4: 'Arcane Aid'
> Inquisitive
> T3: 'Ask Questions First'
> T4: 'Shoot Later'
Epic Destinies: 73 = 69 + 1 (Tome of Fate +3) + 2 (Fey & Dread tomes) + 1 (Historic tome)
N.B: ED multi-selector choices:
> Shadowdancer
> T2: 'Nightmare Lance'
> T3: 'Shadowstriker'
> T3: 'Illusion DCs'
> T3: 'Paranoia'
> T5: 'Weird'
> Shiradi Champion
> T1: 'Pin'
> T2: 'Stay Loud'
> T2: 'Phase Double'
> T3: 'Otto's Whistler'
> T3: 'Hunt's End'
> T3: Enchantment DCs
> Machrotecnic
> T2: Tonquin's Thunder Hammer
Spells:
Suggestions for gear
(not part of the core build: choices based on what supports the main aims of the build best, with the intention to suggest/ inspire)
Gear Set bonuses:
Gear:
(PS: Some choices ref gear cater to a much larger personal scheme/tetris where items need to get shared between several alts at endgame, where I normally play in reaper mode 6-10 skulls).
More Gear Set suggestions & planners in this thread.
Most important augments to slot:
+10 Damage / +10 Ranged Power
+1 Imbue dice
+1 exceptional All Ability scores
+12 enhanc Dexterity (Reflex for evasion) & Constitution
+5 insight Charisma & Constitution
+2 festive Charisma & Constitution
+6 equip Evocation DCs
+2 enhanc Illusion + Enchantment + Evocation DCs
+19 Perform skill
+5% insight All Spell Crit chance
+10 resistance All Saves
+2 Max DEX bonus to armor
+32 enhanc Sheltering
Quickdraw
Fearater / Deconstructor
(Suggestions for where to slot them in the DDOBuilder file for this build).
+1 Imbue dice
+1 exceptional All Ability scores
+12 enhanc Dexterity (Reflex for evasion) & Constitution
+5 insight Charisma & Constitution
+2 festive Charisma & Constitution
+6 equip Evocation DCs
+2 enhanc Illusion + Enchantment + Evocation DCs
+19 Perform skill
+5% insight All Spell Crit chance
+10 resistance All Saves
+2 Max DEX bonus to armor
+32 enhanc Sheltering
Quickdraw
Fearater / Deconstructor
(Suggestions for where to slot them in the DDOBuilder file for this build).
Main Filigree Set bonuses:
Filigrees: 14 = 4 (Minor Artifact) + 10 (Weapon sentient gem)
Filigree master plan:
- Primarily invest in Spell DC and Charisma.
- Spell Power and Imbue Dice are secondary aims, if/when possible to squeeze in
- other effects get the least priority
I am always happy to read, consider and respond to constructive comments/ suggestions / feedback that are provided in a polite and friendly manner. I welcome discussions with anyone who is capable (and willing) to do this. Some discussions may lead to both parties simply agreeing to disagreeing - that's absolutely fine, everyone is entitled to their opinion after all!
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