[mefdinkins]

So if I was re-rolling a bard with limited plat I would get

As soon as possible: Sionache's Partisan - 9 damage 19 delay. - couple hundred plat
As soon as possible: Mistmoore Battle Drums - good modifier 50p
As soon as possible: Lute of the Gypsy Princess - good modifier 50p
As soon as possible: Conch Shell Horn - good modifier 50p
As soon as possible: Velium Fire Wedding Ring - 65 hp 6 ac rings, might have to get the platinum instead of velium version -- the 55 hp 5 ac rings first if you're tight on money - i think 2 vel rings around 1100
As soon as possible: Silver Chitin Hand Wraps - 22% haste gloves 1300 plat
For level 17: Crystalline Short Sword - 12 damage 24 delay and will keep up your 1 HS up for cheap.
For when you're rich: better versions of all that stuff and good gear