Unleash the Melodic Power: Ultimate Magic Items for Bards in Dungeons & Dragons 5e

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Highlights

Bards should be on the lookout for magical instruments that enhance their musical abilities and enable spellcasting, such as the Reveler's Concertina and Instruments of the Bard.

For a Bard, the Pipes of Haunting can serve as a valuable magical item by instilling fear in creatures within a 30-foot radius, effectively managing crowds in combat scenarios.

Bards can enhance their abilities in battle with magical accessories such as the Ring of Spell Storing. This powerful item enables them to store and cast spells from other spellcasters, expanding their usefulness.

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, each player class is designed to create a distinct character. However, it doesn't mean that players would reject additional benefits. As experienced Dungeons & Dragons players have learned, after defeating a boss or exploring an ancient ruin, there awaits a bountiful stash of gold and magical items for the party to collect.

Content updated as of August 24, 2023 by Kristy Ambrose: As new adventure models and campaigns emerge, additional magical items for the Bard class have come to light, providing players with even more options. With the abundance of additional materials and homebrews available, the Bard class in D&D 5e allows players to embody diverse roles, ranging from pirates to politicians. This versatile class has inspired creative character concepts such as college professors and cult entertainers.

Musical Instruments

Incorporating a Bard into a multi-class build could be advantageous when selecting the most suitable magical items for a particular character build. With various options available for spellcasters, healers, or damage dealers in terms of builds and party roles, the Bard's versatility can assist in determining the optimal magical items for the desired playstyle.

The Bard is commonly recognized by the instrument they wield, which often acts as a focal point for casting spells. Bards are renowned for their ability to heal and enhance the party, but alternative approaches can transform the Rogue into a formidable damage-dealer.

Reveler's Concertina

Source: Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

Item Rarity: Uncommon to Legendary

The Bard's casting saving throws are all given a +2 bonus and they can use Otto's Irresistible Dance once a day. The Reveler's Concertina, similar to an accordion, provides these modifiers whenever the Bard holds it, regardless of whether they are playing it. Additionally, having the extra spell is also quite useful.

Instruments of the Bard

Otto's Irresistible Dance is aptly named, as it serves as a means of effectively managing large groups of people. This spell specifically targets a solitary individual, compelling them to devote their entire energy to dancing for a duration of up to one minute. Consequently, this state of distraction places them at a considerable disadvantage when it comes to making successful saving throws.

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide and Xanathar's Guide to Everything

Item Rarity: Uncommon to Legendary

Modifiers: Use an Action to play the instrument and cast 1 of its spells once a day.

Instruments of the Bard are exclusively designed for bards, enhancing their already considerable arcane powers derived from their musical ability. Thus, they stand as invaluable magical items for any bard to possess. A total of seven Instruments of the Bard exist, each varying in rarity. These instruments grant the Bard access to a plethora of useful abilities. However, once a spell has been cast using an instrument, it cannot be used again until the following day.

Furthermore, each subtype of instrument possesses its own distinctive spell repertoire. For instance, instruments like the cittern and mandolin enable the casting of Cure Wounds, along with a few other spells. On the other hand, the lyre has the power to create walls of wind and fire, while the lute offers protection against energy and poison. At the pinnacle of their power lies the Legendary Ollamh harp, capable of casting Confusion, Control Weather, and Fire Storm.

Pipes of Haunting

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Uncommon

Modifiers: Every creature must make a Wisdom saving throw with a DC of 15 or become Frightened for a duration of 1 minute.

This magical item for a Bard may not be the most exciting or valuable thing that players will encounter, but it offers a useful magical ability, does not require attunement, and can be crafted by an Artificer of level 6. The Pipes Of Haunting are relatively easy to find, though acquiring them may depend on the DM's generosity.

The Rhythm-Maker's Drum

When the pipes are played, a haunting melody weaves its enchantment, enveloping all beings within a 30-foot radius of the spellcaster. It is important to mention that creatures with the ability to resist this bewitching music become impervious to its effects for a duration of 24 hours. Thus, exercise caution when employing this spell on creatures possessing exceptional wisdom.

Source: Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

Item Rarity: Uncommon to Very Rare

Modifiers: Bonuses to attack rolls and saving throws, exactly how much is determined by the quality level.

Bards often overlook carrying percussion instruments, but drums are just as portable as flutes or banjos, so why not? By attuning with and equipping a drum, the Bard can receive a bonus based on the rarity of the item, determined by the Dungeon Master.

Enhancing casting or attack abilities is one of the most beneficial improvements a Bard can make to their magical skills. Another useful feature is the ability to use the drum, with just one Action, to restore the Bard's Bardic Inspiration. This ability can only be used once a day and replenishes itself at dawn.

Accessories And Jewelry

Bards typically don medium armor, although spellcasters or healers may prefer something lighter based on their build. Fortunately, there are alternative methods for bolstering the AC of Bards who opt for a lighter option to match their distinctive build.

Blast Scepter

Source: Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage

Item Rarity: Very Rare

Modifiers: Gain resistance to fire and lightning damage and use an Action to cast Thunderwave as a 4th-level spell

Every arcane caster must have an arcane focus. Typically, the player doesn't need to give it much thought. It's usually a matter of creating the character and stating that they possess a special crystal or wand to channel their magic. Once established, the focus remains unchanged.

However, if a Bard were to venture into the dungeon of Undermountain and stumble upon a Blast Scepter, their arcane focus game could reach new heights. The Blast Scepter can also function as an arcane focus, and while attuned to it, the character will gain resistance against fire and lightning damage. This magical item is extremely useful for Bards, regardless of their chosen development.

Deck of Illusions

Source: Affordable Arcana - Wondrous Items

Item Rarity: Uncommon

Drawing a card at random from a Deck of Illusions and tossing it to the ground within 30 feet of the user creates a major illusion of a creature. This illusory figment remains in existence until it is dispelled. The Bard, equipped with a full deck consisting of 34 parchment cards, could potentially gain immense control over an entire combat encounter by utilizing these illusions. Each card, when randomly selected and thrown, produces a unique illusory effect.

Alchemy Jug

Depending on the card drawn, the Bard has the ability to summon a wide range of creatures, ranging from a beholder to an entire illusory red dragon. By manipulating the illusion, the Bard can give it lifelike movements, although any creature that comes into contact with it will quickly realize its true nature. Unlike other magical items, this deck doesn't require attunement, making it an excellent resource for the Bard to utilize when in a tight spot. Utilizing the power to summon fake and peculiar monsters onto the battlefield serves as a perfect means for confusing enemies, showcasing the Bard's skillset to its fullest potential.

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Uncommon

Modifiers: Make ten different liquids for various uses.

The Alchemy Jug is a versatile tool that can be put to good use by various classes, but it is especially well-suited for the creative and performative mind of a Bard. As an Entertainer, the Bard can utilize this jug to conjure servings of wine or beer, as well as other substances such as vinegar and oil, which can come in handy for cleaning up messes or starting fires.

In addition to these useful liquids, the Alchemy Jug is also capable of producing mayonnaise, acid, poison, and salt or freshwater. It is worth noting that the jug weighs a substantial 12 pounds, regardless of whether it is being used or not, and once the Bard decides on its contents, they cannot change their choice until the following dawn.

Ring of Spell Storing

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Rare

The wearer of the Ring of Spell Storing can cast up to 5 levels of spells, whether they are divine or arcane, or a combination of both, without the need for rest or material components. As its name suggests, the ring acts as a storage for spells, allowing up to 5 levels' worth of spells to be stored at once. Any creature can cast a spell ranging from level one to level five into the ring, and the wearer will then be able to cast those spells using the same slot level, spell save DC, spell attack bonus, and spellcasting ability as the original caster.

Once the Bard acquires this ring, a realm of possibilities unfolds before them. By harnessing its power, the Bard is no longer limited to their own repertoire of spells. Consequently, this enchanting ring becomes an invaluable asset for any Bard. Moreover, fellow spellcasters within the group, including divine practitioners such as Clerics, have the ability to bestow upon the Bard an assortment of spells that would have otherwise remained out of reach. This not only enhances the Bard's efficacy in combat but also broadens their versatility overall.

Stone of Controlling Earth Elementals

Source: Basic Rulebook

Item Rarity: Rare

Modifiers: Speak a command word to summon an Earth Elemental under the Bard's command.

The Bard, in comparison to other classes, has a restricted amount of spell slots and could benefit from additional magical abilities. Having earth elementals as companions provides a valuable defensive advantage for a vulnerable Bard.

However, there are certain conditions that must be met for successfully utilizing the Stone of Controlling Earth Elementals. These include physically touching the stone while it rests on the ground and uttering the command word. In situations where the player is engaged in a high seas campaign, this magical item may not be as advantageous.

Stone of Good Luck

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Uncommon

Keep this item on your person for a +1 bonus to Saving Throws and Ability Checks. Commonly referred to as the Luckstone, it is highly sought after by Bards and other characters in difficult situations. Once attuned, the Luckstone grants a +1 bonus to ability checks and saving throws, enhancing the Bard's proficiency and effectiveness in any circumstance.

Beyond those items, it is essential for a bard to acquire anything that enhances their Charisma-based abilities, considering Charisma is their primary attribute. Bards possess exceptional skills in persuasion and manipulation through magic, therefore obtaining a magical item that amplifies the power of their bardic abilities is highly advantageous. It is crucial for players of Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition to be aware of their character's strengths and weaknesses in order to select the most suitable magical items that complement and compensate for any deficiencies.

Clothing and Armor

When it comes to their armor class, most Bards prefer cloth and leather attire. While 5e allows players some flexibility in this matter, Bards typically avoid heavier armor that could hinder their casting abilities. However, Bards who specialize in dealing physical damage may have different options to consider.

Cloak of Many Fashions

Source: Xanathar's Guide to Everything

Item Rarity: Common

Revised: The Cloak of Many Fashions is a highly valuable magical item for Bards, especially at the beginning stages of their journey. Classified as a "common" wondrous item, it is easily obtainable by bards. This cloak does not require attunement and grants the wearer the ability to modify its style, color, and perceived quality using a bonus action.

Glamoured Studded Leather

This particular cloak for the Bard may have some limitations compared to other disguise garments since it cannot transform into anything other than a cloak. However, a resourceful and charismatic Bard can still make the most out of this item while engaging in roleplay. Another advantage is that it does not require attunement, allowing the Bard to use it quickly even when all their attunement slots are occupied by other items. Unlike the more powerful Hat of Disguise, which requires attunement and casts the Disguise Self spell, this cloak offers a less versatile but still useful option.

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Rare

Modifiers: +1 bonus to AC, plus use a Bonus Action to make this armor appear as normal clothing

In any D&D subclass, Bards are generally allowed to wear some armor for added protection. While the armor should not be too heavy, a notable choice for Bards is the Glamoured Studded Leather suit. This magical item enhances AC by +1 and allows the wearer to use a bonus action to change its appearance to resemble a different type of armor or normal clothing.

Despite its illusory nature, the weight of the armor remains unchanged, making it ideal for disguises. With unlimited uses and no requirement for attunement, this is a valuable magical item that Bard players should be on the lookout for.

Bracers of Defense

Source: Basic Rulebook

Item Rarity: Rare

The Bard's AC is enhanced by +2 with modifiers. Since the Bard class is limited to Light Armor, a common feature of casting classes, players of any species or college will constantly seek methods to enhance their character's armor class. These modifiers provide a +2 bonus to the Bard's AC, but it may not combine with other equipment possessing similar magical attributes.

On the flip side, spells such as Bless or Shield of Faith will not have any impact on or disrupt the effectiveness of the Bracers of Defense. The Bracers of Defense are considered crucial equipment for spellcasting classes, and depending on the campaign and the Dungeon Master, there may be superior versions of higher quality obtainable.

Helm of Brilliance

Source: D&D 5th Edition

Item Rarity: Very Rare

Modifiers: A wide and creative variety depending on how many jewels, and of what kind, adorn the crown.

The Helm of Brilliance is a highly valuable and coveted magical item, particularly for Bards. It is adorned with an impressive assortment of precious gemstones, including 10 diamonds, 20 rubies, 30 fire opals, and 40 opals. These gems possess the enchanting properties that empower the helm's spellcasting abilities. However, each time a Bard utilizes one of these powers, a gem diminishes in its radiance and eventually fades away. Each diamond within the helm provides 10 charges of the spell Prismatic Spray, while the opals enable the casting of Daylight, the fire opals allow for Fireball, and the rubies bestow the power to cast Wall of Fire.

Should any gem be extracted from the helm, it instantly disintegrates into worthless dust. And if all the gemstones are removed, the crown loses its magical potency entirely. In addition to its spellcasting capabilities, the helm boasts several practical uses. The diamonds emit a faint glow when Undead creatures are present within a 30-foot range, the rubies offer fire resistance, and they enhance the Bard's primary weapon with additional fiery damage.

Gloves of Thievery

Source: Dungeon Master's Guide

Item Rarity: Uncommon

Bards, though not on par with Rogues, can serve as an excellent replacement in situations where a party lacks a rogue or when the rogue is occupied. With their diverse skills and subclasses, bards are designed to be adaptable and can effectively fill any skill gaps within the party. Their expertise includes enhancing abilities in lockpicking and pickpocketing.

Therefore, a Bard may find it beneficial to acquire a pair of Gloves of Thievery. These gloves bestow upon the wearer a +5 bonus when attempting Sleight of Hand checks and dexterity checks for lockpicking. Although traditionally recognized for their exceptional thievery skills, Rogues no longer have exclusive ownership of this attribute.