WHM/SMN Gives alot more buff options than WHM/BRD. Come on now, Minuet 3 at level 75 is nothing like Minuet 4.
Don't forget about Aerial Armor, Stoneskin, and w.e.
WHM/BRD is ok I guess when there is no refresher in the party, but really, when you have refresh armor, and Auto refresh, /BRD is usless, espically depending on your job. If you sub SMN you can focus on more MND gear perhaps instead of MP.
Ballad 1 by its self is nothing really, however, balladII+I is differnent. Stoneskin+Aerial Armor > Ballad I
I don't know if you can get those casts at level 50, because I don't know SMN, but this is my response to those who said this is a good SJ at higher levels, that is just nonsense.
It's still open debate at level 50, however, I guess it depends on your PT setup. I would still look at my race, gear, and other player skill. If you have a peice of paper for tank, you would be kicking your self for that extra mp from SMN. If you don't have a BRD, hell it could lower downtime, and kill time ALOT.
The main thing is to have fun, and do what you want, as long as people don't mind. Be considerate.
Shit I have some weird ass parties at LV75. Weird Subjobs, and wierd setups, but we get chain12~20.
Shit works if you make it work.