Bards can't use helmets, but they can still use Ioun stones. It's better than nothing.

If you play with a party, a Skald is a good choice due to his Bard song, but if you solo a Blade is probably better as you can't do anything else while using the Bard song.

As JR said, Bards get the same high-level abilities as Thiefs except one or two (Assassination and one other.) The Enhanced Bard song is basically an improved version of the Skald songs, and all Bards can choose it, even Blades.

UAI is insanely useful for Bards since they can have proficiency in any weapon type.*wink wink nidge nudge*

what is UAI?

Use Any Item

its high-level ability available if you have Throne of Bhall (ToB ;) ) installed