Not all of those comments are accurate. Need to read them to realize what's BS and what isn't.
This gear suggestion is probably best:
http://xivdb.com/?wardrobe/2153/End-game-BLM-gear
Read this, though:
http://www.reddit.com/r/ffxiv/comments/1njoee/best_in_slot_blm_gear/
Notice how AF2 hat is mentioned as the BiS over the other two options. In the first link, no crafted gear is used however if you look at my current earring and compare it with the one they recommend (Allagan):
Allagan: 13 INT, 16 CRIT, 11 SS
Crafted earring: 9 INT, 9 CRIT, 9 MND, 12 SS
then 5 melds which can net you:
8 DET, 12 ACC, 3 CRIT
Crafted: 9 INT, 12 CRIT, 9 MND, 12 SS, 8 DET, 12 ACC
I have a feeling, though, that Allagan is better simply because it has more crit and INT.
Also, relic+1 is the best DPS upgrade. If you are doing endgame content and are already past turn 2, you should get your relic+1. Other than that, why rush it? Neither turn 1 or turn 2 are a DPS race. In fact, turn 2 is a lesson in learning to control your aggro as a DPS if your tanks are new too. Also, our magic damage is gimped when we take the left path so that's also working against us. Despite that, a DRG with pretty nice gear and a relic+1 usually parses 1% above me on turn 2. This is after we've taken the path that amplifies his DPS and nerfs mine.
What I have seen in turn 1 and turn 2, though, is that people like to die to piercing laser or some other crap that can be avoided. HP helps a tad more. Since your AF2 head and body are BiS iirc, then the minor DPS loss shouldn't be that noticeable.
Though, I'd never recommend a DPS (besides BRD) to go for something other than relic+1 first, most people seem to need that DPS in order to beat fights that aren't really DPS checks. :x
Edited, Oct 5th 2013 2:49am by HitomeOfBismarck