Modifying the Prestige Bard class from Unearthed Arcana

[Arravis]

In Unearthed Arcana they have a version of the Bard class that's a prestige class rather than a core class. You can take a look yourself at the class here:
Prestige Bard

I'd like to make a version that doesn't have the Bardic Knowledge ability and instead gains either one or more +1 existing arcane spellcasting class. Would only adding it to the first level be enough, if all else is kept the same (including the lack of +1 level to arcane at level 3, 7, and 13)? Should more +1 to arcane level be added or is adding that one to a 15 level prestige class enough? Well, let me know what you guys think, thanks!

-Arravis

 

[John Q. Mayhem]

I think it's best to leave it as-is. The bardic knowledge is flavorful and useful, but another 'caster level seems like an unfair trade for it (on the too-strong side).

 

[Arravis]

Well, I have my own issues with Bardic Knowledge and it doesn't fit for the particular build I'm looking for. I would have thought a +1 arcane caster level at only a single level would seem at least equal to a ability (though of little use in actual combat, but useful in every other way) that increases for the entire prestige class, to be a fair trade... hmm, anyone else have an opinion on this?

 

[Terath Ninir]

Bardic Knowledge is extremely useful if you use it right. It's better than the Legend Lore spell, for one. I'd go the exact opposite direction of Mr. Mayhem and say that the +1 spell level is a fine trade, and maybe on the weak side (depending on your players, and how much they would use bardic knowledge).