Sure, refresh 2 is more powerful then refresh, but ultimately it only adds 3(4) more MP tick as opposed to inviting a Brd which will add 9.

I'd feel MUCH safer in the hands of a Whm+Brd at 99 with both of them having 12 MP/tick then Whm+Rdm with 6 (unless something changes)

The issue with Brd is more that for NMs killing speed isn't that large of an issue anymore since the majority of the fight you are trying to proc anyway, and for exp they aren't required anymore and even with a Brd it only affects 1/3 of the alliance unlike a Rdm that can Dia III and give all 18 people a +17.6% attack bonus.