I think the penalty for having a non-optimal class and/or level is really harsh.
Why do we lose all the bonuses (+HP, +stats, etc.) for not having the optimal level or class?
The item's stats scale with the level when not optimal, why isn't it the case with the bonuses too?
Why can't I have at least half the bonuses when not having the optimal class?

There are already items with required class and level to equip. I dislike those. Can I have the regular items with optimal requirements provide less than optimal bonuses for less than optimal level/class (just like the items stats)? Thank you, it would be very appreciated. I'm not the type of player who likes carrying 5 sets of gear for all the classes I play. Thanks for reading.