Have been thinking about creating a non-pure character but haven't got a clue which direction to go in. Any advice?

I've currently got a pure of each class and am loving my elf and bird best.

I only dip in and out of PL so this would be a distraction from my main three characters, which could be bad thing? Should I level them first?

Haven't really ventured into BS too much yet so maybe I should concentrate on this before considering spending/wasting time with further characters.

Lots of great info on forums and am toying with either a dual build mage or a pally.

Lots to think about. Any good advice to make to choice easier?

Cheers in advance.....