It seems like a mix of 2nd and 3rd, it has some of the leadership aspects of the 3e bard, with the "mini wizard" aspect of the 2e bard thrown in.
Also, the laser/ranged bard doesn't have to go with a wand ... there are a couple "other" implement types [singing sword and instruments] which fit better with the bard using his voice/music to make his magic ... although it could be easy to roleplay the wand as a conductor's baton, directing magical effects like an orchestra.