This is a good question, since my situation is very similiar. Even though this thread is old, it didn't get any replies. Can any vets help out?
There wasn't any answer because... any/any brute will be good and more then fine enough to duo with a dom or solo.
Defensive sets then to start being good only later, when you start having SO and IOs.
If you have problems, you should check the general brute guides and those about the sets you've picked.
Unless you have a very specific goal (best survivability, best ST, best aoe, best mitigation,teaming, soloing, AV, etc) you won't get much answers, because anything will do.
"It's a scrapper. If he can't handle it, no one can." -BrandX
Just started playing a month or so ago and really loving the game, even though I thought it would be dumb
(I have more playtime, and the MM is a very good solo class from what I've seen).
I've got a 26 Necro/Dark MM and my friend that got me to try the game has a 22 Gravity/Energy Dominator...
What I'm wanting to make is a class that I can solo to 20+ effectively, then duo with her Dom through the rest of the levels. The MM works very well with her, but I'm having a hard time not outleveling her even further
I figure a Brute may be a good option to keep the critters off of her Dom while she nukes and whatnots, just not sure what would be good Primary/Secondaries for that. I originally tried an Electric/Energy Brute, but had issues with health after a few fights. I've recently (today) created a Claws/WP brute, but haven't had a chance to get a feel for how that may work out.
Any suggestions are appreciated!