Cacophony is a nice early game quarterstaff with the Thunderous Smite spell you can purchase late in Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3).

Amidst the magical relics and arcane weaponry scattered throughout Baldur’s Gate 3, few items resonate, quite literally, like Cacophony. This unique quarterstaff isn’t just a striking weapon; it’s a powerful tool for spellcasters looking to amplify both their damage and flair. In this guide, we’ll explore Cacophony, how to acquire it, and tips for using it effectively in Baldur’s Gate 3.
What is Cacophony in BG3?

In Baldur’s Gate 3 Cacophony is a quarterstaff for spellcasters with damage and bonuses centered around Thunder damage. First, the basic direct damage the staff does includes not only the typical Bludgeoning, but also will deal a bit of extra Thunder damage. Moreover, the staff will grant the user access to the Thunderous Smite spell. This is a Level 1 Evocation Spell which you can cast once per Short Rest.
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Cacophony Abilities and Effects
Below are all the features, abilities, and effects of Cacophony in Baldur’s Gate 3:
- Weapon Type: Quarterstaff
- Damage: 1d8 (1d6)+5 Bludgeoning, +1d4 Thunder
- Requirements: Simple Weapons Proficiency
- Rarity: Rare
- Location: Purchased from Lady Ester on the Rosymorn Monastery Trail, Act 1.
- Weight: 1.8 kg
- Value: 403
- Bonuses:
- Cast Thunderous Smite spell once per Short Rest.
- Weapon Enchantment +1
- Classes with Simple Weapons Proficiency: Druids, Sorcerers, Wizards
- Companions Who Can Use This Weapon: Gale, Halsin, Jaheira
How to Get Cacophony in BG3? Explained

To get the Cacophony quarterstaff in Baldur’s Gate 3 you will need to find and use the Mountain Pass on the Act 1 map, and then find trader Lady Esther on the Rosymorn Monastery Trail. The Mountain Pass can be found in the far northwest corner of the main Act 1 map. However, you will likely not want to head straight there after landing on the beach. Using the Mountain Pass and entering the Rosymorn Monastery Trail can impact the state of some of the major story quests in Act 1. It’s better to wait and not enter this new region until after you have at least resolved the quests revolving around the Emerald/Druid Grove and the Goblin Camp.
Rosymorn Monastery Trail

Once you’re ready, head to the Mountain Pass exit and click to leave. This new area is the Rosymorn Monastery Trail and you can find Lady Esther just a short ways down the path. She’ll call out as you are passing by, and you can find her by turning to the right/east. She’ll have something to discuss in conversation with you first, but look out for a dialogue option which asks her if she has any equipment worth trading.
There are a few pieces of note here including the Periapt of Wound Closure and The Graceful Cloth. Finally, you’ll also be able to purchase the Cacophony quarterstaff from her, as well.
How to Use Cacophony in BG3?

The best way to use the Cacophony quarterstaff in BG3 would be to equip it to a Druid or even Bard character. While this weapon could give a Paladin class a free cast of Thunderous Smite, most effective Paladin builds will not be using a quarterstaff.
When using Thunderous Smite, your character will imbue their weapon with Thunder before striking their target. A successful hit will push the enemy 3 meters away and also has a chance of knocking it prone. This staff is a great way for non-Paladin classes to access this strong spell.
Tips and Tricks for Cacophony in BG3
These are the best tips and tricks for finding and using Cacophony in Baldur’s Gate 3:
- Be careful before going through the Mountain Pass exit. You can still come back to this portion of the map, but doing so can also advance the Goblin/Druid conflict if you have not resolved it already.
- Lady Esther also has some other useful items, and can also trigger a potential side quest if you agree to help her get a Githyanki egg. This can have consequences in Act 3.
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FAQs about Cacophony in BG3
Where can I find Cacophony in Baldur’s Gate 3?
You can find Cacophony for sale from Lady Esther on the Rosymorn Trail through the Mountain Pass during Act 1 of BG3.
Which classes or builds benefit most from Cacophony?
A Druid or Bard build would get the most benefit from equipping Cacophony in early BG3.
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