The mave class sucks ass early Hardmode, but after mech bosses it's decent.
I never use mage and for a really good reason, as you basically have to spend tons of plat coins on mana potions while using Mana weapons that will eventually use them all in just a few seconds just to spend money again.
Ranger on the other hand you can just craft ammo or get the endless quiver or bottomless musket pouch. It saves materials and coins.