While the set-up for pool mining is easier, it is a common misconception that you need thousands of GRC or a mag over 20 to solo mine.
The true requirement to be paid out for all your work is to stake at least once every 6 months. You can do that with a combination of balance through POS, or research through POR.
Your are right. If you don't stake in 6 Month you will loose your work payment. But who wants to see his work results after 6 month? Smaller billing periods are always better. You got a shorter feedback loop.
I am really sad that if have switch to fast to solo.
My first month in Gridcoin looked like this:
The first week my graphics card driver was a mess. Only 1/3 of possible work
performance. After that i lost working bonus for several weeks because of Mag. 0 issues.
Ah, don't worry about the zero mag issues - you will be paid out for work done once the superblocks return to normal. A new client has just been released, and there is a compulsory upgrade inbound in the future.
I do agree about the pool being nice for frequent payouts. Solo just feels more satisfying though. =)
Remember that you can always return to pool mining if you want.