I think with the larger SNGs you may be able to jump an extra step if you finish 1st or 2nd. So that may be something you'd like to try, but a single table is easier than 2 or 3 tables. If you have a couple buyins I'd focus mainly on single table 6max or full table, whatever your preference, then use a couple buys to play 18 and 36 player games.
I am glad this thread was made, I was going to ask similar Steps question. I want to know if the final step seats fill up fast. If I venture out on this and am lucky enough to make the final step, how long will it be before that final event actually takes place. How many of these actually fill up a day?