First starting out I had a 6 stone progression (120, 320, 1000, 2000, 4000, 10,000), but then I realized it wasn't for me. Not only was I sharpening less because hauling out all those stones, soaking them, flattening them, drying them and then storing then again was simply burdensome and 100% unnecessary. It was not making my edges sharper and after watching MC's videos as well as cutting with one of his OOTB edges I was converted to the belief that it really is 99% technique.
So I sold all my stones and went to a simple 2 stone progression (1k, 4k) with a DMT plate for flattening and heavy duty repair, but TBH I only broke it out once on an old stainless German knife that was badly abused. Even for small chips I found the 1k stone to be more than sufficient.
After going back to basics I practiced, practiced and practiced some more. I was starting to achieve extremely sharp edges--
Regarding higher grit stones, I began to realize how little difference there was between a 4k and 8k stone in terms of final edge polish.
Another thing, once you become really proficient your preferences will become more clear to you. Don't let other people's opinions or experiences sway your judgment. We are all different and what works for me might not work for you. However, I do believe that a person who masters a two stone setup will achieve just as sharp of an edge as someone who masters a 4-10 stone setup plus multiple strops--at least in practical terms.
Since then I have sold my two Shapton GS (1k/4K) and have went to an 8x3" natural stone (super thick too) of European origin (not coticule or BB). It is a very special stone that is not at all know of these forums and extremely rare. I found a gentleman who runs a very small operation out of his village (no advertising or website). The stone cuts as fast is my Arishiyama 1K (which I keep around because it is such an EXCELLENT synthetic stone) but it leaves an almost bead blasted finish, which for food processing is as far as I take it. It has all the good qualities of a natural with none of the bad, especially in this range (cuts as fast as a synthetic 1k, but finish is closer to a 4k). Dishes very slow and a quick splash of water and its ready to go.
So now I am using only one stone for my knives. I have a DMT XXC for flattening. I also have a loaded strop, which i am experimenting with--I'm undecided about it still.
Sorry for the rambling. it's my first post in a while.
Edit*** I should also add that my current knife sharpening practice, although with only one stone, is not a deliberate attempt, experiment or some minimalist OCD compulsion I have. If I felt (or feel in the future) that adding another stone or strop in my progression yields better results I would/will add it. However, right now my one stone is working perfectly and makes sharpening a painless and enjoyable process.