I am new to the mining arena.  I am having my mining rig delivered in a few days.  I'm starting with 2x MSI RX580 8GB.  It is amazing how complex this environment is.  It definitely isn't build a PC, install software and you're off to the races.

I would really appreciate any help/tips/advice that anyone is willing to provide.  I don't even know if I'm asking the right questions, but I'll try my best.

I think I am going to go with Windows, even though I'm a UNIX/Linux guy by trade and heart.  I simply see more R&D and support with the Windows drivers and bios.  I really couldn't find overclocking and other options on Ubuntu or other flavors.  Please correct me if I'm wrong. (Both OS's are free to me, as I work in the IT industry)

Should I join a pool or do solo mining.  I have read the cons, and I believe I should go with a pool like Nanopool or Ethermine.  I see that there are different rates, but these two seem to be very popular.

All of this research and I haven't even gotten to the wallet and software.

Regarding the wallet, I planned on using Metamask or one of my exchange wallets.  The reason I am thinking exchange, is so I can trade profits.

Software seems to range everywhere.  Nicehash, Claymore Dual miner, ethminer, and I even have the choice to pay $2 per month for SMOS.  I have even seen Neoscrypt Claymore.

Can someone simply help me narrow down some of these choices?  I have been researching for quite a while and am getting quite overwhelmed.

Thanks in advance,