I have the larger pressure pot HF setup and 5 HP/2 stage/60 gallon compressor. Works pretty well. The compressor keeps up with (almost) continuous blasting with moderate pressure drop. The media valves on the HF setup may be short life parts but OK so far for me and should be fine in your application.

I generally use a coarser grade of "black beauty" media from Menards. Have also used aluminum oxide from Eastwood which works really well but expensive. Silica sand is not the best IMO from a health and effectiveness standpoint and not good for weld prep. The silica somehow compromises weld fusion and chemistry.

Whatever you can do to keep the air dry will help reduce plugged tips. A basic water separator is minimum. Best is a water separator after a long pipe run to cool the air.