My current touring and commuting setup

For what it's worth, this is what I use. If this helps or inspires so be it.

this is my bob Jackson world tourist with a gossamer crank with 24-38-41 chain rings and a 12-36 9 speed cassette. It gives me half steps from 28.5 to 92+ inches. The granny goes as low as 18 inches. It works for me....