There are several successful solopreneurs on HN:
Patrick McKenzie:
http://www.kalzumeus.com/
Dan Grossman
http://www.awio.com
Although they occasionally deal with contractors, they are one man shops. There are benefits and costs to do this.
It really limits your "impact" and how much money you can make...however there is a lot less stress involved.
Would you want to be a successful solopreneur or do you feel the traditional startup is the right path?