Originally Posted by Barefootsies

If you have a small list like you're describing, and it's been cleaned out of bounces and such, you're best bet is to simply go to an ESP and do it that way. By doing that, you should have good ip's for improved deliver-ability, and some level of 'trust' by default from spam filters. You will typically pay by volume of email sent or be allowed so much per month. Bigger lists can be costly.

You're welcome to do it yourself with an MTA, but then you have to get clean ip's, and learn all of the other things that go into mailing, inboxing, deliver-ability and so forth. In short, it can be a hassle and requires a decent amount of patience and practice. That does not get into the cost of platform, ip's, and all of the rest of that yoke.

There is a risk either way. I leave the choice to you.