Best PS2 Slim Model?

[Mad_Hatter]

Hi all,

My PS2 broke down a few years ago. It wouldn't read disc, and I broke it by messing with the ribbon cables. Then I just threw it out.

Anyway, I still have all my PS2 games, and I want to play some of them.

I know the Slim model is the best, but does anyone know specifically what is the best slim model (the model number)?

I was looking online, and it looks like there are some that can output 1080p, stay cooler, slightly faster CPU than the original fat model.

Anyone know which is the best slim model for me? I'd prefer one that outputs the best display > fastest > requires the least maintenance (stays cool, no disc errors, low power usage, quiet).

Or are they all pretty much the same?

Also, can I use the power cord and my HD component cables from my old fat model for a slim model? Or will i need need ones? lots of consoles for sale that don't include the cords and cables.

[8bit]

I think they all do just about the same thing... You would definitely need the ps2 slim specific power cord but the AV cable is compatible. I personally like the look of the ceramic white newest slim model so I'd be on the hunt for that one. Otherwise I'd just got with a really good condition cheap fat model as I tend to like the original designs of consoles more than their v2 counterparts.

[Ziggy]

Then I just threw it out.

Ahh! Don't ever throw anything out. What's broken to you might very well be fixable to some one else. Even with something beyond fixing, it's still worth the parts. For example, some one might have a blown PSU inside their PS2 with an otherwise perfect working system. Or some one might have broken the controller ports, et cetera, et cetera. If you can't be bothered with the hassle of keeping it on hand (believe me, I know how valuable space is sometimes) at least let some one take it off your hands for the cost of shipping. Just about anything is better then throwing it away!

I know the Slim model is the best, but does anyone know specifically what is the best slim model (the model number)?

Whether the Slim model is the best, that's up to debate. With a network adapter, the Fat can be fitted with a hard drive. Using something called Free MC Boot and an app called Open PS2 Loader (or OPL) you can store games on a hard drive and play them from the hard drive. This alone is worth owning a Fat over a Slim, but to each his own.

Booting games from a HDD will keep wear and tear off the optical drive, and it also benefits from being able to load faster. FMCB has other benefits other than OPL, but OPL is probably the biggest reason to use FMCB.

The Slim has its HDD options too, but they're not as good as they are on the Fat. USB speed isn't as fast as PATA. And from what I've read, the compatibility isn't as good (although I haven't read up on Slim HDD booting in a while - perhaps the compatibility grew).

If you do go with the Slim, I would suggest going with an earlier revision. V14 (SCPH-7500x) has a list of PS1 games that are incompatible, and even a small list of PS2 games that are incompatible! See this link for a list. The newest version(s) of the Slim have a new BIOS that wont allow FMCB to run, although I'm not certain if these models are exclusive to Japan or not. For best bet, I would just stick with an earlier revision (SCPH-700xx).

I was looking online, and it looks like there are some that can output 1080p, stay cooler, slightly faster CPU than the original fat model.

IIRC, the Fat PS2 can output 1080p as well. It depends on the game, not the console, only a select few can output 1080p (like Grand Turismo 4). Check out this list: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Pl ... HD_support

I don't know anything about a slightly faster CPU. I own a Fat and Slim, and I haven't noticed anything gameplay-wise between the two of them. What it really boils down to is if you want the Fat for the HDD or not. The only other thing I can point out with the Fat versus the Slim is the multi tap adapter. You need a model specific to the Slim, so if you already own one for the Fat you wouldn't be able to use it on the Slim.

Also, can I use the power cord and my HD component cables from my old fat model for a slim model? Or will i need need ones? lots of consoles for sale that don't include the cords and cables.

The AV cables are gonna be the same for the Slim and Fat, as well as the PS3, and even the PS1 with the exception of component cables. As for the power cord, the Fat has an internal PSU while the Slim has an external PSU, so you'd have to be sure to get a power adapter with the Slim.

[ZenErik]

I use Free McBoot with my slim PS2 + burned DVDs. Obviously it will wear out the laser over time, but I don't use my PS2 that often anyway. Not too concerned.

[s8n]

i never throw anything out and it drives my mum crazy , also i bought a broken PS2 Fat which wouldnt read discs for $10


i tweaked the POT and it runs again although i either use a Hard Drive with HDloader or OPL in Network Mode for about 6 years now.


the PS2 you threw out was still worthy and could play games just in an alternative method

[CD AGES]

Or are they all pretty much the same?

The slimline PS2 went through a couple of changes (most of them being internal affecting build quality ,improving software compatability and reducing overall weight of the unit and even the power brick itself). The final SKU (Model 9000x) to be produced made more substantial changes to the slimline design. The outer casing was redesigned with a more sleeker look (ridges removed almost entirely and many vent holes removed as well. Top portion is divided between a gloss finish and a matte finish) and requires an all new vertical stand so its no longer compatible with the previous slimline stand scheme. The biggest change from this model comes from its power supply. The units PSU once again becomes internalised and yet still manages to weigh less that previous slim models. This is by far my most favorite Slim PS2 of all (even though the Free Mcboot exploit has been contained from this model which I could care less as I already have Fatty Ocean Blue PS2 with HDD and HD advance, but def something to keep in mind).

Also, can I use the power cord and my HD component cables from my old fat model for a slim model? Or will i need need ones? lots of consoles for sale that don't include the cords and cables

.
If you opt for a PS2 slim 9000x model, because the systems PSU is once again internal. Its compatible with PS3 slim and PS2 fat power cord (keep in mind though it has a double round cord insert!). Video cables are also fine as well.

Hope this helps.

[Ziggy]

The slimline PS2 went through a couple of changes (most of them being internal affecting build quality ,improving software compatability and reducing overall weight of the unit and even the power brick itself).

Just don't forget that the SCPH-7500x actually took a step backward with game compatibility. In addition to a small list of PS1 games, it's not compatible with a small list of PS2 games which is just beyond me.

Also, I believe the 9000x revisions have the new BIOS which makes FMCB not work.

[Mad_Hatter]

Thanks for the help guys. Especially Ziggy587 and CD AGES.

I know I should not throw away my old stuff. But we were running out of room at home, and my mom was driving my crazy to get rid of my old stuff. So my PS2 went to the thrash and my Sega Genesis 2 went to a Goodwill. And to top it off, she really pissed me off by taking my Grand Turimso 4 Steering Wheel and Pedal to Goodwill without telling me. That was a long time ago (4+ years old). I know how it works now. I would never throw away a system when it has working parts. That PS2 had a messed up CD Drive and one of the controller ports was not working. I wish I did not throw it away.

I am still debating on which PS2 Slim (or maybe even a FAT) I should get. Let me add:
- that I will only use a HDD to backup games.
- I really like the color black and I like the slim design much more than the original fat.
- I still got a bunch of old games. I don't plan on playing new games. So I don't really care about modding a PS2 unless it is ridiculous easy to do and cheap.
- I just want one that will last and play my PS2 games. I don't have any PS1 games at all, so I don't plan on playing PS1 games on a PS2. Although, I might consider ditching my PS1 emulator on my PC and start playing PS1 games on a PS2 if I can play them from a HDD
- I don't own a Multitap.
- I definitely don't want to get the SCPH-7500x that is incompatible with Fight Night Round 2. That is one of the games I want to play.

Also, on the Wikipedia page, it says the CPU speed is 294.912 MHz (launch) and 299 MHz (newer models). I'd prefer to get the one with 299 MHz. It might make a difference. I remember borrowing my cousin's PS2 Fat a year ago, and it would lag when I would play Fight Night 2004.

Lastly, I attached a photo of all my PS2 games. Let me know if guys think I should get a Fat PS2 and try out new games via the HDD mod and app.

I only see myself trying out no more than 5 new games on a PS2, so I am not sure if buying a HDD for a fat model would be worth it.

[Ziggy]

I don't really care about modding a PS2 unless it is ridiculous easy to do and cheap.

Well that's the thing about the PS2, you can hardmod or softmod. Basically, a mod chip or FMCB. The PS2 mod chip isn't too expensive these days, but as far as mod chips go, it is one of the harder ones to install. The sole reason being that it is something like 20 wire connections. The only real benefit the chip is gonna give you over FMCB is being able to boot PS1 burns. Last time I checked, there's no way to do it with FMCB (not including swap tricks or whatnot).

I just want one that will last and play my PS2 games.

Then you might consider a Fat for the sole reason of playing games off the HDD. Playing games off the HDD will keep wear and tear off the optical drive. The less you use the optical drive, the longer it will last. And like I said, you'll also enjoy the benefit of faster loads with most games.

Although, I might consider ditching my PS1 emulator on my PC and start playing PS1 games on a PS2 if I can play them from a HDD

Unfortunately, you cannot boot PS1 games from the HDD. At least, last time I checked you couldn't.

Also, on the Wikipedia page, it says the CPU speed is 294.912 MHz (launch) and 299 MHz (newer models). I'd prefer to get the one with 299 MHz. It might make a difference. I remember borrowing my cousin's PS2 Fat a year ago, and it would lag when I would play Fight Night 2004.

I really don't see the extra 4Mhz making any difference. The game could have been lagging for other reasons. I use a Fat, but I do own a slim. I haven't noticed a difference with any of the games I have played on the Slim.

I only see myself trying out no more than 5 new games on a PS2, so I am not sure if buying a HDD for a fat model would be worth it.

Only 5 games? The PS2 library is massive! I'm not sure what genres you're really into, but I see you have Gran Turismo 3 and 4 and the three GTAs, so obviously you like racing/driving games. Driv3r (Driver 3) and Driver Parallel Lines were excellent. The Italian Job and Stuntman were more light-hearted games, but still a ton of fun. I see you have CS Anthology, there's a lot of great FPSs on the PS2. If you're into fighting games outside of boxing and wrestling, there's a whole slew of fighting games (Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and similar). Speaking of MK, there's Mortal Kombat Shoalin Monks which was fantastic. It's a 3rd person action/adventure beat 'em up type game that tells the story of MKII.

That's just a few suggestions, but the PS2 library is pretty endless. There's a ton of quality games out there.

[Mad_Hatter]

What will I need to use FMCB on a fat? I am strongly considering buying one now. Even though I don't plan on trying out a bunch of games (buying it for more nostalgia reasons so I can play my old games). But it will be nice to add life to it by using an HDD or knowing I can try some new games.

I never used a HDD on a PS2 ever. Nor have I ever used internet on one (I don't have the modem addon). And I don't have anything to have my PS2 (or memory card) talk or connect with my computer. I have a standard HDD Enclosure (think 3.5") though.

Also, what is a good HDD size?