Comments & Recomendations on ModChips

[AdamJ]

I have the GT3 version of the PS2, US 35001 and I have GameShark2 v1.9

I am quite confused about all the different modchips available. I don't mind swapping.

I was thinking of going with the USBMOD (SBOX) from modchip.com. I don't want to wait for the next generation of NEO4/MESSIAH mods.

Does anyone have any recomendations, or tips for me?

Thanks

[Warlock]

If you have limited soldering experience and dont mind patching some of the games then the neo key is the easiest to install. If you have solder experience or are getting a expert to do the install then the neo2.2 is better as far as performance goes.

[AdamJ]

It was my understanding that I would only have to patch the EA games for use with the Neo Key. Is that correct?

[Warlock]

So far i have had to patch most EA titles, not all, and the same with games by Midway however alot of games do work without patching.

[Dal]

Hi,

I have an internal solution modchip, and use CLONE CD to make my PS2 backups. I have not had to Patch 1 game including all my EA Titles. If you can go for an internal mod!!!

Cheers

Dal

[Charlie]

Warlock gave you a balanced answer. Dal gave you the recommendation and I endorse Dal's recommendation.

[Warlock]

Make no mistake about it, there is NOTHING wrong with a neo-key. I was down on usb mods to until i got my 2nd PS2 and decided to install a neo key in it, my other PS2 has a neo2.2 installed. About the only advantage that i see in getting a internal mod is not having to patch some of the games. With a internal mod you must do the EA swap method for EA games every time you play the game, Hold reset for 10 seconds ect, with a neo- key you do patch some games but once the game is patched you just swap disc and they load normal. For alot of people this is easier than doing the EA swap method. So far i havent had any problems with the audio skipping, a common problem with most plug mods for PSX, so really it's all in what you prefer. In my opinion before i would totally disassemble a V4 PS2 for 1 wire i would just as well connect the other 7 for a neo2.2 but i am a experienced installer, if you are doing the install and have no experience when it comes to soldering very small points you may want to lean towards the neo key... Good luck with whatever you decide.

[AdamJ]

That was some great advice thanks all.

I decided to go with the SBOX from Modchips.com, and Im so far a little disappointed.

Their website states 'Free Express Mail' and 'Free Express Shipping'. Now, the United States Postal Service's 'Express Mail' is NEXT DAY delivery. Here we are 6 days after order, with nothing.

I emailed them and thier seemingly 'automated' response was 'You should recieve your order within 4-6 days of shipping'

Most people wouldnt think this a big deal, but Express Mail is like $12! So did I just get burned on paying $12 in shipping, when they used a $1.43 shipping method?

Anyways, lets hope the thing shows up.

[Dal]

Adam,

Sorry to hear things are going a little slowly with your USB Solution, let us know how you get on.

Cheers

Dal

[AdamJ]

Well just an update, 14 days after placing the order sill no item. Sent off another email to MODCHIP.COM.

It looks like I may have to cancel the charge on my credit card. What a shame, can anyone recommend a reliable source if I have to go somewhere else?

Thanks.