This is going to take some trade-offs.
Firstly, if you want a hard drive in your slim PS2, you'll need a v12-13 model which can be modded with a HDDConnect kit to allow a full-size IDE Hard Disk to be fitted. However, these models are notoriously poor with their lasers, and so a protection circuit will need to be fitted - the best being the Slimfix v4 - stay away from ANYTHING else!
Otherwise, go for a new console (v15-16) as these won't need the protection circuit on the laser IC Circuits, however these cannot have a Hard Disk fitted. It's essentially a trade-off decision which you will need to make - although with a protection fix on an older machine, it should prove just as reliable as a newer one but you'll only find a v12-13 as a used machine now i'm afraid.
Also, if you're going to install yourself be VERY careful. The PCBs inside the PS2 have some EXTREMELY small and delicate points to solder to. The DMS4 is also very picky with installs, and so anything less than perfect will more than likely result in RSOD and Ground Bounce problems so if you do decide to have a DMS4 chip, ensure you get a pro to install unless you have done these things before.
On a final note, i would personally look at either a Matrix Infinity or Crystal Chip 1.1/2.0 as these are better chips than the DMS IMHO.
Hope that helps...
lufcfan
