Most everyone on the PS2 forum uses the Pioneer A03 or A04..
Also would suggest not using the DVD writer to backup PS2 CD based games.... Get a seperate writer for them, AND make sure its 100% Clone CD compatible........
OH YEAH, as far as your PS2, you said you were going to get it modded with a "stealth chip??" Forget any ideas you have about a "stealth chip" and get the MESSIAH modchip.....You will be glad you did..... Its the most expensive modchip for the PS2.....BUT.....it direct boots everything with no swap and you don't have to patch the games.......