Best places to buy chips and HDD troubles

[Cyber Akuma]

I have a V4 PS2, I heard that the best modchip for this PS2 that is actually still being made is the DMS3.

I have three questions

1. Is this chip reliable for a V4? This chip hasent been known to cause problems or break down often has it? Also, I heard that the V4's might have laser problems, what do you know about that?

2. Will I be able to install and use a HDD in my ps2 with this chip in it?

3. Are there any other options for having full direct booting and HDD support for a v4 ps2 other then a dms3?

4. Where is a good place I can get one? What is the average price for one?

Im guessing no matter what I will have to pay over $100 for both the chip and install wont I?