Questions about playing backups w/no mods

[aktick]

I know, I should get a modchip

I guess the reason I don't want to get one real badly is because I don't have any backups now and don't know if I'll be able to get them to work. I also don't have a DVD burner, so I'd have to play rips all the time. I know I don't want to solder anything, the only chip I've considered thus far is the rmod. Plus, I don't really want to spend more on hardware after buying the ps2 itself. Does anybody know much about mail-order pre-soldered PS2s? I'd consider doing that if it wasn't too much $$$. Isn't that why everyone plays backups anyways, to save money? Thanks for the advice...maybe I'll get the GS, try making a backup, then try it with one of the no-mod methods before spending more on a chip? Thanks for the advice guys.