What is the best model of Playstation 2 to buy?

[consptheory77]

Apparently there are 18 different versions, and even more model numbers. The priority is not aesthetics or noise, but the greatest capacity for backwards compatibility with PS1 titles.

 

[consptheory77]

According to what I have subsequently researched, the best build quality is the 39001, the later versions tend to have laser issues and use materials that make for a less sturdy build. The 50001 has an infrared port, reduced fan noise, plays all variety of DVD media, and was the first to do progressive scan DVD playback. The 50001 was also the first of the series to be made in China, not Japan.