Need Some Advice on a Potential PS2 System Purchase

[SEGA_Queen]

I need some advice from you guys. My sister has been strongly hinting that she wants a PS2 for Christmas. (So she can play DDR without having to borrow my system.) I was looking on Craigslist today, and found an ad for a slim PS2 system with all hookups and a controller for $30.

I emailed the seller asking him whether there were any issues with his system (e.g. Disc read errors.), and whether he could send me some pictures of it. The seller sent me a reply that said there is nothing wrong with the PS2, and that he can't send me pics because his camera's not working.

I'm considering buying the PS2 since the price is cheaper than the local shops/pawns. But I'm wondering if there are any issues with the slim units that I should be aware of before taking the plunge.

[Cornelius]

I haven't had a lot of slims, but in my experience they've been pretty reliable. The ones that didn't work (2 of them) both had visibly melted/cloudy laser lenses, which are easy to see since you can just flip the lid open. For that price without games I'd want to see it hooked up and running before buying. Shouldn't be a big deal if they know in advance so they can have it ready when you get there. Bring a regular and purple game to test, and just make sure the games start up without delay.

[SEGA_Queen]

I haven't had a lot of slims, but in my experience they've been pretty reliable. The ones that didn't work (2 of them) both had visibly melted/cloudy laser lenses, which are easy to see since you can just flip the lid open. For that price without games I'd want to see it hooked up and running before buying. Shouldn't be a big deal if they know in advance so they can have it ready when you get there. Bring a regular and purple game to test, and just make sure the games start up without delay.

Thanks for the advice Cornelius! What does a clouded lens look like?

[Cornelius]

well, basically the lens should look very shiny and clear. Probably will have a blueish purple shiny reflection depending on the light. if it is melted/cloudy, it will be matte, not shiny, and milky to completely white. It is a pretty big difference, and I doubt many people would look at the melted ones I've come across and think they'd work, so I doubt it'll be an issue for you. Disclaimer: I've seen that on 2 out of maybe 10 (tops) systems, so I've no idea how common it is, or if there are degrees in between.

[mobiusclimber]

Just take some games w/ you and test everything out (including controllers, not to say you can't replace a controller, but it's the ports that you want to test, and on that note, test out memory cards as well).