Questions about E3 Flasher (and downgrading methods)

[ShiryuX]

Hi all,

My friend and I both have PS3 Slims laying around collecting dust since ages and since we can't find any concrete info, we're just making one post asking a common question yet there's no concrete information.

We both made some research and our PS3 Slim models are both downgradable. Mine's on 4.00 (2004B I think) and his is on the 4.20 I reckon (but we previously checked and the initial was also <= 3.55).
Since we require an E3 flasher, we just need some more information before purchasing:

1) Is there finally a solderless E3 Flasher (with corresponding guides, not dating back to early 2011 where everything needed to be soldered)?
2) Do the current hardware flashers have any limitations? (Only one PS3 per E3 Flasher, Dual boot, ...)
3) We live in Belgium: which trustworthy shops (link) deliver a working product to Europe?
4) Related: which version is to be taken? I see "limited edition" here, "eSata station" there, ... it all causes some confusion.

Looking forward to any responses, thanks!

- S

[nova89]

To be able to dual boot you need a limited version but to save cash you could buy a cheep estata station and the cheaper e3 you will need 2 if you want the flasher to remain on your ps3 (dual boot) one per console I'm sure I've seen a table showing what ps3s are solderless as for limitations it's mainly guides I got a e3 for Xmas still ain't fitted it due to the guides not being 100%clear people state you need thermal paste and some don't and for the life of me I can't find a dual boot guide /downgrade method

[ShiryuX]

If it's that much of a hassle, dual boot isn't a requirement. We just both want CFW on the slims for emulator purposes and general gaming console (with occasional online once a CFW has the possibility).
If it's possible to just use one E3 flasher on both consoles would cut the costs in half which is great.

But I guess we're in the same boat: there's no clearcut guide out there stating what to buy (solderless, as we don't/can't solder) and how to set it all up. Anyone else got some input on the questions?

Thanks!