"The older models are also able to run Linux, are backward compatible with PS1/2, have all sorts of ports that have been removed on the newer models ..."
That's the big deal: I have the new PS3 and had to keep my PS2 to play my older games (I have a PSP too, for when I'm on the road);
The PS3 can hook up to my 24" desktop monitors with HDMI, but I have it on the big screen out front (52" with HDMI) and it kicks ass.
The viewing experience really does justify the cost of a nice display
