[Q] Galaxy S2 SGH-S959G

[AnotherFreakinNoob]

Hello. I have a stock S2 S959G that hasn't been rooted and am interested in installing my 1st ROM. I have read Mr.Cook's thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1982571), I feel pretty confident in trying to root my phone. However, after reading other threads on xda, I am under the impression that I don't need to even root my phone when installing newer ROMs. Instead all I need to do is install TWRP recovery, download ROM, compatible gapps, and I'm good to flash?

I know its not that simple and any step by step instructions on how to flash the latest the newest TWRP, ROM, and gapps available for my phone would be greatly appreciated. Apologies in advance for being the newest of noobs.

 

[AnotherFreakinNoob]

*Edit: I was successful in installing TWRP 2.7.1.0 found in Mr.Cooks link. Still no success with the zip file for the 2.8.7.0v.*

I found (what I believe is the latest recovery for my phone) TWRP 2.8.7.0 in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s2-att/development/mtp-twrp-2-8-7-0-i777-s959g-t3212309
Of course the TWRP found in this thread is a .zip file and odin doesn't recognize .zip files. I read on how to change it .tar or other usable file but it seems that you need a Linux machine.

I also tried the download twrp link in Mr. Cook's thread I linked in the OP. Unfortunately when I tried to download to the phone in ODIN it tells me the MP5 is invalid. I tried it again and it said complete write failed. Could it be the version of ODIN I am using is to outdated (1.85)?

*Edit: Found the answer to ODIN failing due to complete write in this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s2/help/solved-help-completewrite-operation-t1157231*



Again any help provided would be greatly appreciated.