wiped disk - no longer bootable

[Ralf Mardorf]

Initialize the HDD and the SSD by generating new MBRs (or if you
prefer GPTs) and reformat them with virgin ext4 partitions. Don't use
encryption, LVM or anything special, such as e.g. raid at all. At best
use MBR for testing purpose and even if you should be in favour of
another FS, stay with ext4 for testing purpose.

For trouble shooting strictly follow
KISS, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KISS_principle, at least as far as
possible with Ubuntu or an Ubuntu flavour. Way better, if you have got
the skills to do so, even consider to test with Arch Linux, Gentoo or
even FreeBSD (FreeBSD OTOH is similar to LVM by default ;), or if
possible at least by using the Ubuntu server image, Ubuntu mini
whatsoever, net or so thingy.

Btw. what ISO are you using, in case of "Ubuntu" consider to try
Xubuntu or Ubuntu Mate, or if you want to stay closer to gnomish Ubuntu,
maybe Ubuntu Budgie, as a gnomish alternative. Just try anything
different of what you were using until now.