Teddychamp, I wonder if geographic location could have something to do with needing a "clear" southern exposure. I was able to use mine in northern Montana in a heavily treed RV park and got reception right away. But the TG is unable to get the 129 sat dependably in the upper NE.
I don't want to be quoted on this, but I've heard the basic Direct provides SD quality only. That is easier to bring in.
Check customer satisfaction with DirectTV. The company tends to have more thaan its share of unhappy subscribers, including me.