I signed a 2yr contract in 2007 when I got my first mpeg-4 HD receiver and dish. I've added 3 more HD receivers since then.
I called today was was told I'm still under the 2007 contract.
I've been a customer since 1995 anyway so it's no big deal, can't get cable or OTA ( one channel ) where I live.
It's just easier to drive 32 miles and pick up a receiver than going through the BS of ordering one through DirecTV.
Plus if you buy locally, you can get a NEW one vs. getting whatever D* decides to send you.
OP, if you want to get the best price I know of on a NEW HR-2x unit, check out Costco. Yes, they extend your contract by 2 years, however, Costco warrants the units so you can skip the monthly maint plan from D* and if you have any problems, you call the Costco line and let them deal with D* for you. That is one fine option, hehehe, Costco tends to get some action for you and they have people that can speak English.
Our local Costco was selling the H2x HD receivers as well, but when I was there the other day, they didn't have any on a pallet as they usually do, so would check in advance before making a drive to pick up either kind of unit.
As for the SD devices, pick them up at yard sales or flea markets. We sold a ton of them at the last few yard sales for the animal shelter here for no more than 1$ / apiece with remote, so they are cheap. If you bought a few of them, one or more would be able to be used. There are some of us who still have the old Hughes / RCA / Sony boxes we bought long ago (more than 10 years), so they do exist and even work. Most of them are showing up at yard sales now, though.