Starting out simple in this hobby makes lots of sense-there is lots of equipment available for future expansion, with more features like HD tuning, PVR functionality, etc. Haven't owned a Pansat yet, but have had several other brands. A good simple box to start out with is the Fortec Mercury II, name has changed to Fortec Dynamic but it's the same receiver. Traxis 3500 is also a good box for blind-scanning as the Fortec is, both will control a dish motor if you add a motor later. A standard def receiver shouldn't be much more than a hundred bucks if you buy brand new, the traxis is even less (and is one of the best at blind-scanning, very sensitive tuner). Used receivers on ebay or craigs list even less if you're up for a 'pig in the poke'.