You are correct. There is very little HD programing available on Directv currently - just HBO east HD and the Demo-loop which doubles as the HD PPV in the evenings.

I've heard dish offers one more, maybe discovery or some such channel.

The only other HD you can get is if you local stations are broadcasting HD over the air, then you can use a UHF antenna. The antenna is really nothing special and you can get one from your local home supply store or radio shack for $35-100. Don't waste your money on the fancy looking expensive ones cause they don't work any better, in fact I've heard many don't work worth a crap.