the receivers you are referring to are models 625 or 522 receivers. they have two tuners and are designed to run 1 ot 2 tvs depending on whether you want to run it in single mode to record one show or if you want it in dual mode so 2 tvs can operate independently. As far as the phone line it is for ppv but also for fraud. the receiver dials out and lets them know you arent sharing the account with a friend or neighbor. As far as getting around the fee there is a model called a 510 which is a single tuner and does not charge a $5 fee if no phone line is plugged in. Just ask them for this model on an upgrade