Not at all. From the very first postings about what the fees and such might be, there was never a doubt in my mind that just like now, the first box has no monthly charge and all others have some charge. And that is exactly what happened, shouldn't have been a surprise at all.
And assuming that they will upgrade current users at $100/location is pretty darned aggressive in and of itself. It puts all new gear in your house, gives whole home dvr with central management point (will be better when 2 hoppers can integrate). If you've never had whole home dvrs, the central location of the various lists and management is really a nice way to have things.
Compared to the competition for existing users to upgrade to something like that, it is most likely going to be a steal. With D* to get central management with a 5-tuner DVR, the cost ranges from free to $500 all depending mostly on the luck of the draw when you call them.
For new customers, it is also a great deal. Hopper + 4 Joeys for no upfront money! With D*, if you want the HR34, that's $99 upfront then 3 more receivers free.