I have a Dish 500 pointed toward 61.5. Although I can receive VOOM at 129, the signal levels were much lower than those I receive at 61.5, which are between 106-114 depending on the transponder. Short of a hurricane, rain fade on 61.5 is a non-issue. Since you're in NC, I would recommend 61.5 if you don't mind a 2nd dish...however, if you are able to receive a reliable signal on 129 then you may wish to go with a single Dish 1000. It's a personal choice and I prefer to have a stronger signal. Plus, my 61.5 dish location was already in place since I am a former VOOMer.