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Here are your logical possibilities:
1) The antenna or the converter box have gone "intermittent".
2) Something in your vicinity has changed, whether it be new construction or natural growth of foliage.
3) New source of electrical interference in or near the home or your antenna's location. Possibilities include new cell tower or new lighting in or near the home.
Using an amplified antenna when within 5 miles of local stations is rarely a good idea as the amplifier may easily overload or cause the tuner to overload. An overloaded tuner or amp will cause the type of signal meter display that you described.
Skip the whole discussion of the real vs virtual channels. Most of us can figure out what you mean.
Unless you have a spectrum analyzer available, you will need to troubleshoot by the substitution method. Try a different NON-amplified antenna in a southeast window. Position the antenna so it faces downtown New York City. A simple loop and rabbit ears is sufficient for troubleshooting. Try a different converter box or a new/different TV which has a built-in digital tuner.
Good luck!
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