Wow, thank you SO MUCH for the quick response! I will try programming the VCR hooked to TV #1 to Ch 3 - after all, I have nothing to lose!
I already have the converter box set to turn on to the appropriate channels at the right time - that is the main reason I bought the Zinwell, as it seemed to be one of the few where you could do that.
As for TV #2, I did choose the non-cable "Auto Preset TV/DTV" when I did the channel scan - it could just be the combination of a super-cheap TV and a super-cheap antenna. I really don't watch that TV very much anyway; really just watch 3 shows on network and the occasional special broadcast, all of which I can watch online (just on my teeny laptop screen is the problem there). I think I'll try one of the antennas you suggested, and if that doesn't work I'll just get rid of the stupid TV - give somebody a cheap thrill by putting it out on the boulevard with a sign that says "free - great picture!" and they can go home & hook it up to cable and feel good about their find
Once again, thank you so much for your clearly stated advice! Technotards like me appreciate it.