with sprint and im assuming with verizon, its all about the phone you get. the old samsungs used to have a big problem with reception, but since then, most of the phones have about the same reception capabilities. a buddy of mine lives in NJ and goes to NYU and says he hasnt dropped a call since he switched to sprint, he has a sanyo (known for great reception). at any rate, they do have a 14 day trial, try out a phone and see how it works out, if it doesnt, return it and they will refund you everything except i think a pro rated minute bill.

the blade is already out, just at select stores, it was launched on black friday. i have the a940 and the treo 650, both of which i am extremely happy with. YMMV, but use the trial for what its worth.