I am an FTA hobbyist, but have not made a big investment in it..
For channels, it really depends what your interests in programming are.
I like news and documentaries, especially commercial free, and like the BBC World format.
There are some channels of that on G19. But mostly It is just to see if I can, not as a goal to get particular programming.
If it is worth it depends on your budget and expectations.
Part of my hobby in it is making things, and hunting for deals on equipment.