I have the 15.2" (DVI) PowerBook with the Airport card inside as well. I also picked up the new dual ethernet base station when I purchased the PowerBook last year.
The only time I have reception problems is when I use my portable phone (also on the 2.4GHz band). Even then, the reception problem DOESN'T always happen. It seems that either the phone or base switches channels to get one without interferrance.
Something that CAN cause reception problems is the composition of the walls where you are, as well as additional electronics that produce "noise" in the same GHz range. I've heard that some microwaves produce that, which is another reason I am glad that I don't have one. Some older houses walls can block the signal, or reduce the signal strength. Also, when you set up the base, you can set the station density and mulitcast rates. I have base set to the maximum on both of these items. That way, I get the maximum data transfer rate. Even though your internet connection WILL be slower then the base stations maximum rate, use it. That is, unless you need a longer roam range, in which case, reduce the rate until you get the range you desire/need.
I set up a couple who have a cable modem in their first floor living room, and the computers in a second floor office. Because of the wall construction, and number of walls between these two areas I had to reduce the rate to the 2 multicast rate. This allowed them to use their PowerBooks wherever they wanted, and still be online. With the rate at 11, the PowerBook further away wasn't able to connect (about 10' further then the first PowerBook). 5 might have worked, but 2 DID work, flawlessly.
Personally, I have yet to experience any reception problems from anywhere inside my apartment with either a PowerBook or pc laptop (all connecting to my Airport base station).
Your own experiences will vary. NEVER assume problems that some people have are indications of flaws in hardware (or software). There are simply too many variables to make the same for everyone. That goes for both good and bad experiences. I'd get a base station (Apple) and go from there.
