phil, yeah you'll get to see all sorts of new villians/and allies. @li3n is right, 3-5 are among the best, though I still liked it through 8.
SG:U was slow at the beginning - it's still a bit slow, but I feel like it's ramping up. The time travel one had some of the classic SG elements to it. I totally agree that it needs more "sci fi". Trapped on a spaceship can get boring. I think they really wanted the plot to be more character driven this time.
In short, gimme some aliens. Looks like we're on the way. At least they acknowledge that there are or WERE aliens in this galaxy.
I also like the stones, even if they're a bit of a stretch (tech-wise). It's a way to make the show a little less depressing (hey, look, SUNLIGHT).