Obviously I don't like the look of speaker selectors and the functionality wouldn't suit my needs. That's why if a customer is wanting a super simple system without stepping to a dedicated whole house audio solution, I hide an amplifier, airport express, and speaker selector in the closet. My job is to provide the customer a solution for their budget and still make money on my end and at the same time assuring me that it works reliably and the customer can easily operate the system. If they can't afford the solution, I will scale back to try and provide the best solution that fits their budget. If that's not possible, I will let the customer now. I'm not at the position in my business to turn down business because a customer doesn't want the solution I suggest initially.

I started this thread looking for options I had not thought of before. I guess I'm just averse to keypad controls. I like the idea of controlling everything from my cell phone. To me, Sonos is really on the right track with their software and hardware to be a really comprehensive internet based streaming whole house audio system. Like you said a big drawback is interfacing with control systems. Also, I think a HUGE disadvantage for installers is the lack of profit margin with Sonos. Do you really think there is an audio quality difference between Sonos and let's say a Russound C-Series and DMS-3.1? Of course keeping all other variables the same such as in-ceiling speakers? I'm going out on a limb and speculating that internet streaming audio quality would make the audio quality argument a moot point between Sonos and a dedicated whole house audio system. Now, if the source were high fidelity I think there would be a difference.

Also, Sonos is not cheap. For example I will use Russound as it is easy to find a price on google: Russound MCA-C5 ($2,500) + DMS 3.1 ($1,200)=$3,700 for 6 amplified channels. Now compare to Sonos Connect+amp ($500)x6=$3,000. Not too much of a difference there, especially when the Russound has more features.

Thanks to all of you have offered constructive suggestions and thoughts.