Thanks for your feedback. The Nuvo salesman is really banking on the fact that the Nuvo keypads are much more informative than the Niles. The receivers/amps appear to be comparable in quality. I am just more familiar with Niles and am wondering if I'm missing something. Equipment costs are circa 14K for both (inclusive of speakers), just that installation for Niles is $5K more. The Nuvo appears to be a better system to me but b/c I can't see it in a showroom, I am a bit hesitant. Also, most folks I know have installed Niles - perhaps based on the fact it more readily available rather than if it is actually superior.

If price is not a factor, what is the better system? One guy commented that cost should not be a concern in a 8000 sq ft home. Cost is always a concern - risk/reward is important. I am not an audiophile so not really looking to spend a lot on my system but want something that is good, intuitive and will serve my family's needs ( 3 young children, all with IPODs).

If Niles is clearly a better system,I will pay up for that. If they are comparable or if Nuvo is better and 30% less, that seems like the obvious choice.

Both technicians are well qualified and have strong references so that is not a concern.