It doesn't need to sound like crap. If they're going to spend the money to have speakers in a lot of areas, there's no reason for it to NOT sound great. Why does it need to sound like they're at McDonald's? Some of the reasonably priced speakers sound a lot better than the really good ones from years ago. Bohlender-Graebner has some that are no more expensive than the run of the mill in-ceiling jobs, but they sound better. When it sounds bad, it won't be used and that's a waste of their money. Not a good way to impress people. I'm not saying the speakers need to be over $1K each, but they should be better than Proficient.

Zektor 16 X16 Audio Switch
Sonance 1250 MK IIs amps
Phase Tech Inwall Speakers
Sonos player
Roku player
Sat music receiver
RTI ipod dock
Sometimes a five disc CD-client request only

I use SnapAV in-ceilings currently and have used Proficient in the past. Never had any issues/complaints from either brand. I've been mostly impressed with the audio quality of SnapAV. Truthfully, I've never heard a "high end" brand in-ceiling so I may be missing out. I've also never driven a Ferrari, but I have driven a BMW M3...it was cool.

+1

I have been using URC DMS amps outside of Total Control for awhile now. Plug them all into the same switch that is disconnected from the main network and control them with IR from the control system of your choice. The only limitations in this configuration are that you can't link zones like you can when using Total Control and there is no feedback.That said, we have recently made the jump to Total Control on our boats after testing it in my house for the past couple years. I am confident in it.

have you looked at the NuVo Wireless?
[Link: legrand.us]

Ferrari has a completely different feel- much more "seat of the pants". I have no problem with a Beemer, though.

I have used some of the Episode ES-500 and ES-700 speakers, as well as their ES-SUB-EVO6 6" sub and an ES-SUB-10 and have been impressed. The last time, I used the ES-500 and the ES-EVO6 as a package and for the size, I had no complaints, at all. They didn't sound like little, boxy speakers and the sub did a really nice job- goes deep, too.

I prefer the Lamborghini's poontang over most cars.

I ALWAYS prefer poontang over ANY car. but, in the back seat is more comfy,,,,,,,:)

You are correct, Airplay isn't suitable for whole house audio.

In your scenario, swap out the Airport Express (or whatever Airplay source) for a Sonos Connect. Now you have the exact same amp + speaker selector, but VOILA, Sonos instead of Airplay at only a small price increase.

Get it?

+1
For a basic entry level with "today's" technology we use a Sonos Connect to a "decent" amp of your choice. We've tried a few of the Episode amps with just ok results. I prefer to use a Tru Audio 3512 or 7012 connected to volume controls. Easy control with i-pad or Android device and quick volume control in each room without needing to "find" portable device, very straight forward and easy to grasp for even non technical people (+60 or so)

I second the Nuvo as a good option. Control from mobile device with the ability to have 3rd party control if desired.

I don't think you have done enough research.

There are MANY systems that allow control from a SINGLE app.

Sonos
Autonomic
Crestron
etc.

As far as high end/price Look a Kia and a BMW both are cars that go ~300miles on a tank of gas, have safety features, come with BOTH a throttle control AND breaks. But one costs more because of better features and does some things better than the Kia.

That is how you have to look at things in this field too.

RE Russound. Since the primary programming resides in the amplifier, you have the ability via the I device to control whatever is programmed there. With my system at home, I turn on the ap, select whatever zone I wish, whatever source I wish, adjust volume, review meta data from onboard frs tuner or I device or streaming device, and have it in language the customer understands (kitchen vs. zone 1) Using external parasound and multi channel amplification, my KEF uni-q drivers sound great.

The Russound looks to be a good option. It would be nice if there were an option just to have the controller without any amplification, but with variable outs. Then you can add whatever amps you want. Maybe could bring the initial cost down.

FrogAV: Sonos Connect is 349 vs Airport Express 79 (refurb older unit). Huge difference if you are doing a barebones system. I've had good results with airplay for people that just want background music playing at the same volume through the house. Usually just kitchen, living room, and maybe some outdoor speakers.

I'm going to look into the Nuvo as well. And cynic: I've done tons of research, but manufacturers of this equipment are surprisingly hard to find. For instance, I had never heard of your suggestion of Autonomic. I'll check them out as well.

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am fairly new to the business of this, but not new to the concepts. I don't have a very good supplier in the area with a vast array of products, so mainly I've been relying on folks like Snap to provide my products. It helps to hear from other folks when trying to build your business.