rGuys,
In the distributed audio world, is there anything out there pricewise between a ricer AVR w/ zone 2 (say $700) and the Nuvo Essentia w/o the keypads ( a 6 X 6)? It would be something like a 3x3 or 4x4. The Nuvo Simplese is out because it does not have 3rd party control and can be operated only by its keypads. The Marantz 3x3 comes to mind, but that is long gone.

3rd party integration is a must.

Nicer AVR at $700?? Isn't that entry level?

I don't know of a decent multi-room amplifier for $700 unless you can find something used.

Ok,ok. I edited it.

Not sure what price you want to be at but how about a Denon HEOS Drive?
4 zones, triggers, pre-outs/sub out, digital and analogue in, 4 ohm stable, bridgable.

Craig

Nice!