multizone audio receiver

[lozina]

Anyone got a good suggestion on a decent multizone audio receiver? I'm looking for something that can handle 4 zones (more doesn't hurt but may never be used) and is not extremely expensive. Anything out there a really good bang for the buck?

Also, what else would I absolutely need besides the receiver and the remote keypads (wall mounted units) ? Do I need to get a preamp or anything like that?

 

[Anubis]

4 zones and not expensive????

good luck LMK if you fine that tho

 

[lozina]

well, I did say not extremely expensive

 

[DaveSimmons]

You might also consider a media server plus satellite PCs or media player appliances.

I have about 900 of my 1,300 CDs stored to a music server PC in lossless FLAC format, and being able to find a CD without searching through piles all over the house is rather nice. Plus having all the CDs backed up gives me peace of mind, since many are now out of print.

 

[AlienCraft]

Russound.com has the CA-4.4i
The Russound CAi-Series multi-room controller is an affordable Multi-room Multi-Source / Multi-Zone audio distribution system. High-current, stereo, power amplifiers are built into the Russound CAi allowing simple connections to each speaker in the system. Each room of audio in the home is operated by an intuitive, easy-to-use keypad that controls all the functions of the CAi controller. The keypads also have a built-in infrared receiver that allows remote commands for your source equipment to be routed through the CAi. The Russound CAi is built with pride. Fidelity, Reliability and Quality are the primary objectives. Russound products are guaranteed to provide years of enjoyment.

The CA-4.4i is a Control Amplifier that connects any of four sources to any of four rooms. The CAi series offers easy expandability and is packaged as a four room system with one of two types of keypads. (see CA-LCD2 or CA-KP2) Additional options provide power management, IR source learning keypads and additional amplification.

 

[Goosemaster]

Anthem

'nuff said.

 

[lozina]

I went with the Russound- got the CA6.4i because we decided we may add 2 more zones in the future.

It came with a kit which included 6 LCD wall keypads, 4 IR emitters for the 4 source equipment, and a remote control. Total came to under $1300 incl. shipping (no tax)

Thanks for the suggestion, this thing really is nice and a great value

 

[EvilYoda]

Yeah, you should've looked at companies like Russound and Niles, people that specialize with home distribution.

Anthem would've been a completely wrong choice...I love their stuff, probably gonna be an owner in the next couple of months, but it's not made for multizone applications. Sure, it can do it, but [insert stupid analogy here] too.