Audio/Video systems now have more playback functions than ever before. Music servers are becoming ever present in homes these days and it is these machines that enable you to store your entire music collection centrally while being able to listen to the library in various rooms at the same time thus eradicating a need for ‘stand alone systems’ to be bought and put in every area you might want your music played.

You might just need a simple audio-only system to enjoy your CDs, iPod, and satellite radio in multiple rooms, or perhaps you’d prefer to dazzle your friends with an A/V setup through which you can watch TV controlled by an in-wall touch panel in the bathroom. One of the more common configurations for a basic whole-house system is the six-source/six-zone setup, meaning you can send up to six different sources to six different areas of the house, each room controlled independently from the other. Another benefit of such a system is it is easily hidden away in a cupboard.

Whole-house systems can accommodate a wide range of sources, from CD players to AM/FM and satellite radio tuners to MP3 devices. For a truly high-end experience, though, nothing beats the addition of a hard-drive-based server capable of storing your entire CD and/or DVD collection, with artist, song, album, or movie information displayed right on the control panel..

To complete the effect why not consider flush mounted speakers that discreetly mount into ceilings and walls. There are now more and more loudspeakers of this design on the market which create a full bodied sound.

More zones can be added as the need arises and it is not just interiors that can benefit from such a system. There are now a wide range of outdoor - all weather speakers that are great for pool parties and barbeques alike…