Internet music services are hot—and if you’re already using your PC to create a music library, look for an audio system that can pull those songs from your computer and distribute them throughout the house. Be sure to consider other sources you might want to add, like satellite radio and your iPod, and make sure the distribution system can accommodate them.
One of the most important features of a PC-friendly audio distribution system is the interface, says Glenn Kalber of GDK Surround in Sudbury, Mass. You’ll want to be able to view, select and control the music on your PC from anywhere in the house. A remote control with two-way feedback and a built-in display will let you do all that just as if you were sitting in front of the PC monitor. Since Internet-based music is more about choice than it is fidelity, a pair of mid-priced speakers in each listening zone should suffice.

Approximate cost (including equipment and labor): $10,000

SAMPLE SYSTEM
Net-connected audio distribution processor: Niles IntelliControl ICS
Mid-priced ($400 to $500/pair) in-ceiling speakers: Niles CM730DSC
Two-way handheld remote: Niles iRemote