I am planning to install in-wall/in-ceiling speakers in my dining room(x2), kitchen(x2), and exterior mounted speakers(x2) outside on my patio. If I have to keep it to 5 speakers I will take one out of the kitchen. I was looking for a low wattage receiver that can support these zones, hopefully independently. I don't want my outdoor speakers on when I'm eating in the dining room for example. I don't need lots of power because these will be played almost entirely at low levels for background music. The primary input source will be my computer where I will be streaming Pandora or MP3s for music.
I have the speakers, I was hoping to keep the receiver to less than 500.
Is there computer software that will control it all? Do I need a special sound card for the speakers? These are all just ideas running through my head, tell me to stop thinking so much!
All advice welcome!