Unfortunately, most of the entry-level in-wall keypad/touchpanel systems are pretty much crap . . . a big part of the appeal is the "cool factor" of the panel on the wall, not really the day-to-day useability of the system. A high-end custom control system like Crestron or AMX, when coupled with a top-tier server system (Kaleidescape) and a good programmer can be absolutely awesome . . . but expensive.
ALL of these systems depend very heavily on the competence of the system designer/installer/programmer for them to work well (or work at all) . . . especially Crestron or AMX. My advice is to shop for the people, and not the equipment . . . get references of jobs they've already done that are similar to what you want, and follow up with them!
Or if you don't want to mess with all that, patch the holes in the walls, and do a Sonos system . . . they're cheap and you already know you like it.
ALL of these systems depend very heavily on the competence of the system designer/installer/programmer for them to work well (or work at all) . . . especially Crestron or AMX. My advice is to shop for the people, and not the equipment . . . get references of jobs they've already done that are similar to what you want, and follow up with them!
Or if you don't want to mess with all that, patch the holes in the walls, and do a Sonos system . . . they're cheap and you already know you like it.