re: Home audio/video setup: How to wire and what equipment do I need?

You can do the audio with a three zone receiver. I use a Yamaha RX-A2000, which has three zones. You can select a different source for each zone or use party mode, which sends the same signal to all zones. That particular model has been replaced by a new one, but I'm sure the three zone capability is still there. Anyway, zone 1 can be up to a 7.1 surround. Zones 2 and 3 are stereo. You could split Zone 2 or 3 to power four speakers, but again it is just stereo signal. Plenty of power.

My Zone 2 is wired speakers out back at the pool and Zone 3 is a downstairs playroom. The whole system is controlled by either a remote control aimed at the receiver, or through the home wifi and the Yamaha app. Works flawlessly. It's nice to sit out by the pool and control the entire system using my iPhone.

The important part is that all speakers are wired through the walls and ceiling. I prefer wired speakers. I bought a box of heavy gauge speaker cable from Home Depot and ran the lines myself.