The scoop: Sonos Multi-Room Music System, Bundle 150, by Sonos, about $1,150.

What it is: The latest version of the Sonos music system (which first appeared in 2005) includes updated Wi-Fi connectivity (it uses 802.11n as its wireless bases, but still uses proprietary wireless mesh technology to connect multiple players together) and updated software.

Click to see: The Sonos Multi-Room Music System Bundle 150

Since I last tried the system, Sonos has also made deals with several music services to let users listen to Rhapsody, Pandora, Napster and Sirius Satellite Radio through the system. The Bundle 150 includes two ZonePlayer devices (the ZP90 and ZP120) and a ZoneController. Users only have to connect one ZonePlayer (or a $99, sold separately ZoneBridge) to a network router, and the rest of the players work wirelessly over the Sonos mesh. Once connected, the players can play Internet radio, or music stored on a PC (after installing Sonos Desktop software) or a network-attached storage drive.

Why it's cool: The system is designed for users who want music played all throughout the house, and simultaneously -- if you could be in two rooms at the same time, you'd notice that the music was playing in perfect sync. Or you could play one song in one room and a second (or third, fourth, etc.) in another room. The Sonos Controller provides easy access to music stored locally or over the Internet. One recommendation -- buy the additional ZoneBridge to connect to your router, and then the bundle gives you two rooms for music without having to connect directly to the router (especially if your router is in a basement).

Some caveats: The price may turn away some users, especially if they're not committed to the multi-room music concept. If you just want networked music in one room, less expensive options are certainly available (see next review).

Grade: 4 stars (out of five).

The scoop: Squeezebox Boom Network Music System, by Logitech, about $300.

What it is: The latest device in Logitech's Squeezebox line of network music players, the Boom includes a 30-watt digital amplifier and speakers, and the ability to connect to a home network via Ethernet or 802.11g wireless. Once connected to a network, the Boom can access music stored on a PC hard drive or over the Internet (through the SqueezeNetwork online music service). Internet radio and online music services (including Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius, Last.fm, Slacker, RadioTime, Radio IO and Live365) can also be accessed.