Control for surround system that is based on a single receiver with independent zone 2 HDMI output for digital A/V sources

[dskinnear]

If I purchase a single receiver that has independent zone 2 HDMI output for digital A/V sources, what’s the easiest way to control the surround system from each room?

Assuming the following:
I will be purchasing a new receiver
TVs are Samsung HD/4k
The receiver’s in a closet
The receiver will only be used for surround sound (in both rooms). No music
Both rooms may want to watch video (with surround sound) from different sources simultaneously.
The receiver will be connected to the TVs via HDMI baluns – not direct connections via HDMI
Additional Devices connected to the receiver:
A PS4 (for one room only)
2 Chromecast Ultra (currently connected to the TVs directly)


A WIFI or RF solution that controls all via an app is very appealing. IR blasters, etc. are least appealing.

Many thanks!

 

[americanaudiophile]

You are going to need two receivers.
You can't run two sets of 5.1 speakers from one receiver. Remote zones are stereo only. Each set of speaker has to be set up for the room they are in and the listening position you occupy. That will be different even if the speakers are identical.
You can use Logitech Harmony remotes to control each system. Might be easier if you have two different brands of receivers but it should work. You may need two hubs. Check their website. You could also use URC or RTI remotes but those require profession programming. Much more flexible than the Logitech but more expensive. They don't make the programming software available to end users.