Rachel,
It sounds like you're not quite up to speed on the latest iTunes. Actually, the airport express does play high quality audio files and connects to your stereo through an optical input. Also, you can send the itunes music to as many rooms as you like. each Air port express is the equivalent of an unamplified zoneplayer. Then, through the "Remote" program for the iPod touch, you select which airports you want it to play though. Also, any PC or mac on the network is effectively a separate controller (each sonos controller is $400) on which you can access other's shared libraries and also tell it where you want your music played. Further, if you need an amplified "zone Player", audioengine specifically makes a set of studio quality speakers with a built in amplifier to go along with your Airport express. it even has an AC plug in the back. Granted, I'm am sure there may be a few pluses for the Sonos, but not enough to pay 3 to 4 times more.