9 AV Design Tools Every Integrator Should Know (Besides D-Tools)

In the ever-evolving world of AV integration, staying competitive means using tools that save time, reduce errors, and deliver professional results. For years, D-Tools has been a well-known name in the AV industry, offering system design and documentation features. However, it is no longer the only player in the game. With new demands for cloud access, real-time collaboration, and faster workflows, integrators are exploring smarter, more modern solutions.

Whether you are a seasoned AV professional or just starting your journey, having the right tools in your tech stack can elevate your efficiency and improve your project delivery. In this blog, we will explore 9 powerful AV design tools every integrator should know, focusing on platforms that are easy to use, flexible, and effective—D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators who want more speed and less complexity.

Let’s dive in, starting with the most complete solution available today.

1. XTEN-AV
XTEN-AV leads the way in modern AV system design. Built from the ground up for AV professionals, XTEN-AV is a cloud-based platform that automates the entire workflow—from drawing schematics to creating rack layouts, cable schedules, and professional proposals. With AI-driven design suggestions and real-time collaboration, it is the all-in-one tool for system integrators who want to cut design time in half.

Why It Stands Out:

Drag-and-drop interface with auto-generated signal flows

Auto-built cable schedules and rack diagrams

Instant, client-ready proposals with branded templates

Access from anywhere with cloud-based design

Integrated product library with thousands of AV components

If you are searching for D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, XTEN-AV is the most powerful and complete option available today.

2. Jetbuilt
Jetbuilt is a cloud-based quoting and proposal tool designed specifically for AV professionals. It streamlines estimating, budgeting, and project quoting, making it easier to respond quickly to client requests. While it lacks deep design features, it pairs well with other platforms to support the sales side of your workflow.

Best For: Fast proposal generation and quoting
Key Features:

Cloud access for remote work

Simple user interface

Easy integration with CRM platforms

3. System Surveyor
System Surveyor is a visual planning tool used during site surveys and early design stages. You can place devices on a digital floor plan, mark zones, and capture photos, which is useful for pre-sales consultations and layout planning.

Best For: Site surveys and initial planning
Key Features:

Tablet-friendly for on-site work

Drag-and-drop devices onto floor plans

Shareable project files with stakeholders

4. SketchUp
SketchUp is a 3D modeling tool used widely across architecture and design industries. AV professionals use it to create realistic renderings of AV spaces, which is especially helpful for communicating layouts to clients visually.

Best For: 3D modeling and room visualization
Key Features:

Realistic AV layout views

Extensive library of models and textures

Integration with AV plugins and rendering engines

5. AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD LT is a more affordable and streamlined version of the full AutoCAD software. It is used by AV engineers who require precise technical drawings but don’t need the full 3D features of the main application.

Best For: Precise 2D technical drawings
Key Features:

Industry-standard drafting tools

Layers and layout management

Integration with architectural CAD files

6. Visio
Microsoft Visio is a popular diagramming tool used for network maps, flowcharts, and basic AV diagrams. It is easy to use and available through Microsoft 365, making it accessible for those already within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Best For: Basic AV schematics and signal flow diagrams
Key Features:

Familiar interface for Microsoft users

Custom stencils for AV components

Integration with Excel and SharePoint

7. Lucidchart
Lucidchart is a web-based diagramming tool that functions similarly to Visio. It supports real-time collaboration, which makes it ideal for remote teams. Although not AV-specific, it can be customized for AV layouts and signal paths.

Best For: Cloud-based diagramming and collaboration
Key Features:

Real-time multi-user editing

Templates for flowcharts and wiring diagrams

Browser-based with no installation required

8. Bluebeam Revu
Bluebeam is primarily a PDF markup tool used in the construction and engineering world, but it is gaining popularity with AV integrators who need to collaborate on construction drawings. You can annotate plans, add measurements, and overlay revisions.

Best For: Construction document review and markup
Key Features:

PDF markup and collaboration

Layered file viewing

Ideal for coordination with architects and contractors

9. Revit with AV Plugins
Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) tool used mostly in architectural and MEP design. Some AV teams use Revit with AV-specific plugins to integrate their designs directly into a building’s BIM model.

Best For: AV integration in architectural BIM projects
Key Features:

Real-time model coordination with architects

AV device families and parametric components

Advanced scheduling and data tagging

Final Thoughts
AV professionals have more options than ever when it comes to design, documentation, and proposal tools. While D-Tools remains a legacy favorite, many integrators are moving toward more flexible, cloud-based, and intuitive platforms that support modern workflows.

If your goal is to design faster, collaborate smarter, and win more projects, it is worth investing in tools that match your pace. XTEN-AV offers the most comprehensive solution and leads the pack of D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators.

With XTEN-AV, you can streamline every stage of your project—from design and documentation to proposal and approval—without the learning curve or constraints of older software.

The future of AV design is simple, fast, and automated. Make sure your toolkit reflects that. Start with XTEN-AV.

Read more: https://postr.yruz.one/simplify-system-design-without-the-d-tools-complexity