In the world of professional audiovisual integration, precision and efficiency are everything. From designing conference rooms to planning home theaters, AV integrators rely on specialized software to streamline workflows, ensure system accuracy, and deliver seamless user experiences. As technology evolves, the tools used by AV professionals have become increasingly advanced—incorporating automation, AI, and cloud-based collaboration. But what software do AV integrators actually use for system design, and how do these tools simplify complex projects?
This blog explores the most common platforms, their core functions, and how the right software can enhance project quality, collaboration, and accuracy in every installation.
The Role of Software in Modern AV Integration
Gone are the days when AV system design was done entirely on paper or with basic CAD drawings. Today’s projects are far more complex, integrating everything from networked audio and video to lighting, automation, and control systems. Software tools help integrators create detailed system schematics, specify equipment, generate bills of materials, and ensure accurate wiring and connectivity.
A well-designed AV system requires careful coordination between multiple components—displays, projectors, microphones, speakers, control interfaces, and cabling. Software allows integrators to visualize how all these parts interact within the space, making it easier to plan installations such as Ceiling Speaker Placement, video distribution, and rack design before physically implementing them.
1. XTEN-AV – The All-in-One Cloud-Based AV Design Platform
Among modern AV design solutions, XTEN-AV stands out as a comprehensive, AI-powered platform built specifically for AV professionals. It automates system design, proposal creation, and project documentation—all from a single, cloud-based interface.
XTEN-AV helps integrators design AV systems faster and more accurately by using intelligent algorithms to suggest compatible equipment and generate professional drawings automatically. It simplifies the process of designing conference rooms, auditoriums, classrooms, and even home theaters with precise details like Ceiling Speaker Placement, display positioning, and signal flow diagrams.
Key features include:
Automated system design based on project inputs.
Built-in manufacturer database with thousands of AV products.
Auto-generated line diagrams, schematics, and rack layouts.
Integration with proposal and documentation workflows.
Cloud collaboration, enabling teams to work on the same project simultaneously.
For integrators managing multiple projects or large-scale installations, XTEN-AV eliminates repetitive manual work, reduces errors, and ensures every design follows industry standards.
2. AutoCAD and Revit – Precision Engineering Tools
AutoCAD and Revit are widely used across engineering disciplines, and AV integrators often rely on them for technical drawings and 3D modeling. AutoCAD provides high precision for wiring diagrams, rack elevations, and layout schematics. Revit, on the other hand, supports Building Information Modeling (BIM), allowing integrators to collaborate with architects and construction teams.
These tools help ensure that AV designs align with architectural plans, mechanical systems, and electrical layouts. Integrators use them to visualize speaker locations, projector mounts, and conduit runs while maintaining accurate scale and proportions.
However, AutoCAD and Revit are general-purpose design tools and require additional AV-specific knowledge. That’s why many professionals combine them with dedicated AV design platforms like XTEN-AV for faster system planning and documentation.
3. D-Tools – Project Management and System Design
D-Tools is another popular choice for AV integrators, known for its combination of design, estimation, and project management capabilities. It integrates with Visio and AutoCAD, allowing users to create system schematics and floor plans while maintaining an updated equipment list.
Integrators appreciate D-Tools for its detailed proposal generation and labor estimation features. It helps manage the financial and logistical aspects of AV projects, from design to delivery. While it offers extensive project documentation, some users prefer pairing it with cloud-based tools for real-time collaboration and easier access across devices.
4. Visio – A Familiar Tool for Basic AV Diagrams
Microsoft Visio has long been a go-to tool for basic AV system diagrams. It’s user-friendly and integrates well with other Microsoft products. Many integrators use Visio to create simple block diagrams, signal flow charts, and room layouts.
However, Visio’s simplicity is both its strength and limitation. It lacks automation and AV-specific features found in tools like XTEN-AV or D-Tools. For small projects or quick drafts, it’s adequate, but larger installations require more advanced software to manage complexity and maintain accuracy.
5. EASE and Room Simulation Software
When designing audio systems, integrators often use EASE (Enhanced Acoustic Simulator for Engineers) or similar acoustic modeling software. These tools help predict how sound will behave in a room by simulating reflections, absorption, and coverage patterns.
This is particularly useful for determining Ceiling Speaker Placement and optimizing sound distribution in auditoriums, classrooms, or open office spaces. By modeling the acoustic environment before installation, integrators can ensure even sound coverage, reduce echo, and improve overall clarity.
Such software complements visual design platforms, allowing AV professionals to combine spatial planning with performance analysis for a complete system design.
6. Control System Programming Software
Beyond design and layout, AV integrators also use specialized software for programming and automation. Platforms such as Crestron Toolbox, Extron Global Configurator, and AMX NetLinx Studio are commonly used to configure and program control systems.
These tools allow integrators to define user interfaces, automate device functions, and manage communication between AV components. While they are not design tools per se, they play an essential role in bringing the design to life during installation and commissioning.
7. Audio DSP Configuration Software
For professional sound systems, audio DSP software like Q-SYS Designer, Biamp Tesira, and BSS Soundweb is indispensable. These programs allow integrators to configure signal processing, routing, and EQ settings within digital audio networks.
They ensure optimal sound quality across all speakers and zones, making them crucial for projects involving complex audio distribution and Ceiling Speaker Placement.
Why Software Choice Matters
The right AV design software can drastically improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration. Manual design methods increase the risk of errors, inconsistent documentation, and miscommunication between teams. Using specialized platforms allows integrators to maintain consistency, save time, and present professional documentation to clients.
Moreover, cloud-based platforms like XTEN-AV enable real-time collaboration, ensuring that designers, project managers, and clients stay aligned throughout the project lifecycle. Automation features help eliminate repetitive work, letting integrators focus more on creativity and client experience.
Final Thoughts
AV integration today relies heavily on advanced software to bring complex designs to life. From AutoCAD and D-Tools to acoustic modeling and control system programming tools, each serves a specific purpose in the system design process. However, platforms like XTEN-AV stand out by combining these functions into a unified, intelligent workspace that automates design, documentation, and collaboration.
Whether planning Ceiling Speaker Placement, designing a multi-room AV system, or generating client-ready proposals, the right software can transform how integrators work. With technology-driven design tools, AV professionals can deliver faster, smarter, and more reliable systems that meet the evolving demands of modern spaces.
