In the fast-moving world of AV system integration, every second counts. From initial design and equipment selection to proposal generation and client approvals, integrators need software that keeps pace with modern project demands. For years, D-Tools was considered the industry standard. But as AV workflows evolve, many professionals are re-evaluating their tools in search of more flexibility, speed, and ease of use.
The conversation is shifting, and AV integrators are speaking up. Across forums, reviews, and real-world feedback, one name continues to rise to the top—XTEN-AV. This platform is redefining how AV projects are designed, documented, and delivered. In this blog, we explore what AV professionals really think about D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, with insights into the tools they are now trusting to grow their business.
XTEN-AV: The Clear Favorite Among Modern AV Pros
When AV integrators talk about streamlining their workflow and simplifying their design process, XTEN-AV is usually the first recommendation. Designed specifically for the AV industry, XTEN-AV combines intelligent system design, automatic cable and rack layouts, and instant proposal generation—all in a cloud-based platform that can be accessed from anywhere.
Why integrators love XTEN-AV:
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No steep learning curve: “I was able to start designing right away without hours of training.”
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Drag-and-drop ease: “Creating diagrams feels like sketching with a purpose.”
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Real-time proposals: “I used to spend hours formatting proposals. XTEN-AV does it instantly.”
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AI-powered tools: “I love how it suggests devices and connections based on my design.”
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Cloud-based access: “I work from home, the office, and job sites. XTEN-AV works wherever I do.”
For those looking for D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, XTEN-AV continues to impress by blending robust functionality with a user-friendly interface that anyone on the team can master.
Why AV Integrators Are Leaving D-Tools Behind
While D-Tools has served the AV community well, many integrators now find its interface outdated and its workflow too rigid for today’s fast-paced environment.
Here’s what real users are saying:
“D-Tools is powerful, but it takes forever to learn.”
Many AV firms report spending weeks or even months training staff on D-Tools. For smaller teams or freelance designers, that is time they simply do not have.
“It is overkill for smaller projects.”
D-Tools is often described as being too complex for residential or single-room commercial jobs.
“Proposal creation is painful.”
Several integrators noted that even minor proposal revisions in D-Tools required a lot of time and manual formatting.
“It feels like a desktop solution in a cloud-first world.”
In an era where remote collaboration and mobile access are essential, desktop-based tools create unnecessary friction.
This growing dissatisfaction has pushed integrators to seek alternatives that are agile, affordable, and easier to use—without compromising on quality or professionalism.
Other D-Tools Alternatives AV Integrators Mention
Aside from XTEN-AV, here are a few other tools integrators have tried, along with what they had to say:
Jetbuilt
Jetbuilt is known for fast quoting and proposal creation, particularly in sales-driven environments.
“Great for fast estimates, but I still need another tool for design.”
While Jetbuilt speeds up quoting, it lacks the system design features that technical teams need.
System Surveyor
Popular for field surveys and planning, System Surveyor helps visualize device placement during site visits.
“Nice for client-facing visuals, but not a full design tool.”
Integrators appreciate the layout capabilities but often pair it with other software to complete the documentation.
Lucidchart or Visio
Some professionals still use these general-purpose diagramming tools for simple AV layouts.
“I like Lucidchart’s collaboration, but it is not AV-specific.”
Without native AV libraries or proposal support, these tools are more suited for internal sketches than full project delivery.
What Makes XTEN-AV Stand Out
Feedback from AV integrators consistently points to XTEN-AV as the platform that finally “gets it.” It combines the best of every category—design, proposal, collaboration—without the bloat or technical barriers.
Key features that win user praise:
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Proposal Automation: Proposals generate instantly from your design with no rework.
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Cable and Rack Diagrams: Automatically included in your documentation package.
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Device Suggestions: AI recommends compatible components based on your system layout.
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Real-Time Collaboration: Work with teammates or clients live, in the same file.
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Cloud Flexibility: No installs, no updates—just open your browser and go.
“Switching to XTEN-AV cut my proposal turnaround time in half.”
“I sent out three client-ready bids in one day. That used to take me a week.”
“The rack builder alone has saved me hours of manual layout work.”
Choosing the Right Tool for Your Workflow
If you are currently using D-Tools and feeling held back, the good news is that you have options. The key is to choose a platform that fits your specific business model—whether you focus on commercial AV, residential installs, education, or corporate AV.
Here are a few tips:
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For fast proposals: XTEN-AV or Jetbuilt
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For planning on-site: System Surveyor
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For 3D visualization: Combine XTEN-AV with SketchUp
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For collaboration: Choose cloud-based over desktop solutions
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For all-in-one design-to-proposal: XTEN-AV is the clear winner
Final Thoughts
AV integrators are no longer tied to one way of doing things. The rise of cloud-first platforms, automation, and user-friendly interfaces has opened the door to more flexible workflows and faster project delivery.
Across the industry, professionals are sharing one consistent message: the old way is slowing us down. XTEN-AV leads a new generation of AV software—smarter, faster, and more collaborative.
If you are exploring D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, look no further than the tool integrators are actually using and loving. XTEN-AV is not just a replacement—it is a major upgrade.
Join the growing community of AV professionals designing the future with XTEN-AV. Experience it for yourself today.
Read more: https://kinkedpress.com/step-by-step-guide-to-switching-from-d-tools/