In the fast-moving world of AV integration, efficiency and accuracy are everything. Whether you are managing system design, documentation, proposals, or installations, the software you use can either streamline your workflow or slow you down. While D-Tools has long been a popular choice in the industry, many integrators are now exploring other platforms that offer more innovation, better collaboration features, and greater value for money. In 2025, several powerful tools have emerged as strong D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators looking for flexibility, automation, and modern features.
At the top of the list is XTEN-AV, a platform that has transformed the way AV professionals approach system design and project management. But XTEN-AV is not the only choice. Let us explore the top 7 D-Tools alternatives that every AV integrator should consider in 2025.
1. XTEN-AV
XTEN-AV stands out as the most comprehensive and future-forward D-Tools alternative for AV integrators. Built specifically for the AV industry, XTEN-AV combines intelligent design automation, real-time collaboration, cloud-based workflows, and advanced AI features that eliminate manual errors and save countless hours.
Key highlights include X-DRAW for AI-powered CAD and floor plan design, X-Pro for professional proposal generation, and X-Doc for automated documentation. With its intuitive user interface and integration with top brands and platforms, XTEN-AV makes it easier to create AV system designs, wiring diagrams, schematics, cable schedules, and proposals in just a few clicks.
AV integrators are turning to XTEN-AV because it is built with the modern hybrid workflow in mind. You can access your projects anywhere, collaborate with clients in real-time, and leverage smart automation to reduce repetitive work. For teams looking to scale their business and adopt cutting-edge tools, XTEN-AV is a game-changer.
2. AViCAD
AViCAD is another strong contender in the list of D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators. It is an AutoCAD-based solution designed to help AV and MEP professionals with drafting, schematics, and 2D floor plans. While it is more focused on CAD drawing capabilities than full project management, it integrates engineering tools that help AV designers quickly draft technical layouts.
AViCAD is ideal for firms that need a more traditional CAD workflow but still want industry-specific tools to speed up the process. Its built-in symbols and parts libraries are useful for AV layouts, making it a solid choice for technical drawing-heavy projects.
3. Jetbuilt
Jetbuilt is well-known for simplifying AV proposal and project management. It provides a cloud-based interface where AV teams can create, track, and manage proposals, bids, and installations with ease. Jetbuilt is particularly popular among small to mid-sized integrators who want something simpler than D-Tools but still effective.
While it lacks deep CAD drawing functionality, Jetbuilt shines in its ability to organize project data, create polished proposals, and offer team collaboration tools. Its integration with QuickBooks and inventory systems also makes it useful for AV businesses looking to align sales with operations.
4. Visio with Custom AV Templates
For budget-conscious AV integrators, Microsoft Visio with customized AV templates can serve as a lightweight alternative to D-Tools. Although not purpose-built for the AV industry, Visio’s drag-and-drop interface and flexibility allow users to create wiring diagrams and AV schematics with moderate effort.
Several AV communities and consultants offer pre-made Visio templates tailored for AV system design. While it does not match the automation and project tracking features of tools like XTEN-AV or Jetbuilt, it is a workable solution for basic design needs and client presentations.
5. Stardraw Design 7
Stardraw Design 7 has been around for years and continues to serve AV professionals with its drawing and documentation capabilities. It allows users to create schematic designs, rack layouts, and panel drawings with ease. Its symbol libraries are extensive and regularly updated to reflect AV industry products.
Stardraw focuses heavily on technical documentation, and for integrators who are looking for a precise design tool without complex project management features, it fits the bill. However, compared to newer cloud-native tools, Stardraw may feel dated in its user interface and collaboration abilities.
6. Kitted
Kitted is a newer tool gaining popularity as a simple and collaborative AV project quoting and design platform. Focused on helping AV teams create fast and accurate proposals, Kitted integrates pricing, product databases, and basic layouts in a clean interface.
While it is not as advanced as XTEN-AV in terms of AI-powered design or automation, Kitted aims to make the quoting and sales process smoother for AV professionals. Its cloud platform allows teams to collaborate in real time and produce polished documents for clients.
7. AutoCAD with AV Plug-ins
For integrators who already use AutoCAD and are comfortable with its ecosystem, adding AV-specific plug-ins can turn the tool into a competitive D-Tools alternative. Several third-party developers provide plug-ins and symbol libraries that bring AV-specific tools to AutoCAD.
While the learning curve is high and the automation features are limited compared to XTEN-AV or Jetbuilt, using AutoCAD with AV plug-ins allows firms to maintain consistency with other engineering workflows while enhancing their AV documentation processes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right software platform is critical for AV integrators who want to stay competitive in 2025 and beyond. As workflows become more digital and client expectations grow, relying on outdated tools can put your business at a disadvantage. Whether you are looking for intelligent design automation, better proposal generation, or simple schematic drawing, these D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators offer compelling features and modern workflows.
XTEN-AV leads the pack with its AI-driven platform and robust project management capabilities. But depending on your business needs and team size, tools like Jetbuilt, AViCAD, Stardraw, or even customized Visio setups may also be worth considering. The future of AV integration is smart, cloud-based, and highly collaborative. Make sure your software tools are keeping up.
Read more: https://audiovisual.hashnode.dev/10-best-d-tools-alternatives-for-av-integrators-in-2025
