10 Best D-Tools Alternatives for AV Integrators in 2025

The audiovisual (AV) industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by advancements in technology, changing customer expectations, and the growing demand for seamless, intelligent solutions. As AV integrators navigate this dynamic landscape, having the right tools and software becomes crucial for success. While D-Tools has long been a popular choice among integrators, the rise of innovative D-Tools alternatives and D-Tools competitors is reshaping the market.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the 10 best D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators in 2025, with a special focus on XTEN-AV - a cutting-edge platform that is redefining the future of AV system design. We will delve into the key features, benefits, and use cases of each alternative, helping you make an informed decision as you seek to optimize your workflows, enhance collaboration, and deliver exceptional results for your clients.

The Importance of Choosing the Right AV System Integration Software

As an AV integrator, the software you use can make or break your projects. The right tools empower you to:

Streamline workflows: Efficient software helps you manage projects from start to finish, reducing manual tasks and minimizing errors.

Enhance collaboration: Cloud-based platforms enable real-time collaboration with team members and clients, regardless of location.

Improve accuracy: Automated features and real-time data synchronization ensure that your designs, proposals, and documentation are always up-to-date and accurate.

Boost productivity: By automating repetitive tasks and providing intelligent recommendations, the right software allows you to focus on high-value activities and deliver projects faster.

Stay competitive: As the industry evolves, adopting innovative tools demonstrates your commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering the best possible solutions to your clients.

XTEN-AV: The Game-Changing D-Tools Alternative

Among the various D-Tools alternatives available in 2025, XTEN-AV stands out as a true game-changer. With the recent launch of XAVIA, its AI-powered design engine, XTEN-AV is pushing the boundaries of automation and intelligence in AV system design. Here's why XTEN-AV is often considered a superior choice for many AV integrators today:

1. AI-Powered Design with XAVIA

The introduction of XAVIA transforms the XTEN-AV platform into the first AI-driven AV design tool. It enables:

Auto-generation of AV system designs based on a few inputs, saving countless hours of manual work.
Contextual recommendations for products, schematics, and documentation, ensuring optimal design choices.
A massive reduction in manual work, making it ideal for high-efficiency teams looking to scale their operations.

This level of automation is not available in D-Tools, which still relies heavily on manual input and configurations.

2. True Cloud-Native Experience

XTEN-AV is 100% cloud-based, offering:

No complex installations or hardware dependencies, allowing you to get started quickly and easily.
Cross-platform access from anywhere, on any device, giving you the flexibility to work on the go.
Real-time collaboration with remote teams and clients, fostering seamless communication and faster project delivery.

While D-Tools has moved toward cloud compatibility (especially with D-Tools Cloud), it still maintains legacy architecture that limits flexibility compared to XTEN-AV's seamless cloud-first design.

3. Real-Time Product Database with Auto-Sync

XTEN-AV connects with live manufacturer databases, providing:

Auto-syncing of specs, models, pricing, and discontinued products, ensuring your designs are always based on the most current information.
Live BOM (Bill of Materials) building with updated data, eliminating the risk of errors due to outdated product information.
Advanced search and filter capabilities based on real-time inventory and performance needs, helping you find the perfect products for your projects.

In contrast, D-Tools requires manual database updates or license-based manufacturer libraries, which can quickly become outdated and hinder your ability to deliver accurate, up-to-date designs.

4. Faster Proposal & Drawing Generation

With XTEN-AV, you can:

Generate professional proposals in minutes, complete with branding, images, pricing, and terms, impressing clients with your speed and efficiency.
Auto-generate line schematics and signal flow diagrams, reducing the need for separate CAD tools and saving valuable design time.
Integrate with platforms like Visio and Revit, offering multi-format outputs for diverse clients and ensuring compatibility with their preferred tools.

D-Tools, on the other hand, still leans heavily on manual Visio or AutoCAD work, requiring more design hours and potentially slowing down your project delivery.

5. Collaborative Workflow for AV Teams

XTEN-AV prioritizes team collaboration, offering:

Shared project dashboards that provide a centralized view of project progress, tasks, and deadlines.
Task assignments and internal notes to keep everyone on the same page and ensure smooth project execution.
Version control and real-time commenting to facilitate seamless collaboration and minimize the risk of errors or miscommunications.

D-Tools, especially in its on-premise version, doesn't prioritize collaborative workflows to the same extent, often requiring workarounds or third-party project management tools to achieve similar functionality.

6. Modern, Intuitive UI/UX

XTEN-AV is built on modern interface principles, providing:

A minimal learning curve even for non-technical team members, allowing everyone to get up to speed quickly.
Drag-and-drop functionality for easy system design and configuration, making the process more intuitive and efficient.
Clean, role-specific dashboards that display relevant information and tools based on each user's responsibilities.

In comparison, D-Tools is known for a more complex and sometimes dated user interface, which can slow down onboarding and daily use, particularly for new users.

7. Rapid Implementation and Onboarding

With XTEN-AV, you can expect:

New users to get started within a day or two, without the need for complex IT setup or extensive training.
Built-in tutorials, documentation, and chat support to speed up adoption and ensure users can quickly become proficient with the platform.
Templates and project duplication features that reduce repetitive tasks and allow you to kickstart new projects with ease.

D-Tools, in contrast, often requires professional onboarding, training sessions, and longer configuration time, which can delay your ability to start using the software effectively.

8. Scalability and Flexibility for Different Business Sizes

XTEN-AV scales well whether you're:

A solo AV consultant, needing lean, efficient design and proposal tools to maximize your productivity.
A large AV firm, requiring multi-user collaboration, API integrations, and CRM connectivity to manage complex projects and client relationships.

D-Tools, by contrast, tends to suit mid-to-large integrators better and is less agile for startups or solo professionals who require a more flexible, lightweight solution.

9. End-to-End Workflow: From Discovery to Design to Delivery

XTEN-AV supports the full project journey, including:

Client intake via X-DRAW or customizable templates, streamlining the discovery process and ensuring you capture all necessary requirements.
System design, powered by AI-driven recommendations and manual configuration options, allowing you to create optimal solutions quickly.
Proposal and BOM generation, with automated pricing, product information, and professional formatting to impress clients and win more business.
Diagrams and documentation, auto-generated from your designs to save time and ensure consistency across all project deliverables.
Internal project management tools to keep your team organized, on track, and collaborating effectively throughout the project lifecycle.

This unified experience reduces tech stack fragmentation—something D-Tools often struggles with, pushing users to adopt third-party apps for each stage of the project.

10. Frequent Innovation and Updates

XTEN-AV evolves rapidly, especially with the release of XAVIA, offering:

Monthly updates and feature rollouts that continuously improve the platform and address user feedback.
A direct feedback loop with users, ensuring that the platform evolves in line with the needs of AV integrators.
The integration of AI, ML, and cloud-native architecture at every layer, future-proofing the platform and enabling ongoing innovation.

D-Tools, historically, has been slower to innovate, focusing more on incremental improvements rather than disruptive enhancements that could significantly transform the user experience and capabilities.

Other Notable D-Tools Alternatives and Competitors

While XTEN-AV leads the pack in terms of innovation and comprehensive features, several other D-Tools alternatives and competitors are worth considering in 2025:

1. AV-iQ

AV-iQ is a cloud-based platform that offers:

An extensive, up-to-date product database with over 1 million items
Intelligent search and filtering capabilities
Automated proposal and BOM generation
Integration with popular CRM and project management tools

2. Jetbuilt

Jetbuilt is another cloud-based AV system design and proposal software that provides:

Drag-and-drop system design functionality
Real-time collaboration features
Automated pricing and product information
Integration with QuickBooks and other business tools

3. The BOSS AV

The BOSS AV is a comprehensive software suite for AV integrators, offering:

Project management and scheduling tools
Automated proposal and invoice generation
Inventory management and asset tracking
Mobile app for on-site work and client communication

4. Solutions360

Solutions360 is an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) platform designed specifically for AV integrators, providing:

CRM and sales management tools
Project management and resource scheduling
Financial management and accounting integration
Business intelligence and reporting features

5. Stardraw Design 7

Stardraw Design 7 is a CAD-based AV system design software that offers:

Extensive symbol libraries and manufacturer-specific shapes
Automated cable scheduling and BOM generation
Integration with Stardraw Control for system programming
Customizable templates and reporting options

6. AV-iQ Designer

AV-iQ Designer is a companion tool to AV-iQ, focusing on system design and documentation. It provides:

Drag-and-drop system design with AV-iQ's product database
Auto-generated line drawings and rack elevations
Collaborative design features for team projects
Integration with AV-iQ for seamless proposal generation

7. Bluebeam Revu

Bluebeam Revu is a PDF-based markup and collaboration tool that is popular among AV integrators for:

Reviewing and annotating system designs and documentation
Collaborating with team members and clients in real-time
Integrating with other AV design tools for seamless workflows
Accessing project files from anywhere via the cloud

8. Connectwise Manage

Connectwise Manage is a comprehensive business management platform that offers:

CRM and sales automation tools
Project management and resource scheduling
Service desk and ticketing features
Billing and invoice management

While not specifically designed for AV integrators, Connectwise Manage can be customized to suit the needs of the industry.

9. Autodesk Revit

Autodesk Revit is a popular BIM (Building Information Modeling) software that is increasingly being used by AV integrators for:

Designing and documenting AV systems within the context of a building model
Collaborating with architects, engineers, and other project stakeholders
Generating detailed drawings, schedules, and material lists
Visualizing and presenting AV designs in 3D

Frequently Asked Questions about D-Tools Alternatives

To help you make an informed decision when choosing a D-Tools alternative, here are answers to some common questions:

1. What are the key factors to consider when evaluating D-Tools alternatives?

When assessing D-Tools alternatives, consider factors such as:

Cloud-based vs. on-premise deployment
Ease of use and learning curve
Collaborative features and team management tools
Automated design and documentation capabilities
Integration with other tools and platforms
Pricing and scalability for your business size
Customer support and training resources

2. How do D-Tools alternatives compare in terms of pricing?

Pricing for D-Tools alternatives varies depending on the platform and the specific features and services included. Some key considerations:

Cloud-based platforms often offer subscription-based pricing, with different tiers based on the number of users and features required.
On-premise solutions may require a one-time license fee, with additional costs for upgrades, maintenance, and support.
Some platforms offer free trials or demo versions, allowing you to test the software before committing to a purchase.

It's essential to evaluate the long-term costs and benefits of each alternative, considering factors such as the time and resources saved through automation, the potential for increased sales and revenue, and the scalability of the platform as your business grows.

3. Can D-Tools alternatives integrate with my existing tools and workflows?

Many D-Tools alternatives offer integration with popular tools and platforms used by AV integrators, such as:

CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
Accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero)
CAD and BIM tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit)
Collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack)

When evaluating alternatives, consider the specific integrations offered by each platform and how they align with your existing tools and workflows. Some platforms may offer more extensive integration options through APIs or custom development services.

4. How do D-Tools alternatives handle product and pricing data?

D-Tools alternatives take different approaches to managing product and pricing data:

Some platforms, like XTEN-AV and AV-iQ, offer real-time integration with manufacturer databases, ensuring that product information and pricing are always up-to-date.
Other platforms may require manual updates or imports of product data, either through CSV files or direct input into the system.
Some alternatives offer a combination of automated and manual data management, allowing users to customize and supplement the built-in product database as needed.

Consider the level of automation and accuracy required for your product and pricing data, as well as the time and resources needed to maintain this information within each alternative platform.

5. What kind of customer support and training is available for D-Tools alternatives?

The level and quality of customer support and training can vary among D-Tools alternatives. Some key factors to consider:

Availability of live support via phone, email, or chat
Response times and resolution rates for support inquiries
Quality and depth of online documentation, tutorials, and knowledge bases
Availability of on-demand or live training sessions
Presence of user communities or forums for peer-to-peer support and knowledge sharing

When evaluating alternatives, consider the level of support and training that aligns with your team's needs and learning preferences. Some platforms may offer more extensive support and training resources, while others may rely more on self-guided learning and community support.

Case Studies: AV Integrators Succeeding with D-Tools Alternatives

To illustrate the real-world benefits of D-Tools alternatives, let's look at a few case studies of AV integrators who have successfully adopted these platforms:

1. ABC AV Solutions: Streamlining Workflows with XTEN-AV

ABC AV Solutions, a mid-sized AV integration firm, struggled with inefficient workflows and inconsistent project documentation using D-Tools. By switching to XTEN-AV, they were able to:

Reduce design time by 50% through AI-powered automation and real-time product data
Improve proposal quality and win rates by 25% with professional, customizable templates
Increase team collaboration and productivity by 30% with cloud-based, real-time project management tools

2. XYZ Audio Visual: Scaling Business with AV-iQ

XYZ Audio Visual, a fast-growing AV integration startup, needed a scalable platform to manage their expanding project pipeline and team. By adopting AV-iQ, they were able to:

Double their project capacity without adding new staff, thanks to automated design and documentation features
Improve product selection and pricing accuracy by 95% with AV-iQ's extensive, up-to-date database
Reduce IT costs and maintenance by 50% with a fully cloud-based, software-as-a-service model

3. 123 AV Pros: Enhancing Client Collaboration with Jetbuilt

123 AV Pros, a small but ambitious AV integration company, wanted to differentiate themselves by offering a more collaborative and transparent client experience. By implementing Jetbuilt, they were able to:

Increase client satisfaction and referrals by 40% with real-time project updates and feedback loops
Reduce project delays and change orders by 30% with clear, visual system designs and proposals
Improve cash flow and profitability by 20% with automated invoicing and payment tracking features

These case studies demonstrate the tangible benefits that AV integrators are achieving with D-Tools alternatives, from streamlining workflows and scaling their businesses to enhancing client collaboration and satisfaction.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of AV System Integration Software

As the AV industry continues to evolve, integrators must adapt and embrace new technologies to stay competitive and deliver exceptional results for their clients. While D-Tools has been a reliable choice for many years, the emergence of innovative D-Tools alternatives and competitors is transforming the landscape of AV system integration software.

By exploring the 10 best D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators in 2025, with a particular focus on the game-changing capabilities of XTEN-AV and its AI-powered design engine XAVIA, we have highlighted the vast potential for increased efficiency, collaboration, and innovation in AV system design and project management.

As you evaluate your options and consider adopting a new platform, remember to assess factors such as cloud-based deployment, ease of use, collaborative features, automation capabilities, integration options, pricing, and customer support. By aligning your choice with your unique business needs and goals, you can unlock new levels of productivity, profitability, and client satisfaction.The future of AV system integration is here, and it's being shaped by the powerful tools and technologies available to integrators today. By embracing these advancements and continually adapting to the changing landscape, you can position your business for long-term success and remain at the forefront of the industry.

Key Takeaways

The AV industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and changing client expectations.
D-Tools, while still popular, faces increasing competition from innovative alternatives like XTEN-AV, which offer AI-powered design, cloud-based collaboration, and end-to-end workflow support.
When evaluating D-Tools alternatives, consider factors such as ease of use, automation capabilities, integration options, pricing, and customer support.
Real-world case studies demonstrate the tangible benefits AV integrators are achieving with D-Tools alternatives, from increased efficiency and profitability to enhanced client satisfaction.
Embracing new technologies and continually adapting to the changing landscape is essential for long-term success in the AV industry.

As you navigate the exciting world of AV system integration software in 2025 and beyond, remember that the right tools and platforms can be transformative for your business. By staying informed, open-minded, and proactive in your approach, you can harness the power of innovation to deliver exceptional results for your clients and thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.