Best AV Integration Software Tools for Auditorium Designers in 2025

Designing AV systems for auditoriums requires a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and precision. From choosing the right microphones and speakers to planning video distribution and control systems, there’s no room for error when working on large venues that host hundreds—or even thousands—of people. That’s why AV professionals are increasingly turning to smart, purpose-built software to design and manage projects more efficiently.

As we move through 2025, the demand for powerful AV integration tools has never been higher. Auditorium designers need solutions that support collaboration, speed up workflows, and ensure accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Whether you’re working on a school auditorium, a house of worship, or a corporate event hall, choosing the right software can make or break your success.

At the top of this list is XTEN-AV, the all-in-one platform built specifically for AV system design, documentation, and proposal generation. XTEN-AV is changing the game for auditorium AV integration, helping designers create smarter layouts, automate signal flows, and bring efficiency to complex projects.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the best AV integration software tools for auditorium designers in 2025—and why XTEN-AV continues to lead the pack.

1. XTEN-AV – The All-In-One AV Design Platform

Best For: End-to-end AV system design, documentation, and proposal generation

Why It Stands Out:
XTEN-AV is the most advanced cloud-based platform for AV designers, consultants, and integrators. It’s built with the challenges of auditorium AV integration in mind, offering AI-powered design automation, drag-and-drop system creation, real-time collaboration, and auto-generated documentation.

XTEN-AV supports manufacturers’ product libraries, making it easy to specify exact models, manage signal flow diagrams, generate rack elevations, and instantly create bill of materials (BOMs). You can even build client-ready proposals without switching tools.

Key Features:

AI-based system design and signal flow routing
Auto-generated cable schedules, rack layouts, and AV diagrams
Real-time cloud collaboration with team members and clients
Proposal generation with customizable branding
Extensive product database with live updates
Support for auditorium AV integration workflows

Whether you're designing a new build or upgrading an existing auditorium, XTEN-AV gives you the control and confidence you need to execute flawlessly.

2. D-Tools System Integrator (SI)

Best For: Traditional AV documentation and project estimation

D-Tools has long been a staple in the AV design world. Its SI platform allows integrators to create drawings, manage bids, and track installations. While powerful, it is often considered less intuitive than modern alternatives, and it requires significant time to learn.

Still, for firms already invested in the D-Tools ecosystem, it offers solid integration with Microsoft Visio and AutoCAD for generating wiring diagrams and floor plans.

Pros:

Strong estimating and project management tools
CAD and Visio integration
Suitable for enterprise-level AV firms

Cons:

Steep learning curve
Limited flexibility in modern cloud collaboration
Less automation compared to platforms like XTEN-AV

3. AutoCAD with AV-Specific Plugins

Best For: Custom AV drawing and legacy system designs

AutoCAD remains a go-to for detailed architectural drawings and floor plans. When combined with AV-specific toolsets or plugins, it can be used for speaker placement, conduit routing, and equipment rack layout.

However, AutoCAD is not purpose-built for AV and lacks native AV intelligence. It’s best suited for advanced designers working closely with architects or construction firms.

Pros:

Precise drawing capabilities
Widely accepted in architecture and engineering
Plugin support for AV elements

Cons:

No native AV functionality
Manual documentation
High licensing costs

4. SketchUp with AV Extensions

Best For: 3D visualization and basic AV planning

SketchUp is popular for creating 3D visualizations of rooms and buildings. For auditorium AV integration projects, it helps visualize speaker coverage, display placement, and lighting.

While not an AV-specific tool, its ease of use and wide community support make it a solid companion tool for client presentations. Some AV plugins exist, but SketchUp works best when paired with a platform like XTEN-AV for technical documentation.

Pros:

Easy to learn
Great for 3D space planning and visuals
Good for client walkthroughs

Cons:

Not built for AV systems
Requires manual measurements and layout planning
No signal flow, BOM, or automation

5. Visio with AV Stencils

Best For: Simple diagrams and signal flows

Microsoft Visio is a classic diagramming tool used for flowcharts, network designs, and simple AV layouts. AV professionals often rely on manufacturer-supplied stencils to build signal flows or rack diagrams.

However, Visio has limitations—it lacks real-time collaboration, automation, or intelligent AV components. As a result, it’s increasingly being replaced by platforms like XTEN-AV for modern AV workflows.

Pros:

Familiar interface for many users
Large library of AV stencils
Integrates with Microsoft ecosystem

Cons:

Not cloud-based
Manual process for layouts and documentation
No AI support or AV-specific automation

6. Q-SYS Designer Software

Best For: Control and audio DSP programming

While not a full AV design tool, Q-SYS Designer is essential for programming QSC audio systems, especially in auditoriums where acoustics and DSP control matter.

It allows you to configure audio processing, set routing paths, and design control interfaces using QSC components. It’s best used alongside XTEN-AV to manage the full system design.

Pros:

Intuitive DSP programming
Custom control panel creation
Native to QSC ecosystem

Cons:

Limited to QSC devices
No design or proposal tools
Requires training

7. Revit with AV BIM Components

Best For: Integration into building models and architectural workflows

Revit is widely used in architectural and construction projects. When auditorium AV integration must align with structural elements, Revit becomes essential. AV designers can use BIM components to position displays, speakers, or racks within the building model.

Pros:

Full BIM compatibility
Ideal for coordination with architects and engineers
Growing AV object libraries

Cons:

High complexity
Not AV-specific in workflow or automation
Best suited for large firms

Final Thoughts

As AV systems grow more complex and auditoriums become multi-use digital spaces, designers need software tools that keep pace. The best AV integration software in 2025 goes beyond drawing diagrams—it connects teams, automates processes, and turns complex specs into professional proposals.

XTEN-AV continues to lead the way with its all-in-one cloud platform built for modern AV professionals. It supports every stage of the auditorium AV integration process—from planning and design to documentation and proposal delivery—without the slowdowns of outdated workflows.

If you’re looking to elevate your auditorium AV design game in 2025, start with XTEN-AV. It’s fast, flexible, and purpose-built for the future of AV integration.