Best D-Tools Alternatives for Church AV System Design

Churches today are more connected than ever. From livestreaming sermons to managing sound systems for worship services, modern churches rely on advanced AV systems to engage their congregations and deliver seamless experiences both in-person and online. Designing these systems requires professional AV software that simplifies planning, documentation, and equipment management.

While D-Tools has long been a popular option in the industry, many churches and AV integrators are now looking for cost-effective, easy-to-use alternatives that support specific needs like live sound, video projection, and streaming equipment. Whether you are managing AV for a small local church or planning systems for a large worship center, this guide explores the best D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators focused on church AV system design.

At the top of the list is XTEN-AV, a modern, cloud-based platform that streamlines the AV design process with automation, AI, and collaboration tools. In this blog, we will explore XTEN-AV and other platforms that offer smart solutions for church-focused AV projects.

1. XTEN-AV – Smart Church AV Design Made Simple

XTEN-AV is a powerful AV system design and proposal platform that offers a full suite of tools tailored to the needs of integrators working with houses of worship. Built with modern cloud technology, XTEN-AV allows users to create intelligent AV designs using real manufacturer equipment, generate detailed schematics, and produce client-ready proposals in minutes.

Why XTEN-AV stands out:

• X-DRAW: Design sound systems, display setups, and streaming racks using drag-and-drop tools and AI suggestions.

• X-Pro: Build visually appealing proposals with accurate pricing and equipment data.

• X-Doc: Auto-generate documentation like cable schedules, bills of materials, and signal flow diagrams.

• Manufacturer Libraries: Access thousands of AV products from trusted brands used in churches.

• Cloud Access: Collaborate with church staff, volunteers, and contractors from anywhere.

XTEN-AV is not only the most advanced of the D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, but also the most adaptable. Whether you are integrating a basic PA system or a full broadcast suite, XTEN-AV gives you the tools to work faster and smarter.

2. Jetbuilt – Streamlined Proposals and Budgeting for Churches

Jetbuilt is a popular platform for creating AV proposals and managing budgets. Although it lacks advanced drawing tools, it is a favorite for sales teams and AV consultants who want a fast, reliable way to estimate and present church AV projects.

Key features:

• Easy-to-use interface with drag-and-drop quoting

• Customizable templates for church-specific proposals

• Real-time cloud access for team collaboration

• Integration with accounting platforms for budgeting

Jetbuilt is particularly useful for small to medium-sized churches with limited technical staff, making it easier to evaluate AV upgrades and present clear solutions to decision-makers.

3. System Surveyor – Field-Friendly Church AV Planning

System Surveyor helps AV teams plan out installations during site surveys and walkthroughs. Its cloud-based platform supports mapping out devices, drawing cable routes, and tagging equipment directly on floor plans.

Benefits for church AV design:

• Ideal for early-stage system planning and assessments

• Visual mapping of cameras, speakers, projectors, and control equipment

• Real-time collaboration with church leadership and integrators

• Cloud access through desktop and mobile devices

System Surveyor is not a full design suite but pairs well with XTEN-AV for field data collection and visual communication.

4. Draw.io – Free Diagramming Tool for Simple AV Layouts

Draw.io (also known as diagrams.net) is a free web-based diagramming tool that allows users to create flowcharts, wiring diagrams, and simple AV layouts. For small churches or tech-savvy volunteers, it is a great starting point.

How it helps:

• 100 percent free and accessible from any browser

• Supports custom templates and AV symbols

• Easily share diagrams with church teams or contractors

• Google Drive and Dropbox integration

Draw.io does not provide real product data or automation like XTEN-AV, but it is useful for basic visual planning and communication.

5. Visio With AV Templates – Familiar Tool for Diagramming

Microsoft Visio is another option for churches that already use Microsoft 365. With AV templates and symbol libraries, Visio can be used to design basic sound system layouts, video display networks, and control room diagrams.

Features include:

• Integration with Word, Excel, and Teams

• Custom shapes and connectors for AV symbols

• Supports floor plans and signal path diagrams

• Collaboration tools through SharePoint and OneDrive

Visio is most effective when used by experienced users and can serve as a lightweight option for churches that do not require automated documentation.

6. QCAD – Free and Open-Source CAD Tool

QCAD is a 2D CAD application for users who prefer detailed schematics and technical drawings. It is especially helpful for churches with engineering support or AV partners who are comfortable with CAD-based workflows.

Why QCAD is useful:

• Free for personal or small-scale commercial use

• Runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux

• Supports DWG and DXF files

• Good for designing speaker placements, wiring routes, and rack elevations

QCAD requires more manual input and has a learning curve, but it is a capable alternative for those seeking a no-cost solution.

7. Kitted – Quick Quoting for AV Projects

Kitted is a newer AV quoting platform that focuses on fast and accurate proposal generation. While it is not yet as feature-rich as Jetbuilt or XTEN-AV, it offers simplicity and cloud-based access that many church AV teams will find helpful.

Notable features:

• Clean interface and quick learning curve

• Pre-loaded product library for fast selection

• Cloud collaboration for small teams

• Ideal for quoting sound systems, projectors, and streaming setups

Kitted is still evolving, but it is a solid addition for church AV teams focused on budget and quick turnarounds.

Conclusion

Churches have unique AV needs—from worship audio and sermon livestreaming to youth room AV and community events. Choosing the right software to design and manage these systems is essential to ensuring high-quality performance and clear communication.

While D-Tools has been a reliable solution, today’s cloud-first tools offer more flexibility, affordability, and automation. XTEN-AV stands out as the top choice among D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, offering advanced features that support intelligent design, real-time collaboration, and accurate documentation for any size church project.

Whether you are looking for a simple tool to create proposals or a complete platform for designing multi-room AV systems, there is a solution that fits your workflow and budget. By selecting the right software, you will not only improve project outcomes but also empower your church to deliver inspiring, tech-enabled experiences for your community.

Read more: https://social.sktorrent.eu/read-blog/35599