AutoCAD vs. XTEN-AV vs. D-Tools: Which CAD Software is Best for AV Drawings?

In the audio-visual industry, precision and clarity are the foundation of successful system design and installation. Whether you're working on a corporate boardroom, a university lecture hall, or a multi-zone smart home, clear and professional AV CAD Drawings are critical. The choice of CAD software can greatly influence not only the speed of your workflow but also the accuracy and professionalism of your final deliverables.

Among the most commonly used platforms in the AV industry today are XTEN-AV, AutoCAD, and D-Tools. Each offers its own set of features, strengths, and challenges. But which one truly stands out for AV professionals who demand seamless system design, documentation, and collaboration?

In this blog, we compare these three CAD software solutions and explore which is best suited for producing high-quality AV CAD Drawings.

XTEN-AV: Tailored Specifically for AV Professionals

XTEN-AV is a cloud-based platform designed exclusively for the AV industry. What sets it apart is its focus on automation, real-time collaboration, and AI-powered design tools. Unlike general-purpose CAD software, XTEN-AV understands AV workflows—from quoting and proposals to AV CAD Drawings and BOM generation.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop interface with real-world AV products

• Pre-built symbol libraries specific to AV gear

• Automated wiring and cable routing

• Real-time generation of signal flow diagrams and rack elevations

• Cloud access for teams, clients, and installers

• Built-in proposal generation and pricing tools

• Auto-sync between drawings and BOM

Advantages:

• Built from the ground up for AV integrators and consultants

• Reduces time spent on repetitive drawing tasks

• AI-assisted logic minimizes errors in device connectivity

• No need to purchase separate plugins or symbol packs

• Web-based access from anywhere

Best For: AV system designers, integrators, and consultants who want an all-in-one solution that automates AV CAD Drawings, proposals, and documentation.

AutoCAD: The Industry Standard for General CAD Work

AutoCAD by Autodesk is perhaps the most recognized CAD software worldwide. Known for its power and flexibility, AutoCAD has long been a staple in architecture, engineering, and design industries. However, when it comes to AV design, its general-purpose nature can be a limitation.

Key Features:

• High-precision 2D and 3D drafting tools

• Customizable workflows and tool palettes

• Extensive plugin ecosystem

• Supports DWG, DXF, and other standard CAD file formats

• Strong support for architectural base plans and mechanical layouts

Advantages:

• Industry standard with wide compatibility

• Powerful tools for detailed construction documentation

• Strong file interoperability with architects and contractors

Drawbacks for AV Use:

• Not tailored to AV-specific workflows

• Requires custom symbol libraries or third-party plugins for AV symbols

• Manual effort needed for wiring diagrams, device lists, and signal flows

• Steep learning curve and higher licensing cost

Best For: CAD professionals who already work with AutoCAD and are comfortable building AV drawings manually or through third-party libraries.

D-Tools: AV Design and Estimating with CAD Integration

D-Tools offers a comprehensive suite for AV system design, estimation, and project management. Their System Integrator (SI) software integrates with both Visio and AutoCAD, allowing users to generate AV CAD Drawings along with detailed project documentation.

Key Features:

• Integration with Visio and AutoCAD for drawing generation

• Comprehensive database of AV products with pricing and specs

• Proposal generation and quoting tools

• Drawing synchronization with BOM and labor estimates

• Task scheduling and project management modules

Advantages:

• Combines design and project management in one environment

• Excellent for budgeting and quoting

• Synchronization of CAD drawings with system specs

Drawbacks:

• Dependent on third-party CAD platforms like AutoCAD or Visio

• Visio lacks precision for complex CAD work

• AutoCAD integration may require additional setup and cost

• Not fully cloud-based; local installation required

Best For: Integrators who need strong budgeting and quoting tools alongside AV CAD capabilities and already use AutoCAD or Visio.

Feature Comparison: XTEN-AV vs. AutoCAD vs. D-Tools

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

If your goal is to create professional AV CAD Drawings quickly, accurately, and with minimal manual labor, XTEN-AV clearly stands out. It was built with AV professionals in mind and combines the power of CAD, automation, and project documentation all in one interface.

Choose XTEN-AV if:

• You want a purpose-built AV design platform

• You need automated wiring, real-time signal flow, and device logic

• You value cloud access and team collaboration

• You want to generate drawings and proposals from the same platform

Choose AutoCAD if:

• You already use AutoCAD in architectural or engineering workflows

• You have access to custom AV symbol libraries

• You are comfortable managing all design elements manually

Choose D-Tools if:

• You prioritize detailed budgeting and project tracking

• You already use Visio or AutoCAD

• You want AV system design connected to quoting and labor estimation

Conclusion

The best CAD software for AV projects depends on your workflow and priorities. While AutoCAD remains a powerful general-purpose tool and D-Tools offers excellent project integration features, XTEN-AV delivers unmatched convenience, automation, and AV-specific intelligence. For professionals who want to streamline design, reduce errors, and produce top-tier AV CAD Drawings with ease, XTEN-AV is the smart choice.

In the end, investing in the right platform means less time on drawings—and more time delivering exceptional AV experiences.

Read more: https://digital24hour.com/how-to-convert-av-cad-drawings-into-installation-ready-documents/