In the evolving world of professional communication, XTEN-AV has been a leading force in streamlining AV integration across industries. With hybrid work environments becoming the norm and collaboration across locations now expected, the demand for intuitive control in every Conference Room AV Setup is higher than ever. The right AV control system ensures seamless transitions between in-person and virtual communications, improves meeting efficiency, and supports multiple technologies without technical hurdles.

As we dive into 2025, businesses are prioritizing smart, scalable, and user-friendly control systems. This blog compares the top Conference Room AV control systems shaping the future of workplace collaboration.

1. Crestron Control Systems

Crestron has been a legacy brand in AV control, known for its reliability and customization. Their latest platform, Crestron Home OS and Crestron Flex for conference rooms, offers high-level control over audio, video, lighting, and environmental settings. These systems are often used in large enterprises where scalability and integration with existing infrastructure are essential.

Pros

• Highly customizable

• Integrates with Microsoft Teams and Zoom

• Works across various room sizes

• Strong support network

Cons

• Complex to program

• Higher initial cost

• Requires professional installation

Best For: Large organizations with internal IT and AV teams who require deep control and customization.

2. Extron Control Systems

Extron provides dependable AV control systems for medium to large rooms. Their Global Scripter and TouchLink Pro interfaces give users control over AV signal routing, display management, and environmental systems.

Pros

• Flexible system design

• Compatible with Extron and third-party devices

• Easy-to-use graphical interfaces

• Reliable performance

Cons

• Interface less modern than competitors

• Limited cloud control options

• Learning curve for complex setups

Best For: Institutions like universities and government buildings where reliability and compliance matter.

3. AMX by Harman

AMX control systems have long served professional AV installations. Their NetLinx and Modero series continue to evolve, offering robust control capabilities and integration with IoT devices.

Pros

• Strong performance in complex installations

• Enterprise-grade security

• Wide integration with AV gear

Cons

• Aging UI design

• Costly programming updates

• Smaller community than Crestron or Extron

Best For: Complex or multi-room AV environments with a focus on long-term control investments.

4. Q-SYS Control by QSC

QSC’s Q-SYS platform offers an innovative and scalable approach with native audio, video, and control integration. Q-SYS Designer software lets AV integrators design fully customized workflows using drag-and-drop tools.

Pros

• Software-based control

• Ideal for hybrid conferencing

• Cloud monitoring and diagnostics

• Easy firmware updates

Cons

• Learning curve for new users

• Best suited for rooms already using QSC hardware

• Limited out-of-box templates

Best For: AV integrators and tech-forward companies looking to design modular AV systems.

5. Kramer Control

Kramer brings a fresh, cloud-based control solution designed for flexibility and fast deployment. Kramer Control is ideal for small to medium rooms and supports drag-and-drop configuration via the cloud.

Pros

• Cloud-native management

• Modern interface

• Fast deployment and easy scaling

• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Limited compatibility with non-Kramer gear

• Fewer advanced features for larger rooms

• Requires stable network connectivity

Best For: Startups and small businesses needing a fast, flexible solution with minimal overhead.

6. Atlona Velocity

Atlona’s Velocity control system is known for its simplified setup and ability to manage AV devices over IP. It is a strong choice for conference rooms, classrooms, and digital signage environments.

Pros

• Easy browser-based configuration

• Multiple room scheduling options

• Preconfigured system templates

• Affordable licensing

Cons

• Requires proprietary gateways

• Smaller ecosystem than Crestron or Extron

• Fewer third-party integrations

Best For: Organizations looking for affordable control systems with simple scheduling and remote support.

Why Control Systems Matter in a Conference Room AV Setup

The choice of an AV control system can determine whether a meeting starts on time or is delayed due to technical confusion. For any Conference Room AV Setup to succeed, control systems must be intuitive, adaptable, and interoperable. AV integrators, architects, and IT managers must evaluate how well the control system integrates with displays, cameras, microphones, collaboration platforms, and room schedulers.

In 2025, the focus is shifting toward cloud-managed systems, voice control compatibility, and AI-driven automation. XTEN-AV supports this evolution by empowering AV integrators to design, document, and simulate control workflows across a range of devices and platforms. Whether configuring hardware zones, connecting signal paths, or planning device schedules, XTEN-AV offers a smarter way to manage complexity.

Which System Should You Choose

• For enterprise scalability: Crestron or AMX

• For academic or government reliability: Extron

• For cloud flexibility: Kramer or Atlona

• For modern hybrid experiences: Q-SYS

• For budget-conscious solutions: Kramer or Atlona

Your ideal AV control system depends on room size, expected usage, user expertise, and existing infrastructure. Use XTEN-AV to prototype your entire Conference Room AV Setup virtually and simulate system control responses before a single cable is laid.

Conclusion

The future of AV control lies in seamless integration, real-time monitoring, and automation. With a growing range of options, comparing systems like Crestron, Extron, AMX, Q-SYS, Kramer, and Atlona is key to designing an effective Conference Room AV Setup. XTEN-AV equips AV professionals with the tools to plan, evaluate, and future-proof these installations with confidence.

As workplace collaboration continues to evolve, the ability to control technology effortlessly will define productivity. Smart control is not just a feature anymore. It is the foundation of any successful conference room.

Read more: https://ekonty.com/blogs/342161/Latest-Trends-in-Conference-Room-AV-Technology-for-2025