AVI-SPL vs. SHI International

AVI-SPL is well suited for projects where comprehensive audio visual solutions are needed. They have engineering and design expertise to ensure the right solution is provided. Their attention to detail is very good. AVI-SPL may be less appropriate to hire when the scope of the project is loosely defined and/or expected to undergo changes during the course of the project.

Incentivized

• Analyzed our physical soundstage from architect drawings and made recommendations tailored to our space.
• Fast email response and call-backs from their consultants - we never had to wait. They get back before the day ends.
• They remember us as a valued client, even if months go by between purchases. We never have to be reintroduced.
• Invoicing is clear and concise with no mystery charges - always matches the quotes.

Incentivized

• Turnaround time on quoting could be improved.
• Install times are generally booked out a bit. I know that there is a balance between demand and onhand resources.
• Pricing. They are by far one of the most expensive. I constantly need to look for ways to trim back costs because there is quite a lot baked into the quote in terms of maintenance and it feels like a cash grab in the end. I've gotten quotes elsewhere due to some of the numbers I've received and they all have come well under AVI-SPL's. Here's the list of line items from what I've seen from my last quote and this is from one conference room. Equipment Total, Installation Materials, Professional Services, Direct Costs, General and Administrative, Room Support and Maintenance, Device Maintenance. This feels egregious.

Incentivized

They are a great company to work with overall, but there is always room for improvement. We have had incredibly positive experiences with our main sales rep for any and all purchases. The installation team in southwest VA is lacking and lead to quite a lot of issues on a large scale project last year.

Incentivized

They had us replace the PC three times stating that the PSU was not strong enough to power the USB bus. The last PC had a 1500w PSU. The USB devices kept not working because they had too many USB devices connected. We had to hire another company to come out and fix this mistake as well. They redesigned the solution to get the features that we requested from the beginning and something that would work correctly

Incentivized

AVI-SPL always availability. I have no issue

Incentivized

There was been no downtime in using AVISPL.

Incentivized

ABSOLUTELY! I have contacted them multiple times. They are responsive, knowledgeable, and know who to make the return calls to make service as efficient as possible. They will listen to the issue, document it, and provide the most knowledgeable technician to assist. I utilize their remote support often as I am versed in A/V technology and can work with technicians without them having to come to our site. I love having that option.

Incentivized

SPL-AVI covers all the questions when asked. Excellent demo on how to use the system in our community.

Incentivized

The representatives I worked with were patient and very well versed in working with my team to ensure we are aware of all aspects.

Incentivized

Given a caveat that this project had major changes to overcome, I would say AVI-SPL did about as well as any large installer out there could do under the circumstances.

Incentivized

We've gone through a few AV partners since developing our AV program. We started with a small local shop, but they didn't have the expertise as we scaled. We moved to a larger local shop, but they struggled to provide support and I don't believe their designs were optimal. Our third go-round with a national firm seemed fine at first, but eventually they too were unable to provide the level of support we needed. So far, AVI-SPL has been getting us taken care of.

Incentivized

All is good

Incentivized

The system was not scalable with the hardware they ordered

Incentivized

I would consider inside sales as a professional service. My experience with AVI-SPL and Amanda Laraia has been second to none.

Incentivized

• With the products they supplied, I was better able to present the information to my clients.
• Based on the conference room size, they help determine the best projector that would optimize the viewing for the clients in the room.
• This had a positive impact as I was more effectively able to communicate the information to my clients in an engaging manner.

Incentivized