What Is Audio Visual? (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

When most people hear “audio visual,” they think of speakers and screens at a conference. And while that’s not wrong, it’s only scratching the surface. After more than a decade in the AV production world—first as a co-founder of Centric Events (then Arizona Production Rentals) and now as Director of Sales & Marketing—I’ve learned that audio visual touches far more industries and scenarios than most people realize.

Let’s break it down.

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What Does “Audio Visual” Actually Mean?

At its core, audio visual (AV) refers to anything that uses both sound (audio) and sight (visual) to communicate information. That can mean projectors and microphones, sure—but it also includes LED video walls, livestream platforms, augmented reality, and even the smart screen in your conference room.

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AV in Everyday Life

Most people interact with AV every single day without thinking twice about it:

• Zoom calls in the office? That’s AV—webcams, mics, speakers, and screen sharing.
• Digital signage in your lobby? AV.
• The speaker system at your local church? AV.
• Your kids’ school assemblies with microphones and projectors? Yep—AV again.

I’ve worked on everything from high-end LED installs in Arizona ballrooms to troubleshooting outdated boardroom systems for clients who just wanted to hear clearly on a Teams call. The scope is massive—and growing.

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Audio Visual in Business & Corporate Environments

In the corporate world, AV is often the bridge between good ideas and great communication.

Whether it’s:

• Video conferencing systems that let remote teams stay connected
• Large-format displays in lobbies showcasing real-time data or welcome messages
• Conference room automation (think touch-panel systems controlling lights, screens, and audio)
• Investor day livestreams, where the stakes are high and reliability is non-negotiable

…businesses rely on AV more than ever. We’ve helped dozens of companies in Phoenix and Scottsdale modernize their AV infrastructure—and more importantly, reduce friction for their employees and guests.

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Audio Visual in Live Events & Productions

This is the world Centric Events is best known for.

When people call us, they’re often planning:

• Corporate conferences
• Galas and fundraising events
• Concerts or community festivals
• Brand activations
• Luxury weddings (especially with custom lighting)

These events rely on integrated AV production: audio, lighting, video, rigging, staging, and a technical crew that knows how to tie it all together seamlessly.

We’re not just plugging in gear—we’re creating experiences. At Centric, we obsess over every detail: Will the keynote speaker’s mic sound crisp in the back row? Is the stage lighting flattering for camera shots? Will the video wall engage or overwhelm?

Those aren’t “tech questions.” Those are AV strategy questions—and they’re the difference between good and unforgettable.

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AV in Education & Houses of Worship

I’ve seen firsthand how audio visual systems impact learning and connection.

In schools, AV includes:

• Projectors or interactive displays in classrooms
• Sound reinforcement in gymnasiums
• Hybrid teaching tools like document cameras and livestreams

In churches and worship spaces, it’s about clarity and emotion—making sure the message is heard and felt. We’ve installed audio systems that allow pastors to be clearly heard without shouting, and lighting systems that enhance worship without becoming distracting.

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AV in Retail, Real Estate & Hospitality

The retail world uses AV for:

• Interactive product displays
• Background music systems
• Window video walls and digital signage

In real estate, high-end homes and developments are now integrating AV control systems—letting you control lights, shades, music, and media from a single touchpad. We’ve partnered with developers in Scottsdale to offer smart AV design packages that match the luxury aesthetic buyers expect.

Hotels and resorts? That’s a world unto itself. Whether it’s background music in common areas, TVs in guest rooms, or AV support for in-house events, hospitality spaces rely on AV to create a cohesive guest experience. Some hotels even require you to use their in-house AV provider—but that’s a topic for another post (and trust me, I have thoughts on that).

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The Rise of AV Technology in a Post-COVID World

The pandemic accelerated AV adoption like nothing else in my career.

Suddenly, every company needed livestream capability. Every classroom needed distance learning solutions. And every church, event planner, and nonprofit had to find ways to engage audiences—without being physically present.

We leaned in hard at Centric Events, helping clients create hybrid and virtual experiences that didn’t feel second-rate. That’s when I realized: AV isn’t just about equipment. It’s about connection—between people, brands, stories, and spaces.

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Why This Matters

If you’re planning an event, building out a new office, or trying to level up your space—you’re in the AV world whether you realize it or not.

At Centric, we’re not just gearheads. We’re partners in helping you communicate more clearly, more powerfully, and more professionally—through the strategic use of audio and visual tools. And while we may be based in Arizona, our goal is always the same: to raise the bar and redefine what people expect from their AV partner.

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Final Thoughts

So the next time someone asks “What is audio visual?”, you can tell them:

It’s everything you see and hear working together.
It’s how we connect, communicate, and create experiences.
And it’s a lot more than just a screen and a speaker.

If you’re not sure where to start—or if you’re wondering whether your AV setup is actually helping or hurting your goals—reach out. I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned from over a decade in this industry.