Seeking out the right audiovisual equipment for your space or event can be more difficult than you expect. For many, finding the best rental solutions when you’re in a pinch seems ideal. For others, owning their AV gear is a way to invest more in their business and take responsibility for their space.
While renting audiovisual equipment each time you host an event may seem like the easier option, and for many it is, there are also plenty of reasons to consider purchasing your own equipment.
Cost-effectiveness
Purchasing your own audiovisual equipment will incur higher costs up front, but it is more cost-effective in the long run when compared to renting gear over time. Owning your equipment also has a positive effect on how you invoice clients when hosting events. Without having to work in the cost of renting audiovisual gear, you can offer more competitive pricing or make a higher profit. Renting could keep you from doing either.
Having audiovisual equipment that works properly
When you purchase your own audiovisual gear, you learn how it works, what needs to happen in cases of troubleshooting, and how to prepare for any issues that may occur. You can also call on experienced technicians to help resolve any issues you’re having. When working with rented equipment, it’s out of your hands. Relying on the company who owns the equipment to fix any issues related to equipment not working properly can lead to bigger problems. This can all be avoided if you are constantly handling your own equipment instead of someone else’s.
The ability to customize your system
When renting audiovisual equipment from another company, you are left to work with what they give you. This leaves very little room for any customizations that could come along with owning your own gear outright. When it comes to audiovisual issues, there can be many solutions for the same problem. Unless you own the equipment, you may not be able to explore the best fixes for whatever issues lie ahead.
Knowing your gear
Owning your audiovisual gear allows you to learn all about how it works and how to use it in ways that can improve the user and listening experiences. If you are constantly renting equipment, you may be forcing yourself to familiarize yourself with the way it works, which takes time and energy away from other parts of your business. Knowing everything there is to know about the gear you use every day can also cut time spent on troubleshooting, maintenance, and more.
Making a decision
Even after weighing all of these options, you may still have questions regarding owning your own audiovisual equipment. Reaching out to audiovisual technicians who are experienced and knowledgeable in the field can help you decide what’s appropriate for your space.