One Box vs. Many:
The Integrator's Guide to Explaining the ROI of All-in-One AV Systems
THE REAL OBJECTION:
“Why Not Just Use Separate Boxes?”
If you're evaluating a high-performance AV matrix switcher like the Kramer MTX3-88-PR-PRO, you already understand the value of integrated control, audio, video, and USB routing in a single device. But chances are, someone on your team (usually not in AV) will ask: “Can’t we just piece together a few cheaper boxes and do the same thing?”
This post is built to help you answer that question and make the case for an all-in-one AV system using total cost of ownership (TCO) and real-world ROI.
What the ‘Box Strategy’ Really Costs
Sure, you can assemble a functional solution from multiple devices. A traditional setup might include:
• An HDMI switcher
• Audio de-embedder
• Control processor
• USB router
• Signal extenders and converters
On paper, some of those individual devices may appear more affordable. But when you add up:
• Inter-device compatibility issues
• Cumulative power needs
• Multiple vendor warranties
• Increased support calls
• Firmware mismatches
• Rack space and cooling demands
…the “cheaper” route often becomes more expensive and vulnerable in the long run.
That’s where TCO, Total Cost of Ownership, becomes a powerful lens.
Fewer Points of Failure = ~$1,000–$2,000/year in Service Call Avoidance
With fewer individual devices (and fewer firmware conflicts), you're less likely to face troubleshooting delays or service truck rolls.
Average service call: $300–$500 (MSRP/labor blended)
Avoiding 3–5 calls/year saves ~$1,000–$2,000 annually
TCO Impact: Less downtime and fewer reactive support expenses.
Lower IT/AV Support Burden = ~$800–$1,200/year in Internal Labor Savings
Supporting multiple devices eats up in-house resources.
Assume 10–15 hours saved/year
Blended internal support labor cost: ~$80/hour average
TCO Impact: More time for strategic tasks, fewer helpdesk escalations.
Rapid Recovery = <1 Hour Downtime vs. Days
In a traditional multi-box setup, a device failure can sideline a room for 1-3 days while you diagnose, order parts, and reprogram.
With an all-in-one system, recovery is straightforward:
- Swap the Box: Keep a spare on-site or in inventory.
- Load Config: Upload saved settings in under 15 minutes.
- Reconnect I/O: Plug back in - room is live in under an hour.
TCO Impact: That’s 2-3 days of downtime avoided per incident, plus savings on repeated truck rolls, overnight shipping, and frustrated end-users. Over 5 years, even a couple of failures avoided can save $5K+ per room in labor and lost productivity.
Faster Meeting Starts = Time, Not Just Money
Integrated systems reduce user confusion and pre-meeting delays.
Saving 5–10 minutes per meeting may not show up on a balance sheet, but it adds up fast in high-utilization rooms.
TCO Impact: Reduces indirect labor waste and frustration.
Longer System Life = Deferred Capital Spend
Integrated systems like the MTX3-88 PRO are built to be part of a longer refresh cycle, 6–8 years in many cases.
TCO Impact: Extends depreciation schedule and reduces budget pressure for full replacements.
Total Cost of Ownership Snapshot
Based on National Averages
| TCO Factor | Avg. MSRP Impact |
| Downtime Avoidance | ~$1,000–$2,000/year |
| Support Labor Reduction | ~$800–$1,200/year |
| Rapid Recovery Savings | $5,000+ over 5 years |
| Productivity Gains | Indirect but material |
| Lifecycle Extension | Capital deferral benefit |
