On the surface, absolutely nothing. But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into church facility or plant that either has the wrong kind of equipment for what they are doing or spent so much money to not have what they need- all off the advice of “experts.”

Two things I need to say before I go any further. 1) I have many friends who run media companies. I support them by using them when I can and they are good at what they do 2) i’m not saying I am an “expert” either and am only offering friendly advice.

So here goes:

1. Be good stewards. The internet has opened up the door to save THOUSANDS of dollars over purchasing through local stores and dealerships (i.e. the install companies). eBay can be scary but there are easy practices that will keep you safe when purchasing from online auction sites. Many stores online sell in such high volumes you can find crazy prices for NEW gear…but you may have to do a lot of leg work to find the best deal.

2. Know what you NEED. there is no substitute for knowledge and no one knows your circumstances better than you do. Understand your budget limits but keep in mind 99% of the time you get what pay for. Often (read: most of the time) it is better to pay a little bit more to get less of something that is going to last and be more useful as you grow then just buying something to have something.

3. Get an unbiased second opinion. Most A/V/L companies are dealers for certain products and want to sell you what they can get the best price on so they make money in selling you the equipment and installing it for you. If they can’t get dealer pricing, they usually charge you more than you’d pay if you bought yourself so they still make that profit. Ask what other people are doing and find out what they love or would have done differently. Then ask someone else. And then someone else. Do the research. It will pay off in the end.

Audio, Video, and Lighting equipment is some of the most expensive stuff you will ever buy for your ministry and the investment needs to be exactly what you need and can afford. Don’t rush to get something and don’t just copy what someone else has done. Plan ahead and do your homework. You’ll be happy you did.