About RTZ Audio Visual
Our Story
RTZ Audio Visual Associates has its roots in the Commercial Audio/Visual Division of Ritz Camera Centers, which was one of the largest photographic retail chains in the United States. In 1988, Gary Lunsford established Audio-Visual Associates, Inc. as an independent company, bringing with him the expertise and relationships built during his years in the AV division at Ritz Camera.
From the beginning, RTZ has been guided by a simple principle: design AV systems for the people who use them, not just the technology department. This “less is more” philosophy means our clients get systems that are powerful yet intuitive — technology that enhances their mission without adding unnecessary complexity.
RTZ prides itself on being a small, family-owned company. Through this dynamic they are able to provide more one-on-one consultations for the customer, personalized interactions, and relationship building that lasts beyond the project and into future projects.
Today, RTZ serves corporate, government, education, and religious organizations across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Our client list includes names like DARPA, CoStar, Loma Linda University, Catholic University, NAD, GC, and the University of Maryland — organizations that demand reliability, security, and excellence.
35+ Years in Business
Founded in 1988, we bring decades of experience to every project we undertake.
200+ Manufacturer Partners
We work with the industry's leading brands to deliver the best solutions for your needs.
Showroom by Appointment
Visit our Elkridge, MD showroom to experience the latest AV technology firsthand. Available by appointment.
Our Team
The experienced professionals behind RTZ Audio Visual.
The Gary founded RTZ Audio Visual Associates in 1988 after leading the Professional Audio/Visual Division of Ritz Camera Centers in Beltsville, Maryland. A Columbia Union College graduate, Gary built RTZ on a simple philosophy: design for the end user, not just the IT professional. With nearly four decades of experience in AV system design and integration, his 'less is more' approach has earned RTZ a reputation for delivering systems that work the first time and continue to operate flawlessly for years. Under his leadership, RTZ has grown to serve corporate, government, education, and house of worship clients across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.
Chris has served as Vice President of RTZ Audio Visual Associates since 2001, bringing over two decades of hands-on experience in AV solutions and client partnerships. A University of Maryland graduate with a B.S. in Business/Office Automation/Technology, Chris leads RTZ's efforts in smart collaboration, hybrid meeting solutions, and emerging AV technologies. He works closely with top manufacturers including Barco, Jabra, Lenovo, Huddly, Shure, and Extron to bring cutting-edge solutions to RTZ's corporate, government, education, and house of worship clients.
Mike has been a cornerstone of RTZ Audio Visual's installation team since 1999, bringing over 25 years of hands-on expertise in AV system design and installation. An Extron Control Professional certified technician, Mike specializes in designing and deploying integrated audiovisual systems for meeting rooms, conference centers, and worship spaces. He stays current with the latest AV innovations, regularly attending industry events like InfoComm to evaluate new products from leading manufacturers. Mike's deep technical knowledge and commitment to quality ensure every RTZ installation meets the highest standards.
Heather Lunsford
Financial Manager
Heather has served as the Financial Manager of RTZ Audio Visual since 2023. A University of Maryland graduate with a B.S. Degree, Heather manages and directs the ins and outs of the finances within the company. Also Extron AV Associate certified, she makes sure that our vendors and customers receive updated information on their accounts, invoices, and transactions, helping to keep behind the scenes streamlined.
Casey has been an instrumental part of the installation and service programming team since 2023. With certifications in Extron AV Associate, Extron Control Specialist, Extron Control Professional, Extron Authorized Programmer, Q-SYS Level 1, and Netgear AV Level 1, he brings heightened knowledge and experience to each installation and system he does. He stays knowledgeable on the breaking AV solutions and is committed to quality and efficiency with all of RTZ projects.
Taylor Lunsford
Warehouse Manager
Taylor, a Howard Community College student, has served as the RTZ Audio Visual Warehouse Manager since 2023. With an eye for organization, Taylor ensures that our products and inventory stay stocked and accessible for the various needs of our company. Her attention to detail is what aids customers in receiving their products and our company to remain productive.
Sheri Flower
Receptionist/Purchasing
Sheri has been with RTZ Audio Visual since 2006. As our main receptionist, she is the welcoming voice to the company. Along with being Extron AV Associate certified, she ensures that invoicing and orders are maintained for our customers. She also assists in the buying and purchasing, which keeps the daily processes of RTZ running.
Our Philosophy
At RTZ, we believe the best AV system is one that the end user never has to think about. It just works. Our “less is more” design philosophy means we focus on what matters: reliable technology that serves your mission, intuitive controls that anyone can operate, and installations that look as good as they perform.
Ready to Upgrade Your AV?
Whether you're building a new facility or upgrading existing spaces, we'll design a system that fits your needs and budget.