The Off-Key Bard
The Bard's Workshop
Practical Solutions for Modern Technology
A decade of hands-on AV experience — system design, troubleshooting, and honest guidance on what your setup actually needs. No upsells. No jargon. Just clear answers from someone who's done the work.
Who You're Working With
I spent a decade as a Home Theater Agent with Geek Squad — designing, installing, and troubleshooting AV systems across every price point and living room configuration you can imagine. I've repaired televisions, untangled wiring disasters, and talked hundreds of people through the difference between what they were sold and what they actually needed.
I know where the budget tiers genuinely diverge and where the marketing stops reflecting reality. I know which installs a motivated homeowner can handle and which ones quietly become a professional job halfway through. That's the knowledge The Bard's Workshop runs on.
Consultation Tiers
Flat fees. No hourly surprises. Pick the depth you need.
Tier 0
Ask the Bard
$19
One question, answered in depth. No call, no scheduling. Submit your question and receive a written response within 48 hours. Best when you just need a second opinion before pulling the trigger.
Best for: Quick decisions, single buying questions
Tier I
The Quick Read
$45
A deeper async consult for situations that need more than one answer. Submit your setup details and question — receive a thorough written response with specific recommendations and next steps.
Best for: Troubleshooting, compatibility questions, setup guidance
Tier II
The Full Consult
$129
A live 45–60 minute video session. We walk through your space, your gear, and your goals. You leave with a clear plan, a written summary, and honest guidance on what to do — and what not to.
Best for: New builds, system overhauls, persistent problems
Tier III
The Blueprint
$349
Full system design from intake to deliverable. Includes a planning session, complete component recommendations, budget breakdown, room layout notes, and DIY vs. professional install guidance.
Best for: Major builds, theater rooms, whole-home projects
How It Works
01
Tell me what you're dealing with
Fill out a short intake form describing your setup, your question, and which tier fits your needs.
02
We connect
For Tier I, you'll receive a written response. For Tier II and III, we schedule a video session at a time that works for you.
03
You walk away with a plan
Clear recommendations, no jargon, and honest guidance on what to do next — including when to call someone else.
Common Questions
Can't I just Google this?
Often, yes — and if a quick search solves it, great. The Workshop exists for when you've already tried that, or when the stakes are high enough that you want a real answer from someone who's seen it before.
Do you sell equipment or earn referral fees?
No. Recommendations are based entirely on your needs and budget. There's no inventory to move and no affiliate relationship influencing the advice.
What if my question turns out to need more than one tier?
I'll tell you before we proceed. No surprise scope creep — if your situation is bigger than the tier you booked, we'll discuss it first.
What if I need someone on-site to do the actual install?
Part of the value here is knowing when you need a specialist. I'll tell you exactly what kind of help to look for and what to watch out for when you hire them.
What Clients Say
The Workshop is now open.
Currently accepting a limited number of introductory clients while building my portfolio and collecting feedback. The goal isn't to rush through projects—it's to build a reputation one successful system at a time.
From the Bard's Desk
Recent technology articles
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In-Home Consultations
In-home visits are available within the Columbia, SC metro area. Pricing is based on travel distance and project scope — reach out before booking and we'll confirm whether it's the right fit.
Workshop Tools
Speaker placement, diagnostics, and more.
Get in Touch
Not sure which tier fits? Describe what you're dealing with and I'll point you in the right direction before you commit to anything.