Stage Plot vs Input List vs Tech Rider: What's the Difference?

Ask three musicians what a tech rider is and you might get three answers. The terms stage plot, input list and tech rider get thrown around as if they mean the same thing, and the confusion leads to bands sending the wrong document, or half of one, to venues that need all three. Each does a specific job, and understanding the split makes you far easier to work with.

If you are still getting to grips with the core document, what a stage plot is and why every band needs one is the right starting point.

The Stage Plot Is the Map

A stage plot is a visual diagram of your stage. It shows where each player stands, where the amps and drum kit sit, and where you want monitors placed. Think of it as the overhead view an engineer glances at to picture your band before you arrive. It answers spatial questions: who is where, which way the backline points, and how much room you take up.

A good plot also carries short notes, like monitor requests or which player sings lead. Its main job is layout. The guide to what to include on your stage plot covers how much detail belongs on it.

The Input List Is the Channel Plan

An input list is a numbered list of every signal your band sends to the desk. Channel one might be kick, channel two snare, and so on through the drums, bass, guitars, keys and vocals. For each channel it names the source and often the mic or DI needed. The engineer uses it to patch the stage box and set up the desk, so it is the document front-of-house works from directly.

Where the stage plot shows position, the input list shows signal flow. The two work as a pair, and most venues want both. The guide to writing a clear input list explains how to build one that lines up with your stage plot.

The Tech Rider Is the Full Package

A tech rider is the umbrella document. It usually contains the stage plot and input list, plus everything else the band requires: the PA and monitor specifications you expect the venue to provide, power needs, backline requests, and sometimes hospitality and access details. A rider is what you send to a larger venue or festival so the production team can prepare properly.

For a pub covers gig you might only need a stage plot and input list. For a festival slot with shared backline and a strict changeover, a full rider saves everyone a difficult day.

Building Them Together

The Dashplan Stage Plot Builder lets you create the plot and attach your input details in one place, then share a single live link that covers both. When the venue opens it, they see the layout and the channel information together, and any change you make stays current in the same link. For getting it to the right person, see how to share your stage plot with a venue.

Knowing which document does what means you send the right thing every time, and venues remember the bands that make their job simple.

Build your stage plot and input list in the Dashplan Stage Plot Builder.