What is an Input List?

An input list (also called a channel list) is a numbered list of every sound source an act needs on stage, showing which microphone or DI box each one uses and where it goes on the mixing desk. It is one of the most important pages in a technical rider, because the venue's sound team plans the whole stage from it.

How an input list is used

An input list guides the sound set-up from advance to sound check:

  1. Write it: the act's sound engineer lists every input in order, usually starting with the drums.
  2. Send it: it goes to the venue or festival with the stage plot during the advance.
  3. Plan the patch: the venue matches each input to a channel on its stage box and builds a patch list.
  4. Set up: crew place mics, stands and DI boxes as listed.
  5. Check: a line check confirms every input works before the sound check.

Input lists change between tours and festivals, so venues collect the latest version from each act through advancing in Crescat.

Input list vs patch list

The input list is written by the act and says what they need. The patch list is written by the venue or festival and says where each input plugs in, across stage boxes and desks. One feeds the other.

Example input list

  • 1. Kick drum: dynamic kick mic, short stand
  • 2. Snare top: dynamic mic, clip
  • 3. Hi-hat: small condenser, short stand
  • 4. Bass: DI box
  • 5. Guitar: dynamic mic, short stand
  • 6. Keys left and right: stereo DI
  • 7. Lead vocal: wireless mic, round-base stand

Frequently asked questions

What columns should an input list have?

Channel number, instrument or source, mic or DI type, stand type and whether it needs phantom power. Many lists also show which stage box or sub-snake each input uses.

Can I ask for specific microphones?

Yes, but be ready to accept equivalents. Most venues will match the type of mic, even if they do not have the exact model.

How many inputs is normal?

A small rock band might need 12 to 20 inputs; larger productions can need 48 or more. Smaller venues may have a limited number of channels, so check in the advance.

Related terms