What is a Audio Rider?

An “tech rider” is a document that outlines specific audio requirements and preferences for an event, performance, or recording session. It serves as a guideline for sound engineers, technicians, and venue staff to ensure that the audio setup meets the needs of the performer, band, or speaker. These riders normally accompany a stage plot plan. It’s extremely important to make sure your information is 100% up to date. There is nothing worse then spending hours running cables to accommodate your requirements that you submitted, only to find out everyone has changed their stage positions and monitoring requirements.

It may not seem like a big deal to you, but it will go a long way in helping establish your reputation of a band/group/soloist that can get the job done by working together. Make no mistake about it, a bad rider can stand in the way of you being invited back and sound guys/gals talk to other sound guys/gals and if your reputation for being unprepared for these events gets around, you may find yourself not getting invited to gigs you could play, all due to not providing accurate information.

Typically included in an audio rider are details such as:

1. Sound equipment: Descriptions of microphones, mixers, speakers, monitors, and any other gear needed.
2. Technical specification: Information about the desired sound quality, levels, and any specific brands or models preferred.
3. Setup requirements: Instructions for how the audio equipment should be arranged and configured.
4. Sound check: Details regarding the timing and requirements for sound checking before the event.
5. Performance specifics: Any unique audio needs related to the performance, such as backing tracks, instruments, or special effects.

Audio riders help ensure that the technical aspects of a performance are aligned with the artist’s vision and that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. This is one of those times when “more is better” when it comes to providing information concerning your group and what you will need to put forth your best effort.