How to Write a Tech Spec for Live Gigs

Getting gig ready isn’t just about rehearsing your setlist.

One of the most important tools for any band or artist playing live gigs is a tech spec (sometimes called a technical specification, or tech rider). 

A clear, professional tech spec helps you work smoothly with venues, promoters and production crews, and it can make the difference between a stressful gig and a great performance. 

In this guide, with expert advice from sound engineer and production manager Barry McParland (Rudimental, Zero Degrees Events), we’ll break down what a tech spec is, why you need one, and how to get it right.

At WaterBear we offer a range of BA (Hons) and master’s degree courses, helping you to create a sustainable career within the music industry.

A tech spec (short for technical specification) is a concise document that tells venues and promoters what you need to put on your show.

It usually covers audio setup, lighting, backline requests, a stage plan (or stage plot), and contact details. 

As Barry explains: 

“A tech spec is a concise document that lets venues and promoters know what’s needed to make your show happen. It should be accurate and contain only relevant information. It’s not a wish list or a drinks rider.”

Think of it as your live gig’s blueprint. Without it, you risk misunderstandings, delays, or missing equipment on the night.

Whether you’re just starting out or playing festivals, a good tech spec shows you’re professional and prepared.

Tech specs: 

• Help production teams understand your setup. 

• Save time at soundcheck. 

• Reduce mistakes and stress. 

• Make promoters more likely to book you again. 

It’s not just about gear; it’s about communication and respect for the crew who help you sound your best.

A strong technical specification is clear, concise, and easy to follow.  

Typically, it should include: 

• Your band name (on every page!). 

• Contact details for a responsible person. 

• Audio setup (e.g. number of microphones, DI boxes). 

• Stage plot or stage plan showing where each musician stands. 

• Backline requirements (amps, drums, keyboards). 

• Lighting notes (if relevant). 

• Channel list. 

• Any specific notes for soundcheck. 

Many artists combine their tech spec and band rider in one document. That’s fine, but make sure the layout is clear, and the technical information doesn’t get lost.

At WaterBear, our Music Industries Team are always on hand to support across many aspects of your professional development, including support with preparing for live gigs.

Some of the most common errors bands make with their technical specs include: 

• Overcomplicating the document. 

• Forgetting essential contact info. 

• Not checking if venues actually received and read it. 

• Turning up with outdated specs. 

• Expecting every request to be fulfilled (sometimes substitutions are necessary). 

Barry shares one horror story: 

“Last year I was advancing a tour for a Chinese artist who was doing a small UK run. Their spec and rider were in one document, but their tour manager, who didn’t speak a word of English, relied on some software to translate the document from Chinese to English. I copied the info from the hospitality section and sent it to the catering company; the technical section, I sent to the relevant people for PA, lighting, backline etc. The lingo conversion wasn’t great, but we muddled through. 

Then came Show One: a Sunday night in London and there’s a vital keyboard missing.  

In translation, the software had moved this specific keyboard from the backline section to the catering section, and so it was completely missed by everyone. Luckily, we managed to sort it, but it wasn’t cheap getting one of the major backline companies to reopen so late on a Sunday! To make matters worse, the entire band spoke perfect English. Had we chatted with one of them, rather than struggling with the Tour Manager and document, the problems could have been avoided.” 

Lesson learned: keep it simple, accurate, and clear.

A tech spec is only part of the picture. To be truly live gig ready: 

• Check in with the venue a week or two before the show. 

• Bring hard copies of your latest tech spec and rider. 

• Be respectful – production teams work long hours. 

• Read your advance pack before the gig so you don’t waste time asking basic questions. 

As Barry says: 

“Just treat people with respect. On most live gigs, production staff are the first in and last out, and work all the hours in-between, so common decency goes a long way.” 

Getting live gig ready isn’t just about playing well, it’s about being professional, organised and respectful.  

A strong tech spec helps you communicate your needs, save time at soundcheck, and build a reputation as a reliable artist. 

Want to learn more about the music industry from experienced pros like Barry? Explore our courses in Brighton, Sheffield, and Online.