Input List

The input list is a detailed breakdown of all audio sources that need to be mic’d or DI’d during the performance. It typically includes the channel number, source name, microphone or DI preference, and sometimes monitor send references.

It’s essential that the input list is:

• Clear and ordered by channel number
• Consistent with the stage plot
• Reflective of the actual setup used live

What should this section include?

• Channel number (1, 2, 3…)
• Instrument/source name (e.g. Kick In, Snare Top, Bass DI)
• Mic/DI preference (optional, but helpful)
• Phantom power requirements
• Notes (e.g. stereo pairs, shares with backline DI)

Optional columns:

• Monitor sends (e.g. which mixes need that signal)
• Subgroups (if artist uses a specific routing scheme)

Sample Format (table or list)

CH Source Mic/DI Notes

1 Kick In Beta 91A Inside 2 Kick Out Beta 52A Outside 3 Snare Top SM57
4 Snare Bottom e604 Phase reversed 5 Hi-Hat KM184
6 Rack Tom e904
7 Floor Tom e904
8 Overhead L KM184
9 Overhead R KM184
10 Bass DI Radial J48
11 Bass Mic MD421
12 Guitar L SM57
13 Guitar R SM57
14 Keys L DI
15 Keys R DI
16 Lead Vox e935
17 BV 1 e935
18 BV 2 e935

Tips

• Don’t forget to list any playback channels, talkbacks, or tracks (click/cue).
• If stereo channels are used, label both sides (e.g. Keys L/R).
• If you’re using a digital stagebox, make sure input numbers align with the patch.

Color Coding

In complex setups — especially with large ensembles, multiple similar instruments, or musicians who have multiple lines (e.g. vocals + keys) — it’s good practice to group inputs by musician or position using color codes.

This helps both the FOH and monitor engineers quickly identify which inputs belong together during patching or troubleshooting.

How to implement:

• Assign a color to each musician (e.g. blue for drummer, green for bass player).
• Use that color consistently across: Input list Stage plot
• Channel labels on console or stagebox
• If delivering the input list as a spreadsheet or PDF, apply background color or highlight to rows by group.

Example

💡 You don’t need to overdo it — just enough to help the tech team group and prioritize during setup.