Guides
DJ technical rider: what to include and what to avoid
A DJ technical rider tells the venue exactly what you need to play: player and mixer models, monitors, connections, booth space and setup time. It should fit on one page, be clear and realistic, and list an acceptable alternative for every item. A confusing rider causes trouble on the night and fewer invitations.
The venue tech reads your rider on the afternoon of the show. If they cannot tell what you are asking for, you will find out in the booth with a full dance floor.
Rider essentials
Players and mixer with model and quantity, a booth monitor with its own volume, the inputs and outputs you need, and whether you bring your own gear such as a controller or effects.
Also include setup time, table height and space, and a contact for technical questions. If you play B2B, say how many channels you need.
Clubs and festivals are different
Clubs usually have fixed gear, so ask for the standard and list alternatives. Festivals switch artists quickly, so the rider has to be short and direct.
A good practice is to keep a minimum version, with what is non-negotiable, and an ideal version. Promoters decide faster when they see both.
Common mistakes
Asking for rare gear with no alternative, forgetting the monitor, sending a three-year-old PDF and mixing technical needs with hospitality in one block of text. Keep the technical part separate so whoever sets up the booth finds everything fast.
Rider checklist
- Players and mixer with an acceptable alternative
- Booth monitor with its own control
- Setup time and a technical contact
- Minimum and ideal versions
- Reviewed before every season
Put the rider on your EPK and the venue tech always sees the latest version.
Frequently asked questions
Should a DJ technical rider be a PDF?
It does not have to be. A text rider on your EPK is easier to read on a phone and always up to date. If a festival asks for a PDF, attach it as an extra.
What is a hospitality rider?
It covers travel, accommodation, food and guests. Keep it separate from the technical rider so it does not confuse whoever sets up the booth.
Can I ask for specific gear?
Yes, but always give an acceptable alternative. Small venues rarely have everything, and a flexible rider makes it easier to close the date.
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