Top 10 Tips for Building Better Stage Plots with StagePlotProA clear, accurate stage plot saves time, prevents confusion, and helps both your crew and venues prepare for a smooth performance. StagePlotPro is a purpose-built tool for creating professional stage plots quickly and accurately. Below are ten practical tips to get the most out of StagePlotPro and produce stage plots that communicate exactly what your band needs.
1. Start with a Clean Template
Use StagePlotPro’s templates as a starting point to save time. Choose a template that matches your typical stage setup (e.g., four-piece rock band, trio, acoustic set) and then customize it. Templates ensure consistent scale and spacing from the beginning.
2. Set Accurate Stage Dimensions
Input the exact width and depth of the stage into the document settings. Accurate dimensions let you position instruments, risers, and monitor wedges realistically so the venue can plan placement and sightlines. If you’re unsure, call the venue and confirm dimensions before finalizing the plot.
3. Use Consistent Symbols and Labels
StagePlotPro offers a library of symbols for mics, monitors, DI boxes, amps, and more. Pick a clear icon set and use it consistently across plots. Label every mic, direct box, and amp with short, standardized identifiers (e.g., “Vox1”, “GtrL”, “Kick DI”) to avoid ambiguity.
4. Number Inputs and Outputs Clearly
Provide a concise inputs list that maps each onstage item to your mixing board channels. Number stage microphones and DIs to match an input list (1–32 or more). Include a separate output/monitor mix list so the monitor engineer can quickly route wedges and in-ears.
Example layout to include:
- Input 1 — Kick
- Input 2 — Snare
- Input 3 — Hi-Hat
- Input 4 — Bass DI
- Input 5 — Vocal Lead (Vox1) This clarity speeds setup and reduces patching mistakes.
5. Show Monitor and Side-Fill Positions
Indicate monitor wedge positions and side-fills on the plot. If you use in-ear monitors, note that too and specify how many mixes are required. For wedge users, show maximum SPL-facing directions — this helps the FOH and monitor engineers know where to aim speakers.
6. Add a Key/Legend and Notes Section
Even with consistent symbols, some items need explanation. Include a small legend clarifying symbols and abbreviations, and a notes section for special requests (e.g., “Stage left amp on riser”, “Drummer requires riser 8’x8’ x16in”). Small venue staff and touring engineers appreciate concise special instructions.
7. Include Amplifier and DI Placement
Mark amp locations and whether they should be miked or go direct. If an amp will be mic’d, specify preferred mic type or distance (e.g., “SM57, 2–3 in from cone”). For bass and keyboards, note if you prefer DI or amp and whether the amp needs stands or isolation.
8. Create Separate Plots for Variations
If you have multiple rig configurations (full band, acoustic duo, stripped-down festival setup), create a plot for each variant. Save them in StagePlotPro with clear filenames: “Band_Full.pdf”, “Acoustic_Duo.pdf”, “Festival_Minimal.pdf”. Venues can then choose the correct plot quickly.
9. Export High-Quality PDF and a Simple JPG
Export a print-ready PDF for the venue and a compressed JPG for quick sharing via email or messaging apps. PDFs preserve scale and are easy for stagehands to print; JPGs are handy for quick reference on phones. StagePlotPro’s export settings let you control resolution — prioritize high resolution for PDFs.
10. Keep Your Input List Updated and Versioned
Maintain a master input list in StagePlotPro and update it whenever you change instruments, add effects, or reassign channels. Use versioned filenames (e.g., “Band_StagePlot_v1.pdf”, “Band_StagePlot_v2.pdf”) and note the date so production staff always have the latest configuration.
Putting It Together: A Checklist
- Accurate stage dimensions set
- Template matched to band type
- Consistent symbols and labels
- Numbered input/output lists
- Monitor locations and mixes specified
- Legend and special notes included
- Amp/DI placement and mic preferences
- Separate plots for different configurations
- PDF + JPG exports
- Version-controlled master input list
A well-made stage plot is a tiny document with outsized impact: it shortens load-in, reduces on-stage chaos, and helps engineers make you sound great quickly. Using StagePlotPro’s features to capture exact dimensions, consistent symbols, and clear input/output mapping turns your plot into an actionable roadmap for every person who touches your show.
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