Overview
Technical production is the backbone of any experiential activation. Poor AV planning is one of the fastest ways to undermine an otherwise great experience. This guide covers the key areas to plan, spec, and execute technical production for live events and activations.
Audio
Key Planning Questions
- Indoor or outdoor? (Outdoor requires significantly more power and coverage)
- Background ambiance or programmed content (DJ, speakers, panels)?
- How many zones need independent audio control?
- Are there noise ordinances or venue-imposed decibel limits?
- Do you need wireless microphones? How many?
Standard Specs
- Small activation (under 100 ppl): 2-4 powered speakers, 1 mixer, 1-2 wireless mics
- Mid-size (100-500 ppl): Line array or distributed speaker system, dedicated audio tech, sub-bass for music
- Large-scale (500+ ppl): Full PA system, front-of-house engineer, monitor engineer, delay speakers for large footprints
- Always request a sound check window — minimum 2 hours before doors
Video & LED
Display Types
- LED walls: Best for bright environments, outdoor, and large-format. Spec by pixel pitch (P2.6 for close viewing, P3.9-P4.8 for distance)
- Projection: Cost-effective for large surfaces, but requires controlled lighting. Spec by lumens (5K+ for indoor, 10K+ for ambient light, 20K+ for outdoor/daylight)
- Monitors/TVs: Best for intimate interactions, kiosks, or digital signage. 55"-85" typical
Content Specs
- Get exact pixel dimensions from your AV vendor before content creation begins
- Standard LED: 16:9 ratio, but custom builds vary — always confirm
- File formats: H.264 MP4 for video, PNG for static, ProRes for high-quality playback
- Frame rate: 30fps standard, 60fps for smooth motion graphics
- Deliver content to AV vendor 48 hours before load-in for testing
Power & Electrical
Planning Essentials
- Request a power survey or venue electrical specs early — this drives your entire technical plan
- Calculate total amperage needed across all AV, lighting, fabrication, catering, and HVAC
- Rule of thumb: Watts = Volts x Amps. A standard 20A/120V circuit = 2,400W max (use 80% = 1,920W practical)
- Generator sizing: add 25% buffer above calculated load
Common Power Needs
- LED wall (per panel): 50-150W depending on brightness
- Powered speaker: 500-2,000W
- Moving head light: 300-1,200W
- Laptop/media server: 200-500W
- Espresso machine: 1,500-2,000W (dedicated circuit)
- Always plan for dedicated, clean power for AV (separate from catering/HVAC)
Internet & WiFi
- Hardline ethernet for any mission-critical connection (live streaming, POS systems, real-time data)
- Dedicated WiFi network for staff/operations — never rely on venue guest WiFi
- For consumer-facing WiFi experiences: plan for 1 Mbps per concurrent user minimum
- Cellular bonding units (e.g., Peplink, Cradlepoint) as backup for outdoor/remote locations
- Test internet 24 hours before event day if possible
Rigging & Structural
- Any overhead load (lighting truss, signage, speakers) requires a certified rigger
- Venue must provide rigging points and weight capacity documentation
- Ground-supported truss is an alternative when ceiling rigging isn't available
- All rigging requires engineering stamps for loads over 200 lbs in most jurisdictions
Technical Advance Checklist
- Confirm venue power capacity and distribution
- Get exact dimensions for all display surfaces
- Confirm rigging points and weight limits
- Verify internet/WiFi infrastructure
- Identify load-in path constraints (door heights, elevator limits, dock access)
- Schedule sound check and tech rehearsal windows
- Confirm content delivery deadline with AV vendor
- Plan cable runs and tape-down paths (trip hazards = liability)
- Assign a Technical Director or AV Lead for on-site