How do bands set up intro tapes?

Err... you have an odd idea of "professional". Intro tapes only work if people know/care about your band. Adds some excitement, some tension. If no one knows who you are, I imagine the reaction will be, "errr... wtf is going on? I wish they'd just play and get it over with so (whoever the headliner is) can play. I'm sick of waiting".

It sets you off on a bad foot. People will be more inclined to be annoyed than impressed with your "professionalism", and that first impression will surely stick with many in the audience.

I'm not trying to insult you. Just... yeah, I wouldn't do the intro tape. Get out there, grab your instruments, and open with a song that will get everyone's attention. Don't play past your allotted time, not even a minute. If people like your songs, they'll like you... nothing else to cloud their judgment, nothing to make them resent you.

HOWEVER... as the person above said, if you really want an intro, ask the sound person. It's entirely up to him/her. That goes for pretty much everything... the soundguy is the one who can make or break your entire performance, so be nice to them/don't annoy them.

Thats a good one. Its all about the sound man at the gig and if he will do it! Some times if the headliner band owens the pa they wont let you do it. But just before you go on stage use a walk man with the lead vocals mic and try it that way. I would just ask the sound man at the show to help you out .