Depeche Mode is one of the most popular and influential electronic bands in music history, with a career spanning over four decades. The band has a huge international fanbase, known as the ‘Black Swarm’, who are extremely dedicated and always eager to get tickets to Depeche Mode’s sold-out shows and tours.
One of the best ways for diehard Depeche Mode fans to get early access to tickets is through the fan club presale. This allows registered members of the band’s official fan club to purchase tickets before the general public. Here is a breakdown of how to get access to the Depeche Mode fan presale and tips for securing the best seats:
Join the Official Fan Club
The first step is to join Depeche Mode’s official fan club, called ‘Strange Love’. This can be done on the band’s website and gives you access to presale ticket codes and other exclusive content. There are different tiers of membership depending on the level of access you want. At minimum, you’ll need an annual Digital membership which costs around $25 USD per year.
Check Presale Date and Time
Once you are a fan club member, check the tour section of the Depeche Mode website for information on the upcoming presale. The presale date and start time will be listed, along with any presale code that is needed. Presales usually begin 24-48 hours before tickets go on sale to the general public.
Log In Ahead of Time
Make sure to log into your fan club account ahead of the presale start time. This will save you time during the rushed presale process. Have your presale code ready and make sure your payment information is updated in your account.
Be Ready Right at the Start Time
Fan club presales typically sell out very quickly due to high demand. Refresh the ticket page right at the advertised start time and look for the presale option. Enter the code and start searching for your tickets. Move fast to get the best seats, as the good ones go quickly.
Aim for the Fan Club Exclusive Presale
Some bands like Depeche Mode also hold fan club exclusive presales that only existing members can access by using a special code. This presale happens before the main fan club presale. Check the fan club website ahead of time to see if they advertise an exclusive window.
Tips for Getting Good Seats
Here are some handy tips for making sure you score the best seats through the Depeche Mode fan presale:
Research the Venue Seating Map
Study the layout and seating sections of each venue on the tour schedule. Note sections that are closest to the stage like floor seats, lower level, front orchestra, etc. This will allow you to strategize and quickly find desirable seats during the fast-paced presale.
Check Fan Forums
Long-time fans often share tips and tricks for getting the best presale seats on fan forums like Reddit. Check fan groups for that inside info on the ideal spot in each venue.
Be Flexible on Dates and Cities
Consider attending shows on off-peak nights like Tuesday or Wednesday instead of on the weekend. Also look at going to concert locations in smaller cities which tend to be less competitive.
Use Multiple Devices
Have both your computer and mobile phone ready to log into the presale. Using two devices gives you a better shot at getting seats. If one device gets stuck or knocks you out of the waiting room, just switch to the other one.
Get VIP Tickets
Depeche Mode offers special VIP ticket packages through the fan club with premium perks like watching soundcheck, receiving a gift bag, and having a private bar area. These are more expensive but guarantee you the closest access.
Joining the Fan Club
Here is more in-depth information on how to become an official Depeche Mode fan club member and get access to presales:
Visit the Band’s Website
Go to the official Depeche Mode website (depechemode.com). Hover over “Music & Tours” and a dropdown menu appears. Click on “Fan Club Presales”.
Select Your Membership Tier
You will see three options:
- Digital Membership ($25/year) – Presale code access
- Black Swarm Membership ($40/year) – Digital access plus a membership pack and discount codes
- Strange Love Membership ($150/lifetime) – All Black Swarm perks plus a bonus gift and exclusive content
Most fans opt for the basic Digital level to get presale codes. The other tiers offer more value for super fans.
Create Your Account
Click “Register” on your desired tier and fill out the sign up form. Make sure to use an email you check regularly so you don’t miss any presale announcements. You will need to verify the account via email.
Pay the Membership Fee
Use your credit card or PayPal to pay the one-time or annual membership fee. This grants you instant access to the fan club website and presales. Membership renews automatically annually.
Membership Type | Price | Includes |
---|---|---|
Digital | $25 per year | Presale code access |
Black Swarm | $40 per year | Digital access, membership pack, codes |
Strange Love | $150 lifetime | All Black perks, bonus gift, exclusive content |
Using Presale Codes
Here are step-by-step instructions for using a Depeche Mode fan club presale code to buy tickets:
Check the Tour Section
When a tour is announced, a new Tour section will appear on the Depeche Mode website. Check here for presale details.
Find the Presale Code
The site will list the presale date, time, and code needed. The code is typically emailed to members too. Save this for the presale.
Log In Ahead of Time
On the presale day, log into your fan club account early and confirm your payment method is set up.
Go to Ticket Purchase Page
Shortly before the presale time, go directly to the ticket purchase page on DepecheMode.com. Have the code ready.
Look for Presale Option
When the presale starts, a spot to enter the special code will appear. Type in the code and access will be granted.
Search for Tickets
Tickets available for fan club members will now appear. Click through each section and find seats as quickly as possible.
Checkout Fast
Once desired tickets are selected, speed through checkout before they disappear from your cart. Congrats, you scored presale seats!
Getting Refunds or Resales
If your plans change after scoring Depeche Mode tickets through presale, here are tips on getting a refund or reselling:
Check Refund Policy
Review the original ticket order confirmation to see if refunds are allowed. Refund eligibility and timeframe will be listed.
Login and Request Refund
If eligible, log into your ticket account and submit a refund request. Allow several days for processing. Refund goes back to original payment method.
Sell Through Official Resale
Some tickets can be resold through the venue’s official fan resale marketplace for face value. This transfers the ticket to a new buyer.
Use Reputable Third-Party Sites
Resale sites like StubHub are an option. Carefully review site policies and fees. Transfer tickets once payment is received.
Join Fan Ticket Exchange Groups
Facebook groups like “Depeche Mode Ticket Exchange” allow fans to connect to resell extra tickets at fair prices.
Conclusion
Depeche Mode fan club presales offer diehard fans exclusive access to purchase tickets to in-demand shows before the general public. By joining the official “Strange Love” fan club, checking for presale details, using the special codes correctly, and moving quickly during the purchase process, you can greatly increase your chances of scoring amazing seats. Utilize fan forums for tips from seasoned Depeche Mode concert-goers on securing the best spots. With some dedication and planning, you can get presale tickets and have an incredible fan experience at a Depeche Mode concert.