I was in pit at MSG in NYC, apparently you could get your pit wristband earlier in the day to skip the line, but there was only a limited number they were giving out early. We didn't get our bands early, we just got to the venue entrance about 45-30 minutes before doors opened. It was a little confusing at first to find out where they were giving out the wristbands, but we found it quickly and basically just walked right up to a table with no line, showed our GA tickets, got the pit wristbands, and walked in. All you had to do was show your wristband to the security standing at the pit, then we literally walked right up to the rail. I don't wear headphones at most concerts, so I was fine anyways, but I was actually surprised that the volume didn't feel overbearing even right at the stage, it was perfect! Highly recommend this experience if you have the means for it, best show of my life and the energy down there is incredible.