Teleprompter Hardware Setup Guide

1. Camera & Lens Choices

Start with the camera you already own. Modern smartphones, mirrorless bodies (Sony Alpha, Canon EOS R), and webcams (Logitech Brio) all work with VocalScroll because video is captured in-browser. Prioritize:

• Stability: Use a tripod or C-stand so the lens sits directly behind your teleprompter glass.
• Lens field of view: A 24–35mm full-frame equivalent keeps your shoulders in frame without distortion.
• Framing markers: Use your browser’s picture-in-picture preview while adjusting height to match eye level.

2. Mounting Your Teleprompter

Clamp-style teleprompter rigs are fast to set up, while beam-splitter glass systems offer premium clarity. Mount the glass so it tilts slightly downward (5–10°) to avoid ceiling reflections. If you need a portable option, pair a tablet cradle with a collapsible stand and still run VocalScroll on your laptop.

3. Lighting for Clear Delivery

Balanced lighting removes shadows on the glass and gives AI enhancers more detail to work with. Try a three-point setup: key light 45° off-axis, a softer fill light on the opposite side, and a hair or background light. Match color temperatures (5600K daylight) so skin tones stay consistent with the Pre-Recording Checklist.

4. Audio & Room Treatment

A USB microphone or lavalier plugged into an audio interface keeps sound tight. Enable echo cancellation in VocalScroll if you’re working in an untreated space, or add soft furnishings and acoustic panels to dampen reflections. Review the Voice-Controlled Scrolling guide if you plan to rely on speech recognition.

5. Cable Management & Power

Use Velcro ties and gaffer tape to keep HDMI, USB, and power runs away from the teleprompter glass. Plug cameras and lights into a surge-protected power strip so you can reboot everything with one switch between takes.

6. Portable & Remote Kits

If you record on the go, pack a foldable tripod, tablet teleprompter, compact LED panel, USB-C mic, and collapsible backdrop. Save your VocalScroll settings to ensure the experience matches your home configuration.

How to Assemble Your Teleprompter Rig

1. Stabilize the base. Spread the tripod legs wider than shoulder width, lock the head, and mount your teleprompter so the glass tilts down about 5–10°.
2. Set camera position. Slide the camera 5–8 inches behind the glass, pick a 24–35mm full-frame equivalent lens, and match your eye line using the VocalScroll preview.
3. Secure lighting and cables. Place a key light 45° off axis, add fill or hair lights if needed, then route HDMI, USB, and power with Velcro or gaffer tape to keep the glass clear.

Hardware Setup FAQ