Teleprompters can not only add tons of production value to your corporate or promotional videos, but they can also save you a lot of time and effort when putting your productions together. The biggest problem, though, is still their affordability. Even though the prices of these tools are steadily dropping, they are still relatively expensive, especially when it comes to the dedicated top-end models available out there. The good news is that you don’t need the biggest teleprompter to complete the job. Even a portable, pocket-sized teleprompter could be a feasible option for most of your projects and applications. This is where the budget-oriented Parrot 2 (the successor of the original Parrot) teleprompter comes in.
Although the Parrot 2 keeps most of the features of the original Parrot teleprompter, there are a few new enhancements worth noting. For instance, the latest unit now has a wider body which allows it to work better with phones with up to 5.5in screens thus providing more screen real estate for better readability. Unlike the older model, the Parrot 2 has mechanical clips to hold the glass so it won’t ever fall out. The new cover also slides on and off effortlessly as it’s made out of a more rugged material so it won’t scratch as easily.
Furthermore, the Parrot Teleprompter will work with most professional camcorders, mirrorless cameras and DSLRs as long as they have filter threads on their lens. You can even use your GoPro camera in conjunction with the Parrot 2 with some third-party filter adapters. The pocket-sized teleprompter’s kit comes with all common size filter adapters along with a dedicated remote control that is a huge time saver and makes the process of controlling the device much more convenient and straightforward.
Perrot 2 Teleprompter Highlights
- Dimensions: 120mm x 100mm x 83mm (about 4.5″ x 4″ x 3.25″)
- Weight: 4lb (180 grams)
- Professional 30R/70T teleprompter glass coated with a vapor deposition process to ensure even coating and superb optical clarity
- Adjustable spring-loaded clamp to hold a smartphone in place. It also has a rubber grip pad to ensure the smartphone does not slip out
- Common size filter adapters are included to ensure universal lens compatibility. Ø49mm, Ø52mm, Ø55mm, Ø58mm, Ø62mm, Ø67mm, Ø72mm, Ø77mm, Ø82mm
- Dedicated Wireless Remote
- One year manufacturer’s warranty
- Price – Starting at $80
- Availability – September 2016
With the improved front and back covers, setting up Parrot 2 takes just a few seconds. Simply mount the correct adapter to the front of your camera lens and slide the teleprompter over it. Then place your smartphone in the dock and load the free Parrot Teleprompter app which will scroll your lines in front of the camera thus letting you record your videos like a true professional.
Currently, the ongoing Parrot 2 Kickstarter campaign has successfully raised more than $30, 000 so far. You can also back the project and get some of the Early Birds by heading over to Parrot 2’s Kickstarter site. It’s expected that the most eager backers will get their hands on the unit in September 2016 at the earliest. If you can’t wait for the updated version, you can get the older model instead as it will set you back just $99.
[via: Cinema5D, source: Kickstarter]
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