Setting up Your Studio in a Box
Studio in a Box delivers everything you need for at-home recording right to your doorstep. Follow the steps and guidance below to get set up and ready to record.
Your Space
One of the advantages of Studio in a Box is that you can record from almost anywhere. As you choose your filming location, you'll want to consider the need to provide a distraction-free environment—it will benefit both your concentration while recording as well as the student's experience. Try to find a space that is quiet with minimal distractions, has good lighting, and has access to high-speed internet. Don't worry too much about the aesthetics of the space otherwise—our team can provide equipment to ensure your video has a professional look.
Setting up the Equipment
The following steps will help you set up and configure each component for at-home production. Feel free to jump to a specific part of the process as needed.
Note: You won't use all of the accessories included with the kit. We send some extra items so that you can make the most of the components in future recordings. Feel free to review the included instructions for the individual components to explore their full capabilities.
Step 1: Connect the USB Hub
Connect the USB Hub to your computer. There is a USB-C adapter included for Macbook users.
Step 2: Charge the Lights (LitraTorch Kit Only)
Connect the LitraTorch lights to the USB Hub or an AC adapter to charge before recording. The Green LED indicator on the top of the light will stop flashing when the light is fully charged, which takes approximately 90 minutes. The lights will charge while in use if only on brightness Levels 1 & 2. For more information, refer to the Litra FAQ page.
Step 3: Setup the Camera
Connect the The Logitech Brio Webcam to the USB Hub. The Logitech Brio Webcam is designed to sit atop your monitor, but it includes a standard tripod mounting screw on the bottom. It also comes with a privacy cover you can attach to the top of the camera.
Download and install the LogiTune app to fine-tune your camera (See Step 7 for additional guidance).
Step 4: Set Up the Microphone
Attach the AT2020 microphone into the included stand so that the Mic/Com monitor dial and Headphone volume dial are facing away from the stand. The capsule for the AT2020 microphone faces out above those dials, and you should address that side when recording. Plug the microphone into the USB Hub. Position the microphone 1-2 feet from you during recording. It can be to the side, out of frame, provided the capsule is facing you.
Note: The supplied microphone also has audio monitoring capabilities. Once connected to USB, some computers automatically route all audio (both sound input and output) to the device. It is suggested that a user check their audio settings before connecting the microphone and note that output. If a change occurs when connecting the microphone, a user can adjust the output back to the original setting.
Step 5: Set Up the Lights
NOTE: Due to changes in available inventory of some Studio in a Box items, the lighting package may differ. If the package contains a single ring light on a clip, follow the steps outlined in 5a. If the package contains two square lights with two GorillaPod Tripods, follow the steps outlined in 5b.
5a - Ring Light Assembly
Attach the clamp on the ring light to a table edge or heavy book. Extend the light arm fully. Plug the light USB cord to either your computer or supplied USB AC adapter. Press the "ON/OFF" button to turn on the light. Pressing the "+" button will increase the light brightness, were the "-" button will decrease the light brightness. The circular arrow button will change the white light color from blue, to orange, to a combination of blue and orange. Choose the light color that creates the most accurate color representation. See the section on Tips for Creating Quality Video, for guidance on how to best light yourself for recording!
5b - LitraTorch Light Assembly
Attach the LitraTorch lights to the Joby GorillaPod Tripods. The lights will last approximately 4 hours on level 1 (one click of the power button), 70 minutes on level 2 (two clicks of the power button), and 35 minutes on level 3 (three clicks of the power button).
NOTE: A fourth click of the power button turns on the light's strobe function. You'll need a fifth click of the power button to turn the lights off.
The lights can also be plugged in to use AC power during recording. See the section on Tips for Creating Quality Video, for guidance on how to best light yourself for recording!
If you are only using one light for filming, we recommend charging the second light when not in use. If you are using both lights for filming for an extended period of time, we recommend that you connect the lights to USB power.
The Joby GorillaPod Tripods feature a quick release plate that the light screws onto. Push the side button to release the plate and use a coin or screwdriver to tighten the light onto the plate. Once secure, reconnect the quick release plate back onto the tripod. The tripod's articulating arms are designed to adapt to any mounting scenario.
Caution: In extended use situations, the lights can become warm!
Step 6: Assemble the Background
Depending on your recording space, you may need to set up the background. The background kit includes two adjustable stands, an adjustable top bar, and a roll of background paper. Assemble the top bar to the desired width—between 6-10’—and insert the top bar through the roll of paper. Adjust the support stands to the desired height and attach the top bar and paper. Unroll the paper until your frame is completely filled and use the included clips to hold the paper in place and prevent it from unrolling. If your kit came with sandbags, consider adding weight to stabilize the stand.
Step 7: (Optional) Adjust Camera Settings
Depending on your recording space, you may need to adjust your camera settings. The LogiTune app can be used to make a variety of adjustments.
When your kit is set up, it's time to take a look at the Recording in Panopto »