Does anyone have advice for handling the noise of the ball drop in a vintage (Abbott's) Hole in One? When rehearsing in my living room, it's VERY audible. (Not sure how audible it would be from 10' away with ambient sound.)

There's also some noise when closing the doors, which seems like I can minimize through delicate movement & practice.

Any advice would be much appreciated!!! Thx!

I haven't noticed that problem. Mine uses painted rubber balls which aren't particularly noisy. If you don't think it would look too odd, consider lining the rim of the shot glass with adhesive foam from a craft store.

As an afterthought I recall a comment from Paul Diamond when addressing the talking of gimmicked coins: "I'm talking, too." Do the work while commenting and directing as the spectator is positioning the cloth (I use a larger one than supplied).