In this blog, we’ll explore something that sits at the heart of every great interpreted event: interpreting equipment. Whether you’re organizing a small meeting, a conference for hundreds, a hybrid webinar, or a public consultation, having the right equipment is essential. As well as ensuring speakers are clearly audible, it also plays an important role in keeping interpreters comfortable and the audience engaged. These elements are all crucial in ensuring the original message is conveyed exactly as intended. Read on to discover which type of kit suits each kind of event, as well as the purpose behind each part!
What are the most used interpretation equipment options?
Let’s begin by looking at the main types of interpretation equipment.Â
First of all, headsets and receivers are almost always essential, as they allow participants to listen to the speaker’s words in their chosen language. Microphones are also crucial and mean the speakers on stage can be heard by the interpreter. Large, multilingual events with lots of participants also usually require special interpretation booths, which are used to create a quiet and comfortable environment for the interpreter. These come in different forms, depending on the scale of the event, as well as whether they need to be portable and how much space is available at the venue.
Then, there’s the supporting sound equipment, such as the transmitters, mixers, CCUs, and infrared radiators, with additional infrared systems and radio frequency devices for clear audio transmission. And finally, you might also need video monitors to allow the interpreters to see the speakers when they are out of view.
Sounds complicated? Don’t worry! We’ll walk you through the process.
How do I know what interpreting equipment I need?
As you can see, interpreting equipment is not always straightforward and there are many variables to look at. Thankfully, at Capital Linguists we have considerable expertise in the field, so we’ll always be happy to advise on the best set-up for your particular event or meeting.
A useful starting point is to identify the following:
- How many languages are involvedÂ
This determines how many interpreters you’ll need, and knowing each language’s audience size will tell you how many headsets, transmitters, and receivers to provide.
- The layout of the venueÂ
Work out if the room offers unobstructed sightlines and note down any obstacles, such as pillars or walls, because these will influence the choice of transmission.
- How long the event will lastÂ
An hour-long meeting is very different from a three-day international conference when it comes to interpreting equipment – especially translation booths!
Translation booths: Which type should you choose?
Translation booths are almost always required for simultaneous interpretation (which happens in real time, unlike consecutive interpretation, where there is a short pause allowing the interpreter to consider and formulate their translation).Â
This piece of equipment creates a comfortable, distraction-free environment for the interpreters. There are two main options to choose from:
- Soundproof interpretation booths
These are fully enclosed booths, in other words, a cubicle that separate the interpreters from the rest of the venue. They have a small opening providing ventilation (it can get warm in there!) and enough space for both interpreters to work comfortably. Because simultaneous interpreting is so intense, interpreters rotate regularly to take short rest breaks, so this setup is essential. Each booth also includes a desk for the interpreter console, which controls the audio feed. The walls are insulated to block external noise and create a quiet working environment, so the interpreter truly does have an optimized space! The main downsides are they take up a lot of room and need considerable time to install.
- Tabletop booths
When full-sized soundproof booths aren’t possible because of space constraints or other logistical aspects, tabletop booths offer a practical alternative. These portable units sit on the table where the interpreter works and are enclosed on three sides (the front is open for access) and sometimes have a lid. They admit more background noise and are less comfortable than full booths, so they’re best for short meetings rather than all-day or multi-day conferences. Their main advantages are they’re inexpensive and quick to set up.
How the audio reaches the audience
Once the interpreter has listened carefully, translated the message, and reformulated it into the desired language, it needs to be conveyed to the audience. This happens using one of two systems: infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF). Each is useful in different situations.
- Infrared
Think of IR like a TV remote: it sends sound with light, so you need a clear line of sight between the transmitter and each receiver. If anything’s in the way – pillars, walls or even moving people – the signal can drop out. On the plus side, IR can’t be picked up outside the room, so it’s great when privacy matters.
- Radio frequency
RF uses radio waves, so it’ll go through walls and cover bigger, more complicated spaces, and it works outside too. But RF channels can get noisy if there are lots of other wireless gadgets nearby, so you may need someone to manage frequencies.
Capital Linguists’ specialized interpretation equipment
Capital Linguists specializes in interpretation services, as well as the equipment it requires. We use Bosch – the industry standard – to give clients a fully scalable solution. We’ll complete setup at least a day before the event and provide technical support throughout to ensure everything runs smoothly. If you’d like to discuss your next event, large or small, please reach out!
