Translate system

What is an interpretation system?

An interpretation system is a solution that enables spoken content to be interpreted live by professional interpreters and made immediately available to participants via receivers and headphones. This allows programmes to remain easy to follow for multiple language groups at the same time, without interrupting the flow of presentations or discussions.

How does it work in practice?

For each language combination (for example Dutch → English and English → Dutch), a two-person interpretation booth is used that complies with a European standard. Inside the booth, two interpreters work with a headset and microphone to provide simultaneous interpretation. The interpreted audio is delivered to the audience via a receiver and headphones, allowing participants to select the language they want to follow by choosing the appropriate channel.

Booth, interpreters and participant reception

Interpreters work in a sound-insulated booth so they can interpret live without disruption. For participants, the process is straightforward: a receiver with a headset makes it possible to select their preferred language during the same session and switch when needed (for example between plenary sessions and break-outs).

Infrared: flexible and suitable for a wide range of venues

The (infrared) interpretation system is flexible to deploy and offers high audio quality. This makes it well suited to situations where reliability and speech intelligibility are essential, such as conferences and international organisations, regardless of event size or venue.

Scalability: multiple languages and channels

For larger gatherings, scaling up to multiple languages and channels may be required. Heuvelman has experience deploying interpretation systems for both permanent and temporary installations, including productions with up to 32 different language channels.

Key considerations for selection and set-up

For a solution that runs smoothly in practice, these are the main high-level principles:

• Number of languages and sessions: how many language channels are needed simultaneously, and which programme elements run in parallel

• Room layout: space for booth(s), sightlines and coverage to participants

• Audio chain: strong source quality (microphones/mixing console) is essential for interpretation quality

• Logistics and distribution: receivers/headsets, channel selection and support during changeover moments

• Alignment with show control: clear agreements on start/stop, breaks and speaker handovers

Why Heuvelman

The difference is in execution and reliability during live programmes: setting up the complete chain (source audio, booth, distribution to participants) and providing support during changeover moments. Experience with both temporary and permanent installations is also relevant for venues where scalability (multiple languages) and predictability are essential.

Advice on interpretation systems

An interpretation system performs best when technology, space and programme are aligned. Heuvelman Sound & Vision advises on a configuration that fits the number of languages, the venue and the desired level of on-site support during the event.

Get in touch to schedule an advisory conversation about interpretation systems.