There are two types of transmitter available for the Tourtalk system.
The most common version is the Tourtalk TT 40-T bodypack transmitter. This transmitter is battery powered and is therefore completely portable. It can be setup very quickly and be used indoors or outdoors with a range of up to 120m.
When the bodypack transmitter is used for simultaneous interpretation it is known as a ‘Whisper’ interpretation system. These systems are used for small meetings where the interpreter is in the same room as the meeting, and they hear the proceedings without any audio assistance.
The interpreter is issued with a bodypack transmitter and microphone, they then listen to the discussion and interpret what is said into their assigned language.
Two types of microphone are available for the bodypack transmitter. Both types of microphone are connected to the microphone socket on the top of the transmitter.
The headband microphone is used when one interpreter is assigned per language. The interpreter wears the microphone around the back of the head with the frame resting on the ears. The boom is adjusted so microphone is placed close to the interpreter’s mouth. As the microphone is always in close proximity to the mouth the signal is very clear and consistent. The interpreter can whisper in their assigned language so not to disturb other people in the vicinity.
The plug-in microphone is used when two interpreters are assigned the same language so they can alternate to reduce fatigue, known as “spelling” each other. The plug-in microphone is plugged directly into the microphone socket on the transmitter, and this converts the transmitter into a handheld microphone transmitter. As the microphone and transmitter become a one-piece device, the transmitter can be easily and quickly passed between the interpreters. The interpreter holds the microphone close to the mouth and whispers.
The bodypack transmitter has a mute switch located next to the microphone socket, to enable the microphone to be muted at any time during an event. When the microphone is muted the blue LED on the top of the transmitter will flash.
The alternative transmitter is the Tourtalk TT 40-ST stationary transmitter. This transmitter is mains powered and is usually used for larger events, as it has a greater operating range.
The stationary transmitter is ideal for venues where it is not possible for the interpreter to hear the discussions either due background noise, distance or being located in a booth or different room. This transmitter requires a connection from the venue’s sound system as an audio feed to the interpreter.
The interpreter is issued with a headset that is plugged into the stationary transmitter. The headset comprises of a headband microphone and headphones in a one-piece device.
The interpreter can hear the meetings proceedings in their headset, and then simultaneously interpret into their assigned language into the headset’s microphone.
The stationary transmitter has independent volume controls for the headphones and microphone to enable the interpreter to adjust the system.
Up to twelve transmitters (each set on a different channel/language) can be used within the same environment.
The audience members are each issued with a bodypack receiver and earphone before the event. The user then selects the appropriate channel for the interpreter for their language and adjusts their volume to a comfortable level.
The Tourtalk system can be used very discreetly without disturbing other audience members.
A range of simultaneous interpretation system packages are available.
If you have any questions about which system would be most suitable for your application then please do not hesitate to contact us.