We have recently supplied a simultaneous interpretation system to Carey Baptist Church, Reading so they can communicate to the limited-English speaking members of their congregation.
The interpretation is conducted by a team of volunteers who listen to the service and then interpret the message into their allocated language. Each interpreter is issued with a wireless Tourtalk TT 200-T bodypack transmitter, set to a unique channel. They then listen to the proceedings in English and whisper into a lightweight single ear headset.
Those that require the interpretation are provided with a wireless Tourtalk TT 200-R bodypack receiver and a discreet single earphone. The user can then select their required channel and adjust their personal volume, without disturbing surrounding attendees.
To ensure the system is user friendly and reliable, each language is labelled via the programmable OLED screen and unused channels are disabled.
Please see the below review kindly provided by a member of the churches AV team:
We recently purchased the Digital TT 200 interpretation system for live use during our church services.
Carey Baptist Church main chapel holds about 400 people, with an upstairs gallery as well as downstairs. Users can sit anywhere in the chapel and enjoy live interpretation.
We run four different languages simultaneously, benefitting our international attendees and are very pleased with what we’ve bought.
Initially we had planned to go with the TT 100 system but after demoing both decided it was worth the extra money to go with the TT 200. Here’s what we found are the main benefits:
Sound quality – The TT 200 units handle variations in level well with smart auto levelling. This leads to a better experience for those listening.
Channel labels – The TT 200 units allow you to label each channel. The TT 100 versions just have channel numbers. Again, this greatly benefits our international users who can toggle round the available languages to find theirs. No need to ask what channel number they need to set their receiver to, especially when their English is often limited.
Mode flexibility – The TT 200 units have much more flexibility enabling different modes of use, including the option for two interpreters to speak and hear each other on a single channel, effectively helping each other or allowing for taking in turns during a long session.
Due to the nature of live interpretation during a church service and the need to often be quite discrete, we experimented with different interpreter headsets. We found we needed a mic that sits close to mouth and able to pick up low-level whispering from the interpreter.
Note, the TT 200 system can operate on both licence-free and licenced frequencies. This was not an issue for us as a church as our radio mics used in our services are already licenced. The TT 200 system can run as part of that license.
If you’re considering the TT 100 system, I’d recommend looking at the TT 200 and noting the benefits to users of spending a little bit extra.
Gareth from Sound Induction Systems Ltd has always been happy to share his knowledge and advice. Overall, a great experience from him as we’ve taken on this new area of service as a church.
Tim Parker
AV Team
Carey Baptist Church, Reading
More information on the Tourtalk TT 200 system can be found here.
