Short definition
A whisper interpreting system is a compact, portable language transmission setup with a microphone transmitter and radio receivers – for interpreting without a booth for small groups or on the move.
Detailed explanation
The whisper interpreting system is technically identical to the portable guide system (PGS): the interpreter speaks quietly into a pocket transmitter with a microphone, and listeners receive the signal via pocket receivers with headphones. No booth is needed – the system is lightweight, quickly deployable, and mobile.
It suits situations where a full simultaneous booth is too elaborate or impossible: small groups, factory and site tours, outdoor appointments, or bilateral accompaniment. The limits lie in acoustics: since there's no sound insulation, only a few languages at once make sense, and listening quality depends heavily on ambient noise. For longer, multilingual conferences, booth-based simultaneous technology remains the better choice. Even so, the whisper system is an extremely flexible, widely used tool.
Relevance in this subject area
The whisper interpreting system covers mobile, booth-free needs – anywhere people are moving or a booth can't be set up.
Practical example
During a factory tour for an international delegation, the interpreter wears a pocket transmitter and whispers the interpretation; the 15 guests listen via pocket receivers as the group moves through the hall.
Related terms
Portable guide system (PGS), Guide system (PGS), Whispered interpreting (chuchotage), Pocket transmitter / pocket receiver, Receiver (conference receiver)