A Guide to The Best Headsets for Remote Interpreting

Good sound quality has a direct impact on the success of any meeting and event, and yet it is too often overlooked. Being able to hear the speaker loud and clear, is not just a matter of comfort for listeners but also a prerequisite for interpretation. So one of the key tools that you should consider using to improve your sound quality is a quality headset.

In this article:

1. Designed to improve sound quality
2. What makes a good headset?
3. 4 types of headsets and microphones
4. Over-the-ear headsets
5. On-ear headsets
6. Open-back headsets
7. Tabletop microphones
8. Conclusion
9. List of headsets ranked by performance

Designed to improve sound quality

Truth be told, the interpreting community has tackled the topic of headsets more than the events industry - because historically, in-person events, where speakers use stand-alone mics, have been much more common than online or hybrid ones. However, the growing demand for the latter event types calls for a review of the headset as a required tool for anyone actively participating in hybrid or online events.   

It is within the interpreting industry that we easily find different players listing the best headsets but the criteria they use to determine those varies. For example, The International Association of Conference Interpreters Technical and Health Committee has released a recommended list of devices from different manufacturers indicating the compliance of their headphones and microphones with ISO PAS 24019 / ISO 20109, which set the standards for simultaneous interpreting delivery platforms. On the other hand, RSI platforms such as Interprefy, also have gathered feedback from over 200 headsets tested in the RSI environment.

The good news is that no matter the list, there are some aspects everyone seems to agree on when deciding what makes a headset good. 

So, what makes a good headset?

Here are some characteristics that all active participants in multilingual events should consider when choosing a headset: 

• Wired headset, not wireless

  Opting for a wired headset ensures seamless transmission without any interruptions, saving you the added concern of losing connectivity mid-delivery. Picture delivering a speech or interpreting, only to realise that your battery has died halfway through. With so many unpredictable factors at play during an event, why add unnecessary worry?

• Noise-canceling system

  Distractions can quickly derail a speech or interpretation, and ambient noise like barking dogs or construction can be incredibly disruptive. That's where noise cancellation comes in - this feature blocks out unwanted sounds and also enhances overall sound quality for a more seamless experience.

• Acoustic sound protection

  If you find yourself in a situation where the speaker doesn't have a noise-cancelling microphone or isn't wearing one at all, or if you wear a headset for extended periods, then acoustic sound protection is a must-have feature. This not only helps you deal with all kinds of noises but also reduces the strain on your hearing, making for a more comfortable experience.

• Good sound output

  For those unable to use a tabletop microphone, a headset with a flexible boom microphone is ideal. This allows for the microphone to be easily positioned in front of the mouth, ensuring clear and prioritised voice transmission over any background noise. 

• Comfort

  Fortunately, there is a plethora of options available to cater to your comfort preferences, including double-sided, single-sided, and bone conduction headsets. The only requirement is that they are connected to the computer via USB for seamless transmission.

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4 types of headsets and microphones

To make an informed decision on audio equipment, it's crucial to understand the various types of headsets and microphones available. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, so let's explore the four primary types used for remote interpreting and discover which models our trainers endorse.

Over-the-ear headsets

Over-the-ear, or circumaural headsets have large ear cups that fully surround the ears and are usually large in size.

Performance - Over-the-ear headsets excel at blocking out unwanted noise, allowing for a softer incoming volume that protects your hearing. With the lowest risk of sound leaking (sound filtered from the earpiece to the microphone) from the earpiece to the microphone, they are the go-to choice for interpreters. However, wearing both earpieces may prompt you to speak louder, leading to vocal strain over extended periods. A simple solution is to remove one earpiece, enabling you to speak softly while still hearing yourself clearly.

Comfort - Although over-the-ear headsets are renowned for their noise-canceling capabilities, they may not be the most comfortable choice for extended use. They tend to be heavier than other models, and for those wearing glasses, they might put additional pressure on the temples.

Sound quality - In most events, these headsets have earned an "excellent" rating for their sound quality. However, in some instances, sound leaks, buzzing, or occasional airflow have been reported as issues.

Over-the-ear headset models frequently used by interpreters -

Creative Chat Max HS-720 USB, HyperX Cloud Alpha, KOSS SB45, Logitech (H390, G PRO H111 models), Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000, Panasonic RP-HF-100E, Sennheiser (GSP 350, HD 4.5 models), Sony WH-XB900N, Steelseries Arctis 7.

Our trainers' favourites

Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000- good value

"This headset has good microphone quality for its value. Its microphone sound is clear and without distortion or airflow if responsibly managed. The downside of this model is that maximum input sound is not as high, and it doesn’t have a very long-life span."

Jabra Evolve 40 USB – Good budget and accessible

"This headset is a good option that is accessible in most countries and is good value. It is lightweight and comfortable for working even long hours. The microphone sound is clear, and airflow can be easily managed by adjusting the position correctly. Incoming sound is good for day-to-day meetings and events, but it doesn’t have a noise-cancelling feature. If the Incoming sound is too loud it might lead to a slight sound leak. One advantage is that it has both USB and 3.5mm jack output, so it can also be plugged into a physical interpreting console."

On-ear headsets

Performance - This type of headset is the most used among interpreters. Depending on the model, it blocks some extraneous sound so it allows a softer incoming volume, which is great to preserve your hearing. They can have some sound leak, but as they rest on the ear without covering it completely, allows you to speak at a softer volume if you wear both earpieces. If you opt for noise-blocking models, removing one earpiece will enable you to speak at a lower volume and still hear yourself clearly, while alternating uncovered ears will reduce the strain on your hearing.

Sound quality - While these types of headsets generally receive high ratings for sound quality in 90% of events, there are some common issues such as sound leak, muffled sound, occasional airflow, cracking, and distortion that may arise.

Comfort - Weighing in at a mere 95g, the Sennheiser SC 660 is a top pick for interpreters seeking a lightweight headset that can be comfortably worn for extended periods. Additionally, models with smaller ear cups are ideal for those who wear glasses, as they won't put unwanted pressure on the temples.

On-ear headsets used by interpreters - Sennheiser SC (130, 160, 165, 260, 650, 660, 665 models), Sennheiser PC (5, 8, 8.2 models), Jabra Evolve (2 40, 20, 30, 40, 60, 75 models), Koss CS300, Logitech (H340, H540 models) and Plantronics (C3220, 5220 models).

Our trainers’ favorite

Sennheiser SC660

"This model has a higher price than other Sennheiser models, but it has very good sound quality of the microphone to justify the price tag. It is noticeably light and comfortable even for long assignments. Their noise cancelling feature is not perfect: for example, it will muffle some sounds but if the incoming sound is on the maximum level, there might be a slight sound leak."

Open-back headsets

These headsets have built-in gaps on the outer part of the earcup, allowing the sound to pass through. It leads to a more natural sound as it doesn’t block the sound around you, but it also offers the lowest levels of sound isolation.

Performance - This type of headset is widely used among interpreters; however they are the worst performing in terms of sound isolation. As they do not block external noise at all, you will hear everything around you which may lead to increasing the input volume and damaging your hearing over time. They very often also present sound leak on events. They have a couple of advantages for interpreters, as they will also allow you to speak softer and keep both earpieces on as you will hear yourself while you speak.

Sound quality - While these types of headsets are generally rated with excellent sound quality in 94% of events, the common problem with them is sound leak. Occasional airflow and buzz are also less common issues that may arise.

Open back headsets frequently used by interpreters - Sennheiser SC (60, 70, 75 models)

Our trainers’ opinion: "The Sennheiser SC60 is a budget choice. It's not as comfortable as other higher-end Sennheiser options and interpreters should be careful with sound leak. We recommend using both earpieces on while interpreting to avoid sound leak, and because they are open on the back you will still hear yourself without the need of removing one earpiece."

Tabletop microphones

Performance -Both condenser and dynamic tabletop microphones provide excellent performance when used with the headsets mentioned above, as well as with in-ear headphones. When it comes to preferred headphones among interpreters, the Bang & Olufsen A8 and H9i models are highly sought after due to their lightweight design (only 22 grams), compatibility with hard consoles, and exceptional lifespan.

Comfort - Tabletop microphones have a slightly higher learning curve as the sound quality will depend on the positioning of the mic, so they require a bit of testing to find the best position.

Sound quality - Tabletop microphones are known for their exceptional sound quality, with an average rating of "excellent" in 95% of events. However, background noise, distorted sound, and poor microphone management can be common issues. It's worth noting that sound leak is less frequently reported with tabletop microphones, as it's typically caused by the headset rather than the microphone itself.

Condenser microphones used by interpreters - Blue Yeti and Blue Yeti Nano, Pro and X models, AKG Lyra, Audio Technica AT2020, Neuman TLM 103, Razer Seiren (Mini and X models), Rode NT, Samson (C03 and G-Track Pro), Saramonic SR-MV2000, SK 30, Thronmax MDrill One and Zingyou BM 800.

Dynamic microphones used by interpreters - Shure (MV7, SM57, SM58, SM7B models).

Our trainers’ favourite

"The Blue Yeti microphone provides great sound, but it does require some setting up. It is important to be set on cardioid mode (Heart-shaped mode, ideal for voiceovers, voice acting, and podcasting, so the mic will only pick up what's in front of it, and slightly off-angle) and to speak directly at it and not into the top of the microphone. While Yeti provides very clear sound, interpreters should be mindful of background noise as it will very likely pick up shuffling papers or typing on a keyboard."

List of headsets ranked by performance

We continuously monitor and measure the sound quality of interpreters' output during events and collect information on the equipment they use.  The table below shows how good the overall sound quality was when each headset and mic was used, and the number of events in which they were used.  

Excellent sound quality means sound is loud and clear, with no floor leak, distorted sounds, buzz or no airflow.

Good sound quality means the sound is mostly loud and clear, with minor issues that can be removed or minimised and barely noticed. 

Conclusion

Poor sound quality can significantly affect the user experience during virtual and hybrid events. The presence of tabletop microphones can provide a more natural sound, but their absence can lead to sound distortion, background noise, and poor microphone management.

Fortunately, headsets can provide a quick fix to these issues, especially if all active participants use them correctly.

Over-the-ear headsets are renowned for their noise-cancelling capabilities, but they may not be the most comfortable choice for extended use.

On-ear headsets offer a sleeker design and are the most popular choice among interpreters because they can block out external noise while still allowing them to hear themselves speak.

Open-back headsets have built-in gaps on the outer part of the ear cup, allowing the sound to pass through, leading to a more natural sound.

Tabletop microphones, whether condenser or dynamic, are also an excellent option for providing high-quality sound during events.

Ultimately, using headsets and tabletop microphones correctly can significantly improve sound quality and enhance the user experience during virtual and hybrid events.

Are you an interpreter looking to work with Interprefy?

Then click here