Two-way tour guide systems serve two functions: They allow a presenter to easily transmit sound and the guest to hear the message clearly.
The technology contained within a tour guide system that allows for both functions to occur at the same time is called a transceiver. But there’s more to this piece of equipment than meets the eye.
What is a Transceiver?
As their names suggest, transmitters transmit audio signals and receivers receive them. Sounds simple enough but independently, their uses are limited to one-way communication. A transceiver combines the two technologies into a single device, allowing audio equipment to receive and send information simultaneously.
The History of Two-Way Transceivers
The cell phones we all carry in our pockets are possible, in part, due to an invention by Motorola that played a pivotal role among American troops during World War II. The battery-operated “Handie-Talkie,” as it was called, combined a transmitter and a receiver into a single, “lightweight” hand-held unit that weighed only five pounds, as opposed to the large dual units that had to be carried in backpacks. It was the birth of what would be known as walkie-talkies, or two-way radios, and Motorola Solutions still leads the pack in these technologies.
Wireless transceiver technology has evolved to include more than just radios, however. Tour guide systems used for events, factory tours, training and a host of other applications, include small, truly lightweight transceivers typically worn around the neck. The transceivers allow guests to hear in real-time and interact with the presenter at the push of a button, while tour guide operators can talk hands-free. The technology also makes it possible to offer assistive listening and interpretation services, allowing for more inclusive tours.
RELATED: The Ultimate Event Audio Communications Planning Guide
Best Tour Guide System with Transceivers
Many tour guide systems offered today feature transceivers, but not all include extensive two-way communication capabilities. Our Implecho audio communication experts recommend the ListenTalk tour guide solution for those who wish to create an interactive tour experience.
ListenTalk Tour Guide System
The ListenTalk two-way tour guide system is ideal for events, factory tours, jobsites, employee training and silent sessions due to its flexible configurations and outstanding audio quality. Tour guide headset transceivers with hands-free microphones can be easily programmed for:
- One-way communication (listen only)
- Two-way communication (respond and collaborate)
- Interpretation mode (multiple channels for language interpretation)
ListenTalk also offers Near-Field Communication (NFC) pairing technology, allowing for expanded coverage across a broader area, rather than using separate systems. A nice advantage of ListenTalk is that multiple presenters (up to three) can speak at one time to an unlimited number of guests.
VIEW: ListenTalk Rental, Purchase & Demo Options
Additional Considerations for Tour Guide Systems
While transceivers are an important feature, there’s a lot more to consider when choosing a tour guide system. When working with your Implecho audio communication specialist, be sure to ask about charging cases, extra batteries and the types of headsets and available accessories.
You’ll also want to talk through potential challenges like high noise levels that might require special noise-reduction-rating (NRR) headsets or situations in which multiple presentations need to take place at one time. For complex, high-stakes events, you may want to consider having an on-site tour guide system specialist who’ll handle all the headset programming, charging and sanitizing in between uses. They’ll take care of everything from unpacking and setup to shipping it back so you can focus on your guests.
Get in touch with our team to help you determine the best tour guide system for your tour format and environment. We’ll walk you through rental, purchase and demo options, and ask all the right questions to ensure you only get what you need. Also, access our helpful Event Audio Communications Planning Guide with many more tips and considerations.
