When planning an international event in Moscow, choosing the right interpretation method can make or break its success. Two primary techniques dominate professional interpretation: simultaneous and consecutive. Each serves different purposes, and selecting the wrong one could lead to awkward pauses, technical difficulties, or frustrated attendees.
This guide compares both methods head-to-head, helping you determine which interpretation style best fits your conference, business meeting, or diplomatic event in Moscow.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Simultaneous Interpretation | Consecutive Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Real-time (no pauses) | Speaker pauses for interpretation |
| Equipment Needed | Booths, headsets, transmitters | None (or minimal) |
| Best For | Large conferences, UN-style meetings | Small negotiations, court hearings |
| Interpreter Stress | High (requires intense focus) | Moderate (has time to process) |
| Cost | Higher (tech + 2 interpreters/booth) | Lower (often 1 interpreter) |
When to Choose Simultaneous Interpretation
Best for:
- International summits (e.g., SPIEF, Eastern Economic Forum)
- Academic conferences with 100+ attendees
- Product launches with live demonstrations
- UN-style diplomatic meetings
Technical Requirements in Moscow:
- Soundproof booths (rent from providers like Congress Rental or FM Systems)
- Infrared/radio headsets for attendees
- Backup interpreters (they rotate every 20-30 minutes)
Pros:
- No time lag – speeches flow naturally
- Scalable for large audiences
- Professional impression at high-profile events
Cons:
- Expensive (requires technicians, equipment)
- Venue limitations – not all hotels have booth setups
When to Choose Consecutive Interpretation
Best for:
- Business negotiations (e.g., signing joint ventures)
- Legal proceedings (depositions, courtroom testimony)
- Factory tours with foreign partners
- Small workshops (under 50 people)
How It Works in Practice:
- Speaker talks for 2-5 minutes, then pauses
- Interpreter relays the message verbatim or summarized
- Process repeats (adds ~50% more time to events)
Pros:
- No equipment needed – works anywhere
- More personal – builds rapport in negotiations
- Cheaper for small groups
Cons:
- Doubles event duration
- Difficult for technical content (long segments strain memory)
Hybrid Solution: Whispered Interpretation (Chuchotage)
For situations where neither method fits perfectly:
- An interpreter whispers translations to 1-2 people
- Common in museum tours, trade show booths, or intimate VIP meetings
Cost Comparison in Moscow
| Service | Simultaneous | Consecutive |
|---|---|---|
| Interpreter Fee | $100/hour* | $50/hour |
| Equipment Rental | $500/day | N/A |
| Team Required | 2+ interpreters | 1 interpreter |
*Prices vary by language pair (Chinese > Russian costs more than English > Russian)
5 Questions to Determine Your Best Option
- How many languages are needed?
(Simultaneous handles multiple languages better) - What’s the audience size?
(Over 75 people? Go simultaneous) - Is precise timing crucial?
(TV broadcasts need simultaneous) - What’s your budget?
(Consecutive saves 30-60% costs) - Will technical terms be used?
(Simultaneous better for dense content)
Moscow-Specific Tips
- For government events:
Simultaneous is standard (most ministries have built-in booth systems) - Last-minute changes?
Consecutive interpreters are easier to book on short notice - At Gostiny Dvor or Crocus Expo?
These venues have permanent interpretation infrastructure
Real-World Moscow Examples
✅ Simultaneous:
- St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF)
- Moscow Urban Forum
- VTB Capital “Russia Calling!” Investment Forum
✅ Consecutive:
- Gazprom contract negotiations with Chinese partners
- Bolshoi Theatre backstage tours for VIPs
- Skolkovo tech startup pitches to foreign investors
Making Your Final Decision
Choose Simultaneous If:
- Your event has tight schedules
- You need multiple language channels
- The setting is formal/large-scale
Choose Consecutive If:
- You’re hosting small, interactive sessions
- Budget is limited
- Venue lacks tech infrastructure
Still unsure? Most Moscow agencies offer free consultations to assess your needs.
Pro Tip: For multi-day events, some planners mix both methods – simultaneous for plenaries, consecutive for breakout sessions.
Need help sourcing interpreters in Moscow? Contact us for vetted professionals with event-specific expertise.