Definition & Overview
Acoustic shock is an acute occupational trauma resulting from unexpected high-intensity sound bursts (such as audio feedback, dropped microphones, or sudden digital screeches). In conference interpreting, international standards (ISO 20109) mandate inline acoustic limiters on all interpreter consoles to cap output at safe decibel thresholds.
Operational Rules & Standard Guidance
- Console limiters must clamp sudden transients under 85 dBA.
- FOH sound engineers must maintain dedicated isolated feeds rather than unfiltered room microphone lines.
- Poor audio quality forces interpreters to raise volume, dramatically compounding fatigue.
Operational Impact: Proper understanding of acoustic shock & inline limiters ensures conference coordinators, chief interpreters, and AV technicians prevent costly staffing miscalculations and acoustic failures during live sessions.
Calculate conference interpretation requirements
Use Cabine to model booth staffing quotas, relay dependencies, and AV soundboard riders automatically.
Open Free Calculator →