With reference to survey research on quality in conference interpreting, which constitutes a cohesive line of investigation in interpreting studies, the paper highlights the role of replication in the scientific process and reviews examples of studies carried out since the 1980s. With the pioneering survey by Buhler among members of the International Association of Conference Interpreters serving as the starting point, a number of studies among end-users of conference interpreting are mentioned before the focus of the paper shifts to research efforts aimed at replicating Buhler`s work on quality criteria as seen from the perspective of professional interpreters. In the analysis, which places the emphasis on methodological issues but also presents some relevant findings, several replication studies are closely examined, and various shortcomings as well as advances in research design are discussed.