When it comes to audio recording and mixing, there are two main types of sound: mono and stereo. Mono audio is a single-channel audio that does not provide information about the location of the sound in relation to the listener. Stereo audio, on the other hand, is two-channel audio that provides information about the location of the sound in relation to the listener. So, when should you use mono vs stereo? Generally speaking, mono recording is perfect for vocals and can work on other instruments.
Stereo recording works well on acoustic guitar and even on drums. Mono mixing helps you get a track that sounds good everywhere. And the stereo mix shows you the beautiful stereo panorama you've created. Mono tracks send only one channel for all speakers.
However, stereo tracks send two different channels, one for each speaker. Most people today use stereo because it sounds wider, more detailed and much more realistic. Mono tracks should make up most of the channels in your mix. In a mono recording, we capture a single source of sound with a single microphone.
In a stereo recording, we capture a single sound source or several sound sources with two microphones. A vocal recording is an excellent example of a mono sound source. The sum of all these channels with persistent mono-information converges in the center and makes the mix sound tighter. It's important to note that some listeners will be using smartphones or other mono playback systems. In general, you'll want the voice, kick, bass, and box to be centered and in mono mode, and everything else to be on the sides.
One of the main arguments in favor of mixing in mono is that it helps achieve the correct volume balance. When you use a single audio channel, you get what's called mono audio. If you have multiple microphones and send them to a single audio output, mono audio is created. However, some synthesizers will be monophonic and, in this case, are usually labeled as such, in addition to having only 1 output. But why do some people continue to opt for mononucleosis? Surely there are times when it's better to choose the latter, right? The following Steven Law video contains a consecutive comparison of a mono guitar recording and a stereo guitar recording. When the stereo mix is played through a mono system, the left and right channels will be mixed, which may cause interference between the left and right signals. Mono mixing is useful to ensure that the song is translated and that the information is not erased or otherwise lost. When the sound reaches your ears, it will appear mono anyway because they don't perceive the left and right channels separately.
So if you're looking for an accurate representation of your mix across all playback systems, it's best to check your mix in both mono and stereo. In conclusion, when deciding between mono vs stereo audio recording and mixing, it's important to consider your audience's playback system as well as your own preferences. Mono recordings are great for vocals and can work on other instruments while stereo recordings work well on acoustic guitar and even drums. Mono mixing helps you get a track that sounds good everywhere while stereo mixing shows you the beautiful stereo panorama you've created.
