Mono vs Stereo

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bluesguy996
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2013/08/18 22:30:50 (permalink)

Mono vs Stereo

Just wondering what some of your thoughts are Re: recording in mono vs stereo.
 
I have typically done only mono in the past, as I am able to pan things left or right anyways to create some separation in my instruments, etc.
 
But maybe I am missing some main point?
 
What would you recommend and what are the advantages/disadvantages?
 
Bluesguy.

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    Kalle Rantaaho
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    Re: Mono vs Stereo 2013/08/19 02:27:47 (permalink)
    I believe the concencus/usual practice is simple:
    Stereo sources ( stereo synths and FX, choirs, overheads) are usually recorded in stereo, mono sources (real instruments, drum kitpieces, vocals) in mono. Acoustic guitar is very often (usually?) recorded with two mics, but not actually treated as stereo in the mixing phase.
    Double tracked guitars, vocals etc. is another story.

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    bitflipper
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    Re: Mono vs Stereo 2013/08/19 13:02:03 (permalink)
    The main advantage of mono tracks is they can be precisely positioned in the panorama. Ironically, the more stereo tracks you have the less stereophonic separation and clarity you get. If you think about what's really happening under the hood when you move things around left-to-right, it's obvious that the term "pan" has no meaning for stereo tracks.


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    Cactus Music
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    Re: Mono vs Stereo 2013/08/19 21:42:06 (permalink)
    Mono source= Mono Track. So if there is only one cable then it's mono. 
     
    About the only things that warrant a stereo track are pre processed sounds, like a synth or a guitar run through a stereo processor. 

    Johnny V  
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    bluesguy996
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    Re: Mono vs Stereo 2013/08/20 21:24:26 (permalink)
    I am only recording actual instruments/voices, no midi/synths, so it sounds like mono is the way to go.
     
    Thanks for the good advice.

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    Cactus Music
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    Re: Mono vs Stereo 2013/08/20 21:29:29 (permalink)
    Even drum overheads I use 2 mono tracks because you can process them easily that way. 
    Stereo tracks are hard to work with in that regard. 

    Johnny V  
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