Buy Mono vs. Stereo LPs for Stereo Rig


Hi All,

I just heard Charlie Byrd's "Blues Sonata" ("Scherzo for an Old Shoe") for the first time and want to buy the LP. Recorded in mono in 1961, but later pressed as stereo. My cartridge (PC-1) is stereo. Which should I buy? In general, should mono LP's be just played on mono cartridges (or optimally so)? In general, if you have a stereo rig, is it better to buy the mono or stereo LP's? I know that some of the mono=>stereo conversions can be pretty wonky sometimes!
peter_s

Showing 1 response by mrvordo

Be sure NOT to play stereo LP's with a MONO cartridge. It will damage the LP. Playing mono LP's with a stereo cartridge is not a problem, damage wise.

As to the OP question, there is no definite answer. The original mono recording in theory should be the best, BUT sometimes the reprocessed (especially on a reissue) for stereo may sound better. I don't know of any sure way to know which would be best, although one would hope that the original, if recorded in mono would sound the best, especially with a mono cartridge.

Good listening