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 pbnaudio

For best results Mono pressings should be played with a Mono Cartridge.

Most mono cartridges are equipped with a dual set of output posts, which means that both inputs on a stereo preamplifier will receive the exact same signal, this will result in a "soundscape" thats portrayed exactly midway between the two speakers set up for stereo playback.

In my opinion there would be no need to alter a Stereo setup in any other way than to have for an example a tonearm with a detachable head shell, or removable arm wand like the Graham mentioned above, to facilitate an easy cartridge change between Mono and Stereo

Good Listening

Peter