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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
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Like life, it depends and is complicated. Mono LP's are best played in a 'chain' that is 100% mono, meaning the cartridge must be mono, cable mono, preamp mono. Once you have the sound in the preamp, you can take the output to two channel via a y connector. All else compromises the effect.
peter_s OP
1,333 posts
 
Agreed Bucanero! But I'm looking for a compromise solution for those who don't have a separate mono rig.
hevac1
812 posts
 
I have a stereo system but have a mono cartridge on an extra wand for my Graham B44 (see system). I find with a mono cartridge that the music seems to flow better, be more involving and to have better definition on mono records than my stereo cartridge whether my ARC Ref3 is in stereo or mono mode. I have some pre 60's Jazz and other mono records but do not play them. I believe they require a different needle profile, EQ and can be damaged with what I have. One day I will add an arm pod for another arm and cartridge or even another table with a different phono preamp for records not setup for RIAA.
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
As a life time collector of LPs who started collecting in High School back in the 50's, I have tons of great mono records ... mostly jazz. I've found that Audio Technica's OC9-MKIII, even though its a stereo cartridge, plays mono records superbly. I love that cartridge on mono records. So much so, that many of my audiophile friends say ... "Who needs stereo?"
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Do you have access to a set up with both Stereo and Mono? If so simply act on which you liked best.
I am part of the school of thought that you should try inexpensive solutions first. Such as summing the two mono outlets and then treating each channel as an equal partner as it connects to the rest of your current system. It always comes down to personal opinion and preferences. This thread has seen some very expensive advice which no doubt work as advertised, but are out of reach for mere mortals. You have indicated that your budget plays big part in this. I don't know how much you and wife can invest in this project. Remember whatever you like the best is the best for you.
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