Can I make my stereo play mono by...

I find that using a pair of speakers this way for mono is much better than a single speaker.

Only two-channel tube amps can be parallel-connected! This will give double the power for mono use. Never parallel the outputs of a two-channel transistor amp! Some of these amps have internal bridging circuits that will allow conversion to mono safely.

Buy a preamp with a mono function switch, if you don't have one already!

Put the speakers next to each other if your pre doesn't have a mono switch, that will nearly be mono. Alternatively, if you have the freedom to set them up properly and enjoy the stereo, search for " Sumiko master set" this discribes a systematic approach to setting them up in the room and getting it right using nothing more than a CD with a good range of bass notes and your ears.

Playing CDs with optical cable into Integrated...

If your CD player come with DAC built-in, connect a ' Stereo to Mono Signal Converter ' from the CD player analog out to the integrated line input. For MONO playback, select line input instead of optical digital in.

https://www.newark.com/mcm-custom-audio/50-20795/stereo-to-mono-signal-converter/dp/25AC5154?gclid=E...#