Buy Mono vs. Stereo LPs for Stereo Rig

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.

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?"

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.

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

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