Mono Vs Stereo Microphone: Similarities & Differences 

During your hunt for the perfect microphone, you would have come across two distinct terms: mono microphone and stereo microphone. These are the two primary types of mics, and mostly the mics that we used are either mono or stereo microphones.

But how are the two different? What sets them apart? And what are their applications?

How about we explore all these aspects in this article so you can make an informed decision regarding whether to opt for a mono or stereo mic. 

Mono Vs Stereo Microphone: The Differences

The basic difference between mono and stereo microphones is the way they capture and reproduce audio. Mono mics capture audio from a single source, whereas stereo mics capture audio from more than one sources.

Let’s analyze the differences of the two mics, one by one.

Audio Capture

The audio capturing abilities of the two mics are different which is the most distinct difference between the two.

Audio Capture and Mic Capsule of a Mono Microphone 

Mono stands for monophonic. Mono means one, whereas phonic means sound. So a mono microphone delivers a single sound using a single microphone capsule.

That said, this does not mean that a mono mic picks up just one sound from a single object. It captures multiple sounds within its polar pickup patterns from a close proximity. The mic then processes them using a single channel, and convert them into mono sounds.

So even if you record multiple sounds, they will sound as one with a mono mic. So, any time you wish your recording to have a single sound, resort to a mono mic.

Due to its single microphone element, it has a narrow pickup pattern which means its sound capture is quite focused.

Audio Capture and Mic Capsule of a Stereo Mic 

Stereo is short for stereophonic. Stereo means two or more, and you already know the meaning of phonic. Stereophonic audio comes from more than one sources.

Contrary to mono microphones, stereo mics capture audio in two or even more channels. This allows for spatial sound representation.

These mics have multiple diaphragms or capsule that pick up sound from multiple directions at the same time. The two or more diaphragms or microphone capsules in stereo microphones are arranged as such that they mimic human hearing.

As they have two mic elements, their pickup pattern is quite wider than the monos.

Spatial Information and Stereo Recording 

A mono microphone equally picks up sound from every direction. It does not capture any spatial information about the sound source. This is why recordings from mono microphones lack depth and character.

As opposed to this, a stereo microphone captures great spatial information. As it uses multiple capsules or diaphragms, it effectively covers two tracks and reproduces the surround or stereo sound. This is why its recordings are also known as stereo recordings.

Stereo recording is an audio recording technique. Using this approach, you strategically place two or more mics to pick up sound from various directions. As a result, you get spatially accurate sound reproduction.

Channel Output

Channel output is the number of individual audio channels or signals that an audio system or device can reproduce. 

In the playback and audio recording context, channel is an independent audio information stream. Every channel signifies a specific audio signal that you can mix, manipulate or route individually from other channels.

Channel Output of Mono Microphones

The output audio of a mono microphone goes as a single-channel signal.

Having a single channel output makes mono mics suitable for scenarios where you need to centralize the audio or mix it into a single track.

Channel Output of Stereo Microphones

Their output audio goes as multiple channels. Typically, there are two output channels, one on the left and one on right. However, there can be more than two output channels too.

Due to the left and right channels, they enable the reproduction of stereo effects and spatial imaging in playback systems.

Immersion and Realism

In the audio context, immersion is the degree to which you, a listen, can immerse yourself in an audio experience.

Immersion happens when audio creates an environment wherein a listener feels completely engaged in a particular soundscape. It transports them to a whole new place or can also enhance their ability to perceive that audio.

Think of a time a song transported you to a different world. That’s what immersion is.

Realism is the extent to which an audio reproduction authentically reflects the actual sound of the original sound source. It encompasses picking up and reproducing that sound in a manner that it closely mimics how it is heard in real life.

For instance, if you heard a bird chirping in recorded audio, and it was exactly as how you hear birds chirping naturally, it is an example of realism.

Immersion & Realism of Mono Microphones

A mono microphone delivers focused and straightforward audio capture with its single microphone element. The recordings lack spatial depth, so they aren’t incredibly immersive.

The realism of a mono mic is also weak compared to that of a stereo mic. This is primarily because a mono microphone uses a single microphone capsule.

So a mono microphone is more suitable where you don’t really need spatial realism.

Immersion & Realism of Stereo Microphones:

A stereo microphone, on the other hand, delivers an incredibly immersive listening environment. It captures the sound source positioning and spatial nuances of the intended sound source.

Moreover, it also replicates a sound in the way human ears perceive it. Consequently, this creates a strong sense of realism in the recorded audio.

Complexity and Setup

The level of complexity and setup process of both these mics varies.

Mono Microphone

A mono mic is quite simple in its setup process and design. You don’t need much equipment or expertise to set it up. 

It is also quite easy to use, which makes it quite suitable for beginners and for straightforward recording situations.

Since a mono mic processes sounds through a single channel, the recorded sounds do not have any sound stage difference. Hence, you can place it anywhere to get the ideal audio.

Stereo Microphone

A stereo microphone has more complicated setup requirements. You need to position it very precisely and calibrate it to get optimal results. Its design is also more complex than a mono microphone.

You would need to have an in-depth understanding of recording techniques and stereo imaging to effectively use a stereo microphone.

Moreover, you need to be careful when using it. If the recording camera shifts its position, the sound recorded by the mic will also change. You need to find the sweet spot between the camera and the mic to resolve this issue.

One of the common techniques to fix this issue is to put your camera on a tripod stand with your external stereo microphone. Leave both there, and then record. The audio recording will be quite good.

Use Cases of the Two Mics

Due to their distinct features and qualities, both these mics have specific applications, too.

Applications of a Mono Microphone

A mono microphone produces the classic mono sound which makes it excellent for recording an individual sound source. So if you want to record vocals, speeches, individual musicians, or musical instruments, a mono microphone is perfect for you.

It is also ideal for applications where directness and clarity of sound is preferred over spatial information. Be it live sound reinforcement, podcasting, or vocal recording, a mono microphone will always live up to your expectations.

Some popular mono mics include Shure SM58, Sennheiser MD421, AKG C414 and Neumann U87.

Applications of a Stereo Microphone

The stereo sound produced by a stereo microphone makes it a brilliant choice for times when you need spatial characteristics in your audio recording.

It is widely employed in nature recording, field recording, immersive music production, and ASMR content creation. Moreover, it also works really well for recording live music. 

Some popular stereo mics include Zoom H4n Pro, Audio-Technica AT2022, and Rode NT4.

Now that we have covered their differences, let’s discuss the similarities these two mics share.

Similarities in a Mono and Stereo Microphone

Irrespective of their diverse natures, these two microphones do have certain things in common.

• Both these mics capture the sound waves and turn them into electrical signals. These signals can be recorded or amplified.
• The two microphones function on the transducer principle. Using this principle, acoustic energy is turned into electrical signals.
• Mono and stereo mics have versatile applications. You can use them for recording music, field recording, podcasting and filmmaking. While a stereo microphone is preferred for these applications, a mono particularly a mono shotgun microphone, is quite good for these purposes.

Simply put, both these mics are great choices, but they work better for distinctive purposes.

Which Mic To Opt For?

The choice between a mono and a stereo microphone depends entirely on your recording needs and applications.

For times when you need a narrow focus and mono sound, choose a mono microphone. And when you need to create a more authentic and immersive soundscape, go with a stereo microphone.

Frequently Asked Questions