The Beatles Remastered Box Set: Mono vs Stereo?

Question

i don't understand the difference between "mono" and "stereo" - the mono version is missing three albums, but is more expensive. can someone explain the differences, and tell me which has better sound quality? thank you!

Answer 1

Stereo is basically music as you listen to it today, split between two channels, different sound coming from each speaker/headphone.

Mono is the opposite with music on one channel, so you hear indentical sounds on both speaker, this was how most people listened to music until the mid/late 60's.

As for the Beatles box sets, the stereo is the best one, it has far superior sound, as you get more separation with stereo.

The mono box is for die hards only, as some tracks are longer/shorter in mono and feature different mixes etc...

Answer 2

Beatles Mono Vs Stereo

Answer 3

Simply put, mono you will have the same sound coming out of both speakers and stereo you will have different things coming out of two speakers. Like surround sound for example, you may hear a far speaker play a sound that doesnt play in the rest.



If you are a collector, go for mono, if you want to just enjoy their great music casually, go for the stereo.



Also on youtube, search 'The One Beatle' he has previews of songs in both mono and stereo so you can compare.

Answer 4

There is not much difference, except the 3 albums that are missing are because they were only recorded in stereo.



Stereo music uses two channels. For example, the Beatles have vocals on one side, and the music on the other. (Another example: Back in the USSR has a plane noise that travels from one side to the other.)



Mono is better for when listening through headphones. (Also, they are more expensive, because they are more for collectors)

Answer 5

When the Beatles were recording their earlier material stereo was brand new. Kids often purchased mono recordings as there was a price difference. Therefore the original recording were done in mono and then remixed to stereo when stereo caught on.

Quality of sound is in the ears of the beholder.

If you really wanted to do it right you would purchase one of each but ultimately the choice is yours. Purists would say go with the original unadulterated version (mono), but personally I would make the decision for myself.