Mono compatibility in music production
Mono compatibility describes how good a stereo mix sounds when both channels are combined into a single mono signal – as smartphones, club PA systems, and many streaming speakers do. Without it, low frequencies can disappear due to phase cancellation, and the mix will sound thin or unbalanced.
With Mono Compatibility understand them as possible lossless playback option on playback devices with only a loudspeakerStrictly speaking, the original signal is used in a mono signal. Stereo signal The signal from the left and right channels is mixed together. This is therefore referred to as "mono playback".
Why is mono compatibility so important?
Mono compatibility matters in music production because a balanced relationship between the mid and side signals makes a song feel more stable, balanced and powerful. This is especially important on playback systems with only one speaker and on many club PA systems that reproduce parts of the signal in mono.
Many club sound systems, smartphones, tablets and other playback devices still reproduce sound partly or fully in mono. The key question is therefore how much of the original sound remains intact on those systems.
Think mono in the overall mix: Our Mixing Guide shows how mid/side signals, panning and balance work together throughout the full mixing process.
How can one find out the mono compatibility?
The mono compatibility can be achieved with a so-called Correlation meter or Goniometer determine. Often the conventional audio interfaces also have a mono switch with which the middle signal can be output in isolation. It is therefore advisable for the mix and also for mastering Check the mono or mid-range signal and possibly less to mix in stereo. With Panning Up to about 65% (out of 100), you generally have few problems with the Mono signal.Which instruments / sounds should be mono compatible?
To answer these questions, we first have to ask ourselves which elements in our production are so-called “lead sounds”.
Example of lead sounds within a track:
- Kick drum
- bassline
- Snare
- Hi hats
- Lead synth
- Piano
Of course, this list could be continued. It is simply intended to show that all important parts should have a certain degree of mono compatibility. With a "lead synth" this can sometimes become a problem.
Mono compatibility is mandatory for every streaming master — where it is integrated into the overall workflow is shown in the Mastering Guide.
Our tip for a good mono compatibility of stereo sounds:
- Simply duplicate the stereo sound as a track.
- A stereo imager is placed on the duplicated track.
- Now set the entire signal to mono.
- Mix in the pure mono signal at will, depending on the volume.
WE MAKE SURE YOUR TRACK WORKS IN MONO
We make sure your song has the right stereo width and enough mono compatibility for reliable playback.