Stereo vs Mono Recording Modes: Which is Better for Calls?
Introduction
When setting up your microphone in OBS, Zoom, or Windows, you may notice a choice of modes — stereo or mono. What does this mean and which mode is better for calls, streams, and recordings? Let's break it down in simple terms without audio jargon.
What are Mono and Stereo
🎧 Mono
Mono is one audio channel. Sound is recorded identically and delivered simultaneously to both ears. If you speak into a microphone, in the recording and on the call your voice will be heard centered.
Usage examples:
- Calls and conferences (Zoom, Teams, Skype);
- Online lessons and interviews;
- Podcasts with a single speaker.
🎵 Stereo
Stereo is two independent audio channels (left and right). It creates a sense of volume and direction of the sound source.
Usage examples:
- Music and concert recordings;
- Videos with multiple microphones;
- Gaming streams with spatial sound.
What's the Difference (in Simple Terms)
| Parameter | Mono | Stereo |
|---|---|---|
| Number of channels | 1 | 2 |
| File size | Smaller | Larger |
| Compatibility | Maximum (all programs) | May not be supported |
| Suitable for calls | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (excessive) |
| Suitable for music | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
How to Choose the Mode for Your Microphone
1. In Windows
- Right-click the volume icon → Sounds.
- Recording tab → select microphone → Properties → Advanced.
- In the Format section, choose:
- 1 channel, 16 bit, 44100 Hz — mono;
- 2 channels, 16 bit, 44100 Hz — stereo.
2. In OBS Studio
- Settings → Audio → Microphone/Auxiliary Device.
- In the microphone source, uncheck Stereo if you need mono sound.
3. In Zoom or Discord
These applications use only mono as it's more stable and uses less bandwidth.
When to Use Stereo
- For recording musical instruments.
- For video blogs with spatial sound.
- For editing, if you work with audio professionally.
In all other cases (calls, conferences, streams), mono is sufficient — you won't notice the difference aurally, but connection quality will be better.
Tips
- If your microphone has two capsules, you can enable stereo — but make sure the application supports it.
- Check that sound isn't "split" to sides in OBS — sometimes the microphone only sounds in the left ear.
- Check the result on DoCam.io — the service will show which channel is active.
Conclusion
Simple conclusion: For online calls, webinars, and podcasts, choose mono. For music recording and videos with a presence effect — stereo.
Check how your microphone sounds in mono and stereo on DoCam.io.