Difference between mono and stero inputs

[Not_rodneymullen119]

Alright, well this is a very noobish question but I'm a noob at recording so it fits. I'm looking at mixers and most of them have things such as "It features 10 channels (6 mono + 2 stereo)..." and I was wondering, does a mono input mean it will record in mono? because I definately need stereo so paying that much for 6 wasted inputs is stupid.

Any suggestions?

[miku]

The mono inputs can be used in groups of two (one panned left, one panned right) as stereo inputs. And the stereo inputs can also usually be used as a mono input if you just plug something into the left input.

[Nicko_Shmicko]

your guitar is a mono signal, as is a mic or bass etc, so mono inputs arnt a waste.

[airborne50caliber]

If you have a mic it will only go into an XLR mono input. Your mono channels are inputs for mono instruments, while the stereo channels are inputs for stereo instruments such as some synths, cd players, and electronic drum modules. Your mix will be in stereo because the output is stereo, and you will be able to control the placement of each mono channel and the balance of the stereo channels in the stereo soundstage.

[Not_rodneymullen119]

If you have a mic it will only go into an XLR mono input. Your mono channels are inputs for mono instruments, while the stereo channels are inputs for stereo instruments such as some synths, cd players, and electronic drum modules. Your mix will be in stereo because the output is stereo, and you will be able to control the placement of each mono channel and the balance of the stereo channels in the stereo soundstage.

Alright, thanks for the great explanation. :thumb:

[airborne50caliber]

Hope it was all right, I can visualise things in my head but sometimes not phrase the explanation very well :P