Output Assignment - Stereo or Mono?

Setting up your outputs starts when you are chosing your sounds. Here are some guidlines:

  • A sound can be in stereo or mono. A sound is in mono if it takes up one output. It is in stereo if it takes up two outputs (left and right channels) and there is different information on each side. The difference can be very subtle as with reverbs.
  • Kick, snare, hats, drops, most percussion, basslines and leadlines are mostly mono although effects such as reverb, ambience, panners and delay can create stereo depth.
  • Sounds such as piano, strings, horn sections, drum kits and drum loops are often in stereo.
  • It's usually best to have your effects off while dumping a beat. This will allow you the greatest flexibility during mixdown.
  • Sampling in stereo is an easy way to get a bigger sound.