Stereo is designed to create a convincing sound image between loudspeakers. Therefore, if you are recording vocals and instruments in multiple locations, stereo captures the images of the sounds much better than mono. The ultimate goal of stereo recording is to create a lifelike sense of the audio signal.
Should you stereo spread vocals?
If you record one vocalist, your vocals should be mono. However, if you record two vocalists or more or if you record in a room with unique acoustics, the vocals should be stereo. Moreover, recording vocals in mono makes them sound powerful, clear, and upfront.
What is stereo miking?
Stereo miking techniques use two microphones at the same time to record one sound source. Each microphone is then panned to the left and to the right to mimic the way our ears perceive sound in the “real world.” This adds width, space, and location to a recording.