Mono VS Stereo

Nocaster, you do realize that the people responding here are being really gentle on you? Much of what you say makes no sense at all!

In a perfect world I guess all our systems should image and create a soundstage as it were like headphones.

the depth of field does indeed improve when in mono

You've repeatedly said your system sounds fantastic with a wonderful stereo spread, yet you prefer listening in mono. That's a really bizarre conclusion. That's no just a little out of left field type statement -- it's from two counties over from where the ballpark is. Reasonable audiophiles can only conclude that something is seriously wrong with your setup. It would help if you were to post your system with pictures of your listening space.

It's not just a case of "to each his own". There is a question of fidelity. Mono recordings are best heard in mono, but to limit stereo recordings to mono is to purposely distort them. It would be like going to a museum housing impressionist paintings and wearing infra-red night vision goggles because I don't like the vibrant color "effect". I'd quickly be in a small room explaining my "preference" to security personnel.

shadorne is absolutely correct. the artists and engineers have made records for 'stereo' since 'shep was a pup'...unless you specialize in collecting 'pre rock era' stuff, its a bit like the benefits of shoving a square peg in a round hole.

Stereo recordings are best heard in stereo and mono recordings in mono.

There are many mono recordings from the pre-stereo age that are quite excellent because they were designed and intended to be heard that way (in mono).

Same true with stereo. In general listening to these in mono is a course and lacking simulation of what these products are intended to sound like.

Of course, we all have the right to listen as we please for whatever reasons make us happy.

I know I know......I have been off the beaten path for much of my life when it comes to the "Norm". Stones over the Beatles, big money on small speakers (Guarneri), really old motorcycles, film vs digital, First off I really appreciate all you guys being "Gentle" in your observations about my mono comments. I know some you are probably thinking I should order one of those jackets with the really lond wrap around sleeves and allow six to eight weeks for delivery. I figure I'm in good company, they thought Columbus was crazy too!! But I honestly do prefer listening in mono, even if technically incorrect it's more enjoyable to me at this point. As I say I will play around with my system in terms of speaker positioning etc..later this week and see what shakes. I was just thinking what a blast it would be to have all you guys at my place having copious amounts of espresso etc...having this same conversation and listening to music. Ahh the spice of life. Cheers.

I still think there is a (superbly enjoyable) artefact involved -- so mark your speakers' original positions before repositioning. Just to be on the safe side...
OTOH, if you'll allow me the comment "big money on small speakers (Guarneri)" is hardly "off the beaten track"; those are easily among the best spkrs that manufacturer has offered!
(I would love some of that espresso...)