What does it mean if audio is recorded in mono?

When audio is recorded in mono, it refers to capturing the sound as a single channel, meaning that all audio signals are combined into one track. This format is particularly useful in environments where background noise needs to be minimized, such as during interviews or voice recordings, as it simplifies the recording process and makes it easier to manage the overall sound quality.

Mono recordings can help ensure that the listener receives the same audio experience regardless of their speaker configuration, as the sound will come through uniformly. This is especially important in applications where clarity of speech is critical. Other options, like stereo, indicate the use of two channels to create a more immersive sound experience, while higher bit rates and digital compression relate to the quality and efficiency of audio storage rather than how it is presented in terms of channels.