In common usage, a "stereo" is a multi-channel sound reproduction system, and a "stereo recording" is a multi-channel recording. It is thus worth noting that most film soundtracks are not recorded using stereo techniques, so while they are capable of stereo reproduction, most home theater systems rarely are called upon to do this.

Most multi-channel recordings are stereo recordings only in this weaker sense. Pop music, in particular, is usually recorded using miking techniques that artificially separates signals into several tracks. The separate tracks are then "mixed-down" into a stereo recording. By using "left-right" panning controls, audio engineers determine where each track will be placed in the stereo "image". The resulting recording usually bears little or no resemblance at all to the actual physical and spatial relationship of the musicians during the original performance. It's not unusual for different tracks of the same song to be recorded at different times (even different places) and then mixed into a final multi-channel recording for release.

Classical music is a notable exception. It is likely to be recorded "live", so that the actual physical relationship of the musicians at the time of the performance is actually recorded

Car Audio, Car Stereo Reviews and Informatio
While many of us travel in our cars we love to listen to music. To make our listening pleasure even better we will install various music systems in our cars. Now before these car stereos are bought we need to have an idea if they will work with our car specifications and that is where car stereo reviews can help.