Mono recordings

What contribution, if any, does a mono cartridge make? I have neither the money nor the desire to purchase a mono cartridge. But just wondering. 

Appreciate all the comments. Very interesting. Out of state right now, but when I return home I will give another listen to my mono material. 

Very nice.
Your upgrade path, 2nd arm and mono cartridge and a phono stage with a mono circuit, really gets to the root of my original question. After the upgrade, how will the SQ or listening experience compare  to playing one of your mono lps on my VPI Classic 3/Soundsmith Zephyr MkII?  Wish I could hear a mono lp on your system both before and after the upgrade. Enjoy the music!

I'm retired and must prioritize my purchases very carefully. Right now in my life, mono capability is not something I lust after.  But I knew there were audiophiles out there who cherished their mono recordings and I wondered why. Now I know. Upgrading my DAC is at the top of my priority list. Upgrading my Soundsmith Zephyr  is probably next. And losing 30lbs is third.

Truth be told - I kinda wish I was one or the other. My life would be simpler. But I had a lot of cds and lps and I lusted after both capabilities. Not sure which I would sell if I had to chose. This is a scary hobby.  I have to keep repeating...it's not about the hardware, it's about the music. Pray for me. : )

Kenny - Convenience of music files on a server is undeniable. With my humble Bryston BDP-1/BDA-1 combo, I have not encountered the problems you cited. May I ask what digital equipment you have?

Sorry. Have to take a time out from this discussion. Family emergency 

Thanks thanks guys for the education. I’m back home now and will give my 3 mono lps another listen tonight, albeit with a stereo cartridge. 

I get the final word on this subject - 
just listened to my digital recordings of The Beach Boys/Pet Sounds and Cream/Disraeli Gears. Hands down, the stereo tracks are more sonically appealing ....to my ears.