Arpangel wrote:Does it record in MS, and then convert to a normal stereo output? Or does it output the raw signals?
Both, or either.
Arpangel wrote:I’ve really no need for MS
Leaving aside the full mono-compatibility and ability to narrow/widen stereo after recording (which seems like magic the first time you try it) and the more focussed stereo centre. And even leaving aside its use for microphones...
Using MS for mastering, for instance, brings a number of benefits, not least of which that you can work with two mono processors, as opposed to a dedicated stereo processor - and matching them is not so critical. It also allows you to widen, or narrow, a stereo mix, centre the low frequencies, widen the high frequencies, brighten the side, balance up a L/R imbalance and generally fool around with the stereo field and perceived width without any fear of introducing mono incompatibiity. In fact mono compatibility is increasingly important as many people consume audio through their phones and mono bluetooth speakers now. Adding a bit more compression to centre and less to sides can really help a mix to punch with an enhanced sense of space to support it.
MS really is a good tool to understand and make use of when the situation calls for it. It's sitting there in the toolbox like any other technique, just waiting to be picked up - and it is ridiculously simple to use. Hopefully at some point you'll give it a chance and begin to realise the potential.