Recently, Shure has added the following bits to their V15VxMR page regarding the discontinuation of their cartridge -
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We regretfully announce discontinuation of our legendary V15VxMR audiophile phonograph cartridge due to scarcity of exotic materials essential in the manufacturing of the VN5xMR stylus. These materials are increasingly difficult and costly to obtain, and substitutions of those materials would compromise the performance standards expected of the V15VxMR.
In keeping with the tradition of the Shure phono line, we attempt to provide replacement styli for at least five years after a cartridge model is discontinued. This V15VxMR cartridge must be discontinued immediately so that remaining VN5xMR styli can be placed into our replacement parts inventory.
We strive to continue offering innovative audio products that provide outstanding performance and value, and apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause.
]]
-- http://www.shure.com/phono/v15vxmr.html, Sun Nov 28 21:10:11 EST 2004
-eric (who recently just bought one of these)
[[
We regretfully announce discontinuation of our legendary V15VxMR audiophile phonograph cartridge due to scarcity of exotic materials essential in the manufacturing of the VN5xMR stylus. These materials are increasingly difficult and costly to obtain, and substitutions of those materials would compromise the performance standards expected of the V15VxMR.
In keeping with the tradition of the Shure phono line, we attempt to provide replacement styli for at least five years after a cartridge model is discontinued. This V15VxMR cartridge must be discontinued immediately so that remaining VN5xMR styli can be placed into our replacement parts inventory.
We strive to continue offering innovative audio products that provide outstanding performance and value, and apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause.
]]
-- http://www.shure.com/phono/v15vxmr.html, Sun Nov 28 21:10:11 EST 2004
-eric (who recently just bought one of these)