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Shure V-15 TYPE III

The Shure V-15 TYPE III works as a moving magnet cartridge with an elliptical stylus profile, and it earned a lasting high-end reputation among collectors of classic pickups. Its 3.5 mV output suits any standard MM phono input without extra gain. The specified tracking force runs from 0.75 to 1.25 g, and the replaceable stylus is the VN35E. Phono Culture lists 4 compatible replacement styli for this model.

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Stylus: VN35E
Type: ММ
Stylus Shape: Elliptical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.2 × 0.7 mil (≈5 × 18 µm) ]
Class: High-End

Mounting: standard 1/2"
Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 6 g
Output Voltage: 3.5 mV
Frequency Response: 10–25 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 25 dB
Channel Balance: ≤ 2 dB
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ || 400–500 pF
Tracking Force: 0.75–1.25 g
Compliance Value: dynamic 30 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne (rated; approx. ≈18 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne)
Documents: user manual [pdf]

Additional Info

The Shure V-15 Type III leans toward a forgiving, easygoing presentation rather than an analytical one. Well-worn or noisy pressings stay listenable, and vocals come through with natural, unforced warmth, while detail, imaging and dynamics hold a coherent, believable balance without spotlighting any single element. The elliptical stylus is replaceable, so refreshing it is straightforward. It rewards jazz, rock and vocal records on modestly set-up systems.

Replacement styluses for Shure V-15 TYPE III

Shure	VN35HE	Hyperelliptical
JICO	VN35E	Super Analogue Stylus
LP Gear	VN35E	Elliptical
Analogis	VN35E Black Diamond	Nude Elliptical

Sound × Setup

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Collectors

add 12/21/2025 · upd. 08/02/2026