Shure V-15 TYPE II - User Manual

The Shure V-15 Type II Stereo Dynetic Cartridge is a high-performance phono cartridge designed to deliver superior sound reproduction, particularly in high-fidelity audio systems. It represents a significant advancement in cartridge technology, focusing on "Trackability" as a key performance indicator.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Shure V-15 Type II cartridge is to accurately track the grooves of phonograph records, converting the mechanical vibrations into electrical signals that can be amplified and played through an audio system. It is designed to maintain contact between the stylus and the record groove even at high recorded velocities and light tracking forces, minimizing distortion and maximizing fidelity. The cartridge is suitable for both monophonic LP and stereo records.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Trackability (at 1 gram):
  • 400 Hz (cps): 22 cm/sec
  • 1,000 Hz (cps): 30 cm/sec
  • 5,000 Hz (cps): 30 cm/sec
  • 10,000 Hz (cps): 22 cm/sec
• Frequency Response: 20 to 25,000 Hz (cps)
• Output Voltage: 3.5 mV per channel at 1,000 Hz (cps)
• Channel Balance: Output from each channel within 2 dB
• Channel Separation:
  • Over 25 dB at 1,000 Hz (cps)
  • Over 17 dB from 500 to 10,000 Hz (cps)
• Tracking Force: 3/4 to 1 1/2 grams
• Load Impedance: 47 k ohms (per channel)
• Inductance: 720 millihenries
• D.C. Resistance: 630 ohms
• Terminals: 4 terminal (with loop pinjack for 3-term. connection)
• Stylus (V-15 Type II): VN15E Bi-Radial Elliptical Stylus, Diamond Tip
  • Frontal Radius: 18 microns (.0007 inch)
  • Side Contact Radii: 5 microns (.0002 inch)
  • Width between record contact points: 25 microns (.001 inch)
• Stylus (V-15-7): VN7 Spherical Stylus, Diamond Tip
  • Radius: 18 microns (.0007 inch)
• Mounting: Standard 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) mounting center
• Weight: Net weight - 6.8 grams
• Patents: Manufactured under U.S. Patents 3,055,988, 3,077,521, and 3,077,522. Other patents pending.

Usage Features:

The V-15 Type II is designed for use with tone arms specifically engineered for low tracking forces and minimal friction at all bearing surfaces, such as the Shure-SME arm. While it can track records at 3/4 gram, the tracking force may need to be increased in certain phono arms for optimal results.

• Mounting: It features standard 1/2" (12.7 mm) mounting centers, and hardware is provided. Spacers are available for applications where the cartridge sits deep in tone arms or plug-in shells, ensuring adequate clearance for stylus removal. For optimal vertical tracking angle, the top of the mounting block should be parallel to the record playing surface.
• Shure-SME Mounting: For mounting in Shure-SME or SME Precision Pickup Arms (Models 3009 and 3012), users should refer to the Cartridge Installation and Balancing paragraphs in the instruction manual supplied with the pickup arms.
• Tracking Force: Recommended needle forces are listed under "Specifications." Forces greater than the indicated "Maximum" should not be used.
• Stylus Design: The V-15 Type II Styli incorporate a new retractile design. This feature helps prevent audible record-scratch or stylus damage if excessive force is applied to the stylus.
• 78 R.P.M. Records: For playing 78 R.P.M. records, the Model N75-3 (.0027") Diamond Stylus is available.
• Connections: The cartridge utilizes a 4-terminal arrangement with separate ground terminals for each channel.
  • 4-Lead Stereo Connection: Connect the "hot" lead of the right channel to terminal "R" and its shield/ground to "RG." Connect the "hot" lead of the left channel to "L" and its shield/ground to "LG." This setup helps prevent "ground loops" and hum. No common connection should be used at the cartridge terminals. The metallic cartridge shield can be disconnected from the right channel ground by removing the ground tab.
  • 3-Lead Stereo Connection: For a 3-lead stereo input system, the common lead should be connected to both ground terminals at the cartridge. A "double loop" pin jack is provided for this purpose; simply slide the loop ends onto the ground terminals before connecting the regular terminal jacks. Connect the ground pin jack to either terminal.
  • Monaural Connection: For single-channel reproduction, connect the "hot" lead to both "R" and "L" terminals, and the ground/shield lead to both "RG" and "LG" terminals. Double loop pin jacks facilitate connections between "R" and "L" and between the two ground terminals. These connections should be made before attaching regular terminal jacks.

Maintenance Features:

• Stylus Replacement: Stylus replacement is a simple process. Grasp the stylus guard between thumb and forefinger, gently withdraw the stylus forward out of the cartridge. To insert a new stylus, grasp its guard between thumb and forefinger and press it into the stylus socket until the molded housing touches the cartridge case. Care must be taken not to let fingers slip off the stylus guard to avoid damaging the stylus tip or shank.
• Stylus Authenticity: The Stereo Dynetic stylus assembly is a critical component. To maintain performance, replacement styli must bear the certification: "This Stereo Dynetic stylus is precision manufactured by Shure Brothers, Inc." Users are advised to avoid inferior imitations, which can degrade performance. All genuine "Dynetic" styli are manufactured by Shure Brothers, Inc.
• Stylus Durability: The stylus assembly is generally immune to damage during normal usage when installed correctly. However, care should be taken to avoid bending or distorting the stylus assembly during installation or removal.

Quality Assurance and Guarantee:

The V-15 Type II Stereo Dynetic Cartridge is manufactured under the Shure Master Quality Control Program, which includes stringent safeguards. Every individual cartridge and Stylus-Magnet Assembly is tested and microscopically examined. Finished cartridges undergo electrical, mechanical, and acoustical testing to meet high-fidelity specifications. The cartridge is guaranteed to be free from electrical and mechanical defects for one year from the date of shipment from the factory, provided all instructions are fully complied with. The guarantee does not cover stylus wear or damage resulting from abuse or mishandling.