Two questions.

1- Is the Pickering V15 related somehow to the Shure V15? Or did Pickering just use the popular model number because they could.

2- Anyone know anything about the Shure Ultra 500? How good is it?

1- Is the Pickering V15 related somehow to the Shure V15? Or did Pickering just use the popular model number because they could.




No they are not related, but each are highly prized by their fans, which are many for both. V 15 refers to a 15-degree vertical tracking angle so the name should be considered coincidence.

I can't answer question two.

I read somewhere that Pickering is related to Stanton, maybe owned by Stanton.

The Shure discontinued products list indicates the Ultra 500 uses a 0015" x .003" micro ridge Ultra 500S stylus with berylium cantilever at 1.2 to 1.7 gr tracking weight. The cost when new was about $400. I'd say it's probably a pretty good cartridge

Replacement stylus is no longer available but the VN5MR is the recommended substitue and tracks at 1 to 1.25 gr.