If you’re a fan of vinyl records, you’ve probably heard of Shure.
The American audio company has been producing phono cartridges for turntables since 1937, and their products have been a mainstay in the industry for decades.
However, recent news has left many wondering: does Shure still make phono cartridges?
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind Shure’s decision to discontinue their phono product line, and look at some alternative options for DJs and vinyl enthusiasts.
Does Shure Still Make Phono Cartridges
No, Shure no longer makes phono cartridges. In May 2018, the company announced that it would be discontinuing production of all phono products, citing challenges in maintaining their high quality standards and meeting demand.
This decision came as a surprise to many, especially given the current resurgence of vinyl and turntables in the music industry. However, Shure explained that the 36 parts suppliers that made their cartridges were struggling to keep up with demand and maintain the quality standards required by the company.
While Shure’s microphone and headphone production remains unaffected, their phono cartridge line has been discontinued effective Summer 2018. Inventory may last through summer, but stockpiles of replacement styluses for these cartridges should be available for some time.
Shure’s History In Phono Cartridges
Shure has a long and storied history in the phono cartridge industry. The company entered the market in 1937 with the Model 99A Zephyr crystal cartridge, and went on to produce a number of iconic models over the years.
One such model was the Shure V15 cartridge, which was introduced in 1964 and remained in production until 2005. Audiophiles of a certain age will likely have fond memories of this cartridge, which was widely used in clubs and on radio stations.
Despite its success in the phono cartridge market, Shure faced challenges in maintaining production equipment and a highly specialized supply chain. These challenges ultimately led to the company’s decision to discontinue its phono cartridge line in 2018.
While the decision may have come as a disappointment to some, Shure’s legacy in the phono cartridge industry remains strong. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation helped it to become a leading player in the market, and its cartridges are still widely used and revered by audiophiles around the world.
Shure’s Decision To Discontinue Phono Cartridges
Shure’s decision to discontinue phono cartridges has been met with surprise and disappointment from many in the music industry. The company has been producing cartridges since 1937 and has a reputation for high-quality products, including the popular Shure V15 cartridge that was introduced in 1964 and remained in production until 2005.
However, according to Mark Brunner, VP Global Corporate & Government Relations at Shure, maintaining the company’s exacting standards in the Phonograph Cartridge product category had become increasingly challenging. The 36 parts suppliers that made Shure cartridges, styluses, cantilevers, magnets, wire, etc. were struggling to keep up with demand and maintain the quality standards required by the company.
Shure currently lists six cartridge models — M44-7, M97xE, M92E, SC35C, M44G, Whitelabel — and inventory may last through summer. Shure will provide service for the length of their two-year warranties, but after that, users will need to find alternatives.
While some companies have expressed an interest in licensing Shure’s cartridge designs, Brunner stated that Shure has no plans to do so. Instead, the company believes that its proud legacy of Phono is best served by exiting the category rather than continuing production under increasingly challenging circumstances.
Impact On The Vinyl Industry
The decision by Shure to discontinue its phono cartridge production has had a significant impact on the vinyl industry. Shure has been making cartridges for turntables since 1937, and their products have been an industry standard for DJs and audiophiles alike. The news of their discontinuation has left many in the industry shocked and disappointed.
Shure’s decision comes at a time when turntable and LP sales are booming, and vinyl has seen a resurgence in popularity. With the increasing demand for vinyl, one would expect companies to expand their offerings in this area rather than discontinue them. However, Shure’s decision highlights the challenges faced by companies in maintaining their high-quality standards while meeting demand.
The impact of Shure’s decision can be felt by those who have relied on their phono cartridges for years. Audiophiles of a certain age will have fond memories of the Shure V15 cartridge, which remained in production until 2005. Used V15s are still plentiful on the internet, but with no new cartridges being produced, finding replacement styluses may become more difficult over time.
Shure’s decision may also have wider implications for the vinyl industry as a whole. With one less major player in the phono cartridge market, it remains to be seen how this will affect competition and innovation in the industry. It may also lead to other companies re-evaluating their own phono cartridge production and deciding whether it is worth continuing.
Alternative Options For DJs And Vinyl Enthusiasts
For DJs and vinyl enthusiasts who are looking for alternative options to Shure’s popular phono cartridges, there are still plenty of high-quality options available on the market. One such option is Taruya, a Japanese company that produces boutique needles favored by professional DJs.
In addition to Taruya, there are many other reputable brands that produce high-quality phono cartridges. Some popular options include Ortofon, Audio-Technica, and Grado. Each of these brands offers a range of cartridges with different features and specifications to suit different needs and preferences.
When choosing a phono cartridge, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of music you’ll be playing, the type of turntable you have, and your budget. It’s also worth noting that there are two main types of phono cartridges available: moving magnet and moving coil. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Ultimately, while Shure’s decision to discontinue its phono cartridge line may be disappointing for some, there are still plenty of great options available for DJs and vinyl enthusiasts who are looking for high-quality, reliable cartridges to help them get the most out of their turntables.
Future Of Shure In The Audio Industry
Despite discontinuing their phono cartridge line, Shure remains a leading American audio company with a strong presence in the industry. Their enduring commitment to premium performance and technological innovation will continue to be at their core as they expand into new markets and product categories for audiophiles.
Shure’s decision to discontinue their phono products was a difficult one, but it was made in order to maintain their exacting standards and brand promise. While this may come as a disappointment to some channel partners and end users, Shure is grateful for the support and loyalty demonstrated for their phono products through the years.
Shure’s legacy in the audio industry is one of quality, reliability, and value, and they will continue to bring reputable, high-quality products to market. While they may no longer be producing phono cartridges, their microphone and headphone production remains strong, and they are constantly expanding into new markets and product categories.
Overall, Shure’s future in the audio industry looks bright, as they remain committed to delivering products of the highest quality and value to their customers.
