My experience with the Shure V15Vxmr is similar to yours as far as break-in is concerned. Fortunately I was able to buy a couple of the V15Vxmr at $200 each from Jacks Music Factory before the prices went up. Overall a very impressive cartridge for the money. Wish I could find a cart that tracks as good with all the sound of the V15Vxmr plus a better highend. That would be a nice find.