On the fence about Vinyl need a good phono stage for A/B testing

There is more adjustability in loading which will make an audible difference. Whether you hear it is a question I cannot answer. The Luxman CL-38Uc is a preamp with a phono preamp built in not a stand alone phono preamp.

jperry, lol thanks, What is this "adjustability in loading". Where do I learn more about this, how can I google it. Does  "Herron VTPH-2A" have this?. I don't see no knobs anywhere. This analogue stuff seem like more work!!, but fun!!.

 Both allow you to adjust loading impedance for moving coil cartridges. The Luxman Phono Preamp has a knob/wheel in the front. The Herron uses RCA plugs inserted in the rear of the unit.

The comments re: pF loading is applicable to MM cartridges only

From the Luxman website:
“Optimizing the cartridge load adjustment

The EQ-500 features a load capacity selection function from which 6 levels (0/50/100/150/200/300pF) can be selected according to the characteristics of the cartridge to be used. Com bined with the load impedance selection function (30k to 100k ohms continuously variable) the original potential of the cartridge can be fully exploited”

Ortofon 2M Bronze says "Recommended load capacitance - 150-300 pF" which means I have to select 150/300pF on Luxman?. I only see one set of inputs for MM on the back of Herron.

You need to adjust the capacitance so the the total falls in the 150 - 300 pF range taking into account the capacitance of your cables as well. So if your cables have a capacitance of 100 pF you would select 150 pF on the Luxman for a total of 250 pF which is in the range of 150-300 pF. 

If you are new to this and you are buying something as expensive as the Luxman you should buy from a dealer and have the dealer help you. If you are in the Phoenix, AZ area I can recommend someone.

You can also run your Luxman or other phono preamp directly into your Line Magnetic integrated instead of through your DAC/preamp which is what I would recommend.