Grant -- I'm not particularly familiar with the VRE-1, but I recall that it includes a jfet (active) buffer stage. Assuming that is in the signal path and is followed by a coupling transformer at the output, I'd expect the resulting output impedance to be much lower than in the case of a purely passive preamp. Perhaps that is why the long cable is not a problem for you?
Best regards,
-- Al
Best regards,
-- Al