Considering that your only source is vinyl, didn't you think about getting the Lamm LP1 signature phono and the L2.1 Reference line preamplifier for now?
The rack is being designed for five Lamm boxes. I considered the LP1 and the LL2 combination which is also five boxes but settled on this pairing.
Interesting that you bring this up, Francisco; I also wondered about the choice. As Peter intimates, space can be a factor.
At my place the L2.1 Ref preamp (2 box) and the LP1 Sig (3 box) that you mention are currently in use as review components, along with my M1.2 Ref monoblocks. These also are a sweetheart combination and would make for an interesting comparison to what Peter has. (Peter, I'm thinking maybe you meant above the L2.1 Ref; the
LL2.1 ("it connected my heart and brain through my ear") is the entry 1 box preamp. Yes the names are confusing.) And I'm delighted to learn you find the LP2.1 the best phonostage you've had in your system - it truly is worthy of your comment.
Having the good fortune of seven rack spaces, I bring either the ARC Ref 10 or Ref Phono 10, both 2 box units, in and out Without giving too much away - though it is easily obvious - the ARC v Lamm comparo tells the tale of much of what we've been talking about in this thread and elsewhere.
Wrt Lamm
front-end component names - for those following along but unfamiliar ... there is a unique Lamm logic to them and a few keys that might help memory... but yeah they can be confusing. If you're looking, count the boxes.
Lamm linestages are called 'preamps' although currently they offer no true preamp, ie. no linestage+phono/RIAA. Fwiw, Vladimir has talked about doing a true preamp in the past.
All
linestage components start with L.
All
phonostage units start with LP.
Top level models have the number 1 following an L or LP.
Their descriptor is 'Signature'.
All tube based control unit and power supply
Each channel has its own power supply box.
-- LL1.1 Signature (4 box)
-- LP1 Signature (3 box)
Second tier models have the number 2 following the L or LP.
Their descriptor is 'Reference'.
Hybrid ss control unit and tube regulated power supply
Their is no second tier phonostage, at least by name.
-- L2.1 Reference (2 box)
Third tier models have the number 2 following an L or LP.
Third tier models are 'Regular or Deluxe'.
All tube based.
-- LL2.1 Regular and Deluxe (1 box)
-- LP2.1 Regular and Deluxe (1 box)
I'm using 'level' or 'tier' as related to cost; sonics conform but use your own judgement.
Upgraded models include a decimal point.
Imo, it is best to include the descriptor - that makes it easier.
Peter, given a six slot rack with half of the top shelf for the turntable, I think you chose the right combination. (But it's all good.
)