i would rather have a lundahl on the front and a jensen on the out.
If the output is unbalanced and I don't see why it should not be, I don't think we need a transformer coupled output. Besides this is going to be a "small" preamp if I was building a rack mount pre I could put all kinds of things inside it. But I want to keep the size down. I don't want to use Jensen I would rather use the company that makes them.. Cinemag.
CineMag doesn't make transformers for Jensen. Reichenbach used to make transformers that Jensen designed, QC'd and then sold. Prior to Deane Jensen's passing the relationship between Reichenbach and Jensen who designed the transformers soured. The exact details are private but designs were stolen, Reichenbach's doors were shuttered and then they reopened later as two companies CineMag and Bauer Communications both currently making transformers that are variants of Deane's designs. Your buisness decisons are yours and many have said the quality between the products are similar, I just wanted to clear up the misconception that Jensen's transformers are not made in-house.
Just as I would purchase from yourself, Chris, instead of a company like sound pros, I will continue t use Jensen based transformer products and support companies that provide levels of support to customers and non-customers that go above and beyond. A quick look to the database of free design info at Jensen's page is enough for me.
Below was a post in a larger discussion around the formation of CineMag on R.A.P. years ago:
CineMag is a company owned by Tom Reichenbach (son of the late Ed
Reichenbach) who makes transformers. In the distant past, there was a
relationship between Ed Reichenbach and Deane Jensen. I know next to nothing
about his products.
Bill Whitlock
Jensen Transformers, Inc.
just my $.02
peace, chris