ALthough shorter is better in most ways, there are also reflection and resonance issues that can factor in. This is why some people recommend 1.5m. If you can run your tonearm wires without a break from cartridge to preamp, that is best.
phono stage placement
Is it better to have the phono stage close to the TT with shorter ic's between the table, or the other way around, or does it matter? I would think the shorter the ic between tt and phono stage would be the better.