tubes with b&w

There are many happy users with the combination. I know of several that are using McIntosh tube amplification and are very happy but note that the more power the better for B&Ws.

Listening right now to 802 matrixs with a Jolida 502brc tube integrated that sounds very,very good - as good if not better than the Meridian system I have (DSP-5000's)

You would certainly get fuller sound with tubes. I didn't use tubes with my previous N805 but a solid state Plinius amp and the sound was full and warm, in fact too warm for my tastes.

Had B&W matrix 804's used Conrad Johnson MV 52 and later their Premier 11a both to good account. Tubes adn B&W go good together

I would recommend a solid state amp, matched with a tubed preamp. That is what I have been using with my N803s for years now.

For the past 2 years I am enjoying my speakers paired with Pass Labs X250.5 amplifier. I had an Audio Research LS-25 preamplifier, Audio Research Reference One, and now have BAT VK-51SE. Tube preamps is all that's needed. I'd concentrate on the best solid state amp, but pair it with a tubed pre.

Keep in mind, B&Ws have warm and full midrange. This is their trait. If you are going with a tube amp for B&Ws, you need to be familiar with the sonic signature of that particular amp and you have to make sure it provides adequate power for your speakers.

Another option may be a hybrid amp, such as Moscode 401HR or one of the Blue Circle amplifiers. I'd still pair those with a tubed pre though, but one that is neutral.