Amp/preamp combo for B&W Matrix 801's

I use to sell the first generation 801s. I wish we had the amps available then we do now. They like a lot of power, I have a Musical Fidelity M3 NuVista that would work well, as would the other big amps in their line. I would look for a high dampening factor as well as high power, I don't think that these are the best speakers for tubes. Room size is also a consideration , as well as your preferred listening level and choice of music.

I vote for Mcintosh MC402 + C2300

Thanks for the suggestions. I've heard elsewhere to stay away from tubes with the 801's. I've been looking at Mcintosh's and Conrad Johnson but will also put Musical Fidelity M3 NuVista on my list...Is there a minimum watts/channel I should consider?

I have the 803D mains and they do indeed like good high current power.

After going through a few combinations, I now have the Mac C2300 peamp (with different linestage tubes) and a Spectron Audio MK2 amp (class D) which provides 600 watts/channel. They also sounded good with the new Bel Canto REF1000II (also class D with 500 watts/channel).

You have to be aware of the impedance limitations of the amp your speakers can dip between 2-3 ohms although nominally rated at 8 ohms.

I tried the Classe CAM 400 mono-blocks and they were ok but the Spectron was more musical and really brought out the speaker's capabilites.

I was also looking at the Audio Research LS-26 but none were available used when I was looking for a preamp. Note that the LS-26 sounds better using the XLR inputs/ouputs.

My 2 cents.

If you want to go Vintage:; Threshold S ( S300,S500 etc. )series amp and Audio Research Sp11 pre worked very well for me.......