Get your Katana Gen 3 at Sweetwater (US) - sweetwater.sjv.io/AWvD7D Get your Katana Gen 3 at Thomann (EU) - thmn.to/thoprod/586436?offid=1&affid=288 Get your Katana Gen 3 at Andertons (UK) - elkqr.link/6yqpq Play along with the backing track - ua-cam.com/video/RT_5aNbRbRY/v-deo.html
I feel with how inexpensive bluetooth technology is they should have just included it. Making it a separate dongle just seems like an add-on to increase margin. I'm not hating on the amps, I've actually been waiting for the Gen3 to come out so I can buy one the heads. Just saying it is a head scratching decision. I use the bluetooth feature of my Spark40 daily and will probably just continue to do so instead of buying the separate dongle from BOSS. Also, no tuner? While that's not a deal breaker for me, it seems like an odd exclusion when cheaper, but very much still great amps, come with these features. I feel like BOSS needs a User Experience Designer on the team. Hey BOSS, hit me up if you're watching. :)
Line 6 put a tuner on their Catalyst amps, and it's just 3 lights. Left one indicates flat, right is sharp, and the centre means you're in tune. It's not the greatest tuner, but it works if needed.
All of Katana's Direct competitors have Bluetooth as a Standard Feature. BOSS is now using the Apple Model. Frequently updating models and charging for accessories instead of including them or building them into the unit in this case with Bluetooth in the Katana Gen 3. I don't blame anyone for feeling shortchanged not having Bluetooth included when EVERY Katana competitor has BT. Total Head Scratcher
@@castleanthrax1833 In this day and age Bluetooth and Tuner should be standard in these type amps. Especially one's with in depth apps and computer software
Good choice. I just bought a Catalyst 60 for half price. I get the feeling (because quite a few stores were selling them really cheaply) that Line 6 must be releasing a new Catalyst line. I haven't heard anything yet, but this was only a few weeks ago.
@@castleanthrax1833 I think the Version 2 Catalyst is already announced/released. They call it the Catalyst CX.(actually, that can be gotten with a firmware update for the previous catalyst too).
One thing I appreciate about boss amps is they sound like boss amps. Yes they can model other sounds from other brands but they still have their unique strengths. I don't regret buying my 100w mk2 and it's hard to beat the price!
I think Boss is hiring you to make these videos because you actually ARE are their user manual for the amp haha. Super informative, as you were with the Vintage and the MKII ones. Thanks!
I ran my GX100 through my Artist mk2 and my 50 mk2 as a pseudo stack and I absolutely loved it. The bottom end of the Artist with the highs of the 50 made my rig sound huge.
Upgrades over Gen 2 are slim and sad unless Andy forgot something. 1. One extra amp model 2. Stereo headphones jack instead of mono 3. Comes with phone app instead of buying the Librarian app 4. Boss will sell you a Bluetooth dongle instead of needing to buy a third party one on Amazon 5. USB C port instead of USB B - not sure if this is an upgrade since it's required by law now.
If you already own a katana, I can understand there might not be enough there to upgrade but I’m not sure you really need to. However, imagine a new young player coming into Guitar and being offered katana 50 gen 3. It’s absolutely mind blowing what you get for your money.
@@TheGuitarGeek For sure you get a ton of features for your money with Katanas. That's what makes them so popular. I am just a tad underwhelmed and think it's more like a Gen 2.1. But, like you said the new buyers should be very happy with Gen 3.
These will never be giant leaps unless they build a tube version. They will update every few years with incremental changes just like phones & tablets.
I don't think Boss wanted to build a compelling case to upgrade, more just raise the quality level to compete for new buyers. MkII was the main leap forward, but MkII is so good the rest will be incremental improvements.
@@stellar_cartographer The head with the little internal speaker was surprisingly handy. The tone from that internal speaker was undescribably bad though, but hey it's just used to check things are working/ get some practice in!
I have the Boss GX100 and an Eventide H90. I love the Boss amp models and their approach to modeling. I actually appreciate only having 20 or so models to choose from. Pick one and get to making music.
I like the sounds of these, but I think they're really losing me with all this app/bluetooth/etc stuff. I guess I'm old, but I just want to switch it on, twiddle some knobs, and play. I appreciate you pointing out the benefits for people like me.
There is Bluetooth, at least for the Artist line which tbh are the only ones I actually care about. Bought an Artist MK II a few months back but I may replace it sometime this year literally only bc of Bluetooth as I would like to play music on it as backing tracks or to play along with. Who knows maybe I’ll get a second Mk III for stereo expand.
Dang. All it needed was the tiny screen from the Katana go for the tuner and to show what effect is selected so you don't have to carry a crib sheet to see what effect "yellow" is. Such a missed opportunity. Also, have the dang controls closer to the front! You know, where the player is. I don't play behind or on top of my amp.
It's always a compromise. If they're on top, they're easy to see when the amp is on the floor. If the controls are on the front, they're more easily seen if the amp is on a stand. If I were to guess, I'd think more people have their amp on the floor.
@@iancurrie8844 I think they place them towards the back so they're away from the speaker. It saves having to raise the front panel when there's plenty of space available behind the speaker. It's only 3 or 4 inches.
@@castleanthrax1833 They place it towards the back because it's CHEAPER to make a single unit with the power input, transformer, outputs, etc all at the back. It costs more money to run a separate cable to a front panel which would contain a separate PCB for all the pots, encoders, LEDs, and buttons. It's 100% about cost. It's a bad design made in the name of cost savings.
This is by far the most informative video so far about the Katana Gen 3, thanks Andy! You‘ve got a very good rhythm of presenting information, it‘s never boring and never hectic. I’d really be interested in a direct sound comparison of MkII vs Gen3, for either model.
It looks like this upgraded Gen 3 could have just as easily been a downloadable upgrade to the MK2 line. I'm surprised they don't sell a dongle to make the MK2 line bluetooth compatible through the usb input. Maybe something for some inventive type to start selling. Like I posted on Anderton's site, so far there's nothing that would make me go out and sell my MK2 100 W to get this new one.
The biggest question I'm seeing most people ask right now are, with the new voicing of the Gen 3, how does the previous MK2 100 compare to the Gen3 50. Many picked up the previous 100 not for the wattage but for the larger sound. Now that the Gen3 has been re-voiced for a 'richer' sound in general, can we now look at the 50?
Fantastic review Andy! I got the email from boss this morning and jumped right to your channel as I knew you would have a review ready to go. At first my heart sank, as I literally just purchased a mk2 50 watt that I just received 3 days ago. Thankfully after watching the review I don't see enough difference to return my 50 for the mk3. Possibly upgrade down the road, but I am content with what I have at the moment. Thank you for doing what you do and for the great reviews!
I just got the 100w head and the 2x12 cab and I absolutely love it. Both for bluesy cleans and growling heavy gain tones and everything in between. I find that for high gain I like it better than my fender tone master pro.
I am really glad they added the Bluetooth dongle as an option. If you already have a GX-100 or Dual Cube LX (I have both) you can just swap the dongle without buying another one. AND then you should be able to also use the wireless expression pedal or FS-1-WL footswitch, right?
Got to say I'm disappointed. The lack of built in Bluetooth app connectivity, when it's in the katana go, is a kick in the teeth. It would be £5 on the cost, they still have to manufacture the din socket and internals anyway. I feel like the Gen 3 was marketing realising they actually haven't taken much of a step forward, so had to come up with something to make it sound like more than it is.
Well, they specifically completely overhauled the sound engine, and I think you can clearly hear that, especially with the 100. Still have to save up for it though.
I have multiple amps, tube, solid state and digital, but I just picked up a Katana Go and it's pretty cool. I also have some Line 6 gear, so it's nice to hear and try the other big player in the digital amp realm. If I needed an amp, I would get the Katana 100, it makes the most sense in my mind, thanks for your informative breakdown, Andy.
Great video, Andy! Loved your playing, especially on the "Pushed" setting - that alone makes me consider an upgrade... Will there be a 100 EX...? Or an Artist, maybe. Or a Head. Damn, options.
Waiting for the gen 5, it comes with a dishwasher,sink and linguistics modal teacher who speaks in mixolydian,phrygian dominant, aeolian, and even lydian #4 amongst other fine harmonic modulations. But maybe I'll just end up buying the gen 3?? When will the Gen 6 come out?? Is there going to be a 7?? Does anyone know lmao??
Cool video, thank Andy. As always you ROCK!!! I’m not sure if it’s worth upgrading from my trusted mk1. I was expecting slight visual changes. I know if it’s not broken don’t fix it. If I didn’t have mk1 I believe I’d have bought gen3 though. Thanks Andy
Hi, Andy! Great channel, long-time viewer and first-time commenter here. I own a Mk2 Katana Artist combo. I bought it primarily for the Waza speaker to use as a cab for higher-end heads, but I do enjoy using the amp itself too. I mean, think about it -- for the price of a cab anywhere else, you're getting a great speaker... oh, and a great amp happens to be built in too! One thing I don't like about the Katana is that it sounds a bit thin or fizzy to me. While using the EQ through Tone Studio has helped quite a bit, I wish it was a little more balanced in tone. I would really love to see an A/B test of the Mk2 vs. Gen 3 tones, seeing as how you mention that these were redesigned from the ground up. If there really is a significant difference, I could be convinced to get the latest and greatest, but definitely need to hear the difference first. -- Is a Mk2/Gen3 comparison video something you can do for us? I really think your viewers would enjoy it!
Heard and own the mkII and have heard the gen 3 and still prefer the sound of the MkII and you still can only get the pathetic 2 button pedal for the 50. The biggest complaint about the Gen 3 50 is that they still didn't install a LOOPER WTF do they not listen to their customers?
Andy, do you know whether the Katana artist Mk II does have a headphone output? If not does the Mk III have one? Thanks in advance. Greetings from Austria!
Got my 100 mkII two months ago and paid 328 EUR (in SEK equivalent). Thomann has the gen 3 at 527 EUR for me, which is an increase of about 60% which is quite a lot for the presented upgrades. I think the mkII will server me great for quite some time. I'd probably look at the artist version if I want to splash more money on an amp, or go Tonex with a Cab and pedals.
I am very dissapointed that Boss have not added dotted eighth and other delay and tremolo tempo sync options. I feel like if they would add that one feature the effects section would be complete. Is there someway we can communicate that request to Boss? I may be wrong but it seems like something a firmware update could add.
Seems decent for a first time buyer, but I see no reason to upgrade from the MKII series. Also, not including Bluetooth to Tone Studio/UA-cam/Spotify is a huge face palm in 2024 imho. This technology is dirt cheap and standard in competitors from 3-4 years ago, so I don't buy the excuse of cutting costs for the customer. Hell, Bluetooth is standard in $20 kids headphones these days... Charging $60 USD for an adapter is just sad and half the price of a Katana:GO.
I don't plan on using pedals, so my only consideration for going with the 100 over the 50 would be the sound quality, not loudness. Would you say the 100 sounds significantly better to justify the price jump?
You can Bluetooth your older Katana using the Airstep Kat. You can also use a third party mobile app to control the amp and load effects either by USB or Bluetooth. No Artist MK3?
Not sure why it’s a positive that it doesn’t have a screen; something like the Katana Go screen would be helpful - not for deep editing but just to know what patch you’re on; I often get confused as to which patch I’m on with the random pressing of the top panel buttons. I’m also really disappointed they didn’t add an onboard looper, like the Dual Cube
Does the Katana 50 Gen 3 cut through the mix and can be used for gigs? Or just home, studio and rehearsal? I'm looking for a small and good amp that I can use at home, studio and for gigs.
Doesn't matter if everyone does want bluetooth or not, if every other amp producer is adding it then you add it too. It's like saying not everyone wants a mid eq so we wont bother adding it. Or, they could add the bluetooth dongle (Which seems silly and easily lost) and drop the price to compensate for those that do want it. But again, its on the motherboard, why not just use it?
Hey, Andy! Thanks for the comparison of these amps, they are more similar than I thought. From the MKII did you notice a lot of difference in sound between the 100 and the Artist? I am wanting a Katana for both recording at home and sometimes playing with the amp without the computer.
So what I notice is that the Gen 3 100 upgrades are the mkii artist features. Am I wrong? I have the mkii Artist and it has all these features but Bluetooth and the push amp type
EX Gen? That is the curiosity. Cosmetics and a "better" speaker (FX Loop should have been a NO BRAINER for the premium because speaker and line out worth it?). Otherwise, USB-C is the only change? Sounds that much different?
Looking to buy my first proper amp. Been using Spark Go for now which is great. So do I move to the Positive Grid 40W and stick with the app for pedals and effects or plump for a Marshall Origin 50w (and start a pedal collecting addiction) or a Katana Artist 100w with the suited effects pedal setup which can do more or less everything for a garden room hobbyist 🤔
Been playing a Gen 1 100 watt, one twelve for four years in blues clubs. Straight off, I get what I want out of it. HOWEVER, I never use the 100 watt setting. It sounds shitty. I am always on 50 watts. It does not lose the fidelity and has plenty of volume without being mic'd.
It's the grey zone between clean and crunch. To get a pushed clean you have to crank the gain, the crunch channel start already with a good amont and go even in the high gain zone. So it's basically a full clean channel which got a room to add gain before you reach the level of the crunch channel (which is my channel for thrash metal rythm...).
Just found out the 100 head has a 5 inch speaker built in so you can use it as a desktop practice amp and then plug in a cab for the full show and it's only $19 USD more than a 50!
Hello there. Antonio from Veracruz, Mexico. I already have a MKII Katana 50 Ex, and I would like to play in STEREO, that's why I am thinking about getting a NEW Katana 50 EX GEN 3, my question is: is it possible to run in STEREO with this two amps? I have a GA FC EX too. Thank you
Get your Katana Gen 3 at Sweetwater (US) - sweetwater.sjv.io/AWvD7D
Get your Katana Gen 3 at Thomann (EU) - thmn.to/thoprod/586436?offid=1&affid=288
Get your Katana Gen 3 at Andertons (UK) - elkqr.link/6yqpq
Play along with the backing track - ua-cam.com/video/RT_5aNbRbRY/v-deo.html
I wonder if Boss will update Gen 2 with any new software or are we just in the "just buy a new one" mode.
Also: BUT DOES IT HAVE USB-C?
great review! I like the 100 but can only afford the 50 hmmmmm
@@dredzik Yes it does
Also: Do you know if Katana Go will get the pushed channel as well?
excited for the upcoming Gen 4 release
I heard Gen 5 will be even better, so much better they'll call it MK V
cant wait for Gen 6 tho
Can't wait for Gen 9
@@stephen8779 Me too. I'll be dead.
@@stephen8779 we’ll be getting it before gta 6
The Katana master! Top stuff, Andy!
Where can I buy the gen 3 katana 100 online in India?
@@_Saint_Michael_ probably just thomann
I feel with how inexpensive bluetooth technology is they should have just included it. Making it a separate dongle just seems like an add-on to increase margin. I'm not hating on the amps, I've actually been waiting for the Gen3 to come out so I can buy one the heads. Just saying it is a head scratching decision. I use the bluetooth feature of my Spark40 daily and will probably just continue to do so instead of buying the separate dongle from BOSS. Also, no tuner? While that's not a deal breaker for me, it seems like an odd exclusion when cheaper, but very much still great amps, come with these features. I feel like BOSS needs a User Experience Designer on the team. Hey BOSS, hit me up if you're watching. :)
Line 6 put a tuner on their Catalyst amps, and it's just 3 lights. Left one indicates flat, right is sharp, and the centre means you're in tune. It's not the greatest tuner, but it works if needed.
All of Katana's Direct competitors have Bluetooth as a Standard Feature. BOSS is now using the Apple Model. Frequently updating models and charging for accessories instead of including them or building them into the unit in this case with Bluetooth in the Katana Gen 3. I don't blame anyone for feeling shortchanged not having Bluetooth included when EVERY Katana competitor has BT. Total Head Scratcher
@JTB-- Line 6 didn't put Bluetooth into their Catalyst line... unless something has been newly released, of which I'm unaware.
@@castleanthrax1833 In this day and age Bluetooth and Tuner should be standard in these type amps. Especially one's with in depth apps and computer software
I agree bluetooth should not be a separate dongle. It's just stupid and excusing it because not everyone wants bluetooth is idiotic.
Im just going to buy a mk2 100 model at a discounted price sorted 🤘🤘🤘❤️
Good choice. I just bought a Catalyst 60 for half price. I get the feeling (because quite a few stores were selling them really cheaply) that Line 6 must be releasing a new Catalyst line. I haven't heard anything yet, but this was only a few weeks ago.
@@castleanthrax1833 I think the Version 2 Catalyst is already announced/released.
They call it the Catalyst CX.(actually, that can be gotten with a firmware update for the previous catalyst too).
@@castleanthrax1833Line 6 Catalyst CX released a couple months ago. Update firmware to get CX new features.
Smart choice 👍
For just 20 bucks more, the features on the gen 3 100 are worth it. I just got one, and I'm very happy with it.
One thing I appreciate about boss amps is they sound like boss amps. Yes they can model other sounds from other brands but they still have their unique strengths. I don't regret buying my 100w mk2 and it's hard to beat the price!
I think Boss is hiring you to make these videos because you actually ARE are their user manual for the amp haha. Super informative, as you were with the Vintage and the MKII ones. Thanks!
I ran my GX100 through my Artist mk2 and my 50 mk2 as a pseudo stack and I absolutely loved it. The bottom end of the Artist with the highs of the 50 made my rig sound huge.
Looks like I can save money and keep my Mk2 50.
Upgrades over Gen 2 are slim and sad unless Andy forgot something.
1. One extra amp model
2. Stereo headphones jack instead of mono
3. Comes with phone app instead of buying the Librarian app
4. Boss will sell you a Bluetooth dongle instead of needing to buy a third party one on Amazon
5. USB C port instead of USB B - not sure if this is an upgrade since it's required by law now.
If you already own a katana, I can understand there might not be enough there to upgrade but I’m not sure you really need to. However, imagine a new young player coming into Guitar and being offered katana 50 gen 3. It’s absolutely mind blowing what you get for your money.
@@TheGuitarGeek For sure you get a ton of features for your money with Katanas. That's what makes them so popular. I am just a tad underwhelmed and think it's more like a Gen 2.1. But, like you said the new buyers should be very happy with Gen 3.
I've never heard anyone complain about the name before. Very strange indeed.
These will never be giant leaps unless they build a tube version. They will update every few years with incremental changes just like phones & tablets.
I don't think Boss wanted to build a compelling case to upgrade, more just raise the quality level to compete for new buyers. MkII was the main leap forward, but MkII is so good the rest will be incremental improvements.
I bought my Gen. 1 Katana 50 in 2018 and it still works great.
Good job explaining the new amps. Thanks!!
Me too with the 100. Never bothered updating it either. Pete
@@ptrisonic same I still have mine, but since I got a sound card and a plugin, that's become my fav way.
Shit man is this when people start feeling old? I remember being so excited when the Katana Gen 1 came out.
E: The pushes setting sounds so damn good!
yeah.. 2016!!!!
For real, feels like yesterday I got the 100w head and the internal speaker blew my mind… then got the artist… where did the time go!
@@stellar_cartographer The head with the little internal speaker was surprisingly handy.
The tone from that internal speaker was undescribably bad though, but hey it's just used to check things are working/ get some practice in!
@@jasonhuang6332 yeah it was really nice for bedroom noodling or couch jam sessions
I only play at home and have the 50. It's absolutely the best single speaker combo amp I've had. It's a keeper.
I have the Boss GX100 and an Eventide H90. I love the Boss amp models and their approach to modeling. I actually appreciate only having 20 or so models to choose from. Pick one and get to making music.
Not to mention they sound and feel great to play!!!
I'm usually that way myself, but I'd be disappointed if the amp I wanted wasn't available, so I understand why they offer so many.
I like the sounds of these, but I think they're really losing me with all this app/bluetooth/etc stuff. I guess I'm old, but I just want to switch it on, twiddle some knobs, and play. I appreciate you pointing out the benefits for people like me.
Couldn't agree more.
Finally a stereo headphone out to send to the pa!!!
No bluetooth? I'll keep my MK2
There is Bluetooth, at least for the Artist line which tbh are the only ones I actually care about. Bought an Artist MK II a few months back but I may replace it sometime this year literally only bc of Bluetooth as I would like to play music on it as backing tracks or to play along with. Who knows maybe I’ll get a second Mk III for stereo expand.
broo serach for the standard gen 3 head not "artist" its cheaper and comes with bluetooth and also i tiny speaker integrated
There is Bluetooth... you just need to buy that doohickey to enable a connection.
I use expand mode with katana 100 mk 2 and 100 mk 1. It was working very well.
Guitar gig is the best channel for me. Regards bro
Thanks !
I like having a external bluetooth adapter because bluetooth chips are notorious for going bad and it is possible to have upgrades in the future!
I did not know that. Do you have any examples of Bluetooth chips going bad?
@@castleanthrax1833 I'm listening this too.
Very accurate! I would also say if u have a band and want to gig I would go with the 100 ! 💯
This is the first of your videos I’ve watched. Very insightful. Thanks.
Looks nice. But I wish they had made it possible to stack overdrives.
Looking forward to hearing about the 100W head!
Dang. All it needed was the tiny screen from the Katana go for the tuner and to show what effect is selected so you don't have to carry a crib sheet to see what effect "yellow" is. Such a missed opportunity. Also, have the dang controls closer to the front! You know, where the player is. I don't play behind or on top of my amp.
It's always a compromise. If they're on top, they're easy to see when the amp is on the floor. If the controls are on the front, they're more easily seen if the amp is on a stand. If I were to guess, I'd think more people have their amp on the floor.
@@castleanthrax1833 Right. So on top at the front is obviously the correct place.
@@iancurrie8844 I think they place them towards the back so they're away from the speaker. It saves having to raise the front panel when there's plenty of space available behind the speaker. It's only 3 or 4 inches.
@@castleanthrax1833 They place it towards the back because it's CHEAPER to make a single unit with the power input, transformer, outputs, etc all at the back. It costs more money to run a separate cable to a front panel which would contain a separate PCB for all the pots, encoders, LEDs, and buttons. It's 100% about cost. It's a bad design made in the name of cost savings.
@iancurrie8844 It works fine for me. Nothing bad about the design as far as I'm concerned.
I want to see the iii on the front cloth 👌🏻🌹
Cheers Andy, loved the presentation, but now I'm intrigued 50 EX!
This is by far the most informative video so far about the Katana Gen 3, thanks Andy!
You‘ve got a very good rhythm of presenting information, it‘s never boring and never hectic.
I’d really be interested in a direct sound comparison of MkII vs Gen3, for either model.
Thank you! I’ll bring that video to you soon!
It looks like this upgraded Gen 3 could have just as easily been a downloadable upgrade to the MK2 line. I'm surprised they don't sell a dongle to make the MK2 line bluetooth compatible through the usb input. Maybe something for some inventive type to start selling. Like I posted on Anderton's site, so far there's nothing that would make me go out and sell my MK2 100 W to get this new one.
You missed the extra amp setting.
The biggest question I'm seeing most people ask right now are, with the new voicing of the Gen 3, how does the previous MK2 100 compare to the Gen3 50. Many picked up the previous 100 not for the wattage but for the larger sound. Now that the Gen3 has been re-voiced for a 'richer' sound in general, can we now look at the 50?
Missed opportunity to make 50 able to use the big footswitch.
Marketing reasons
Thanks Andy for a great review, I have a collection of amps so went with your advice and ordered the 50.
You’re very welcome!
Fantastic review Andy! I got the email from boss this morning and jumped right to your channel as I knew you would have a review ready to go. At first my heart sank, as I literally just purchased a mk2 50 watt that I just received 3 days ago. Thankfully after watching the review I don't see enough difference to return my 50 for the mk3. Possibly upgrade down the road, but I am content with what I have at the moment. Thank you for doing what you do and for the great reviews!
oh great news! I agree that with people that own the MKii, there is not a very enticing reason to buy the new one but for newcomers, WOW!
Great review! Will you be doing a comparison with Gen 3 Artist amps?
I just got the 100w head and the 2x12 cab and I absolutely love it. Both for bluesy cleans and growling heavy gain tones and everything in between. I find that for high gain I like it better than my fender tone master pro.
No line out and no send return on the 50?
Thanks, I will consider the Catalyst
bit of a letdown for sure, I would've been a buyer if they had even given it a facelift.
I discovered they already put the 50 ex on the line up, maybe I change idea. Maaaybe
@@filtermat I think there's also no FX loop on the 50 EX...
@@tostrmofo6686 That’s what he meant by “send return.”
@@tostrmofo6686 that’s true but 4 kg less and possibility to link with ga-fc is partially a pro
Great video. Honest and helpful. Well done. I've always been a Boss fan.
I just ordered the 50. I have a small band forming with small amps/ I can mike it if needed for bigger clubs.
I am really glad they added the Bluetooth dongle as an option. If you already have a GX-100 or Dual Cube LX (I have both) you can just swap the dongle without buying another one. AND then you should be able to also use the wireless expression pedal or FS-1-WL footswitch, right?
Great Vid as usual.. would love to see an Gen3 Artist vs Gen3 100 vid also!
Got to say I'm disappointed. The lack of built in Bluetooth app connectivity, when it's in the katana go, is a kick in the teeth. It would be £5 on the cost, they still have to manufacture the din socket and internals anyway. I feel like the Gen 3 was marketing realising they actually haven't taken much of a step forward, so had to come up with something to make it sound like more than it is.
Well, they specifically completely overhauled the sound engine, and I think you can clearly hear that, especially with the 100. Still have to save up for it though.
I agree.. now there is another dongle to forget at home. Just please put it in the cab, if we don’t want to use it, we will not press the button..
Great pic of you on the 50EX page!
Outstanding review. Very complete. Thanks.
Cool stuff Andy. Thanks for the info! Digging that pushed setting for sure. Much love buddy, be well ✌🏼
I have multiple amps, tube, solid state and digital, but I just picked up a Katana Go and it's pretty cool. I also have some Line 6 gear, so it's nice to hear and try the other big player in the digital amp realm. If I needed an amp, I would get the Katana 100, it makes the most sense in my mind, thanks for your informative breakdown, Andy.
Great video, Andy! Loved your playing, especially on the "Pushed" setting - that alone makes me consider an upgrade...
Will there be a 100 EX...? Or an Artist, maybe. Or a Head. Damn, options.
Thank you very much. Take alook at the links I posted and you’ll see the full range
Waiting for the gen 5, it comes with a dishwasher,sink and linguistics modal teacher who speaks in mixolydian,phrygian dominant, aeolian, and even lydian #4 amongst other fine harmonic modulations. But maybe I'll just end up buying the gen 3?? When will the Gen 6 come out?? Is there going to be a 7?? Does anyone know lmao??
Well done man. Seriously great review of these and their differences. Love the moods of your reviews.
I can’t wait for Gen 4!
Cool video, thank Andy. As always you ROCK!!! I’m not sure if it’s worth upgrading from my trusted mk1. I was expecting slight visual changes.
I know if it’s not broken don’t fix it.
If I didn’t have mk1 I believe I’d have bought gen3 though.
Thanks Andy
Glad I could help! For existing katana owners, it is a tough choice but for newcomers, the value presented here is phenomenal!
I agree on both: great video and I also have a Mk-1 that is working great.... 🤔
I want a bass channel like this...
I wish i could play bass!
Hi, Andy! Great channel, long-time viewer and first-time commenter here.
I own a Mk2 Katana Artist combo. I bought it primarily for the Waza speaker to use as a cab for higher-end heads, but I do enjoy using the amp itself too. I mean, think about it -- for the price of a cab anywhere else, you're getting a great speaker... oh, and a great amp happens to be built in too!
One thing I don't like about the Katana is that it sounds a bit thin or fizzy to me. While using the EQ through Tone Studio has helped quite a bit, I wish it was a little more balanced in tone.
I would really love to see an A/B test of the Mk2 vs. Gen 3 tones, seeing as how you mention that these were redesigned from the ground up. If there really is a significant difference, I could be convinced to get the latest and greatest, but definitely need to hear the difference first. -- Is a Mk2/Gen3 comparison video something you can do for us? I really think your viewers would enjoy it!
Heard and own the mkII and have heard the gen 3 and still prefer the sound of the MkII and you still can only get the pathetic 2 button pedal for the 50. The biggest complaint about the Gen 3 50 is that they still didn't install a LOOPER WTF do they not listen to their customers?
Great review Andy! Thank you
Still have the Gen1 Katana and still no tuner on the new one. It's a shame.
Do they both have the power soak to reduce the volume while maintaining the gain?
We need a solid state amp shootout video. Orange 35RT, Marshall MG30GFX, Katana 50III EX, etc. Let's do it! :)
Andy, do you know whether the Katana artist Mk II does have a headphone output? If not does the Mk III have one? Thanks in advance. Greetings from Austria!
Got my 100 mkII two months ago and paid 328 EUR (in SEK equivalent). Thomann has the gen 3 at 527 EUR for me, which is an increase of about 60% which is quite a lot for the presented upgrades. I think the mkII will server me great for quite some time. I'd probably look at the artist version if I want to splash more money on an amp, or go Tonex with a Cab and pedals.
I wish they had moved the tap tempo button to somewhere more accessible. I don't have big hands and I struggle to use it with any accuracy.
I am very dissapointed that Boss have not added dotted eighth and other delay and tremolo tempo sync options. I feel like if they would add that one feature the effects section would be complete. Is there someway we can communicate that request to Boss? I may be wrong but it seems like something a firmware update could add.
Seems decent for a first time buyer, but I see no reason to upgrade from the MKII series. Also, not including Bluetooth to Tone Studio/UA-cam/Spotify is a huge face palm in 2024 imho. This technology is dirt cheap and standard in competitors from 3-4 years ago, so I don't buy the excuse of cutting costs for the customer. Hell, Bluetooth is standard in $20 kids headphones these days... Charging $60 USD for an adapter is just sad and half the price of a Katana:GO.
I don't plan on using pedals, so my only consideration for going with the 100 over the 50 would be the sound quality, not loudness. Would you say the 100 sounds significantly better to justify the price jump?
I think for the first time since solid state was a reasonably new thing in guitar gear where stuff can become obsolete within a few years.
You can Bluetooth your older Katana using the Airstep Kat. You can also use a third party mobile app to control the amp and load effects either by USB or Bluetooth.
No Artist MK3?
Answered my own question. Yes there's an Artist MK3. It's not a huge upgrade which is just as well for me because I recently bought the MK2.
Not for streaming though. The Airstep only gives Bluetooth control.
@@Gunde True, as far as I can tell. You have to use a wired connection through the aux in to play audio.
Is there a CHARGE for using the Bluetooth Feature? I've heard 99 in Europe and 69 in the US.
It would be nice if the 100 caster wheels.
I was expecting bluetooth & tuner, so no option for me this new version
$45 boss Bluetooth plug off Amazon. Easy to connect with amp now, 3rd party xsonic foot switch was the only way with IOS for gen 2
Not sure why it’s a positive that it doesn’t have a screen; something like the Katana Go screen would be helpful - not for deep editing but just to know what patch you’re on; I often get confused as to which patch I’m on with the random pressing of the top panel buttons.
I’m also really disappointed they didn’t add an onboard looper, like the Dual Cube
What is difference pf the ARTIST 100 VERSION GEN 3 compared TO the 100 gen 3 ???
I have the 50W MK2 EX , its an awesome sounding versatile amp that tote to gigs I also have the foot controller so I dont need to bring pedals
I just realized in the picture, your flipping a bird lmao 🤣 it took a quick minute..
I dint like that the monitors dont work when you plug an rec out line. Would you be able to hear it through earphone or someone?
Does the Katana 50 Gen 3 cut through the mix and can be used for gigs? Or just home, studio and rehearsal? I'm looking for a small and good amp that I can use at home, studio and for gigs.
So... not even the 100/212 is stereo but only "expand-capable"???
Doesn't matter if everyone does want bluetooth or not, if every other amp producer is adding it then you add it too. It's like saying not everyone wants a mid eq so we wont bother adding it. Or, they could add the bluetooth dongle (Which seems silly and easily lost) and drop the price to compensate for those that do want it. But again, its on the motherboard, why not just use it?
Seems like the Artist Series is where its at.
I’m waiting for the white version otherwise I would buy one today !
That stratocaster 😩😩😩
How about updating and patches to fix digital and digital capable amps? That would be better.
What do you recommend? How can I achieve the stereo working? Neither amp has the Stereo Expand switch on the rear panel. Thanks
I think my mk2 will still be relevant enough.
Yes we do...we all want it for free. Like Fishman! I have both!
Sir, you have a great video! I think about buying katana head. It would be nice, if you made a comparison between mark 2 and gen 3 in future!
It’s on its way!
Please compare the mk2 head sound to the gen3 head. Comparing the mk2 and gen3 combos might not mean a thing because of different speakers.
Great review. Thank you 🙏🏼 😊
Excellent breakdown.
Thank you Tom
Hey, Andy!
Thanks for the comparison of these amps, they are more similar than I thought. From the MKII did you notice a lot of difference in sound between the 100 and the Artist?
I am wanting a Katana for both recording at home and sometimes playing with the amp without the computer.
So what I notice is that the Gen 3 100 upgrades are the mkii artist features. Am I wrong? I have the mkii Artist and it has all these features but Bluetooth and the push amp type
I might just wait to grab the artist 100 gen3, if not, maybe the 100 gen3 will be my go to.
Im waiting for the gen 3 artist...till then ill play my current artist katana...but cant wait to stereo expand
Just ordered 100 watt Gen 3 Combo. I'm confused about usb-C cable any advice or are these cables all the same. Any help would be appreciated.
EX Gen? That is the curiosity. Cosmetics and a "better" speaker (FX Loop should have been a NO BRAINER for the premium because speaker and line out worth it?). Otherwise, USB-C is the only change? Sounds that much different?
Looking to buy my first proper amp. Been using Spark Go for now which is great. So do I move to the Positive Grid 40W and stick with the app for pedals and effects or plump for a Marshall Origin 50w (and start a pedal collecting addiction) or a Katana Artist 100w with the suited effects pedal setup which can do more or less everything for a garden room hobbyist 🤔
Been playing a Gen 1 100 watt, one twelve for four years in blues clubs. Straight off, I get what I want out of it. HOWEVER, I never use the 100 watt setting. It sounds shitty. I am always on 50 watts. It does not lose the fidelity and has plenty of volume without being mic'd.
Get the 50 and the Airstep KAT Footswitch ;)
Great review mate, do you know if the katana go will get a software update to include the extra "push" channel?
I still don't make difference between Clean and Pushed so PLEASE explain the purpose of Pushed amp type.
It's the grey zone between clean and crunch. To get a pushed clean you have to crank the gain, the crunch channel start already with a good amont and go even in the high gain zone. So it's basically a full clean channel which got a room to add gain before you reach the level of the crunch channel (which is my channel for thrash metal rythm...).
Please compare mk2 to the mk3 using the loop in the future.
Just found out the 100 head has a 5 inch speaker built in so you can use it as a desktop practice amp and then plug in a cab for the full show and it's only $19 USD more than a 50!
Hello there. Antonio from Veracruz, Mexico.
I already have a MKII Katana 50 Ex, and I would like to play in STEREO, that's why I am thinking about getting a NEW Katana 50 EX GEN 3, my question is: is it possible to run in STEREO with this two amps? I have a GA FC EX too. Thank you