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
Total beginner noodler here - I ended up getting the 100W Gen 3 as the effects loop seemed like a must have. Very pleased. My amateurish noodling sounds amazing now.
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 like the color variation that you did in your video editing when it came to: Similarities vs. Differences. Red vs Green. It is the little touches in production that up the value, though folks don't always notice. Great video. 🙂
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.
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 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
One of our bands (Prince Of Lilies) recorded 2 albums with Nirvana producer Steve Albini and their guitarist uses two Marshall JCM800’s and one Boss Katana 50 in the middle. It’s truly the best combo I’ve ever heard live. Thanks for your video.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
I got the 100 bluey because I want to use a good looper-drum, but tbh straight out of the box I prefer the 50 sound and that’s what I would have gone for if it had an effect loop
I’m glad I just bought the 100. I didn’t realize that boss studio has like a 10 second delay in selecting your preset on the laptop before the settings from your library take effect. Kinda hard to select say a clean preset and swap to distorted without the foot pedal. And the 50 can’t use the pedal to select the presets like the 100 can. Also the looper in and out on the 100 allows different looper sound versus the 50 forces that loop to play whatever the amp is currently set to.
F that dear boy, if you buy a flagship model it should HAVE ALL the fruit. I just purchased an Artist with a footswitch and still have to buy the BT adaptor. Love the channel.
@@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'm surprised the 50 and 100 sounded so different. I have a 50MKII and love it except I find the speaker a bit harsh and needs Global EQ adjustment. I was planning to get 50III EX but maybe I should get the 100 instead. Hope the 50EX will be out for testing soon.
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!
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
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.
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 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?
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.
I wonder if I should get Katana head with 2x12 equipped with two Vintage 30s or one Greenback and one V type. I tried 4x12 Vintage 30 from Peavey and full stack with 2x12 V type Marshall with 1x12 Greenback from VOX Combo and it sounded awesome.
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.
the contour knob seems to be similar to the Blackstar ID Core series ISF knob. lol When I get a boss Katana it will be a used 50 watt combo or, if I have already built my custom vertical tower 4X12" cabs it will be just the head version. but then I already have an original release (V1) ID Core stereo 40 that sounds great but doesn't have nearly the number of effects that the Katana has but then the ID Core 40 is much cheaper new than even a used Katana. and i got mine used for less that $100 USD.
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?
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.
good. i just bought the mk2 artist combo 3 months ago... i guess i'll wait for the gen 3 artist head and get that together with a nice cab once it is out 😂
I’d like to hear a professional opinion. Which amp would you recommend for Neo-soul, R&B, and Lofi music? I’ve previously used a Roland Micro Cube GX, but I’m now looking for something with better sound quality. I’m currently considering the Boss Katana-50 MkIII or the Fender Mustang GTX100, but I’m open to other suggestions if these options aren’t the best fit for my needs.
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 🤔
I‘ve had the MK2 50 and now own the MK2 100. It’s a great amp in my living room but in a smaller room it’s just too much. And carrying around the 100w is really no fun. So I would now go for a 50 gen. 3 EX but I do not get why it still has no Sent/Return capability for a looper.
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?
I think it depends on what your trying to do, one of my old rhythm guitar players had one and he didn't like it, but like you said he didn't really know how to use it, and he would get option peralises once her got the software, he would miss practice trying to find a tone, but he eventually simplified his set up to a evh 2x12 cab and I forgot what head but when I asked why he traded he said "that's for some who knows wat they are doing" and was like sure bud. He plays bass now for another band he would drool over gear with (one of there guitar players works at g center)
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??
Great video as always, thatnk you Andy. Would you please say a few words about that "punky, raspy, naughty, angry" that K50 has vs K100 especially for in house use.
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?
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.
I just got a Katana 100w MK2 but the richness of the tone was a little disappointing compared to something like the Tiny Terror tube amp. The Artist version is better but I can get a lightly used tube setup for the price, and it still wasn't all the way there in tone but the MK3 series sounds like it does get right up to the tube (valve) amp sound with all the tech too. I might just return the MK2 and order a MK3 might still go for the Artist just because I will never need another after that.
Hi Andy, Thank you, as usual, for your reviews and honest opinions. I have the 2Gen but, Question: How this new Boss Katana Gen 3 compares with the Fender Mustang GTX-100? I know it is old, but has all those features, including Wi-Fi & Bluetooth along with the Fender App, Footswitch and connections in the back of the amp...
Just look at a Katana MKII vs. Mustang GTX100 comparison because the Gen3 doesn't really seem like a big upgrade from the MKII IMHO because the MKII already sounds amazing and you can tweak everything til your heart's content in Tone Studio anyway.
One of our bands (Prince Of Lilies) recorded 2 albums with Nirvana producer Steve Albini and their guitarist uses two Marshall JCM800’s and one Boss Katana 50 in the middle. It’s truly the best combo I’ve ever heard live. Thanks for your video.
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?
The Katana master! Top stuff, Andy!
Where can I buy the gen 3 katana 100 online in India?
@@_Saint_Michael_ probably just thomann
Total beginner noodler here - I ended up getting the 100W Gen 3 as the effects loop seemed like a must have. Very pleased. My amateurish noodling sounds amazing now.
Wise decision imo. The lower price and weight of the 50 are really the only reasons to choose it over the 100. Enjoy!
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 like the color variation that you did in your video editing when it came to: Similarities vs. Differences. Red vs Green. It is the little touches in production that up the value, though folks don't always notice. Great video. 🙂
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 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.
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.
probably one of he your best reviews
If you close your eyes, it could also be the commentary to a live darts broadcast with a lot of the same throws. 50! 100! 50! 50! 100! 100!
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.
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.
One of our bands (Prince Of Lilies) recorded 2 albums with Nirvana producer Steve Albini and their guitarist uses two Marshall JCM800’s and one Boss Katana 50 in the middle. It’s truly the best combo I’ve ever heard live. Thanks for your video.
1:23 Tonight there's gonna be a Jailbreak🎵🤘🏻Love it and big up to the channel
I bought my Fender Player 2 and Gen 3 100w today. Cant wait until they arrive.
This is the first of your videos I’ve watched. Very insightful. Thanks.
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!
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 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 !
Cheers Andy, loved the presentation, but now I'm intrigued 50 EX!
Very accurate! I would also say if u have a band and want to gig I would go with the 100 ! 💯
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.
Bravo...Brilliant comparison! Thank you for posting this video...
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.
Great video. Honest and helpful. Well done. I've always been a Boss fan.
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 we’ll be getting it before gta 6
I'm waiting for the 2134584987 model
Looking forward to hearing about the 100W head!
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!
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.
I really like the boss katana MK2. It does everything I need. It's a great amp....
This is helpful video man. Thanks.
I got the 100 bluey because I want to use a good looper-drum, but tbh straight out of the box I prefer the 50 sound and that’s what I would have gone for if it had an effect loop
I’m glad I just bought the 100. I didn’t realize that boss studio has like a 10 second delay in selecting your preset on the laptop before the settings from your library take effect. Kinda hard to select say a clean preset and swap to distorted without the foot pedal. And the 50 can’t use the pedal to select the presets like the 100 can. Also the looper in and out on the 100 allows different looper sound versus the 50 forces that loop to play whatever the amp is currently set to.
Great Vid as usual.. would love to see an Gen3 Artist vs Gen3 100 vid also!
Cool stuff Andy. Thanks for the info! Digging that pushed setting for sure. Much love buddy, be well ✌🏼
F that dear boy, if you buy a flagship model it should HAVE ALL the fruit. I just purchased an Artist with a footswitch and still have to buy the BT adaptor. Love the channel.
I want to see the iii on the front cloth 👌🏻🌹
Great review Andy! Thank you
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
Got the katana 100w gen3, im a newbie learner and also liked the crush but 269 for the gen 3 was sweet
I'm surprised the 50 and 100 sounded so different. I have a 50MKII and love it except I find the speaker a bit harsh and needs Global EQ adjustment. I was planning to get 50III EX but maybe I should get the 100 instead. Hope the 50EX will be out for testing soon.
Outstanding review. Very complete. Thanks.
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!
I just ordered the 50. I have a small band forming with small amps/ I can mike it if needed for bigger clubs.
Well done man. Seriously great review of these and their differences. Love the moods of your reviews.
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.... 🤔
Could you please do a video for the Kantana Artist??? Great content love the channel
I have a buyers guide to gen 3 coming this week!
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
I'm going to buy the Boss Katana Boss 100.
Looks like I can save money and keep my Mk2 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!
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!
@@TheGuitarGeek aren't newcomers even better off with the mk2? could the gen3 be considered a downgrade due to no sneaky amps?
Great pic of you on the 50EX page!
I purchased a Gen 3 Artist Head and Bluetooth dingle today.
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 review. Thank you 🙏🏼 😊
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
Looks nice. But I wish they had made it possible to stack overdrives.
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.
Awesome job. As usual.
Thank you! Cheers!
Great review! Will you be doing a comparison with Gen 3 Artist amps?
Is it possible to connect a 50 katana to a 100 katana so that we have both working together?
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!
I wonder if I should get Katana head with 2x12 equipped with two Vintage 30s or one Greenback and one V type. I tried 4x12 Vintage 30 from Peavey and full stack with 2x12 V type Marshall with 1x12 Greenback from VOX Combo and it sounded awesome.
Finally a stereo headphone out to send to the pa!!!
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 like your videos! Good job
Excellent breakdown.
Thank you Tom
We need a solid state amp shootout video. Orange 35RT, Marshall MG30GFX, Katana 50III EX, etc. Let's do it! :)
the contour knob seems to be similar to the Blackstar ID Core series ISF knob. lol When I get a boss Katana it will be a used 50 watt combo or, if I have already built my custom vertical tower 4X12" cabs it will be just the head version. but then I already have an original release (V1) ID Core stereo 40 that sounds great but doesn't have nearly the number of effects that the Katana has but then the ID Core 40 is much cheaper new than even a used Katana. and i got mine used for less that $100 USD.
Im waiting for the gen 3 artist...till then ill play my current artist katana...but cant wait to stereo expand
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?
just order the 100 Watt Katana GEN 3 212, figured I might as well watch a video on it lol. A little late maybe
I can’t wait for Gen 4!
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.
@@kenthhamner2641 wow
good. i just bought the mk2 artist combo 3 months ago... i guess i'll wait for the gen 3 artist head and get that together with a nice cab once it is out 😂
The only thing better than a Karana Artist is two in stereo.
@@markdouglas8073 that is very true, that way i could run my quad cortex into both at once LOL
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.
I’d like to hear a professional opinion. Which amp would you recommend for Neo-soul, R&B, and Lofi music? I’ve previously used a Roland Micro Cube GX, but I’m now looking for something with better sound quality. I’m currently considering the Boss Katana-50 MkIII or the Fender Mustang GTX100, but I’m open to other suggestions if these options aren’t the best fit for my needs.
I want a bass channel like this...
I wish i could play bass!
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 🤔
I‘ve had the MK2 50 and now own the MK2 100. It’s a great amp in my living room but in a smaller room it’s just too much. And carrying around the 100w is really no fun. So I would now go for a 50 gen. 3 EX but I do not get why it still has no Sent/Return capability for a looper.
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.
Please compare mk2 to the mk3 using the loop in the future.
I think it depends on what your trying to do, one of my old rhythm guitar players had one and he didn't like it, but like you said he didn't really know how to use it, and he would get option peralises once her got the software, he would miss practice trying to find a tone, but he eventually simplified his set up to a evh 2x12 cab and I forgot what head but when I asked why he traded he said "that's for some who knows wat they are doing" and was like sure bud. He plays bass now for another band he would drool over gear with (one of there guitar players works at g center)
Do they both have the power soak to reduce the volume while maintaining the gain?
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??
Great video as always, thatnk you Andy.
Would you please say a few words about that "punky, raspy, naughty, angry" that K50 has vs K100 especially for in house use.
Thanks!
Both amps can be used in 0.5 watts mode meaning both are bedroom suitable.
I might just wait to grab the artist 100 gen3, if not, maybe the 100 gen3 will be my go to.
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?
Yes we do...we all want it for free. Like Fishman! I have both!
I've come back here because of the cyberweek sale, i'm diving in
That stratocaster 😩😩😩
How about updating and patches to fix digital and digital capable amps? That would be better.
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.
I’m waiting for the white version otherwise I would buy one today !
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 just got a Katana 100w MK2 but the richness of the tone was a little disappointing compared to something like the Tiny Terror tube amp. The Artist version is better but I can get a lightly used tube setup for the price, and it still wasn't all the way there in tone but the MK3 series sounds like it does get right up to the tube (valve) amp sound with all the tech too. I might just return the MK2 and order a MK3 might still go for the Artist just because I will never need another after that.
Still have the Gen1 Katana and still no tuner on the new one. It's a shame.
Hi Andy, Thank you, as usual, for your reviews and honest opinions.
I have the 2Gen but,
Question:
How this new Boss Katana Gen 3 compares with the Fender Mustang GTX-100?
I know it is old, but has all those features, including Wi-Fi & Bluetooth along with the Fender App, Footswitch and connections in the back of the amp...
Just look at a Katana MKII vs. Mustang GTX100 comparison because the Gen3 doesn't really seem like a big upgrade from the MKII IMHO because the MKII already sounds amazing and you can tweak everything til your heart's content in Tone Studio anyway.
One of our bands (Prince Of Lilies) recorded 2 albums with Nirvana producer Steve Albini and their guitarist uses two Marshall JCM800’s and one Boss Katana 50 in the middle. It’s truly the best combo I’ve ever heard live. Thanks for your video.