Get your Katana here (one link for all models and GA FC EX) : Thomann - redir.love/thocf/5j95lq1q4v Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/x0LrA Andertons - bit.ly/3iysV0b
Excellent...but in a Bill and Ted way ;p What are your thoughts on just using the 100 watt Amp Head... And is there one electric rockestra players would find best for their needs .. In other words... Versatility wise...what would work for a bass guitar and a violin? Or chin cello? Thanks
Per my friendly Sweetwater Sales Engineer, Boss has discontinued the Katana 50 mkii EX (at least in North America). Do you still suggest the Katana 100 mkii over the 50mkii (assuming there are no used 50 EX models available)? Also still EXCELLENT (in a self gratifying tone).
I am new to electric guitar and wonder, if there is a difference between recording with USB ot this MIDI Bluetooth adapter? Can I play music, record it at the same time and the computer automatically writes note or tab?
As a beginner, I'm still happy with my choice of a 50 mkII. I found a good deal for the amp, and have the xsonic airstep pedal coming to allow access to slightly more than the 2 pedal footswitch. As I'm learning this is more than enough for me at the moment!
I’m not a beginner and I play in a band with an aggressive punk rock drummer, I still bought the Katana 50 MkII. It’s great for home using the 0.5watt feature and perfect for live shows using the full 50watts. If you’re playing a show where you feel that 50watts isn’t enough then you should be mic’d up to the house speakers and monitors.
@@LuisJimenez-pb3ge Yeah, I'm in the same spot. We play 90's punk/grunge etc. and our drummer is a beast. We first jammed and I brought my THR10II lol. So I was on the fence and ended up with a mk2 100. Great amp but it's not exactly the most portable. Kinda wish I got the 50 mk2, but I also have a boss RC-5 so it's a pro/con. The amp sounds amazing at rehearsal and I haven't needed the 100w yet. I use the 50w and it's enough for now, but the 100 definitely sounds bigger and fuller than the 50 when I tried it out at guitar center. However, it's heavy carrying to practice going from THR10II, but the sound is worth it if you live gig but you could definitely get by with a 50 if it's mic'd up for sure
Some months later I'm curious as to your experience with the Airstep. I've had one almost since I got the K50, certainly does more than "slightly". Channel switching, f/x access including switching between variants, and - hooray - wireless access to the Katana Librarian. Totally opened up the amp for me - and cheaper than the Boss. So waddaya think?
Great video. Boss should be happy that you are promoting their amps. Been waiting for a review on the 50 MK2 EX and the comparison to the 100. You go into a lot of common sense detail that made it a lot easier for me to decide between the two. Thanks. I went for the 50 EX.
Excellent! I bought the 100 mk2, the effects loop was a factor as I wanted to be able to use my own reverbs, delays and looper post internal effects. It would be great if Boss added a tuner and a looper, though.
I like the Katana series and got my Artist combo because I preferred the speaker over what came in the other models, and I wanted an effects loop and the larger controller. Excellent!
I appreciate the thorough and thoughtful discussion of these amp comparisons/contrasts! I’m a newly minted expat musician now living in (back in) Philippines and needed to replenish my amplifier(s) lost to travel constraints. I ended up with the 100 mk2 and an Airstep Kat pedal. I had plenty of other equipment back in America and never gave the Katana-series a listen, but this great amp is light, powerful, and effects-packed enough to set me up with a world of creativity!
Thanks a lot for your very clear explanation ! I just pressed the buy button after watching your video for a Katana 50 MKII EX version at 240€ ! no brainer!
Thanks - I have been looking for a small gigging amp as my big amps are too much for small venues. At this point most likely will pick up a 50 EX as the major drawback was the lack of the larger GA FC foot pedal. This video was EXCELLENT in validating and pointing out the key differences. The light weight/small size are also very important due to the apparent requirement to have very small stages in many places nowadays. I think your pinpointing the key differences was spot on.
Eeeexxcellent. My purchase will be a further curve ball - the 2x12 Katana 100 mk2! Took my 50w mk2 to band practice and although it performed beautifully, I need more air being pushed around. Plus I’d love to use a looper! But if that EX had existed when I originally bought my mk2 it would’ve been an instant purchase. Great video, Andy!
Excellent comparison. I have the 100. But you are right about the weight and size. For me, it was the sound and effects pedal. If you have concerns about the weight use a small hand truck or dolly
Excellent....going for the 100. Minimal price difference, and the 100 will probably better hold its ground alongside a rambunctious drummer. Thank you for another great video!
I bought a MkII 50 a few years ago as a “backup” to my tube amp. (I was an avid effects loop user at the time.) I haven’t taken the tube amp off the shelf in 2 years, I like the sound that much. (And it keeps up with a live drummer.) The audience can’t hear the difference between a delay & reverb in the effects loop vs plugged into the front end, so that compromise turned out to not be a huge thing. My 2 cents.
Excellent. Good information thanks. I’m playing with the 50mk2 non ex. Your earlier videos had me trying amps like crazy and I came to the conclusion that the 50 is my cup o tea. It’s really a fine little amp! Thanks for helping and I look forward to more from you.
I have a katana 50 never quite knew what I was doing, because I'm a jazz artist and never could get it to sound quite the way I wanted it with deep tones, but after watching this video. I am going to purchase the 100 to use with my GT 100 foot pedal. I really like the way you explain it. You put it where the goats can you get it, that means quite simply put and easy to understand. 😊
FX loop is a must-have now that Tonex One is around. You get the best amp/pedal modelling on the market and a tuner in a tiny pedal. Not to mention using a looper and the better/louder speaker. Got my Katana 100 MK2 for €260 second hand in mint condition years ago. Still my only workhorse to this day.
EXcellent! I wasn't sure which Boss Katana should I buy, but I finally bought the 100 MK2 because I think it is probably the best choice for me. What I want is an amp for the rest of my life, one that I can use in any situation and I think the 100 is a very good option, so I hope I a made a good decision. Thanks for your videos, you helped me decide! 😊
A very considerate comparison! As to your conclusion (which certainly seems well rooted): I'd say that - given the fact (as we could hear) that the 50s and the 100 DO sound different - before you make your decision you actually should hear the difference yourself, preferably playing YOUR music with YOUR guitar (or something close to it) and THEN make your final choice.
What an fabulous (most excellent) explanation of each amplifier's pros and cons. I have the 100 mkII artist, and I'm sure to pick up an awesome, previously loved, 50 mkII soon.
I have been researching a good pickup and go amp and came across your video. I am already an owner of the Boss Acoustic Singer Live 60-watt Bi-amp Acoustic Combo with FX amp for my acoustic guitar. Your video definitely showed me the choice in the Katana line and made it easy to pick from that line up and for that Excellent help, I thank you.
Bought a 50MK a couple of weeks ago on sale, I got the white one bc I liked it. Got it in anticipation of a custom built Tele gift from a close pal. It will arrive soon. Have NOT opened the Boss. Now thinking about returning for a 50EX, You just made that decision MUCH.....more difficult, but that's on me. I just play at home, no gigging, just personal fun. Thanks for a typically great effort! I'm a big fan.
I have 2 EXCELLENT mk1 Katana 50's and they are all I think most need. Because I think most people will buy some sort of effect that the Katanas can't do. Like all the cool reverbs/delays. Or anything else cool for that matter. But that's just me.
I recently bought a katana 50 mk2 for 225 bucks for rehearsals. It’s super lightweight and flexible and I love it! As for a pedal, I bought an XSonic Airstep Kat, which is a 5 buttone footswitch that gives me channel switching and effect on/off per channel. It cost $69 straight from xsonic! And, it features a Bluetooth and a downloadable app (for iOS, not sure about android) that basically gives you the functionality of the boss tone studio app on your phone! The airstep is great, and an amazing bargain. No affiliation with me, just really happy with the switcher!
EXcellent! I picked up both the 50mkII EX and a 100 MkII head that I run through a medium size cab with an old Jensen Neo in it. The 100 with that cab sounds much better than the 50 EX, but I attribute that to cab size and speaker. Without doing an A/B, side to side. I think, as you do, that the 50 sounds great, however cramped. I'll bet it'll sit just fine in my band's mix, which I'll try (just got these) next session - as soon as everyone gets over their colds and such. Great video. I've been playing, however lamely, for 63 years - lots of tube amps along the way - no longer needed. Gotta love modern tech and Boss in particular!!
"Excellent" comparison video Andy. As you say, it all comes down to need; where you play etc. Bedroom vs restaurant vs rowdy pub scene etc. My son is a gigging jazz bass player, who plays in small bars, where there is no option to plug into a front-of-house system. To be heard, he has a Roland Bass Cube 100 and being a bass amp, it's bulky and heavy and yes, travelling by public transport is problematic. Unless you are a bedroom player, you probably need more than one amp.
The 50 MKII EX came on for $20 more than the 50 MKII so it was an easy buy for my sons first amp. As much as I wanted the effects loop for down the road, it was basically going to cost $150 for just the loop as far as the rest goes. This amp sounds absolutely beautiful, both of us were extremely happy.
Excellent video. Appreciate this review. I use an amp modeler(Gigboard) and I am part of a group of bands gigging and our set-up includes Katana 100's. I connect to PA direct all the time and one time I connected to the Katana effects loop and was blown away by the sound. I don't know why because I already have a 100 at home, but the katana mic'd up on live gig sounds awesome. I am planning to buy another Katana 100 for my other band gigging light throughout the place. I guess your video helped me figure out what my next Katana will be. Cheers man.
Excellent I got a Katana mkii 50 ex for 265 out the door tax included in the us and an gafcex for 150. i used to have a 100 mkii with a pedal board and sold it all. Now I can get all my sounds and use less equipment so i have more room in my Honda civic to go do gigs.
Thanks, Andy. Most EXCELLENT as usual. Having worked in industry for 40 years (yes, I'm an old guy), I know an up-sell situation when I see it in the design decisions Boss made in engineering the three amps you compared here. I think the grab-n-go explanation is the best reason to buy the 50 mk2 EX, and since I don't use pedals, but I do use the GA-FC EX the decision for me is a no-brainer. Now, what shall we do when the Katana 50 mk3 comes out? I look forward to that debate.
How dare you not do all my thinking for me! What, you think I watch comparison videos so I can make better informed decisions based upon my individual circumstances or something?! ... Heh, seriously though, I really appreciated that video 🙏🤘
Any one of them will do. The real thing is the accoutrements. Configure it in your home studio, then use the AirStep Kat to switch among the things you need. I have the 50 MkII - great amp
Excellent!!! I love my 50 Mk2. Haven’t explored the online effects options. Need a tremolo so will add that soon. I stand close to my amp at my shows so micing and using the top buttons is all I need.
Been watching your vids for past few days as looking for an amp and not had one in a few years. Seems the world of tone and technology has exploded in those few years. But you've convinced me, with your excellent, really informative and very professionally made vids to go for the 50EX!! Thanks.It is beyond me why you don't have few hundred thousand subscribers. How come you doing living in Germany, you really don't sound German?? Was it the love of a good woman? Which ever, blessing mate, you helped me out a lot. Subscribed.
Eggselent review. The 100 sounds like the one to get if you are gigging. I have the 50mk ii. Discovered depth of Tone Studio and now stopped using my pedal boards for the most part. Given that there's a clean amp setting, if you limit to getting your dirt from the pedals, you can put them in front of the amp, using the clean.
Excellent! I just bought Katana 100 Mk 2, I've been using the 50 for many years and wanted the extra volume that in some gigs I know I will need, the bigger speaker and the option to use the GA-FC. Great video!
Excellent! Just bought an EX today with a GA-FC. I really struggled doing the choice with the 100... Because of the fx loop vs size/weight and the fact that I will likely never need a 100watts. Before seeing this video I was kind of doubting my decision... But you convinced me I made the right choice ! Can't wait to get them delivered. Anyways thanks for the detailed video. You definetly kill !!
Excellent. This video helped me decide between the 100 and the 50 ex. The 50 ex is suited for my needs. I don't really need a FX loop since most if not all effects I need is already built in on the Katana. Plus, the money I saved from the 100 will be added to my budget for the GA-FC EX.
Great video! I still love my original 50 Mk2 but that new EX is tempting. The 100 is just too heavy and the extra features aren't worth the next day back pain. Thank you for the video and EXCELLENT..... :)
Excellent! AtM I am helping a beginner sort out his needs for amplification and I wasn't quite shure what the deffernces between "the Katanas" were. Thanks a lot for your help!
Excellent!! I’ll definitely be getting the 100. I have a few pedals that are just too important for me and I gotta take advantage of that effects loop. Thanks for the great video.
Yeh good video very informative, I'm going for the 50 EX , light , easy to tote and the multi function footswitch iced the deal. Price of the 50 EX also helped cement my decision
This video was "excellent"...Thanks! I got the 50 b4 the EX came out. I would have upgraded 4 sure if I had seen this first.😁That being said, I LOVE the Katana 50![non-EX] It is exactly what i needed and still need. I have a Focusrite and a Pod 500hd already. I'm cool just using the POD & Ableton Lite when I need to. But i don't really need the POD cuz the Katana sounds awesome with very little tweaking. So light. It really makes a difference when u can easily put it anywhere.
I got rid of mine after four months. I had the Katana 100 mk2. It was definitely not a good amp for gigging. No matter how deep I got into it, when I showed up at a gig, the thing always sounded puny. None of the presets, whether factory defaults, my creations, or patches from others, could measure up onstage. I simply got fed up with fighting it searching for a pleasing tone. I wound up going back to field proven workhorses. Then, because I'm 59 years old now with back pain issues, I decided to try an ampless approach. It serves my needs perfectly and gets the job done quite sufficiently.
If you want a stand-alone amp in the future, check out the Blackstar St. James (which comes in two versions in case you don't know about them). They are designed o be the lightest tube amps on the market- about the same weight as a Katana.
I am a working musician. I used to carry around a twin cab Ampeg Reverbarocket. Too heavy for me now, but the Katana 100 is my go to amp now. Also comes in handy having on board FX in case I forget to take my pedal AC adapter to the show! LOL
I started with the 50MKll but soon upgraded to the 100MKll because I need an effects loop. A few months later I came into some extra money and decided to upgrade again to the Artist MKll. But the Artist is a kind of a heavy amp to lug around for an old Dude like me. Then I discovered the 100 MKll head has a small speaker built in for home practice and since I use the line out almost exclusively, I traded my Artist MKll for a 100MKll head. So, good sounds at low volume at home, plug into my interface for home recording or into the FOH for playing live. Excellent. I also have a Katana Air for when I travel. These amps are incredible.
I am leaning towards the Katana 50 mkii as it's a fairly inexpensive, can act as my home practice pedal platform, works well with my xsonic airstep and I don't really have a lot of extra space for a larger amp or plan on using an effects loop. Excellent.
Just starting out and I went with the 100 since it was just $110 more than the 50. Also its not that much bigger with more power and it's future proof so I can grow with it and not buy anything new for a long time. Thanks for your advice!
I bought the Katana 50 MKII right after the 50 EX released, so, at a good price. For my personal use case it has been an excellent choice, I doubt I will ever need a bigger or more featured amp, but GAS is kicking really hard for me to get a desktop amp this year.
I have a 100 mk2 and like it a lot but have not used the effects loop - there's too much built in and the footswitch sorts out changing tones. The 50EX makes the original 50s less desirable but a big price hike for the 50EX. They are all good amps unless you are a tube/valve snob. I agree that the 50EX is a great choice for those that want to keep weight and space occupancy down. They are all so versatile and maybe complex but there is fun in the learning curve of these amps. Boss nailed it with these amps and I have a bass 210 too. Great quality and value for money imho. Good vid demo and explanation of the various qualities of these affordable amps.
I want to complement you on this video’s presentation. You sound like you have practiced and thought about the subject a LOT. You do not sound like a marketer. And I would have to buy the one not really mentioned, the 200, because I have EXCELLENT requirements. 😁
Great video man! Thanks for the info I appreciate it. Currently I’m using a small Vox VX15GT and love it! That tiny modelling amp really opened my eyes to what these smaller and more affordable amps can do nowadays. A Katana MKII 50EX is on my wish list.
Get your Katana here (one link for all models and GA FC EX) :
Thomann - redir.love/thocf/5j95lq1q4v
Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/x0LrA
Andertons - bit.ly/3iysV0b
excelent lol
Excellent...but in a Bill and Ted way ;p
What are your thoughts on just using the 100 watt Amp Head...
And is there one electric rockestra players would find best for their needs .. In other words...
Versatility wise...what would work for a bass guitar and a violin? Or chin cello?
Thanks
Per my friendly Sweetwater Sales Engineer, Boss has discontinued the Katana 50 mkii EX (at least in North America). Do you still suggest the Katana 100 mkii over the 50mkii (assuming there are no used 50 EX models available)? Also still EXCELLENT (in a self gratifying tone).
50EX Excellent 😅
I am new to electric guitar and wonder, if there is a difference between recording with USB ot this MIDI Bluetooth adapter? Can I play music, record it at the same time and the computer automatically writes note or tab?
I just ordered a 100 mk II for $100 off. I’m so freaking stoked. The effects loop was the major selling point for me. I’m in love with my pedal board.
thats a greal deal!
@@BigBobbyBoLo Yeah, man, no regrets, I’ve used it everyday since I got it.
Dude, really , you are one of the best 3 music content youtubers that I ever see!
I agree and that's why I just subbed! Keep up the great work Geek!!!✌🤘👍👍
As a beginner, I'm still happy with my choice of a 50 mkII. I found a good deal for the amp, and have the xsonic airstep pedal coming to allow access to slightly more than the 2 pedal footswitch. As I'm learning this is more than enough for me at the moment!
I’m not a beginner and I play in a band with an aggressive punk rock drummer, I still bought the Katana 50 MkII. It’s great for home using the 0.5watt feature and perfect for live shows using the full 50watts. If you’re playing a show where you feel that 50watts isn’t enough then you should be mic’d up to the house speakers and monitors.
@@LuisJimenez-pb3ge Yeah, I'm in the same spot. We play 90's punk/grunge etc. and our drummer is a beast. We first jammed and I brought my THR10II lol. So I was on the fence and ended up with a mk2 100. Great amp but it's not exactly the most portable. Kinda wish I got the 50 mk2, but I also have a boss RC-5 so it's a pro/con. The amp sounds amazing at rehearsal and I haven't needed the 100w yet. I use the 50w and it's enough for now, but the 100 definitely sounds bigger and fuller than the 50 when I tried it out at guitar center. However, it's heavy carrying to practice going from THR10II, but the sound is worth it if you live gig but you could definitely get by with a 50 if it's mic'd up for sure
As an advanced player, you made the correct choice. Solid state amps are great until they break and you might as well throw it away.
Some months later I'm curious as to your experience with the Airstep. I've had one almost since I got the K50, certainly does more than "slightly". Channel switching, f/x access including switching between variants, and - hooray - wireless access to the Katana Librarian. Totally opened up the amp for me - and cheaper than the Boss. So waddaya think?
@@niteriderband4713 hilarious. Let me guess, tube over everything?
Great video. Boss should be happy that you are promoting their amps. Been waiting for a review on the 50 MK2 EX and the comparison to the 100. You go into a lot of common sense detail that made it a lot easier for me to decide between the two. Thanks. I went for the 50 EX.
Excellent! I bought the 100 mk2, the effects loop was a factor as I wanted to be able to use my own reverbs, delays and looper post internal effects. It would be great if Boss added a tuner and a looper, though.
I like the Katana series and got my Artist combo because I preferred the speaker over what came in the other models, and I wanted an effects loop and the larger controller. Excellent!
Excellent review, just what i was looking for
That was an Eggcelent review 😢😂. I definitely think the 100 is worth it for the effects loop. Thanks for the review!!
I appreciate the thorough and thoughtful discussion of these amp comparisons/contrasts! I’m a newly minted expat musician now living in (back in) Philippines and needed to replenish my amplifier(s) lost to travel constraints. I ended up with the 100 mk2 and an Airstep Kat pedal. I had plenty of other equipment back in America and never gave the Katana-series a listen, but this great amp is light, powerful, and effects-packed enough to set me up with a world of creativity!
The second Play example Sold me on the 100, it sounded much nicer over headphones
I've been trying to wrap my head around the differences of these 3 models. Thank you for the amazing comparison and clear-as-day explanations
This is the best explanation for this amp, the best way is go for the 100w
Eggcellent!! The 100 it is and thanks for the detailed analysis.
Thanks a lot for your very clear explanation ! I just pressed the buy button after watching your video for a Katana 50 MKII EX version at 240€ ! no brainer!
Thanks - I have been looking for a small gigging amp as my big amps are too much for small venues. At this point most likely will pick up a 50 EX as the major drawback was the lack of the larger GA FC foot pedal. This video was EXCELLENT in validating and pointing out the key differences. The light weight/small size are also very important due to the apparent requirement to have very small stages in many places nowadays. I think your pinpointing the key differences was spot on.
Eeeexxcellent. My purchase will be a further curve ball - the 2x12 Katana 100 mk2! Took my 50w mk2 to band practice and although it performed beautifully, I need more air being pushed around. Plus I’d love to use a looper! But if that EX had existed when I originally bought my mk2 it would’ve been an instant purchase. Great video, Andy!
Just bought a 100. Waiting for my GAFC EX to arrive. Excellent!!!
I just ordered the katana 50 mkii ex as my first amp. Great video. Excellent
Excellent comparison. I have the 100. But you are right about the weight and size. For me, it was the sound and effects pedal. If you have concerns about the weight use a small hand truck or dolly
I started with the 50 then because of your video upgraded to the ARTIST its fantastic
I love the artist. the sound is another level but dang that thing is heavy... An artist filled with helium, is that possible?
Excellent....going for the 100. Minimal price difference, and the 100 will probably better hold its ground alongside a rambunctious drummer. Thank you for another great video!
I bought a MkII 50 a few years ago as a “backup” to my tube amp. (I was an avid effects loop user at the time.) I haven’t taken the tube amp off the shelf in 2 years, I like the sound that much. (And it keeps up with a live drummer.) The audience can’t hear the difference between a delay & reverb in the effects loop vs plugged into the front end, so that compromise turned out to not be a huge thing. My 2 cents.
Excellent. Good information thanks. I’m playing with the 50mk2 non ex. Your earlier videos had me trying amps like crazy and I came to the conclusion that the 50 is my cup o tea. It’s really a fine little amp! Thanks for helping and I look forward to more from you.
I have a katana 50 never quite knew what I was doing, because I'm a jazz artist and never could get it to sound quite the way I wanted it with deep tones, but after watching this video. I am going to purchase the 100 to use with my GT 100 foot pedal. I really like the way you explain it. You put it where the goats can you get it, that means quite simply put and easy to understand. 😊
Excellent- Great in depth reasoning for anyone wanting one of these amps 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
FX loop is a must-have now that Tonex One is around. You get the best amp/pedal modelling on the market and a tuner in a tiny pedal.
Not to mention using a looper and the better/louder speaker.
Got my Katana 100 MK2 for €260 second hand in mint condition years ago. Still my only workhorse to this day.
EXcellent! I wasn't sure which Boss Katana should I buy, but I finally bought the 100 MK2 because I think it is probably the best choice for me. What I want is an amp for the rest of my life, one that I can use in any situation and I think the 100 is a very good option, so I hope I a made a good decision.
Thanks for your videos, you helped me decide! 😊
I'm going for the 50 EX..Just makes good sense to me..EXCELLENT !!!
All Katana's are awesome 👍😎
Yes, i am a member of the end of the video club!!!! Great vid mate.
A very considerate comparison! As to your conclusion (which certainly seems well rooted): I'd say that - given the fact (as we could hear) that the 50s and the 100 DO sound different - before you make your decision you actually should hear the difference yourself, preferably playing YOUR music with YOUR guitar (or something close to it) and THEN make your final choice.
What an fabulous (most excellent) explanation of each amplifier's pros and cons. I have the 100 mkII artist, and I'm sure to pick up an awesome, previously loved, 50 mkII soon.
I have been researching a good pickup and go amp and came across your video. I am already an owner of the Boss Acoustic Singer Live 60-watt Bi-amp Acoustic Combo with FX amp for my acoustic guitar. Your video definitely showed me the choice in the Katana line and made it easy to pick from that line up and for that Excellent help, I thank you.
You’re welcome Charles!
Bought a 50MK a couple of weeks ago on sale, I got the white one bc I liked it. Got it in anticipation of a custom built Tele gift from a close pal. It will arrive soon. Have NOT opened the Boss. Now thinking about returning for a 50EX, You just made that decision MUCH.....more difficult, but that's on me. I just play at home, no gigging, just personal fun. Thanks for a typically great effort! I'm a big fan.
oh I am SORRY! I love the 50 but the 50 EX makes life easier (with the GA-FC)
Excellent! I just bought the 50MKII having no idea there was an EX but I may upgrade later because I really want to use the GA FC. Great video!
I have 2 EXCELLENT mk1 Katana 50's and they are all I think most need. Because I think most people will buy some sort of effect that the Katanas can't do. Like all the cool reverbs/delays. Or anything else cool for that matter. But that's just me.
I recently bought a katana 50 mk2 for 225 bucks for rehearsals. It’s super lightweight and flexible and I love it! As for a pedal, I bought an XSonic Airstep Kat, which is a 5 buttone footswitch that gives me channel switching and effect on/off per channel. It cost $69 straight from xsonic! And, it features a Bluetooth and a downloadable app (for iOS, not sure about android) that basically gives you the functionality of the boss tone studio app on your phone! The airstep is great, and an amazing bargain. No affiliation with me, just really happy with the switcher!
i would and probably will buy the excellent katana 50 ex. i was on the fence about wanting an FX loop, but you honestly sold me on the convenience
EXcellent! I picked up both the 50mkII EX and a 100 MkII head that I run through a medium size cab with an old Jensen Neo in it. The 100 with that cab sounds much better than the 50 EX, but I attribute that to cab size and speaker. Without doing an A/B, side to side. I think, as you do, that the 50 sounds great, however cramped. I'll bet it'll sit just fine in my band's mix, which I'll try (just got these) next session - as soon as everyone gets over their colds and such. Great video. I've been playing, however lamely, for 63 years - lots of tube amps along the way - no longer needed. Gotta love modern tech and Boss in particular!!
"Excellent" comparison video Andy. As you say, it all comes down to need; where you play etc. Bedroom vs restaurant vs rowdy pub scene etc.
My son is a gigging jazz bass player, who plays in small bars, where there is no option to plug into a front-of-house system. To be heard, he has a Roland Bass Cube 100 and being a bass amp, it's bulky and heavy and yes, travelling by public transport is problematic.
Unless you are a bedroom player, you probably need more than one amp.
I am currently thinking of buying a 50-EX and this was the most helpful video for me to confirm my choice. Excellent!
The 50 MKII EX came on for $20 more than the 50 MKII so it was an easy buy for my sons first amp. As much as I wanted the effects loop for down the road, it was basically going to cost $150 for just the loop as far as the rest goes. This amp sounds absolutely beautiful, both of us were extremely happy.
Excellent video. Appreciate this review. I use an amp modeler(Gigboard) and I am part of a group of bands gigging and our set-up includes Katana 100's. I connect to PA direct all the time and one time I connected to the Katana effects loop and was blown away by the sound. I don't know why because I already have a 100 at home, but the katana mic'd up on live gig sounds awesome. I am planning to buy another Katana 100 for my other band gigging light throughout the place. I guess your video helped me figure out what my next Katana will be. Cheers man.
Excellent I got a Katana mkii 50 ex for 265 out the door tax included in the us and an gafcex for 150. i used to have a 100 mkii with a pedal board and sold it all. Now I can get all my sounds and use less equipment so i have more room in my Honda civic to go do gigs.
Great amps, got a Dual Cube LX tiny lunchbox amp. Boss does a really nice job regarding affordable good sounding amps.
I am currently looking for a Katana amp and this video certainly helped a lot ! EXCELLENT !!
I think I would have to go for the one hundred I just like having the most features in an app Excellent
Thanks, Andy. Most EXCELLENT as usual. Having worked in industry for 40 years (yes, I'm an old guy), I know an up-sell situation when I see it in the design decisions Boss made in engineering the three amps you compared here. I think the grab-n-go explanation is the best reason to buy the 50 mk2 EX, and since I don't use pedals, but I do use the GA-FC EX the decision for me is a no-brainer. Now, what shall we do when the Katana 50 mk3 comes out? I look forward to that debate.
Thanks for the announcement and breakdown Andy. In the wise words of Bill and Ted, excellent!
Widdly widdley widdly!
Excellent review :o)
I choose the katana 100 for the rounder sound and for being mon only amp at home.
How dare you not do all my thinking for me! What, you think I watch comparison videos so I can make better informed decisions based upon my individual circumstances or something?! ... Heh, seriously though, I really appreciated that video 🙏🤘
Any one of them will do. The real thing is the accoutrements. Configure it in your home studio, then use the AirStep Kat to switch among the things you need. I have the 50 MkII - great amp
Excellent!!! I love my 50 Mk2. Haven’t explored the online effects options. Need a tremolo so will add that soon. I stand close to my amp at my shows so micing and using the top buttons is all I need.
Been watching your vids for past few days as looking for an amp and not had one in a few years. Seems the world of tone and technology has exploded in those few years. But you've convinced me, with your excellent, really informative and very professionally made vids to go for the 50EX!! Thanks.It is beyond me why you don't have few hundred thousand subscribers.
How come you doing living in Germany, you really don't sound German?? Was it the love of a good woman?
Which ever, blessing mate, you helped me out a lot. Subscribed.
Eggselent review. The 100 sounds like the one to get if you are gigging. I have the 50mk ii. Discovered depth of Tone Studio and now stopped using my pedal boards for the most part. Given that there's a clean amp setting, if you limit to getting your dirt from the pedals, you can put them in front of the amp, using the clean.
Thanks for the great comparison.
Boss is now offering a “cash” rebate on the 50 EX so the difference in price between it and the 50 is only $30.
Oh wow! Thanks for the info
Excellent! I just bought Katana 100 Mk 2, I've been using the 50 for many years and wanted the extra volume that in some gigs I know I will need, the bigger speaker and the option to use the GA-FC. Great video!
I will be picking up the 50EX very soon...Excellent.
Enjoy it!
Excellent! Just bought an EX today with a GA-FC. I really struggled doing the choice with the 100... Because of the fx loop vs size/weight and the fact that I will likely never need a 100watts. Before seeing this video I was kind of doubting my decision... But you convinced me I made the right choice ! Can't wait to get them delivered. Anyways thanks for the detailed video. You definetly kill !!
Yeah i like that, pretty excellent! summary of the katana and things that stand out on all the models. Great work.
Excellent.
This video helped me decide between the 100 and the 50 ex. The 50 ex is suited for my needs. I don't really need a FX loop since most if not all effects I need is already built in on the Katana. Plus, the money I saved from the 100 will be added to my budget for the GA-FC EX.
I HAVE A KATANA MK2 100 AND I JUST LOVE IT
Excellent, I am choosing none and staying with Blackstar Silverline 20 :) still loud enough to play next to drummer.
Excellent! Been struggling with this decision. Sold my Fender Pro Jr a month ago. I going for newest 50 watt Katana. Thank you from Canada.
Great video! I still love my original 50 Mk2 but that new EX is tempting. The 100 is just too heavy and the extra features aren't worth the next day back pain. Thank you for the video and EXCELLENT..... :)
Excellent!
AtM I am helping a beginner sort out his needs for amplification and I wasn't quite shure what the deffernces between "the Katanas" were. Thanks a lot for your help!
Loved the video. I already have a Katana-Head MkII & Katana Cabinet 212 but am considering a Katana-50 MkII EX for smaller gigs... EXCELLENT!
Gonna get the 50 mkii ex, cause is "excellent" , tks for this excel comparison video, subscribing rigth now
I own a spark 40 for home practice and a Katana 100 for gigs. And it is EXCELLENT
Excellent... I have MKI 50 and 100... the only thing I wish I had is the line-out microphone options on Tone Studio.
Excellent!! I’ll definitely be getting the 100. I have a few pedals that are just too important for me and I gotta take advantage of that effects loop. Thanks for the great video.
I went with the Katana Artist MkII. “EXCELLENT”
Excellent..... katana 50 ex for me
EXCELLENT! I'm a 50-watter, because of size and weight.
Love my MK2 100 swapped in a Em12 legend and it really boosted it range
Yeh good video very informative, I'm going for the 50 EX , light , easy to tote and the multi function footswitch iced the deal. Price of the 50 EX also helped cement my decision
This video was "excellent"...Thanks! I got the 50 b4 the EX came out. I would have upgraded 4 sure if I had seen this first.😁That being said, I LOVE the Katana 50![non-EX] It is exactly what i needed and still need. I have a Focusrite and a Pod 500hd already. I'm cool just using the POD & Ableton Lite when I need to. But i don't really need the POD cuz the Katana sounds awesome with very little tweaking. So light. It really makes a difference when u can easily put it anywhere.
This was an excellent video, and I appreciate the details comparison and clear recommendations with reasoning.
Boss Katana 50 gen 3. EX tick
Nice looking Heritage H150 in the background
"Excellent!" Thank you for this, sir!
I got rid of mine after four months. I had the Katana 100 mk2. It was definitely not a good amp for gigging. No matter how deep I got into it, when I showed up at a gig, the thing always sounded puny. None of the presets, whether factory defaults, my creations, or patches from others, could measure up onstage.
I simply got fed up with fighting it searching for a pleasing tone.
I wound up going back to field proven workhorses. Then, because I'm 59 years old now with back pain issues, I decided to try an ampless approach.
It serves my needs perfectly and gets the job done quite sufficiently.
If you want a stand-alone amp in the future, check out the Blackstar St. James (which comes in two versions in case you don't know about them). They are designed o be the lightest tube amps on the market- about the same weight as a Katana.
Such a lovey and thorough review Andy. Still happy with my VINTAGE 100 mk1. Eggselent
What a time to be alive. I can't imagine having things like this when I started playing as a kid.
I know mate. I am suprised i am still alive considering all the dodgy rigs i have plugged into
Well i bought a Kat50 mkII and a Airstep for the Katana and Viola i got the Bigger Paddleboard to choose between the Effects and Banks.
Bam. Exelent
I am a working musician. I used to carry around a twin cab Ampeg Reverbarocket. Too heavy for me now, but the Katana 100 is my go to amp now. Also comes in handy having on board FX in case I forget to take my pedal AC adapter to the show! LOL
I started with the 50MKll but soon upgraded to the 100MKll because I need an effects loop. A few months later I came into some extra money and decided to upgrade again to the Artist MKll. But the Artist is a kind of a heavy amp to lug around for an old Dude like me. Then I discovered the 100 MKll head has a small speaker built in for home practice and since I use the line out almost exclusively, I traded my Artist MKll for a 100MKll head. So, good sounds at low volume at home, plug into my interface for home recording or into the FOH for playing live. Excellent. I also have a Katana Air for when I travel. These amps are incredible.
Excellent! I'm going for the 50 MK2 EX, I think it fits the bill for me. You've gained a new sub bud, cheers!
I am leaning towards the Katana 50 mkii as it's a fairly inexpensive, can act as my home practice pedal platform, works well with my xsonic airstep and I don't really have a lot of extra space for a larger amp or plan on using an effects loop. Excellent.
Just starting out and I went with the 100 since it was just $110 more than the 50. Also its not that much bigger with more power and it's future proof so I can grow with it and not buy anything new for a long time. Thanks for your advice!
I bought the Katana 50 MKII right after the 50 EX released, so, at a good price. For my personal use case it has been an excellent choice, I doubt I will ever need a bigger or more featured amp, but GAS is kicking really hard for me to get a desktop amp this year.
Excellent video! Well-investigated, thought out and discussed! You helped me a great deal.
I have a 100 mk2 and like it a lot but have not used the effects loop - there's too much built in and the footswitch sorts out changing tones. The 50EX makes the original 50s less desirable but a big price hike for the 50EX. They are all good amps unless you are a tube/valve snob. I agree that the 50EX is a great choice for those that want to keep weight and space occupancy down. They are all so versatile and maybe complex but there is fun in the learning curve of these amps. Boss nailed it with these amps and I have a bass 210 too. Great quality and value for money imho. Good vid demo and explanation of the various qualities of these affordable amps.
I want to complement you on this video’s presentation. You sound like you have practiced and thought about the subject a LOT. You do not sound like a marketer. And I would have to buy the one not really mentioned, the 200, because I have EXCELLENT requirements. 😁
Have the standard 50 MK II as a practice amp and I love it.💙 Excellent!
Great video man! Thanks for the info I appreciate it.
Currently I’m using a small Vox VX15GT and love it! That tiny modelling amp really opened my eyes to what these smaller and more affordable amps can do nowadays. A Katana MKII 50EX is on my wish list.
I bought the Mk II 100W head, and it's most EXCELLENT!
“Excellent” video. I have the 100. I like it a lot.
Katana 50 mk2 ex. Excellent.