With its combination of affordability, versatility, and top-notch tones, it’s no wonder that the Boss Katana is a staple in many guitarists’ arsenals. In this review, we’ll dive deep into four of the most popular models: the Katana-50 MkII combo, the 100 MkII, the Katana 100/2×12 MKII, and the Artist MkII. In this post, we compare the line’s features and prices to help you find the perfect Katana for you.
1. Katana-50 MkII Combo Price: The most affordable of the bunch ($269)
Features:
- 50 watts of power
- Custom 12-inch speaker
- Five unique amp characters
- Over 60 customizable BOSS effects
- Power Control for achieving cranked-amp tone at low volumes
Perfect for: Beginners and bedroom players. Its power control feature allows for great tones at low volumes, making it ideal for those who need to keep the noise down. Additionally, its price point makes it an excellent choice for those just starting out or on a tight budget. This option is not footswitch expandable.
2. Katana 100 MkII Price: A step up from the 50 MkII, still very affordable ($379)
Features:
- 100 watts of power
- Custom 12-inch speaker
- Dual amp settings for layered tones
- Power Amp In for using external preamps
- Eight tone-setting memories for storing favorite amp and effects setups
- Footswitch expandable
Perfect for: Gigging musicians on a budget. The 100 watts of power make it suitable for small to medium-sized venues. The eight tone-setting memories (and footswitch upgrade) are a boon for players who need to switch tones quickly during a performance.
3. Boss Katana Review: 100/2×12 MKII Price: Mid-range in the Katana series ($499)
Features:
- 100 watts of power
- Dual custom 12-inch speakers
- Stereo expand feature for wide sound field
- Dedicated pedal effects section
- Same amp characters and effects as the 100 MkII
- Footswitch expandable
Perfect for: Players looking for a fuller sound without breaking the bank. The dual speakers provide a richer tone and the stereo expand feature is perfect for those who use a lot of spatial effects like reverb and delay. It’s also a great choice for gigging musicians playing larger venues.
4. Boss Katana Review: Artist MkII Price: The premium choice in the Katana series ($599)
Features:
- 100 watts of power
- Custom Waza 12-inch speaker
- Cabinet resonance control
- Line out air feel control
- Ultra-responsive touch with tube-like compression
- Footswitch expandable
Perfect for: Professional musicians and tone aficionados. The Artist MkII offers the most refined sound of the bunch, with its Waza speaker and advanced controls. It’s designed for those who demand the best in terms of tone and responsiveness.
Conclusion
The Boss Katana series offers something for everyone, from the budding guitarist to the seasoned pro. The Katana-50 MkII is the go-to for beginners and those who need great tones at bedroom levels. The 100 MkII is a versatile workhorse suitable for a variety of settings, while the 100/2×12 MKII offers a fuller sound for those who crave a richer tone. And for those who accept no compromises, the Artist MkII stands at the pinnacle of the Katana range.
The Katana series lives up to the hype!
