Since their debut in 2016, Katana amps have become some of the most successful guitar amplifiers on the market. With a smart range of power options, compact dimensions, and a generous collection of built-in sounds and effects, they strike a perfect balance for today's players, offering professional sound in a portable format. After all, nobody wants to lug around more gear than necessary. Add to that their wallet-friendly price point, and it's easy to see why the Katana series continues to be such a hit. Now, Boss has introduced the Katana 50 EX Gen 3, a new and improved version of one of their most popular models: On top of all the Gen 3 improvements, the EX variant boasts a full suite of upgrades, including Stereo Expand functionality (hence the name EX) and a custom 12" speaker.
Boss has refined its Tube Logic engine to give the Katana series even more authentic amp tones. One standout addition is the new "Pushed" amp type, designed to emulate the raw, dynamic edge of a valve amp being driven hard. Like the other amp models, it's available in two voicings. The effects section remains split into five blocks, offering the usual high-quality selection. Delay times and modulation effects can be tapped in by hand, or controlled via the Boss GA-FC or GA-FC EX pedals: Adding these devices, which the Katana 50 EX is fully compatible with, quickly make the combo ready for live gigs. Next to the pedal inputs – they're around the back – users can also find AUX in, headphone jack, and USB for direct recording, as well as a mic line out, another of the EX model's premium features. New to the third-gen Katanas in general is a slot for a Bluetooth adapter (sold separately), which is ideal for wireless audio streaming or remote control via the Tone Studio app.
From generation to generation, the Katana series continues to grow in both sonic range and versatility. The Gen 3 model of the Boss Katana 50 EX offers a broad spectrum of amp and effect combinations, ranging from presets for acoustic guitar and sparkling cleans to rich crunch and soaring modern leads. The responsive three-band EQ makes tone shaping intuitive, and with switchable output power, the amp mimics the feel and response of a cranked valve combo at lower volumes. The icing on the cake is the effects section here, which can modify the sound with a variety of reverbs, delays, and other mods. Considering the sound quality and sheer performance on offer, calling the Katana 50 EX Gen 3 a beginner's amp doesn't really feel fair: While it's still beginner-friendly, its performance level is likely to impress more experienced or even professional players.
The Boss brand has been an important part of the Japanese Roland Corporation since the mid-1970s and has caused a sensation from its inception, especially with its compact effect pedals but also multi-effect units and other helpful tools for guitarists. The company's single effect pedals in particular are legendary and can be found in almost every guitarist's home. An incredible 15 million have been sold to date. With its Katana series, the manufacturer now also offers excellent amplifiers at a very interesting price point.
By combining a wide array of amp tones and effects, a punchy 50W power section, and – unique to this EX model – an upgraded 12" speaker in this tried-and-tested compact combo format, the Katana 50 EX raises the bar once again – other affordable guitar amps will struggle to keep up. It's as comfortable in a living room session as it is in rehearsal spaces or recording studios, thanks to the USB and mic line outputs that allow for direct, high-quality audio capture with a spacious, three-dimensional tone. And when it's time to take it on stage, the Boss Katana 50 EX Gen 3 will be more than ready, especially when paired with optional GA-FC or GA-FC EX footswitches. To top it off, the Boss Tone Studio app provides deep editing tools in a clean, intuitive interface, and now, with the optional Bluetooth adaptor, users can tweak their sound wirelessly from their smartphone or tablet.