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Is it time to upgrade your guitar amp? Why the Boss Katana Gen 3 might be the best step up you can make

Boss Katana Gen 3.

Finding a guitar amp that does it all can feel like a tall order. However, since its arrival in 2016, the Boss Katana series has become the world leader in terms of features, versatility, and value. Now, the new Katana Gen 3 amps have elevated that experience for players in a number of key ways. So, even if you're an existing Katana user, there are plenty of reasons to upgrade.

These are the best Katana amps yet, thanks to numerous DSP and hardware upgrades with evolved Tube Logic enhancement. The result? Even greater sound, feel, and response for guitarists. But for existing Katana fans and newcomers alike there's much more to discover with Gen 3…


Authentic tube tones and feel 

(Image credit: Boss)

The improved Tube Logic design architecture of the Katana Gen 3 series delivers the detail and response of classic tube amplifiers without the downsides of bulky valve-driven heads and combos. Reliable Katana technology that’s road-ready and portable also avoids the cost of needing fragile replacement tubes.

(Image credit: Boss)

The Katana's Variable Power Control also means players can get the cranked tube amp sound at neighbour-friendly volumes. This authentic feel is further complemented by the Katana's Reactive Class AB analog power section. 


Expanded versatility 

(Image credit: Boss)

The Katana Gen 3 line significantly expands its broad sonic palette with a groundbreaking new amp type called Pushed

Key to the Katana's global popularity are its incredibly versatile amp characters. From crystalline cleans to earth-shaking high-gain, the meticulously crafted Brown, Lead, Crunch, Clean, and Acoustic amps deliver everything a guitarist could wish for. These can be explored with selectable variations for each model to go even deeper. The Katana Gen 3 line significantly expands its broad sonic palette with a groundbreaking new amp type called Pushed.

The Pushed character showcases Boss Tube Logic technology with its edge-of-breakup sounds that highlight rich harmonies and touch-responsive feel. 

The Boss Katana Head Gen 3, Katana Artist Gen 3, and Katana Artist Head Gen 3 models also introduce the new Bloom switch; a dedicated analog circuit that brings a whole new feel to your sound with a sharper attack in the high-end and rich low-end response. The best of both worlds! 


Experience-enhancing new features 

(Image credit: Boss)

Boss's dedication to upgrading Katana Gen 3 isn't only focused on the top-line features of sounds, but all the other details that matter to players too. Gen 3 amps from the Katana-50 EX model and upwards feature a handy Solo function that helps you cut through the mix when needed. And all the Gen 3 amps now benefit from USB-C connectivity alongside expression pedal jacks too.

The larger Katana-100 Gen 3 amps and upwards now feature the additions of a Cab Resonance selector switch and Equalizer Contour button to allow deeper onboard tone-shaping. These functions can be accessed on all Katana Gen 3 models via the Boss Tone Studio App too. 

The flagship Katana Artist models in the Gen 3 series feature expanded options for your needs in different playing environments: plug in headphones for quiet practice with expansive stereo sound. Send a feed of your signal to a house PA via the XLR or 1/4-inch Line Out jacks and record to your DAW on computer and mobile devices via USB-C. All audio outputs on the Gen 3 Artist models feature IR-based cab sounds for enhanced direct tone, with the choice of three Air Feel types and two customisable settings in Boss Tone Studio.


User-friendly app improvements  

(Image credit: Boss)

With so many amp sounds and over 60 of Boss's renowned effects to explore included with Katana amps, it's vital players can quickly feel confident editing and making these tones their own. That's where the Boss Tone Studio for Katana app can take your amp experience to a whole new level. 

Boss has improved the user interface of the app and swapping effects chains is now faster with a drag-and-drop operation that will feel intuitive for newcomers and previous Katana owners alike

(Image credit: Boss)

While the Boss Tone Studio app allows super detailed editing, you can also download and share sounds with an ever-growing community of dedicated Katana users online via Boss Tone Exchange. This is a great place to find inspiration fast, and you can now access this vast library of sounds directly via Boss Tone Studio. It all further enhances an already value-packed amp series. 


Get connected 

(Image credit: Boss)


Katana players asked and Boss listened: the new Katana Gen 3 series includes Bluetooth® functionality across all models via the optional Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (BT-DUAL). Use your smartphone to control a range of your Katana's features with the Boss Tone Studio amp and wirelessly stream audio for backing tracks and your favourite songs from your phone, tablet or laptop too. It's yet another incentive for original Katana adopters to consider updating.

(Image credit: Boss)

The expanded connectivity of the Katana Gen 3 range opens new possibilities for home practice, recording and live shows. The Katana-50 EX Gen 3 model supports GA-FC Foot Controller connectivity to put more power at your feet for effects and presets changes – allowing you to control four additional memories from the amp. 

The Kata-50 EX Gen 3 amp also includes mic’d line out and stereo expand features and the latter allows you to expand with two Katana amps in the future if you want to create a spectacular stereo rig. The choice is yours and you can find out more about the advanced features offered in the Katana Gen 3 range here.

(Image credit: Boss)

Level up your guitar amp experience today and explore the new Katana Gen 3 range at Boss, Thomann, Andertons, Gear4Music and check out these killer demos of the Katana Gen 3 amps in action. 

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