Originally published 23 May 2024. Updated 13 October 2026. Product specifications, prices and availability may change; check the exact current listing.
BOSS announced Katana Gen 3 on 23 May 2024. The third generation retained the Tube Logic platform and reactive Class AB power-amp approach while adding an amp character, revised editing software and model-specific connectivity and voicing features.
Seven models, different roles
- Katana-50 Gen 3 — 50-watt 1x12 combo.
- Katana-50 EX Gen 3 — the expanded 50-watt combo with additional stage-control features.
- Katana-100 Gen 3 — 100-watt 1x12 combo.
- Katana-100/212 Gen 3 — 100 watts with two 12-inch speakers.
- Katana Head Gen 3 — 100-watt head with a small onboard practice speaker.
- Katana Artist Gen 3 — the flagship combo with a 12-inch Waza speaker.
- Katana Artist Head Gen 3 — the Artist platform in an amplifier head.
Pushed and Bloom
Pushed joined Brown, Lead, Crunch, Clean and Acoustic, with a selectable variation for each amp character. BOSS also revised the existing voicings. Bloom is a separate voicing feature on Katana Head, Artist and Artist Head Gen 3; it is not included on every model.
Effects and control
Five simultaneous effect categories—Booster, Mod, FX, Delay and Reverb—are supported, with deeper selection and editing through BOSS Tone Studio. The launch software provided 60 effect types and access to BOSS Tone Exchange. Variable power control and stored tone settings remain important parts of the platform.
USB-C and expression-pedal connectivity are part of the core range. Solo boost starts with the 50 EX; Cab Resonance and Contour controls are available on the 100-watt combo models and higher-featured models. Artist models add balanced XLR output. Check the exact rear panel before choosing a model.
Bluetooth requires the optional adaptor
Wireless mobile editing and streamed backing audio require the optional BT-DUAL adaptor. Bluetooth should not be assumed to work straight out of the box without that hardware. USB recording and headphone output use the amp’s cabinet/microphone simulation options, which can be edited in Tone Studio.
50 versus 50 EX
The 50 EX adds an upgraded speaker, a line output, Stereo Expand and GA-FC/GA-FC EX support. The standard 50 does not provide the same controller integration. Controller, adaptor and model-specific accessories should be checked separately.
Original demonstration
Ask Guitar World about the exact model and current availability.
Sources: BOSS 2024 launch; BOSS Gen 3 feature overview; BOSS 50 EX specifications.