BOSS Katana 50-EX Gen 3 50-Watt 1×12 EX Guitar Combo Amplifier

The Next Generation of a Modern Classic

With Katana Gen 3, the acclaimed BOSS stage amplifier series evolves to take your guitar ambitions to the next level. New Tube Logic enhancements enrich the core platform with even greater sound, feel, and response, including an expressive Pushed amp character that edge-of-breakup fans will love. The BOSS Tone Studio app has also been updated, making your remote amp and effects editing workflow more intuitive than ever. Loaded with inspiring tone tools and diverse connectivity options, Katana Gen 3 is your indispensable centerpiece for studio recording, live performance, and daily practice.

The Katana-50 EX Gen 3 model extends the core features of the Katana-50 Gen 3 with enhancements for live performers. Additions include an upgraded speaker, Line Out and Stereo Expand functions, and GA-FC/GA-FC EX Foot Controller support.

MAIN FEATURES

• Third-generation Katana amplifier with evolved Tube Logic sound and expressiveness
• 50-watt combo amp with a custom 12-inch speaker designed for stage performance
• Distinctive gray and black matrix grill
• Six amp characters—including the newly developed Pushed type—plus a selectable variation for each
• Five independent effects sections: Booster, Mod, FX, Delay, and Reverb
• Four Tone Setting memories for storing all amp and effect settings
• Power Control for achieving cranked-amp tone and response at low volumes
• Updated Boss Tone Studio app (Windows/macOS) for remote editing from a computer or mobile device
• Download and share Katana sounds on BOSS Tone Exchange
• Compatible with sounds created on previous stage-class Katana models

Versatile Connectivity

• Power Amp In for preamps, modelers, and multi-effects
• Stereo Expand function to link with a second Katana amp
• Stereo headphones jack, line output, and USB output with IR-based cabinet sound
• Record/playback tracks in music production software on a computer or mobile device* via a USB-C®

*Compatibility with all third-party devices and software is not guaranteed. An upcoming firmware update will provide generic driver support.

Expansion Options

• Jacks for up to two footswitches and an expression pedal
• Supports the GA-FC and GA-FC EX Foot Controllers for complete stage control
• Optional Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (BT-DUAL) for wireless audio playback from a mobile device and remote editing from the BTS app (iOS/Android)

BOSS Tone Studio

• Newly updated interface for a more intuitive workflow
• Customize the onboard effects with over 60 premium BOSS types
• Detailed amp and effect editing tools, including deep parameter controls, effect order, and more
• Three Cabinet Resonance options: Vintage, Modern, and Deep
• Customize the IR-based cabinet sound for the headphones, line out, and USB recording output
• Fine-tune the three Contour settings
• Shape the overall tone with multiple EQs
• Save and organize Livesets for different playing applications
• Download “BOSS TONE STUDIO for KATANA GEN 3” for Windows/macOS
• Download “BTS for KATANA GEN 3” for iOS
• Download “BTS for KATANA GEN 3” for Android

Katana Gen 3: Inspiration Unbound

Backed by their advanced Tube Logic amplifier architecture and reactive Class AB power, the BOSS Katana series has become a standard for guitarists everywhere since its introduction in 2016. Katana amps embody decades of BOSS development knowledge, providing professional, tube-inspired sound coupled with modern advantages like onboard effects, one-touch memory recall, deep sound customization, and reduced weight. Katana Gen 3 elevates the lineup with even more range and versatility, bringing you a playing experience that goes where no other amps can.

Refined Tube Logic Tones

Tube Logic recreates tube circuitry and all its complex interactions at a component level. Their approach continues to evolve with refinements to the five amp characters available in previous Katana models, including the iconic high-gain Brown type. The new Pushed character spotlights internal dynamic enhancements with the pleasing touch-responsive gain of a clean combo driven into harmonic saturation. All six amp characters also include a selectable variation for 12 distinctive tones. In comparison with the standard 50-watt model, Katana-50 EX Gen 3 features an upgraded speaker for increased projection and resonance on stage.

“Sweet Spot” Sound at Any Volume

As every tube amp lover knows, the sound becomes richer, fuller, and more responsive as you turn up the volume. Unfortunately, it also gets way too loud for many playing situations. An external power attenuator is a common solution, but it can introduce artifacts that color the amp’s tone and feel. The integrated Power Control in Katana Gen 3 delivers the best of all worlds, letting you dial in cranked-amp inspiration with no adverse effect on the sound. Just turn the panel knob to transparently harness the level for everything from live stage playing to daily bedroom jams.

Famous BOSS Effects

Katana Gen 3 features five simultaneous effect categories loaded with essential selections from the historic BOSS library. Booster, Mod, FX, Delay, and Reverb sections offer enhanced sound quality, grab-and-go parameter controls, and three variations each for access to 15 unique effects. BOSS Tone Studio unlocks additional possibilities, allowing you to customize the onboard effects from 60 different types and tweak deep options not available from the amp’s panel. And when the optional Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor is installed, you can wirelessly edit sounds on the gig using the BTS editor app on your smartphone.

Unrivaled Sound-Shaping

BOSS Tone Studio for Katana Gen 3 offers new visual enhancements and graphic customization options that make crafting your tone faster and more intuitive. Explore amp and effect editing tools, change the effect order, and shape the overall sound with the three-way Contour control and multiple EQs. Dial in system-wide settings and behaviors. And organize custom setups for all your gigs. You also have access to BOSS Tone Exchange, where you can download pro setups and share sounds with the worldwide Katana community.

Complete Stage Command

Katana-50 EX Gen 3 features a host of powerful tools for modern performers. Four Tone Setting memories let you store and recall complete amp/effect setups, while rear-panel jacks support remote control with footswitches and an expression pedal. The GA-FC and GA-FC EX Foot Controllers extend your capabilities even further, providing complete stage control solutions for your Katana Gen 3. You can access four additional Tone Settings (eight total), turn effects on/off, integrate expression pedals, and more. The GA-FC EX model also includes an expansion option to double your footswitches or control two Katana amps at once.

Expand Your Range

Katana-50 EX Gen 3 flows with all your creative journeys. Easily link two amps via the Stereo Expand* function, with master control from the main amp and stereo effects like chorus, delay, and reverb distributed across both amps for a wide, immersive sound. Or connect to the Power Amp In jack to bypass the Katana preamp and use the reactive Class AB power section to amplify a modeler or an external preamp.

*Stereo Expand is supported on all Katana Gen 3 and MkII models except the Katana-50 Gen 3 and Katana-50 MkII.

Get Connected

Katana-50 EX Gen 3 includes connectivity to meet every need. Plug in headphones to practice quietly with stereo sound. Send a feed to a house PA via the Line Out jack. And record to your favorite music software on computers and mobile devices over USB-C. All audio outputs feature IR-based cabinet sound for great direct tone, with three Air Feel types and two customizable settings in BOSS Tone Studio.

SPECIFICATIONS

Rated Power Output

• 50 W

Nominal Input Level

• INPUT: -10 dBu (1 M ohms)
• AUX IN: -10 dBu (20 k ohms)

Speaker

• 30 cm (12 inches) x 1

Controls

• POWER switch
• MASTER knob
• POWER CONTROL switch (STANDBY, 0.5 W, HALF, MAX)

[AMPLIFIER]

• VARIATION button
• AMP TYPE switch (ACOUSTIC, CLEAN, PUSHED, CRUNCH, LEAD, BROWN)
• GAIN knob
• VOLUME knob

[EQUALIZER]

• BASS knob
• MIDDLE knob
• TREBLE knob

[EFFECT]

• BOOSTER button
• MOD button
• FX button
• DELAY button
• REVERB button
• TAP button
• BOOSTER knob
• MOD knob
• FX knob
• DELAY knob
• REVERB knob

[TONE SETTING]

• CH1 button
• CH2 button
• PANEL button

Indicators

• VARIATION
• BOOSTER
• MOD
• FX
• DELAY
• REVERB
• TAP
• SOLO
• CH1
• CH2
• PANEL

Connectors

• INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
• POWER AMP IN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
• LINE OUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
• STEREO PHONES jack: Stereo 1/4-inch phone type
• CTL CH1/CH2 SOLO jack: 1/4-inch TRS phone type
• EXP PEDAL jack: 1/4-inch TRS phone type
• AUX IN jack: Stereo miniature phone type
• USB port: USB C type
• BLUETOOTH ADAPTOR SLOT: BluetoothⓇ Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor
• AC IN jack

Power Consumption

• 47 W

Dimensions (Include handle and rubber feet)

• 470 (W) x 238 (D) x 398 (H) mm
• 18-9/16 (W) x 9-3/8 (D) x 15-11/16 (H) inches

Weight

• 11.7 kg
• 25 lbs 13 oz

Accessories

• Owner’s Manual
• Power cord
• GA-FC sticker

Options (sold separately)

• Footswitch: FS-5L, FS-6, FS-7
• Expression pedal: Roland EV-5, EV-30, FV-500L, FV-500H
• GA FOOT CONTROLLER (GA-FC,GA-FC EX)
• BluetoothⓇ Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (Model BT-DUAL)
• Amplifier Stand: BAS-1

* 0 dBu=0.775 Vrms