Boss Katana 50 MKII review

One of the most popular modelling amps around gets the perfect upgrade

Boss Katana 50 MKII review
(Image: © Boss)

Guitar World Verdict

This is a super versatile modelling amp, filled with quality amp tones and effects. It’s easy to use and it steers clear of most of the problems associated with digital amps.

Pros

  • +

    Great clean and distorted tones

  • +

    Versatile

  • +

    Easy to use

  • +

    Amazing value for money

  • +

    Up to 5 effects at once

  • +

    Power amp input

Cons

  • -

    Not quite loud enough for some gigs

  • -

    FX bypass buttons would have been nice

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Building on the enormous success of its predecessor, the Boss Katana 50 MKII is a 50W modelling amp, packed with a wide range of high-quality sounds and effects, as well as super useful everyday features, like USB and headphone out for recording and silent practice, one-touch reset recall, power amp input for using with modellers and profilers, and loads more.

With its incredibly simple and easy to use interface and tube amp-like sound and response, it’s easy to see (and hear) why the Katana series has become known as one of the best modelling amps around. 

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Richard Blenkinsop

After spending a decade in music retail, I’m now a freelance writer for Guitar World, MusicRadar, Guitar Player and Reverb, specialising in electric and acoustic guitars, bass, and almost anything else you can make a tune with. When my head’s not buried in the best of modern and vintage gear, I run a small company helping musicians with songwriting, production and performance, and I play bass in an alt-rock band.