Gearank Recommended
Notes
This amp superseded the Boss Katana-50 MkI.
Cons
- Software editor takes time to learn
- Driver errors and connectivity issues when using Boss’ software editor
Pros
- Fewer but great-sounding Types of Amps, especially the clean, brown, and lead
- Versatile power control
- Quality effects, derived from Roland/Boss’s guitar processors
- Intuitive control setup
The Boss Katana-50 MkII is a 50-watt guitar amp with a 12″ speaker, designed for players who need practical features and excellent sound quality. It includes five core amp voicings—Brown, Lead, Crunch, Clean, and Acoustic—with a “variation” button that doubles the tonal options to ten. These voicings cover a range of styles, from smooth cleans to high-gain leads, with a dedicated setting for acoustic-electric guitars.
A power attenuator allows the amp’s output to be adjusted from 50W to 25W or 0.5W, making it suitable for home practice, small gigs, and quieter environments without sacrificing tone. While it doesn’t offer an extensive range of amp models, the included options are well-designed and highly usable.
The Katana-50 MkII also includes Boss’ effects processing, supporting up to five effects simultaneously from a library of over 60 options. These can be customized through Boss’ software editor, which may take some time to master but provides extensive tonal flexibility. For connectivity, it offers a USB port for direct recording, a headphone output for silent practice, and support for footswitches or expression pedals.
At 25.6 lbs., it’s heavier than some comparable amps but remains manageable for most players. Its power and sound quality make it a great fit for small to medium-sized gigs, as it holds its own against drums and other amplifiers. However, players seeking a more portable amp or one with a wider variety of amp models might consider alternatives.
The Boss Katana-50 MkII is well-suited for players of all skill levels who want a reliable amp with flexible power options and high-quality effects. While the software editor requires some learning, the tonal possibilities it unlocks make this amp a practical option for practice, performance, and recording.
Specifications
- Power Rating: 50 Watts (25W / 0.5W Attenuation)
- Speaker: 1 x 12″
- Channels: 4 Preset Banks, 10 Amp Types
- Controls: Amp Type, Variation, Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Booster/Mod, FX/Delay, Reverb, Master, Power Control, Tone Setting
- Amp Models: 10 – 2 Variations of Brown, Lead, Crunch, Clean, Acoustic
- Effects: 30 (Up to 5 Simultaneous), 60 total effects via Boss Tone Studio Software
- Input: 1 x 1/4″, 1 x 1/8″ (Aux in), 1 x 1/4″ (Power Amp)
- Output: 1 x 1/4″ (Rec/Headphones), USB Type B
- Extra: Switchable Power Attenuation, Power Amp Input (Uncolored Amplification)
- Dimensions: 15.6″ x 18.5″ x 9.3″
- Weight: 25.6 lbs.
Support Information
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Guitar World | Richard Blenkinsop | 100/100 |
| Guitar | Richard Purvis | 80/100 |