Boss Katana 50 EX Gen 3 Modelling Combo

Boss Katana 50 EX Gen 3 — Pro-Grade Tube Logic in a Compact Combo

The Boss Katana 50 EX Gen 3 is a 50-watt, 1x12-inch modeling combo that delivers professional features in a portable format. Thanks to BOSS's Tube Logic architecture and a reactive Class AB power section, players experience tube-amp harmonic nuance. In this third generation, working musicians get gigging capability and silent recording within one box.

What Sets the EX Apart from the Standard Katana-50

While the standard Katana-50 stops short, the EX advances further. It arrives with an upgraded custom 12-inch speaker for improved stage projection, plus a dedicated Line Out jack featuring IR-based cabinet simulation. Linking two amps with Stereo Expand creates true stereo chorus, delay, and reverb across both rigs.

Tone Architecture and Amp Characters

At the component level, Tube Logic recreates authentic tube-amp behavior. Gen 3 introduces the Pushed character, capturing the edge-of-breakup voice of a clean combo driven into harmonic saturation. With a Variation switch for each of the six characters, you access a total of 12 amp voices.

• Amp Characters: Six — Acoustic, Clean, Pushed, Crunch, Lead, Brown
• Total Amp Voices: 12 via Variation switch
• Power Amp Topology: Reactive Class AB, 50 W rated output — The dynamic response closely follows your pick attack, just like a tube amp.

Effects and Sound Shaping

Five simultaneous effect categories draw from the extensive BOSS pedal library, each with three variations. Using the updated BOSS Tone Studio app, you can unlock 60 effect types and a versatile three-way Contour control that extends beyond the panel.

• Effect Sections: Booster, Mod, FX, Delay, Reverb
• Cabinet Simulation: IR-based, three Air Feel types + two custom slots
• Stage players will appreciate the four Tone Memories (CH1, CH2, PANEL, plus one) for quick recall in performance.

Connectivity and Live Integration

On the rear panel, this model becomes a central performance hub. A Power Amp In jack allows external modelers to bypass the preamp, while GA-FC and GA-FC EX foot controllers enable up to eight Tone Settings and effect switching. With the optional BT-DUAL Bluetooth adaptor, you get wireless editing capabilities.

• Outputs: Line Out, Stereo Headphones, USB-C
• Inputs: Instrument, Power Amp In, AUX IN, EXP PEDAL, CTL CH1/CH2 SOLO
• Power Control Stages include Standby, 0.5 W, Half, and Max, making it possible to achieve cranked tones at any volume.

Who This Combo Is Built For

Ideal for gigging guitarists, bedroom players, and project-studio musicians, this amp suits those needing one solution for rehearsal, stage, and silent recording. With 50-watt headroom for small-to-mid club gigs and Power Control for low-volume practice, the Katana 50 EX Gen 3 integrates directly into existing BOSS pedalboard setups via GA-FC EX compatibility.

BOSS and the Katana Legacy

When BOSS launched the Katana series in 2016, it combined decades of amplifier research with the company’s iconic pedal effects. The third generation adds the Pushed character, expanded foot-controller integration, and an upgraded BOSS Tone Studio editor. This 50-watt model is designed as a gig-ready entry point in the Katana lineup.