Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $650
Standard/Professional
$200
$801+
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Budget
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head is a powerhouse of innovation and precision, designed for the discerning bassist who demands versatility and power in a compact package. With 500 watts of Class D power, this amp head offers an expansive tonal palette that caters to both modern and vintage soundscapes. The Katana-500's standout feature is the Cab Resonance technology, which automatically adjusts the amp's output to perfectly match your speaker cabinet's unique acoustic characteristics, ensuring optimal performance and clarity across all frequencies.
The Katana-500 is equipped with a comprehensive 4-band active EQ, allowing fine-tuning of your sound with precision. Its Drive and Compressor controls provide ample grit and punch, while the Vintage/Modern switch lets you effortlessly toggle between warm, classic tones and contemporary, crisp sounds. For those who like to experiment, the Boss Tone Studio software offers access to over 60 effects, enabling extensive customization of your sonic identity.
Connectivity is robust, featuring dual high-current speaker outputs, XLR line out, USB, and a headphone/recording jack, making the Katana-500 equally adept in the studio or on stage. The amp's intuitive layout, combined with the ability to save and recall custom setups, ensures that your perfect tone is never more than a touch away.
Key Features:
- Compact 500-watt bass amplifier head with Class D power
- Cab Resonance technology for automatic tone optimization
- 4-band active EQ with customizable midrange frequencies
- Drive and Compressor controls with multiple settings
- Vintage/Modern tonal switch for diverse sound profiles
- USB connectivity for BOSS Tone Studio and recording
- Dual XLR speaker outputs and headphone jack for versatile use
- Onboard memory for saving custom setups and quick recall
Product specs
| Type | Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 3 (3 x presets) |
| Output Power | 250W Peak (8 ohms), 500W Peak (4 ohms) |
| Effects | 3 x Drive, 3 x FX (Chorus, T-Wah, Heavy Octave) |
| Compression | 3 x Compressor |
| EQ | 4-band EQ, Low Mid Button, High Mid Button, Bottom Knob, Hi Cut Button |
| Amp Modeling | Modern, Vintage |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (instument) |
| Outputs | 2 x SpeakON (speaker A, B), 1 x XLR (line out), |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" (phones, rec out) |
| USB | 1 x USB-B |
| Footswitch I/O | 1 x 1/4" (Boss GA-FC), 1 x 1/4" (expression pedal) |
| Footswitch Included | No |
| Features | Bluetooth with BT-Dual Adaptor |
| Software | Boss Tone Studio |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 3.77" |
| Width | 11.73" |
| Depth | 8.34" |
| Weight | 6.17 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of power output does the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head provide?
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The Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head delivers 250 watts peak at 8 ohms and 500 watts peak at 4 ohms, making it suitable for both practice and live performance settings.
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What effects are included in the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head?
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This amplifier head includes a variety of effects such as 3 Drive options, Chorus, T-Wah, and Heavy Octave, allowing for versatile sound shaping.
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Can I connect the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head to a computer?
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Yes, the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head can connect to a computer via its USB-B port, enabling integration with the Boss Tone Studio software for tone editing and management.
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Does the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head support footswitch control?
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Yes, it supports footswitch control with a 1/4" input for a Boss GA-FC footswitch and an additional 1/4" input for an expression pedal, though the footswitch is not included.
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What connectivity options does the Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head offer?
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It offers multiple connectivity options, including 2 SpeakON outputs for speakers, a 1/4" headphone/record out, an XLR line out, and Bluetooth connectivity with a BT-Dual Adaptor.
Videos
BOSSchannel
BOSS KATANA-500 BASS HEAD | Outstanding Bass Tones with Innovative Cabinet Calibration
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile sound options cater to a wide range of musical styles
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Built-in effects are high-quality and easily tweakable
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Additional EQ section via app offers extensive tone shaping
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Speaker calibration feature enhances cab compatibility
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Easy sound editing directly on device or via computer
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Plenty of power for live performance, with loud output capabilities
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Convenient for musicians who need a compact, all-in-one solution
CONS
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Fan noise can be distracting, especially in quiet environments
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Lack of FX Loop limits connectivity options
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Front panel control limitations without additional Bluetooth device or footswitch
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Advertised power can be misleading; actual output may be lower than expected
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Update support documentation can be inaccurate and confusing
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss Katana-500 Bass Amplifier Head.
Features and functionality
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The Katana 500's speaker calibration adapts sound to various cabinets, enhancing compatibility and sound quality.
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Lacks a built-in tuner and requires a large pedal board for effect switching, which may not suit all users.
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The Katana-500 allows four effect slots with specific sequences: limiter/compressor, OD/fuzz, and two slots for effects like chorus and octave.
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Built-in noise remover eliminates the need for an additional noise gate pedal.
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Software and compatibility
Use cases and applications
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Ideal for traditional band setups; less suited for those minimizing cable use with IEM and battery-powered gear.
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User experience
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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