Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (11)
$639.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$639.99
Amazon
4.6 (24)
$639.99 New
$569.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$588.63 New
$499.00 Used
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$639.99
Thomann
5.0 (8)
$589.00 $585.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£533.00

Average Price: $613

Standard/Professional

$300

$801+

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 100-watt Amplifier Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The BOSS Katana Artist Gen 3 100-watt Amplifier Head is a titan in the world of guitar amplification, marrying the raw power and finesse of vintage tube amps with modern engineering prowess. At its core lies the evolved Tube Logic technology, delivering an authentic tube-like tone with unmatched reliability. This flagship model boasts six versatile amp characters, including the dynamic new "Pushed" type, and each can be expanded with a variation for 12 unique voices. The Gen 3 iteration introduces the Bloom switch, adding a sharper attack and a rich low-end response, perfecting the amp's feel and expressiveness.

For the tone sculptor, five independent effects sections are at your command, offering a wide array of reverb, delay, and modulation effects, alongside a dedicated Solo section with its own boost and delay. The Katana Artist Gen 3 is equipped with comprehensive EQ options, from a 3-band EQ to a three-way contour switch, ensuring you can dial in studio-grade tones with ease. Whether practicing quietly with headphones or plugging into a PA system, the cab-emulated outputs provide a consistent, high-quality direct sound.

The updated BOSS Tone Studio editor enhances your workflow with intuitive editing capabilities, allowing you to craft your signature sounds and store them in eight memory slots. Connectivity is king with this amp head, featuring USB, MIDI, and optional wireless control via the BOSS BT-DUAL Bluetooth adapter, making it a versatile choice for guitarists who demand both power and precision.

Key Features:

  • 100 watts of Class AB power with enhanced Tube Logic technology
  • Six amp characters with variations for 12 total voices
  • Bloom switch for sharper attack and dynamic low-end response
  • Five effects sections: Booster, Mod, FX, Delay, and Reverb
  • Dedicated Solo section with boost and delay
  • Comprehensive EQ options: 3-band EQ, contour switch, Resonance, and Presence controls
  • Eight memory slots for storing custom setups
  • Cab-emulated outputs for headphones, line, and USB
  • Optional Bluetooth adapter for wireless control and streaming
  • Updated BOSS Tone Studio with enhanced editing tools

Owner's manual

Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 100-watt Amplifier Head User Manual

Product specs

Type Solid State Modeling Amp
Number of Channels 4
Output Power 100W (50W, 0.5W setting)
EQ 3-band EQ, Presence, Contour switch
Amp Modeling Acoustic, Clean, Pushed, Crunch, Lead, Brown
Inputs 1 x 1/4" (in), 1 x 1/4" (power amp in), 1 x 1/8" (aux in)
Outputs 1 x 1/4" (8 ohms), 2 x 1/4" (16 ohms), 1 x 1/4" (line out), 1 x XLR (line out)
Headphones 1 x 1/4"
Effects Loop Yes
MIDI I/O 1 x 5-pin DIN (In)
USB 1 x USB-C
Bluetooth Bluetooth with BT-Dual Adaptor
Footswitch I/O 1 x 1/4" (GA-FC), 1 x 1/4" (EXP Pedal)
Computer Connectivity USB
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 11.65"
Width 24.84"
Depth 9.68"
Weight 27.33 lbs.

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 100-watt Amplifier Head?

The Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 offers versatile tones, including Acoustic, Clean, Pushed, Crunch, Lead, and Brown, providing a wide range of sonic possibilities for different genres.

Is the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 suitable for gigging with a drummer?

Yes, with its 100-watt output, the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 is powerful enough for live performances and can handle band settings alongside a drummer.

Does the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 take pedals well?

Yes, the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 features an effects loop, allowing you to integrate your favorite pedals seamlessly into your signal chain.

How does the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 integrate with digital setups?

The Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 includes USB connectivity for direct recording and MIDI input for controlling amp functions, making it suitable for digital and hybrid setups.

What are the connectivity options available on the Boss Katana Artist Gen 3?

The Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 offers various connectivity options, including 1/4" inputs and outputs, XLR line out, USB-C, MIDI I/O, and Bluetooth with the BT-Dual Adaptor.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

NEW Boss Katana Gen 3 - The Best Gets Better? | MK2 vs Gen 3 Comparison!

Video thumbnail for NEW Boss Katana Gen 3 - The Best Gets Better? | MK2 vs Gen 3 Comparison! by Andertons Music Co

NEW Boss Katana Gen 3 - The Best Gets Better? | MK2 vs Gen 3 Comparison!

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for REVIEW: Boss Katana Gen 3 Guitar Amplifier by JustinGuitar

REVIEW: Boss Katana Gen 3 Guitar Amplifier

JustinGuitar

JustinGuitar

Video thumbnail for Boss Katana Gen 3 100 Watt Head.  LIVE! No Tubes necessary anymore by Christian Lee Vasquez

Boss Katana Gen 3 100 Watt Head. LIVE! No Tubes necessary anymore

Christian Lee Vasquez

Christian Lee Vasquez

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight design with onboard effects reduces setup time and physical burden.

  • Exceptional versatility with multiple amp models and editable effects.

  • Pushed amp setting delivers impressive edge-of-breakup tones.

  • Bluetooth Tone Studio allows for quick adjustments and deep customization.

  • Integrated XLR out for direct PA connection enhances live performance flexibility.

  • Provides a tube-like response and touch sensitivity, mimicking real tube amps.

  • Stereo effects capability without needing a second Katana amp.

  • Exceptional value for money compared to other solid-state heads.

  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles from jazz to heavy metal.

  • Robust construction withstanding heavy use over time.

CONS

  • Bluetooth adapter not included, requires additional purchase.

  • Headphone output quality is inferior to other high-end modelers.

  • MIDI implementation could be improved, lacking tap tempo for Solo Delay.

  • No stereo output for standard cabinet connections.

  • Lack of an included amp cover for protection.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 100-watt Amplifier Head.

Features and functionality

  • The Artist model provides physical Solo, Contour, and Line Out Air Feel controls, while these are software-accessible on the standard Gen 3 Head.

    Source
  • The Artist model includes an XLR out, which is not present on the standard Gen 3 Head.

    Source
  • The Artist version offers additional external speaker connection options compared to the standard Gen 3 Head.

    Source
  • Thick distortions can be achieved using just the panel without extensive preset building.

    Source
  • The Gen 3 Artist head includes a "pushed" mode, enhancing clean and slightly dirty tones, which is absent in the MkII version.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Artist head is 8 lbs heavier due to its more robust cabinet construction, despite lacking a built-in speaker.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The standard Gen 3 Head includes a built-in practice speaker and costs $200 less, making it a more compact and budget-friendly option.

    Source

User experience

  • Issues with distortion on the 6th string at high volumes; adjusting guitar knobs may resolve it.

    Source
  • Owners report that the Gen 3 Artist head sounds more tube-like and excels in clean tones, offering better clarity at both high and low gain settings.

    Source
  • Some users note that the Gen 3 Artist head has been effectively used in stereo setups, providing a broader soundstage compared to a single amp configuration.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some users find the Katana app dated in appearance but effective for customizing tones.

    Source
  • Gen 3 heads may face compatibility issues with older downloadable tones due to removed functionalities, leading to error messages about incompatibility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Spark amp is noted for sounding like a post-production recording, while the Katana sounds more like a traditional amp.

    Source
  • The Gen 3 Artist head provides a more versatile sound compared to the Spark amp, offering better high gain and a more authentic clean tone.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Gain staging may be necessary to avoid muddy distortion, especially with high gain tones.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 delivers an impressive sound palette and robust features for both home and stage use, boasting a user-friendly interface with intuitive controls. Its compact design and versatile connectivity make it an appealing choice for musicians. However, potential buyers should be aware of a learning curve; maximizing its capabilities requires some technical know-how, and additional costs for a footswitch may be necessary for live performances. Overall, it’s a compelling option for those willing to invest time in mastering its features.

positive

Boss Katana Artist 3 Amp Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Boss Katana Artist Gen 3 delivers exceptional tones and a remarkable array of features, making it a value powerhouse for players at all levels. With high-gain settings that impress and a user-friendly interface, it excels in live and studio settings alike. However, the absence of a built-in tuner is a notable oversight. For those ready to dive deep into its capabilities, the optional footswitch enhances live performance significantly. At $599, it competes with pricier setups, offering a solid alternative that shouldn't be overlooked.

positive

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