How I Turned My Boss Katana Into A Marshall JCM800

How I Turned My Boss Katana Into A Marshall JCM800
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[@WallyBoots]

Everyone knows the more dust you have on your Katana the better the tone

[@RobChappers]

Dust Tone 🤘🏽

[@AnkylosingSpondylitisMan]

Mine should sound amazing based on that.......

[@stevenpipes1555]

LMAO! I was just gonna say the same thing! Its amp relic job! 😂

[@dnamusicchallenge5995]

So as our piano 😂

[@homeboyjon4885]

I can flow with that.

[@RandyWillcox]

Yes! The 100W setting with the cranked master is that "real amp" sound people think modelers can't achieve.

[@marklnz]

The Katana is technically not a modelling amp...it doesn't try to mimic any other amps, it's got it's own "sound(s)"

[@RandyWillcox]

@@marklnz technically, semantics can really make the internet a frustrating place. Yes, the katana doesn't model anything in particular. They just use digital technology to create amp sounds that remind everyone of some incredibly popular styles of amps to make it appeal to the masses. I'll never generalize on the internet ever again. Lesson learned.

[@GoToEleven11]

NOT the real JCM800 sound. It’s a way to get Katana sound the most realistic it can. I have 1959, 2203, 2555 (original) and also a 100W katana so i know. Katana is like a tricycle version of the real deal.

[@algrundau9441]

@@RandyWillcox My understanding is....and why guys point it out is, That not only are the Katana's NOT trying to copy any specific amp. They do not use ANY digital technology in the gain stage. 100% Solid State. ...The effects are all Digital. Including the Booster/Distortion/Overdrive pedals. Zoom used to make their Multi-FX like that and some still prefer the old one's. ( Like I do).

[@I.M.Guitar-Nerd]

@@RandyWillcox The preamp is 100% analog, so is the power amp.

[@Richardgreenmusic.]

As an owner and operator of the Boss 100 Mk1 I cannot say enough about how fantastic this amp and line is. While its packed with built in tones as Rob demonstrates, I also love running my pedals thru the clean channel and my looper thru the FX Loop. Pure Rock Bliss. Thing launched in 2016 and we are still talking about it. If you don't have one then give in and GET IT!!!! :)

[@electricmeatpuppet]

Try running through the acoustic channel as a platform, I found it much better than the clean channel and doesn't color the signal as much... (even for doom etc) headroom feels different also...

[@BedeLaplume]

​ I also have the same MK1 and I cannot believe the great bang for the buck it is.. It even has an acoustic channel.. ​

[@BrandonEht]

You think it’s a good amp now, throw a greenback in. Brings it to life

[@sathira_anuk5179]

​@@BrandonEhtalnico blue one is better

[@angus68655]

@Dung Eater I had a Peavey Vypyr 30 before switching to the Katana 100 MK 1 a few years back. Best move I made. Absolutely love the Katana

[@stefromfortworth]

The answer is YES and I heard from a mate who works in a guitar shop…..who heard from a Boss rep that the amp is specifically designed to fatten up and compress a little bit like a vale amp when ran at full master volume (using the channel volume to set your level) I run mine at 0.5w with the master volume on full and then set the volume I want with the channel volume. It’s awesome.

[@RobChappers]

I have an interesting update to follow this video soon. Having had a really good chat with Boss! 🤘🏽

[@VFRhondamike]

Sounds interesting

[@chaosin73]

New katana dirty channel?

[@Bo-Yan]

Thank you dear Rob Chapman, BOSS/ROLAND companies and Mr. Yoshi Ikegami !!! :-) The sound is killing good, wide and punchy! You blew my mind with this video also! Thank you and greetings from Bulgaria, from one of your huge fans there! :-)

[@TheCyberMantis]

Looking forward to it!

[@RobChappers]

Wow… I was not expecting this video to be THAT popular! Thanks for the support guys, follow up video coming on Sat with an interesting result🤘🏽

[@GCKelloch]

You're only maxing the master in the 100W setting. That drives the power amp section to distortion/compression. Why this isn't made clear to people is a mystery. Try doing that with the Power Control at 0.5W and turn the Amp Volume knob up for the amount of amp section response vs volume you want. Experiment with the Amp Volume and Master for the distortion/compression character and feel for a given output level. The EQ may also be just b4 the amp section as well, but I don't know.

[@JoeButler02]

So you're going to upload your patch files to the Facebook group right? So we can all get your killer tone?!

[@michaelfessenden8601]

Made us think differently about are katakana's

[@andydamant]

Does this work for the 50w version?

[@andycowley2529]

The mysterious KZbin algorithm... It would be easier to find DB Cooper than it would to figure out how what KZbin considers a watchable video.

[@horrifyinggelatinousblob]

The Katana is amazing, seriously even if you don't NEED an amp, if you can afford one go for it, you won't regret it.

[@michaelmitchell5909]

I just can't get over how good that amp sounds

[@MrBiggordy]

I have to say, Chappers, I didn't hear a difference, using headphones on yt. However, what I did hear, was two versions of a cranked tube amp coming out of a wholly transistor amp - an extraordinary feat from the team at Boss. Yet another demonstration that Boss are leading the field in amp technology. P.S. I have a Mk1 2x12 Katana - should I warn the neighbours before trying this?!! WOW!!

[@entspec]

Hi Rob! I think 2 things are at play here. The first thing is compression. If the amp section is designed to be wide open and the overall volume depends on how much signal you give it you may have more compression at lower volume due to padding the pre-amp's output down to mimic less wattage. At the higher setting less of this type of compression takes place and more harmonics can be heard as a result. The other thing is damping. If you have more power to move the speaker, you also have more power to stop the speaker from moving. Basically you have more control of transients and thus more low level detail is audible and you have more bandwidth in terms of frequencies. The result is that the amp might sort of sound like a class A amp at 50watts and a class A/B amp at 100watts even tho from the standpoint of the actual electronics it's either one or the other, more than likely class A/B. Since Marshall amps are class A/B it makes sense that it would sound more "Marshallesque" in the 100watt setting.

[@randr10]

I get the exact opposite impression when I play through this amp. I used to run an in line MXR EQ and Boss OS/2 overdrive pedal through that with my tube amps on clean though, so I might be just missing that compressed sound when I crank this amp up. It sounds solid state to me with high master volume, especially on the distortion channels, and more tube like at lower master distortion/crunch channels. With a tube amp the louder you crank it, the better it tends to sound to me, especially when you're looking for that natural distortion sound. The clean and acoustic channels on the Boss sound great to me at any volume though.

[@trex257]

I have done the same thing on my 100 watt katana, it is why I bought the amp. When I first played it in the guitar store, it sounded incredible for a solid-state amp. When I got home, I couldn’t figure out why I didn’t sound the same until I turned on the 100W mode and upped the master. Suddenly, it sounded far better than my other, real tube amp. You definitely are not crazy.

[@boast1570]

Guess I'll be the first to say... You gotta dust that thing off every once and a while Rob! lol

[@ronsampservice3066]

I was thinking the exact same! But I'm guilty of letting some of my gear collect dust...............

[@RobChappers]

Ha ha I know man… but I like the slightly aged/relic look

[@ronsampservice3066]

@@RobChappers ALL of my amps used to get dirty just sitting in the practice room. Would have to clean the controls sometimes. So now I am a true believer in amp covers. My Marshalls, Orange, etc all have covers now!

[@thomaspalmer9666]

It definitely has a cleaner, clearer sound . They have the same amount of gain. I definitely like the second version better.

[@ljmiller96]

I've always thought 90db from my Katana 100 MK1's 100w power setting sounded better than 90db from 50w and lower settings. The best test is to set up a db meter and compare various ways of attenuating the signal with: (1) low volume; (2) low master; and (3) ox box or some other attenuator. Record your guitar part on a looper to get identical playing, then compare the three sounds blind.

[@benjoel6692]

110% YES. I own a 100w 110v and a 50w 220v that I use in US and Europe (voltage depending) Same results. I don't know which sounds more like what, but I know it sounds different. I prefer the wattage and master set all the way up, and trim the actual room level by pulling down the 1st stage channel volume. Rather than using lower wattage and lower master, I prefer higher power and higher master with lower 1st stage. For me, it's the breakup sound I prefer. (Mindful I'm not chasing heavy distortion, but a certain light breakup tone.) I don't know how or why, but YES, it does make a difference.

[@Hendrllx]

Hi Rob! Been doing this ever since I got my Katana Artist. The Master on full gives it a more tube like feel and sound. And I got the tip from the first Video Andertons did at Namm, when the MKII Katana came out. I think it was Pete and Lee who made the demo and they were told by Boss to crank the Master. Cheers

[@RmNaNtCbScRrn]

Yes! Me too, I got a Katana cuz of Pete and the Captain haha! Just bought it today, and this was the first thing I did 😂

[@redacted5035]

Yep! It's kind of an open secret. I'll match my Boss Katana Head to any overpriced tube head on the market.

[@aavavertu229]

@@redacted5035 What about the reasonably priced ones?

[@redacted5035]

@@aavavertu229 I'll match my Katana vs any boutique or cheap 1-watt-1-tube handmade amp, any affordable amp, etc, I can't stress enough how much of a game changer this device is. *if anything* just wait for whatever the hell the wizards at Roland have cooking for the Katana 2 or whatever is coming 😁

[@aavavertu229]

@@redacted5035 The ain't bad for the price by any means. I have the Artist head in my home studio and use it for a few specific things, namely some more compressed modern cleans. In the mix it can be made impossible to distinguish from some tube amps.

[@leightnite3056]

I believe your right Rob! To me it sounds better, there's a big midshift it sounds like, the regular mode feels inherently more scooped!

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

I have had my 100 MkII now since Christmas and got the foot controller last week. Got a great deal because it was a floor demo and the controller was a scratch/dent special. The only gig I do is an open mic night at my local club every other Thursday. I do a 3 song set where I play over a backing track. This amp is perfect for things like that. I know when I plug it in and hit the power switch, it's going to work. And it is easy to move. But the more I use it and play around with the settings, I find new little Easter Eggs I never thought of before. Rob is right, the power settings influence all the tones and depending on your guitar, you can get real close to what we would all call the Holy Grail sounds of our favorite records. That's a feat that many modelers strive towards, not many make the cut.

[@rossettivictor]

Hi Rob. I found this hack somewhere documented in the Boss Katana forums. On lower power control settings you turn on the volume up, 7 to 8-9, then set the master to obtain the desired volume. Then you start feeling the reaction on your fingers. Harmonics and distortion like a tube screamer to a valve amp. The treble boost overdrive helps a lot to get a beautiful breakup sound on the clean channel. Gotta try it... Thanks for your video

[@mikebarrett1466]

You are spot on Rob, I heard the difference straight away! It sounds more powerful even though the volume is the same. Sorry it took so long to find your video .

[@maggieking9669]

I here a difference although it is pretty subtle over YT. I have a Katana 2 100w head and it rocks at almost all volume settings, even through the internal speaker. I agree with your perception. Amazing line of amps! I also own a 5150 iconic combo and can say I love them both. Boss and EVH sound great! They are the average persons tone tools that punch way above their price point.

[@klacustoms]

On my Katana Artist, I like to add a Boss Compression Sustainer pedal between the guitar and the amp. I use my guitar volume knob to control the level of articulation and definition of the sound. With the amp cranked and volume knob set to 10 on the guitar, you'll get the result of a guitar where you hear every note in its clarity of attack like when you hit the keys on the piano with no effects or sustain to it, just like in this video demonstration. When I roll the volume knob on the guitar down to 1.5 to 2 on the knob, you'll get this amazing breathing, sustain coming out of the amp. It sounds like its pushing the "valves" harder and is opening it up further with sustain. When you barely have the guitar volume knob set on between .5 to 1 you get a clean sound with just the right added slight dirty distortion with again the feeling of the amp breathing with using the added compression sustainer pedal. The other benefit, is ease of use for the player. Makes the guitar more responsive and sensitive to the touch for the guitar player. For me, I get more interaction out of my guitar by doing this method and come up with some amazing results.

[@daviddigital6887]

I practice all the time with my Mini on the brown setting. I personally love that Boss Brown sound. Whatever you did kicked it up a notch for sure.

[@dluten100]

Just tried it with my Mk1, 100 and there is a difference. I really like the 100w setting. To me it brings the amp alive even at lower volume levels.

[@bluarcher5941]

man, that sounds pretty convincing, even through desktop speakers with my laptop. I'm thinking that amp is going to be my next one, and I already have a Marshall JCM 2000 DSL-100 with a 4/12 cab. Most definitely a very nice sound you're getting there.

[@pat1475]

I had the exact same amp. Loved my Marshall. But since buying the 100 watt Katana head and a 2-12 avatar cab I’m blown away by how it sounds!

[@ShaneStoneOfficial]

The 50watt option is the goat on this amp

[@randr10]

I've noticed that about the Katana when I play through it. It responds very similarly to a true tube amp when you dial back your volume knob on the guitar. You can have full distortion and dial it all the way down to almost completely clean without switching channels. The overdrive on this thing is amazing because it responds so well to volume and tone adjustments on the guitar. My old Line 6 Bogner tube amp had amazing heavy distortion tone but it didn't matter what you did with the guitar. It basically put out the same amount of crunch no matter what with only minor differences even between pickup changes. I'm blown away by this thing with no tubes. It's still not quite as silky as a true tube amp, but it's so close I don't really care for tooling around in the bedroom. If I was laying down tracks in a recording studio I might get silly about the tone again, but even then, the line out on this amp sounds even better than it does through its own power amp, so I might not care even then.

[@skerryperry3]

I feel like the highs are more clear and present in the 50 watt mode. Sounds great. On my katana I always use the lower watt setting and then drive the hell out of it. I swear it sounds better.

[@michaelk5507]

Dear Rob, I'm glad we've go similar hands. This gives me hope in my own playing. I've been a bit envious of Steve Vai who seems to have extremely long, spider-like fingers.

[@emiliocurbelo8891]

Hi Rob. 4 years ago, after reading onlline many times that it sounds the same, I decided to test it myself properly. With my Katana 50 MK1, I tested all three 0.5w/25w/50w modes, measuring exactly the same DBs, and, to my surprise, NO, they don't sound exactly the same. In the maximum wattage setting there's some "magic" happening that is a bit lost in the lower settings (attenuator (?)), again, at the very same volume. It's difficult to explain. From that point I left the power control at max setting and I never never touch it.

[@heavybrett-al4082]

" was just chatting with the boss of BOSS" 😂 how many people can say that.only the best and most recognisable pedal company EVER!

[@shanewalton8888]

Doesn't sound different to me but your ears are legendary, Rob. I trust yours over mine.

[@filheim]

Katana line is a must have...never got to hear an amp with so many (usable) tonal options...even the mini version brings a nice distortion tone. Their brown sound is rad and transforms itself with a little few notches on EQ. Love it

[@billlee8798]

Best tone ive gotten out of my mk11.. Ive had it for 7 years.. Better late than never. Thanks Rob

[@Gk2003m]

I got a MkII 50 just recently to use as a jazz guitar amp, with a guitar with a carved spruce arched top and a floating pickup. Even for this task, running the Volume and Master controls at least 75% up - along with running the power at 50 watts - is crucial to thicken up the tone. I then use the Gain control as my amp volume control. Of course, with the archtop the Gain never goes above 25% or so, and is often lower.

[@Bo-Yan]

Thank you Rob, BOSS/ROLAND companies and Yoshi Ikegami !!! The sound is killing good, wide and punchy! You blew my mind with this video also! Thank you and greetings from Bulgaria, from one of your huge fans there! :-)

[@michaelfessenden8601]

I Think Your Both Right.The gain structure in the preamp reacts to the master vol. And the power Amp does the magic it does without much change at any volume. The power Amp alone is ❤

[@leonsessions2264]

It helps to think of this configuration like an early 80’s peavy saturation control

[@janneranta7373]

Yes. Even with the 50watt, it makes a huge difference.

[@joncole8793]

I have the Katana Artist... My neighbours are gonna love me over the next few days putting this to the test! Seriously though, I'm going to try it out, but also need to reset some of my patches before a gig on 20th... But who needs an excuse to crank up an amp in a block of flats... 😂😂

[@myriad860]

I have the boss katana 50 mk2 yes the different power settings effect the tone... when your driving more wattage to the speaker it helps it shine!

[@MarkDaniels2787]

I just got a katana mk2 50 because it was factory resealed for 150 at zzounds and it is actually pissing me off how great it sounds for everything. I have 5150s 6505s tsl100 green matamp and and basically every solid state death metal amp from the 90s and I can get this amp to get all of those tones . What's crazy is it's almost harder to get 90s solid state tones from it 😢

[@Terrysoddy]

Rob your an awesome musician man. Love your videos❤️❤️🎸🎸🎸

[@IndependenceGuitar]

Yeah, it does have a richer sound. Solid state/modelers can get that “valve” effect depending on how they’re wired. I had a H&K vortex that worked that way. It acted like a valve amp in that manner. With the katana, you’re essentially raising and lowering the headroom, and forcing the power amp to do some of the clipping which gives it a valve like quality. It’s not all SS amps that can do it, but they definitely exist.

[@owenbruce4120]

Most sound thin and awful in direct head to head...repeat, most

[@IndependenceGuitar]

@@owenbruce4120 yeah, that they do. Like those old crate amps, I couldn’t get a decent tone to save my life. These new modelers are definitely a huge leap forward. The response isn’t as good and they lack some of the richness, but it’s still night and day compared to 10-15 years ago. But there are a few SS amps out there you can get a similar valve effect. Still not as good as the real deal, but nowhere near as bad as your typical SS amp.

[@owenbruce4120]

@@IndependenceGuitar tubes for me...very happy with Marshall Soldano Laney Rivera...all do there own particular thing...loudly 😂⚡😂

[@IndependenceGuitar]

@@owenbruce4120 haha, I have a 6505+ and a Mesa DRec, and they’re so insanely loud. I don’t believe I’ve ever turned either of them past 3-3 1/2. And they sound so mean..

[@owenbruce4120]

@@IndependenceGuitar ooh yeah that's some tasty shit...the Rivera has an 8 watt triode switch...capable of thick lusty tones of pure deafness... Twin stereo amps in the one head...weighs a lot but that's a minor consideration

[@BSTheMadman1]

Just tried this on my katana 100 mk1 and it’s so true! the bottom end really comes through more on the 100 Watt setting even on low volume. Even the clean channel sounds great with this

[@IsaacLausell]

I have played out a lot with mine and there is a difference when the power amp is cranked. At the same type out practicality I do use it as intended, set the master where it sounds good and control the general volume with the watts settings. Oddly the preamp volume does not color the sound as much as one would expect. I do tend to rely more on what I previously described out of need to get the amp to behave similarity at any volume. Nothing is worst than dialing things to how you like them to go play a venue and have the amp sound totally different. I tend to deal more with amps internal eq options to push in which ever direction I am trying to go, specially the eq section after the preamp. Years ago I payed $250 for an MKI and I got to say it is still impressive. I am still disappointed that Boss won’t invest the amp with a proper stereo delay nor a stereo output for live performance. I know there is the two amp option but the angle of this rig is supposed to be grab and go, in other words to carry less stuff.

[@mikejelinek1413]

You are correct I did that a few years ago when I bought my Katana! Put it through the test just now a big difference!

[@NoCantsAllowed]

It's exactly the same. All you have to do to determine is to switch the amp into its ACOUSTIC amp setting and play a music source into its guitar input. You can still hear the distorting capabilities of the amp that way and are able to play with the settings however you like. Further, in doing this, you will discover that your Katana doubles as, not ONLY a guitar amp, but a quite capable, HIFI Mono audio source (that can be altered... for those without the option to utilize an extension cab) with which one can listen to music through their 4x12('s). Personally, I have my speaker output running directly into a 2200W RCF SUB 8003 AS-II concert-class 18" powered sub. From there, I slave out of the RCF, using the thru signal and pipe it all into a Bogner 4x12 with V30's and green backs. Obviously, I am not going to use this as a theater surround system. However, while working, out in the yard or in the garage, I would challenge all-comers to a sound-off with their purpose built receivers in mono.

[@ckallaher]

Love this, Rob! The key to great Katana tone does seem to be cranking the master volume. I discovered this on a random guitar forum while googling "how to get a great clean tone from Boss Katana MKII." The answer was (a) crank the master volume, (b) use the "crunch" channel, and (c) turn the gain almost all the way down. But there doesn't seem to be any tone that one would reasonable seek that isn't enhanced by maxing out the master volume. The one you are exploring here is an excellent one for a nicely driven tone. Many thanks!

[@jean-pierre4369]

Nah Rob you are right, even on my phone without plugs i hear a difference cranking the master volume sounds better, more "growling" and less fizzy. Trust your ears.

[@D.Miller]

I know of course the possibilities are almost endless with a Katana. But I'd love a vid of a few tones you dial in

[@iDAV8]

I think what you’re noticing is the “air feel” If you have it set to live or blend, and you change the power control, I believe it is coupled into the air feel. I notice it when using headphones. I set mine to live and that’s probably why I notice the slight change in tonality when cycling through power controls when using headphones. It shouldn’t be coupled when not using the headphone/rec out though. Unless it still pipes back in the air feel at all times..

[@HeirApparent80]

I used to use the katana head exclusively in my band for about 2 years. To my ear, the 100w setting sounded more full and saturated at the same room volume level than it did on lower power settings. I've since sold it, and now only have the 50w combo, so I'm going solely off memory.

[@ymelfilm]

why did u keep the 50w over the 100?

[@HeirApparent80]

@@ymelfilm i kept the 50w combo for a practice amp. Sold the 100w head and cab for a 5150.

[@fretbuzzly]

I used to do this with my Fender Frontman. Max one of the volumes and tweak the other. Worked a treat for such a little amp.

[@spaceraisin.]

100% something I used to notice on the 50 combo. Would never use the 0.5w setting and just wrestled the volume knob on 25 or 50 because it just sounded... better? It's like it's modelling some valve sag or something. Lovely amps once you know how to dial them in considering it's all solid state.

[@scottbroberts]

I have a 50w and this is my exact experience. Unless I have to play super quiet, the lower wattage settings are useless. I'll use headphones or use the 50w setting with a lower channel volume.

[@riccaregio]

Team yes with an observation. Other than low end I think when you switch to 100W the bigger headroom in the power section gives you more sparkly harmonics

[@mikekb4649]

Yes, it does change the sound. I play out with a katana regularly and the preamp volume, master, and watt setting all change the tone and are related to each other.

[@greg1215]

An older friend about 40 years ago was the first I seen use this trick to play a few AC/DC tunes on a small Samick practice amp gave it boost he wanted.

[@traineecanuck]

I've never been able to detect that much of a difference, and it relies on you matching the volume precisely at different master settings. The speaker will alway react differently if you increase the volume. The Studio Rats did a fairly accurate test on this in one of their Katana vids and concluded there is no difference in tone. Whether it feels different is another thing.

[@erikberg8352]

The Studio Rats' video was a bit limited. I love their stuff, but it was a TikTok lesson when we need a full-on movie to walk through the differences with pickups, boost/drive before preamp, onboard drive pedal selections with the different amp voicings, etc. It has taken me over a year of daily playing to come to my happy place with the Crunch channel, Variation cab setting, Gain at 9 o'clock, Drive at 9 (Rat), Delay at 9 (Tape), Master full open. This works very nicely with my Squier Toronado for a thick, tight, mid-focused rhythm voicing on both neck (10k-ish) and bridge (14k-ish) pickups at 25 and 50 watts. There is a massive difference in the articulation with Volume vs. Master.

[@brettmckay7717]

But yes the harmonics on the 100 watt setting. Cheers Rob and keep on experimenting!!! I like to use the clean channel with a drive pedal and using it as a pedal platform .....

[@EricWestphal]

When I got my Katana Head, I watched some of Justin Sandercoe's videos about the Katana. He said exactly the same thing: something about because it has a "Class A power amp" as I recall, then it would sound best with the master all the way up and setting your output with the Volume. He didn't understand the details and I haven't looked into it further yet, but I think there's something to this. Definitely sounds different. He didn't say anything about the 100W vs 50W setting, though, but I suppose it's the same idea as turning Master all the way up. I'd love to get more from you on getting the best out of the Katana! Gotta clean that Saharan dust off your amps for the next vid though! :P

[@adam872]

That Katana sounds mint. The best new range of amps to come out in many a long day.

[@jyejye1077]

Mate as a katana owner at 19 I was desperate for Van Halen and Hetfield tone, glad to know it wasn’t just me who mastered the amp, my friend got the 50 Watt version and it just doesn’t sound as good, once u go high Watt and Master and low volume u get a Cab and Valve feel like you say, and it’s fucking awesome, it’s also Bosses brown sound!

[@markmattheviewable]

I threw on headphones to listen to the difference between 1:22 and 3:12, and the treble definitely holds on, but there is a fullness to the mids my old ears can hear in the 100W setting. I'm going to test this out tonight with my MKII Artist head through my Origin 2X12 and see if I can replicate it. Although, I also realize I don't have Chapper fingers, or skill, so it will end up being mud.

[@Project25_01]

Well made modelers will indeed model also the poweramp, including its reaction to different settings. I use Fractal modelers, but I'm sure the same applies here. What I notice, more than a shift in tone, is a change in how the rig feels. First compression, and then gradually more saturation as the MV is turned up. Saturation will eventually change the tone too, from tight and punchy to bloomy and full. Different settings make me play differently because the rig reacts differently. Rob seems to be experiencing that here.

[@ClaimedEagle]

This is not a modeler. All the pre amp is solid state, their voicings are their own thing. Only effects are digital

[@Bls-of1ld]

​@@ClaimedEaglethere are no effects on the amp

[@AutismRocksOfficial]

🤘LOVE the Boss Katana

[@CraigFlowersMusic]

Boss themselves have said this. It's how they recommend using it.

[@PaulLembo]

Good test! That said you gotta level match those changes with an app to be sure it’s “the same” level out of the speaker. Our eyes deceive our ears very effectively.

[@tommanseau6277]

Can confirm and replicate similar behavior with the Nextone Special which is your amp's cousin in a lot of ways. Pushing the master creates a modest amount of sag, some roll off of the treble, less note to note clarity, and increased compression. The higher wattage settings have more headroom before power section clipping. The stepping of volume at the lowest settings on the 100 Watt section is because of the taper on the knob at it's lowest settings be a bit notching rather than smooth. Happens with the Nextone too.

[@dennismullins4930]

I’ve always run the master at 3 o’clock on every power setting.☮️

[@applehead252]

Sounds great either way man ! Brilliant.

[@Magik1369]

-You're not imagining it. I noticed the same thing on my Katana. On the full power setting, I can dial my Katana in and make it sound like my Marshall. I put the Marshall side by side with the Katana and can make them sound identical. I now take the much lighter weight Katana to the gigs.

[@CCovers1]

Definitely made a difference. I did this when I owned a 100W katana a year ago and noticed it.

[@dean3323]

Defo different. More "fizzy" on the 50w setting. More bottom end on the 100w with the master topped out!!! I agree with you Rob....better late than never!! 😂

[@13StJimmy]

Idk if it sounds different but it sounds better No but for real I bought a Katana 100w like 7/8 years ago based on your recommendation and have never regretted it. I mainly play through plugins since it’s easier in a small bedroom but when I bust out the Boss I feel so much better

[@johncecilia4517]

Do a Friedman sound! Cool video and channel

[@brianrust6139]

I agree with you 100% Rob. 100 watt, gun the master, bring up volume slowly, brown setting. I heard that crunch a Marshall gives you and the tone. I like it. Wonder what a Gibson les paul would sound like on that setting. Nice!

[@johnnyt3676]

thanks Rob, i was trying to get that tone but fell just short of it every time. finally found this vid, and VIOLA! the magic starts to happen! bought my mk i head for $125 w/cover. cha cha cha!

[@youWoNtLikeMe04]

You really want to try something crazy. Brown sound, preamp volume at noon, master volume at noon, max watt setting.... add the eq into into your signal chain and use the eq level to control your output volume.

[@matttaylor1302]

They both sound good to me. I think this deserves an Anderton's "Blind Challenge"

[@pjbdm1517]

Yes absolutely, ive always justified it by thinking that "power control" sets the voltage of the whole gain circuit, while the volume knob just attenuates the actual volume output. once i started playing with my katana i noticed it sounds better if set to 50 watt (i have the smaller amp) and I've just messed with volume to make it tolerable for neighbors.

[@EasyHeat]

Yoshi is an amazing human being! I've corresponded with him on many occasions. I've totally done this with my previous 50MkII! Ha! The master vol within it's dynamic relation to channel vol + gain is absolutely where these amps shine IMO. Brilliant design! I'm assuming it's because Yoshi went with a Class A/B power amp design over Class D typically used by competitors? I really miss my KATANA %0 MkII, and regret parting with it. I definitely want a 100 mkII to power my new Fractal FM3. Possibly a second later on for DynIR splitting and stereo FX? Great vid Chappers!

[@druidavey]

Yes and it sounds 'cleaner within the gain' there's a clarity within all the distortion with the 100w gunned master setting. It sounds more musical.

[@mikehartigan2703]

Here's a tech nerd answer for you... If i had to guess (without knowing what type of circuit makes up the power amp), would be that the "power selector" knob might change the supply voltage to whatever is providing the output. (Mosfets, Darlingtons, etc.)... Which would effect where (on a graph) they are operating.. Things like saturation, harmonic distortion and impedance can be manipulated, again, depending on circuit components and design. Some tube amps do just that.. But thats just a wild guess! Whatever is happening sounds awesome though!!

[@robphillips8351]

Yep channel volume down and master up equals more open power tube type of breakup, now turn master down and turn up channel volume you get more preamp gain type of tone.. it's partly due to the class a/b power amp circuit..

[@wickrider]

Yes! I now set my 50w mk2 Katana to full master on crunch Chanel, it sounds great. I even push a Cry Baby and a TS trough it. The volume gets a bit twitchy but still enough control. Thanks! Cheers, MC

[@gabriel_santana_86]

There's a diference a soon as one goes beyond 12 o'clock with the master volume, but it's subtle. If one wants a proper power amp "distortion", then just increase the return volume in the loop (maybe to 150 or something), and the power amp "distortion" with more bass rolled in will be very obvious. Not sure if that was intentional by Boss, but it's there all the same. You can set a "thinner" sound for backing that's more tight, and when you kick in the loop (e.g. with the ga-fc, button 5 on MkI, effects loop with a short cable, and the return volume at solo level) the same sound will be a fatter lead sound. I call it "The Gabriel effect" in the rehearsal room. :-)

[@aarongonzalez5544]

Damn bro exactly what i wanted to see great vid , great to see you still going making sick videos after all these years

[@soulassasin10]

Yu're right mate. I've owned a MK1 Katana 100w and used it exactly like that 😂😂😂🔥🔥🔥🎸but with a bit more volume and master full up. It also cleans up really nice. Amazing amp for the money tbh.

[@beepingmarvelous.]

Of course it does, man. Even a digital/solid-state power section sounds better when pushed. I've done the same with my old Carlsbro GLX for years, and it sounds so much more organic.

[@iaindouglas4829]

Tbh I didn’t expect to hear ANY difference BUT, to my old ears the higher setting seemed more full and “Richer” somehow? More ballsy🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻 Having said that I thought both settings sounded damn good!👍🏻

[@juliofernandez1297]

I don’t really know how to describe it or how to take the scenario you have created with these settings. When you changed them, it brought about memories going from that Marshall-ish warmth to Vox-ish harmonics and compression parameters; in fact, that brought to my mind dozens of songs and records flooded by “Voxian” accents at a given point. I think that the coupled settings basically led the set to control in terms of frequencies and response of the speakers. The result is misleading and amazing to say the least! That brings me memories of an episode I went through, not so similar and with different gear, but still making me feel a bit curious and confused at the same time: I still own a Mesa boogie 50/50 power amp, and in 2002 I decided to modify it so I could use EL34 instead of 6L6 valves, coupled with my Marshall JMP-1 Preamp. It actually worked as I expected and gave me from way more “raw warmth” to a palette of frequencies gently providing me margin of action, eq-wise. It was the PERFECT couple. I ended having something close to an A class and somehow opposite to what Boogie was showing us all at that time and to what Marshall was getting with the JMP-1 + a mere Marshall Power amp. Later on, I decided to go for a 100/100 setup instead of the 50/50 one by modifying it all and got terribly disappointed with the result: it was completely plain. While is it well known by everyone how a Marshall JCM800 deals with high response based on EL34s and such a, shall we call it, “natural” sound enriched with unique sustain and harmonics, the scenario you have created with your Katana, even being such a different concept -probably more versatile and suitable for different genres-, has just blown my mind. I didn’t expect that reaction from such a different design!

[@juliofernandez1297]

Yeah!

[@johnnysinger3353]

I dunno. I have one and a Marshall. I never play my boss. I just dime everything on the Marshall and it sounds too amazing to play anything else really.

[@KenSpassione]

Got to say rob, I think you're right. I just picked up a katana artist Mark 2 so I'm going to try this on that when everybody is out of my house so I don't get hit in the head with a frying pan. But I still have my Katana mark one available to test the same theory. It's as if they decided to hide it in there for those who have used older two amps like that just to prove the point that quality modeling with a good conversion rate can really get that true evh Brown sound using the same tricks that Ed used on the tube amp itself

[@ziggyscoob466]

Yes! There sounds like it has a fuller gain structure and its really bumping the low end with more of a thump! The low thump is very much a Marshall type tone at 100 watts!

[@bustanut3888]

Mr. Chapman... You should use tone studio with your katana and create some of your favorite tones, and make them available for everyone. Would be amazing!!!!

[@jokermtb]

2nd setting, 100w, with Master at maximum, sounds way more like a 50w JCM 800 - has that squishy swell you get with tubes. This was my conclusion way before you got into your comparison and determination - I'm glad I came to your same conclusion. Slash would be proud Gonna definitely try this out on my Kat MK1 100w head tomorrow...

[@DebowyMocny]

Hi Rob. Hope you’re well. I’ll start by coming clean and saying I was not always a fan of what you uploaded in the past. Without digging in deeper, I’m happy to say that fast forward a couple of years later this is the kind of content that I enjoy and would welcome more of. I do not own a Chapman guitar yet, do not currently plan to either, but I really liked what your brand has shown at this years NAMM.

[@kimdemegillo9631]

yes team! that sounds more organic, open, alive breathing air-moving rich harmonic saturation.

[@TurbulentJuice]

An important thing to note is that it's an amp that has A LOT more to flesh out of it if one is willing to spend time with the tone studio and such tweaking. It's easy to get a good sound out of 'em, indeed, but truly amazing stuff is in there too if you invest some time. I'll edit and say that the master volume being cranked is true but you need a noise suppressor in the chain because at any sensible volume it has a lot of hiss, may just be mine.

[@mattb4rd]

I understand the hidden message you're conveying in plain sight and I've been there. Might be there again. But last time I was there, I can't really explain what it was, but a switch went off in my head and I righted the path. We just have to be in the right place at the right time when the right sequence of events occurs that causes those connections to fire when that switch is thrown.