Boss Katana vs Tube Amps - 3 Examples Why It's Not Worth Buying A Tube Amp

In today's video, we look at how a Boss Katana performs in the studio.
We are going to record three different pieces of music using 3 amps 1. Boss Katana Artist Mk2 Head, 2. Matchless Independence 35, and lastly a Marshall JCM.
There is a huge difference in the price of these three guitar amplifiers, but does the difference in tone justify the price difference?
This is a sponsored video, although I am not told what to say and an allowed to voice my own opinions. The sounds are the actual sounds from each of the amps, nothing has been doctored to make one sound better than the other.
The Studio Rats are core band members Paul Drew on guitar/production/mixing, drummer James Ivey and Dan Hawkins on bass. They collaborate with singers and musicians to produce radio-ready songs.

[@potatodumpling385]

Can we just appreciate for a moment how amazing it is that we can get content of this quality on our favourite subjects at our fingertips? It's just nuts. I remember sitting in the school library, sharing a copy of Guitarist in my lunch breaks in the hope of seeing a short paragraph on whatever I was interested in that month.

[@toddheimbuch5429]

Ain't it the truth

[@richardmetzler7909]

Right. And of course, compared to a well-produced youtube video played over a decent set of monitors, Guitarist magazine sounded like s***.

[@renevanderbruggen731]

Hear hear

[@danielabilez3619]

Being happy was a lot less expensive

[@guitarplayerlp7018]

great comment, i still have my old guitar world mags from back in the early 90's. Had to be patient back then waiting for the new mag to come into the newsagent every month

[@John_Warnock]

Yes, Boss made a winner with the Katana line up. I bought my 14yr old son a Katana 100 after many many hours of research. He has been playing everyday and just loves it. The sounds and tones he gets with it are amazing. So when I got a bass for xmas from my wife I went and got a Katana 60 bass amp now my son and I jam and can compliment our tones with such ease.

[@TheStudioRats]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Magik1369]

They really are great amps and cover all genres. Plus they are lightweight and easy to move around.

[@vincentl.9469]

@@TheStudioRats the only thing that could happen is tube amps become a minority pursuit. They wont disappear altogether

[@TechnoRiff]

Katanas are great amps! And no need to replace tubes; an expensive exercise each time!

[@michaelparson-mcnamara782]

Not only was that informative, it was a real treat to just listen to Paul and the tones!

[@marktullo35]

I suppose there will always be a debate regarding Tube amps vs. Solid state, but after playing for almost 50 years and have had great tube amps in both the past and present. the ease and simplicity of setting up my Katana MKII 100 watt combo and getting such a range of great tones makes it my preferred choice. I love my old Classic 30 and my Budda SD18, but if I didn't have either of these great amps, I would be perfectly fine with my Katana...it would do everything I'd need in a club gig or jam somewhere. The cost, weight and overall value of these Katanas would be my first choice if I had to replace everything I own and start over again. Great clip as usual, guys...thanks!

[@Patrick-857]

Katana isn't considered solid state. That generally implies an analogue amplifier circuit. Katana is a digital modelling amp.

[@riplead]

Awesome comparison. Really loved the playing too. Thanks for doing this. It's amazing how good the Katana sounds and the price.

[@Back2TheBike]

Nice one chaps. Not only can you play B7 without checking where your fingers are, but you combine your expertise in all things amping with consummate skill in communicating the art of music simply, such that even this guitar midget can understand. I not only learn every time I tune in, but enjoy the experience. I like the new look too. Keep it coming. BTW I train people to build nuclear subs. 25K people trained so know what good looks like.

[@michaelfinnegan3805]

Lol 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@brubakersflatcakes9755]

Very nice indeed. I bought the Artist MKII Combo a week ago and I feel like I finally have an amp that can do virtually anything and do it well. This comparison helps prove it.

[@LovingYourGuitar]

I do truly appreciate this demo. I was a Marshal user in the 80's during my traveling days. My method for lead and rhythm tones was my volume knob. And us old guys knew how to do that. The Matchless is impeccable for what it does. No argument there. But now in my 60's, I travel (shorter distances) with a BOSS KATANA 100 combo 1st gen and I love it! And so did the engineer on my last gig who knows mics and guitars. I have the larger pedal for program changes, hence the 100W version. I actually see no need for swapping up to the latest version at all. I can carry my whole rig with the guitar on my shoulder, pedal board in one hand and the amp in the other hand. I've had Boogie's and Fenders, but this little amp is my forever friend, and for all the reasons that you two understand as well. Thank you again!

[@elephantfootrisers]

Great job fellas! Katana 50 is my backup amp for live gigs. #1 is Fender Tonemaster Deluxe.

[@pedrolantyer]

I'm looking into buying the Katana 100, and honestly I loved the tones! I feel like it has a bit more bite to it, which I really like! And since I'm probably going to turn off the effects and draw the distortion from pedals it's great! Plus it has an attenuator (which is great for both bedroom and gigs), and an FX loop

[@tomlangmusic9623]

Yay, finally a proper testing procedure! Thanks guys, this is one of the few a/b shootouts that is actual useful. My Kat100mkii holds pride of place in my studio and gigs.

[@limpeacock573]

One of the best comparison demos I've ever seen. Great job!!

[@SeemsLikeSomething]

With a slight scoop of those mid/highs, I honestly don’t think we’d hear any difference at all from the Katana. Such a great value, versatile, just sounds good. Awesome purchase for anyone looking for quality:price ratio

[@badtonestudio]

Great work! I appreciate your time and effort. I listened to this video in the car cranked up! I couldn’t hear a discernible difference to justify spending the extra $ for the tube amps. Boss are killing it!

[@castleanthrax1833]

That's what I thought too. I don't usually listen to music via headphones, and I think that's what it would take, to really hear a noticeable difference.

[@daniellarson3068]

As a beginner guitar player, I have certainly learned there is a lot of marketing hype with guitar equipment.

[@DeepNightSounds]

Your many videos on the Boss Katana line inspired me to take a chance on it after needing to buy a practice amp for the first time in many years. I have been absolutely blown away by what solid state amps (especially practice amp priced ones) can do these days. I cannot believe the sound and versatility of these things, especially for the cost. Thirteen year old bedroom guitarist me back in the day would have absolutely lost his mind with something like this. Anyways, thanks for all of the awesome videos and the fantastic tones pack(s) you have available on Boss Tone Exchange. Hope you all keep doing what you do for a long time to come yet.

[@TheStudioRats]

Cheers

[@stingylizard]

Nice! Yep,we have several tube amps,including a 1966 Bassman head,and they all sound great but we keep a Katana lined in/mic'd up and ready to go. We can duplicate just about any amp via Katana. Salute the Katana Mk II👍

[@Mark_Ocain]

I have to admit, there's a lot of love out there for the Katana head. It's all singing, all dancing and through a decent cab, sounds brilliant. It certainly holds up well against its valve cousins, especially with some gain dialled in.

[@mitsuki1388]

The stock cab of the Katana is really it's main issue imo, the Katana here sounds a lot like the JCM900, it's SLIGHTLY worse because it's a Marshall JCM900 but in the mix you can get so close. I'm happy the Katana artist speaker and cab are much better.

[@vincentl.9469]

@@mitsuki1388 what could happen is Solid state amps become the normal - but tubes wont disappear ..

[@bigbokiptd]

Great video as always. Such a lovely playing and sounds, great comparison and worth conclusion. Thank you so much!

[@Mert-kz2wr]

Hands down, great content again! I have Katana 100 Head MKII (using it through 2x12 V30) and Marshall JVM 215c. I really like both units and playing them in my flat in bedroom levels. I must say that both amps are performing truly amazing in low volumes, but the feeling of amps are still quite different. The effects, different amp models, bunch of Boss quality pedals on board are hard to beat on Katana. If I have had a gig, I would take it everywhere with me, and wouldn‘t really need my pedalboard if I had the controller under my feet. On the other hand there’s JVM, around the notes you play makes the air move in a completely different way, makes you hear all nuances and rich harmonics under your finger tips and answers your style in a unique way. I play electric guitar for over 17 years and I know what my ears want to hear. Having both is really fun! The only problem I had with my Katana is that it doesn’t really take my Strat well - on high gain settings - and creates some fizzy noises. With my other guitars -HBs - it sounds extremely competitive.

[@KoaCharvel]

Honestly, I was an analog and tube purist for YEARS. But these days, I use a mix of analog and digital pedals through my BossIR200 and FRFR Laney Speaker. Couldn't be happier. If it sounds great, it is great.

[@otccreations]

I have a katana and love it. It's the most versatile amp I've ever owned. When you get into the software the amp is even more amazing.

[@Yamunch]

I just dialed in a great tube clean sound using the tone studio. super happy

[@JayRuetschi]

it's amazing how much opens up when you use tone studio...great sounding amps, like they said, not even for the price, they are just great sounding amps

[@johndwilliford]

You folks do such a great job on the gear evals! Tremendous job and thank you!

[@ptortland]

Very nice review. The idea of laying down a loop then playing it back through each head was an excellent way of eliminating the human variables. I agree- the Katana sounded great in its own right. But factoring in the price difference is indeed a “ no brainer.” Add that the Katana’s MIDI capabilities and you need look nowhere else.

[@robflewell7706]

Ive had my share of tube amps, and owned the BOSS katana, and honestly, the katana was surprisingly good, but doesn’t replace a good tube amp on many levels.

[@JesusHernandez-dg3bg]

I love katanas , live in Houston, Texas, and we have lots of performances. Having a tube amp or valve whatever... sometimes is not convenient , they are heavy and bulky.... the katanas are very light and versatile. The sound for the price is unbelievable. However... a tube amp has that I don't even know how to explain... I always think of my grandma cooking as a tube amp... it was lots of work... raw ingredients, had to kill or own chickens and pigs... lots of mess... but in the end the food was out of this world. No food can compare with it. Same thing with a tube amp... might get messy hard to adjust the settings... get pretty hot, but in the end the sound of them... nothing can compare to it... love my katanas but a fender or marshall tube amp.... make my guitar come to life

[@dingalarm]

How doesn't the Katana replace a tube amp?

[@robflewell7706]

@@dingalarm Good question! You can make something SOUND like a tube amp, but they have yet to get the feel right. That's just me. I'm sure it's only a matter of time.

[@robflewell7706]

@@JesusHernandez-dg3bg That's an interesting, and animated explanation....lol

[@dingalarm]

@@robflewell7706 OK. So to experience the "feel" of a tube amp, does it need to be turned up loud? 🤔 Also, isn't the feel only associated with the "sag" of a tube rectifier and push-pull circuit, so it won't make a difference with a single-ended amp?

[@thomaseich8505]

Without the visual support by the changing amp pics I actually would not even notice the swap. Excellent. This way I can keep my valve amp and no need to go digital. Cheers lads, fab video in content and making. Best from Munich

[@frankhachenberg6305]

I have both. One to make it easy and one to be happy 😊 greetings from Cologne

[@smelltheglove2038]

You think you’re getting an accurate representation with digitally compressed audio?

[@smelltheglove2038]

@@frankhachenberg6305 that’s really it though isn’t it? One’s convenient, the other actually sounds good.

[@rmp5s]

@@smelltheglove2038 🤣

[@richbriggs6053]

First off, I always love your playing! I'm feeling better about buying my Katana 12 X 100 combo amp. For the price against the big boys, it sits really well. Thanks, guys. 👍

[@paulbradshawguitar]

this has just shown me how much of a sleeper amp the jcm900 is =) good stuff

[@jemwand2530]

If you are in the Uk and fancy rebuilding one, I will gladly sell the chassis from a 50w to you. It needs a full repot and re valve and a shit load of smoke bellowed out of it last time I used it, but £50 and its yours.

[@paulbradshawguitar]

@@jemwand2530 thanks, but have an old jcm800 that more than fills that need

[@xxsouthxxsidexxroyxx]

I've seen a handful of videos like this; they do a convincing job of showing how modeler amps can sound great on a recording. I gig every weekend in an original alternative act and maybe it's just young guitarists that can't dial their amps in but everytime I see someone playing through a modeling amp or DI set up; it just always sounds thin and quiet.

[@mccauley6027]

For sure! it’s not just you

[@dkelley9661]

It’s more than the argument being put forward, there’s numerous reasons why I still insist on a tube amp, not least of which is how it responds to my playing. Also significant is sound dispersion, tube amps fill a room better. Close is still no cigar for me.

[@xxsouthxxsidexxroyxx]

@@dkelley9661 I agree 100%. I don't wanna settle

[@michaelwilson2497]

Exactly. Had a katana. Tried a katana. Took it back and went back to tube amp. Much happier now.

[@Syncroschannel]

Katana set up and played right will deliver the goods...

[@jeddak]

Great comparison - very well conceived, explained, executed, and documented. There's one thing you've left out of the equation is /amp feel/. The subjective experience of the guitarist playing through each individual amplifier. This is of course not the only important factor, and for some guitarists, it may not be important at all. For others, including myself, it's one of the most important factors (second only to tone).

[@sgtcaco]

Late to your party but had to chime in here. I used valve amps for around 15 years and the only one I have now is the fender super sonic 60. Horrible amp and I can’t wait to sell it. I mostly use 50w katana with pedals some times on board gain, or a mix of both, I have a lot of fun with it and it just easy. The one thing that I dearly dearly miss is the sound dynamic and sensitivity of the tube response. The pick attack has to be taken into account as you time it to let the notes breath, it’s one of the hardest things to explain and it can be subtle and unknown until you discover how the amp plays you, not you playing the amp. I have not played/bought a tube amp in 5 year because of choice over load. Friedman, Mesa, Fender, hand wire, quad cam, twin turbo etc.. I just end up playing the katana🤣

[@kurtbader9711]

Yes, the sensitivity and response of tubes is unmatched, at least in terms of tone and if you have the right ones. With your fingers and pick you can get so many subtle overtones with a good tube amp that sound comparatively unexpressive with a modeling amp. I have to admit the solid state/dsp guys have come a long way since the Crate/Gorilla days. Still, they were fun in their own right, and my '70's 2204's are worth about three grand now. Nice to know the kids can get good tones for a fraction of the cost. Rock on! Then again, you used to be able to get used Marshall heads for 3 or 4 hundred bucks. Yeah, the good ol' days.

[@shalomshalom735]

Great video as all your other videos! Katana is totally worth it considering the price. Matchless was best for clean, JCM probably has a tiny edge in the chug stuff, but Katana sound barely any different and this is before adding effects at all. Thanks for your video.

[@trentreimer130]

I like the Katana's lead channel enough that I'll just turn the gain knob down to use it as a crunch channel too.

[@adam872]

These demonstrations for me show how incredibly good value the Katana series is. When the differences are that small in a real mix situation I would be questioning why I'd spend thousands on an amp that doesn't sound that much "better". Boss have built a modern classic here.

[@Topsy_Krett]

Yes, these amps may be a good value for the money, but they are also cheaply-built products. And there *are* subtle but important differences in the feel and details of the tone when played in-person, compared with a high-quality (preferably tube/valve) amplifier.

[@adam872]

@@Topsy_Krett I guess it depends on your goal. If you're recording, any amp played through a speaker and then recorded with a microphone will be influenced by the frequency response curve of those two devices. Then when you put it all in a mix, whatever differences might have been evident in the room with the amp will largely disappear. Glenn Fricker and Jim Lil's videos on this are really eye opening.

[@DeepFriedHallelujah]

@@Topsy_Krettif I’m standing in a room with cranked amps I’ll be able to identify the tube vs ss amp all day long. However, I don’t have that luxury of cranking a Fender Princeton anymore. Most miked recordings of tube amps sound kinda anemic compared to the room feel. This is where modeling shines…..subtle differences? Sure. Worth paying thousands more of money I live paycheck to paycheck by? Not for me. I want to need a tube amp bc part of me is a purist, but modeling is getting very good and Katana isn’t even the best at that game though clearly sufficient here

[@gilldanier4129]

I'm looking at the Marshall SV20 which is a great sound at the price. In my view you cant beat a Marshall.

[@Tonyolivere]

Oh my god I just bit my tounge off. Yer all deaf n dumb. These amps sound and feel nothing alike, not even close to

[@Acousticeg]

Very cool comparison. I use a Boss Mk2 100. I play mostly Fusion Rock stuff and the Katana sounds great for that. It's the Swiss army knife of amps. I have been using some of your patches. They are great as a starting point for tweaking other tones and sound great on there own as well . Thanks for the video.

[@Brutuscomedy]

After considering my options, I am definitely getting a tube amp (a 20W valve Marshall amp to be specific). superior feel and tone imo

[@whatarefriends4]

I would rather have one real tube tone

[@Brutuscomedy]

@@whatarefriends4 I tend to concur. Yet only one tone isn't quite enough for me. I'd rather have a versatile tube amp that covers multiple bases. A good clean goes a long way, moreover.

[@alexmurphy5289]

Katana is way better for practice at home than any tube amp. I have a tube amp and a katana and I haven’t plugged in my tube amp in months

[@allanb1402]

They all sounded great to my ears. I own a DSL40 and Cavin V3 w/2x12 cab, but my Katana Artist is the amp I play out with these days. Great tool for a cover band and easy on this old man's back :)

[@martin-1965]

Totally agree and if you're not watching the amp images switch on screen it's almost imperceptible the difference between each amp. Having a great cab and speakers makes all the difference I reckon. My lifetime fave amp was my 1978 Bluesbreaker. Heavy as hell, sounded great with everything you threw at it, but these days I have a small Harley Benton Tube15 for home and for studio use a Headrush with effects loop for favourite analog effects. Really cannot go that far wrong with such a range of great gear these days. Still want my Marshall back but my old back and my neighbours are firmly against it lol 😂

[@m.d.4949]

Nice playing, very good sounds and enjoy for watching and listening! Very good presentation!

[@Shankdaddy16]

I would love to hear this same test run through other types of tube heads!

[@Emmanuel_Tuts-Schiemsky]

I like a test with chinese and american power cables.........

[@JamesBloodgood]

That Matchless head has amazing tone. However, the Katana’s tone was not all that different. I’m happy to have the 100 Mk II combo amp due to space constraints. It’s an excellent combo, in my opinion.

[@bonedale]

Amazing job with the comparison!

[@stricknine8623]

The Katana replaced all of my tube amps about 3 years ago. It has been as good and in many cases better while being lighter and much less expensive.

[@goodheartmedia]

After owning the Artist combo for about a year, I jumped at the chance to get the head when it came out. The Artist is great, but is still limited by being a 1x12. Great for grab and go needs, but my preference has always been to have a head and a 212 or 412 cab. I tried the regular mkii head and it sounds great but I prefer front facing controls and a "pro" look to my amp and the 100w head feels a little small sitting on top of a 4x12. Plus the new dedicated solo boost delay for the Artist models is what i have been waiting for! Bottom line is that Katanas sound great, but there is something about the sound and look of the Katana Artist head cranking away sweet tones through my 412 cab that is simply awesome. BTW I credit all my awesome tones to this channel - thank you so much for all the great content.

[@lyrasimo]

you can use the combo with an external cab , no need to buy the head

[@goodheartmedia]

@lyrasimo Yes true. I wish Boss made a companion speaker for the Artist. Personally I have a thing about a combo sitting on top of a 212 or 412 cab that doesn't match. Especially if the internal speaker isn't being used at all. Seems like a waste of a good speaker :) That's why I got the head, which looks good sitting on top of almost anything.

[@rle440]

The Marshall sounded the best to my ears while listening in headphones. In general I preferred the Matchless and the Marshall overall when looking away then watching back. As you say though, for the money it’s really close.

[@BedeLaplume]

Really interesting to see and hear how the Katana Head held up pretty well against much mmore expensive tube amps.. Really cool demo..

[@Adventuresingearland]

Watched this a second time on the reference headphones to make sure my ears weren't deceiving me. I think Katana is going to be my next purchase!

[@andrewmcdonald5704]

Only discovered your channel a couple of weeks ago and I have to say Paul's guitaring is fantastic and the content of the videos is really helpful and well explained.

[@TheStudioRats]

Cheers Andrew!

[@andreaferrero6533]

The only track where I really felt a difference (and Marshall was the fullest and more pleasing for me) was the clean one. Really eye opening!

[@TheStudioRats]

The Marshall has had a lot of love.

[@WarrenPostma]

@@TheStudioRats That marshall shocked me by how great it was in this video. I thought JCM 900s were overhyped, but this one is lovely.

[@matthewburns7926]

The Marshall excelled in each category IMO, but honestly the Katana was quite close each time. Surprising

[@netzer442]

Great video guys!

[@JuanMotta]

Very clever of You trying the amps in full song context, i liked the BOSS katana sound

[@ruiseartalcorn]

I have some great valve amps, however I often use my Katana Artist for convenience. It's a great amp.

[@stevelogan1699]

I've used the Katana Artist II combo for recording and found it excellent. If you want to avoid putting pedals in the chain you can easily voice and modify your sound from the amp which can then be mic'd or plugged direct into an interface. The connectivity of the Katana makes it easy to add or just demo parts. I use the same amp live, mic'd through a PA, and am more than happy with it. When the Roland Jazz Chorus came out it was adopted by many pro users without being especially praised, though it's considered a classic. Maybe the Katana will go the same way. It's unusual in combining versatlity and quality of sound with an intuitive design.

[@mitsuki1388]

The artist combo has such an amazing speaker and cab, it really solves Katana's biggest issue that are those parts. For studio recordings I'd say it's a must for the non-artist owners to use IRs with the stereo expander output for a good result.

[@keithspillett5298]

Fascinating comparison. Another feather in the Katana's cap that nobody ever seems to mention is the fact that, being solid state, they are not susceptible to variations in mains power supply in the way their valve cousins are. They sound as good whatever the venue, which can't be said for a valve amp.

[@wrwicky]

what a great video! Really helped to understand the sounds

[@danriley5848]

The Katana sounds great and it is a handy tool to use but I will always love my Marshalls as well. ✌🏻

[@grady9752]

Traded in my MarshallJCM900 two years ago for a Katana 100W. From a sonic standpoint, it does literally everything I need it to do in the rooms where I play, with the music I play, and get this, it only takes ONE person to get it out of the truck and up to the stage! I can just pick it up and carry it, no hand truck, no grunts trying to get it back into the truck. So also from a purely utilitarian standpoint, this is one of the best decisions I've made in a long time. I absolutely love my Katana.

[@blakjack3053]

Agreed they easily get the job done and are much lighter in weight than a valve amp. I have a Katana head but only use it as a stage back up amp, I prefer using my good old Fender 65 blackface twin or JMP 2203 on stage, both of which smoke my Katana.

[@davidmacleod9313]

Those Marshalls are worth a lot. I traded mine in years ago and couldn’t believe how much they wanted for one!!! Same with my old Hiwatt heads!!! That said, I’m looking to get rid of my Marshall 2000 dsl 100w heads! Love my Katanas!!!!! Artist combo and Artist head all thru my four Marshall cabs! Don’t like the 212 WAZA cab though…to crisp and hurts my ears. Weird. Look out Marshall. 😊

[@GradyElla]

@@davidmacleod9313 Lyell Lovett and his band played here a few weeks ago. As an aside, what a privilege is was to see Lee Sklar live. Anyway, his guitar player (didn't catch the name) was as good as you would expect him to be. When the roadies finished setting up, I turned to my wife and said, "look up there, see the amp they set up for the guitar?" Sure enough, it was a humble Katana 100. Along with a modest pedal board and exquisite technique, he sounded really great. No extra cabs and from where I was, I think I could see just a plain old SM57 in front of it. If it's good enough for Lyell Lovett, it's certainly good enough for a hacker like me! No regrets.

[@stevelogan1699]

I've just watched this again and am glad to receive confirmation of what my own gigging and recording experience suggests: the Katana Artist Mk II is a superb all round amp. If you put the innards in a boutique enclosure and increased the price it's likely that its merits would be even more seriously debated. I've just taken delivery of the hard copies of a new album of my own partly recorded with the Katana and am delighted with how the amp sounds. To have a player of Paul's calibre praise it should persuade many who are hesitating that the only downside to the Katana is that some, without the experience of using one, will be prejudiced against the badge. Btw Paul, if you see this, I'd love to know more about that ballad you play, and often play a snippet from. It's gorgeous and your pleasure in playing it was very palpable. Another great video guys. Thank you.

[@rolandjuhasz3405]

The playing is beautiful, could have just listened and watched longer, the Katana really held its ground so well, the other 2 are expected to sound good and they do. Thank you for the great video!

[@TheStudioRats]

Cheers Roland

[@don-music]

This, or the axe or the helix or some other excellent modelling systems.... they are just amazing. I have lived with modelled guitar tone for some time now and don't think twice... it delivers exactly what and when I want and is inspiring.

[@kevinoconnor2921]

Do you wanna buy my AXE FX???? Convenient for touring, but it's still digital.

[@don-music]

@@kevinoconnor2921 thanks i run modelling now as well as my tube amp depending on where i am playing. The biggest challenge is the inflexibility and weight of my tube amp, but the tones are amazing in both, and in an engineer also which is possibly why i am so successful at getting modelling to feel and sound like amps successfully. Keep in mind that most touring guitarists and session guitarists use modelling and have for years and many huge name tone freak bands have had modelled guitar amps in studios for many years.

[@JTB--]

Recently got a Katana Artist MK II Head & Waza Cabinet & BOSS GA-FC EX Pedal bundle for $1K. Great bang for the buck

[@richardlynch5632]

Yep...VERY satisfied with your conclusions 😉👍 And a very satisfied owner of a Katana, which is used for much, and a Fender TMDR for everything else😁 My pedalboard is heavier than the amps put together... No more bad tubes (costs), blown fuses. No more bad back problems or wheezing from lugging amps upstairs. Nice job😎👍❤🖖

[@ehabsh9427]

Great comparison. It's interesting that you managed to get exactly the same amount of gain out of the three heads.

[@Apeshoot13]

The Marshall sounded better to me on the clean tones, but as you said, the price... I thought the difference was negligible throughout the more driven parts.

[@castleanthrax1833]

I could barely hear a difference, although I was listening through my phone speakers. It is probably more noticeable through headphones, but I rarely use them, so...

[@ces69]

@@castleanthrax1833 Even through headphones…Very little difference!

[@Apeshoot13]

@@ces69 I was using studio monitors. They all sounded ace.

[@Apeshoot13]

@@castleanthrax1833 I used studio monitors. They all sounded ace.

[@pudgydaddy]

Marshall all day, every day... I can bask in that tone forever

[@rrrripbing]

I've been using a Katana Artist for several years now and unless it fails I'm unlikely to need another amp. Fantastic amp especially considering the price.

[@evinoc]

The clean Marshall sounded great! During the crunch and lead tracks all sounded pretty cool. Great playing also

[@williamfoster1034]

Great video. Truly. I can tell you my experience. I bought the Katana Artist combo in November, used it for a week, and put it into the spare bedroom and pulled back out my Laney Class A tube amp and separate effects. For an "audiophile" sound (I know it's not the right term) the Katana simply doesn't cut it. The Katana does a 1,000 things good but nothing exceptionally well.

[@RG-yz8ov]

Yeh I have 100w kat mk1 head, put librarian on my phone and found many good patches but I really only use headphones with it. My marshall dsl gets most of my time followed by ac4 and a super champ. They are just more musical, can't explain it plus they feel better under the fingers. But I use alnico speakers cabs maybe kat needs a flat speaker 🤷‍♂️

[@huntergalloway3944]

It’s mostly about feel and sound presence in the room. I can get a similar recorded sound from almost any two different amps. I actually sold my Katana Artist when I realized I enjoyed playing on my Bandit more lol. It felt more like an amp, so solid state itself isn’t the issue. Not that I didn’t enjoy the Katana, it’s even on some of my recordings. I was reluctant to get rid of such a tonally versatile amp, but to be honest I don’t miss it after I got a 2525c!

[@mccauley6027]

Perfect way of saying it. Solid state is for sure the biggest factor

[@FrancisFurtak]

Ancient guitarist here. I'm a trained Silicon Valley printed circuit designer. I saw John Entwistle playing in a smaller club in California a while back. He and the rest of the band were using line 6 amps. As the show wore on those circuit boards got hot and all you could hear was very loud distortion! So I know the traces on those board are very thin. I wonder how long the Katana would hold up under the strain on a gig? I have had a lot of amps and nothing can compete with my 50 watt Fender Bassman. Point to point wired with no effects on board. Mine was modified with a mid-range control and a line out in the back. It's a separate head so not too heavy! Then you can put what ever pedal you want in front of it and not have to worry about the amp. This was a good show. Really liked the comparison and some good playing! Thanks. FF

[@frankstetka7206]

Yeah that Bassman is the pedal platform if you enjoy power tube distortion. I loved mine when it worked. I question my rectifier tubes as two amps went down with their involvement. Anyhow the Katana seems a great backup option. Swiss army sword 😁

[@FrancisFurtak]

@@frankstetka7206 Did you get new rectifier tubes. Tubes aren't perfect. They all break down eventually!

[@macaius]

Amazing comparison. Thank you! Btw your playing is awesome

[@chrisdrake447]

Most enjoyable. Have to say that I’m stuck listening to these track through the speaker(s?) of my iPad, and there is only the tiniest audible variation on the ballad track between the three amps. But they all sound pretty damn good. Cheers, fellas!

[@tossemanden]

A cranked matchless is a VERY unique beast to play. Im using badcats myself these days and the tone and feel these amps deliver is worth the money OVER TIME. yeah expensive but SO nice to play and use year after year.

[@webcityguymyclubb4032]

…and live too.

[@tossemanden]

@@webcityguymyclubb4032 And im sure the Katana is a great amp! And so cool to hear that quality at that price!

[@Mike_Jones68]

I'm wondering if people's perception of good tone has changed due to media items like this being available at our fingertips. Sure something may sound like or near a higher level offering, but no matter how tech progresses it is def not the same. I get it, I get the convenience of not having 30pedals, 3+ dif tube amps, etc. But what I think is really going on is a higher acceptance of somewhat that's "ok" vs great. And that's fine to each their own, but I think there still needs to be an acknowledgement of these new toys still can't compare to say a cranked matchless, Marshall, HiWatt, etc.

[@PsychotropicSalad]

@@Mike_Jones68 It's more that tech has progressed to the point where you can get 98% of the way to your dream tone on a sub-$1000 budget, and the diminishing returns of spending more are only going to be worth it to a tiny fraction of musicians. Couple that with people using data-driven experiments to prove that things like tonewood and pickups contribute practically nothing to tone (at the very least, nothing that can't be solved in the mix or in an FX chain) and the fact that most players simply don't have a space where they CAN crank a tube amp, and it's easy to see why the digital market is overtaking analog a bit more every day. Why spend that money on a 1-2% tone gain when you can spend it on any number of more impactful (and potentially more interesting) pieces of kit?

[@tru11666]

@@Mike_Jones68 Absolutely. Nothing compares to a good tube amp.

[@cathybaker262]

Another awesome video. I am just a hobbyist and use a boss katana artist mkii. I have been considering a small tube amp but was concerned about the volume. After this video I think I have decided that’s something I do not need to bother with. Thank you!

[@WarrenPostma]

I do find it's fun to own a real tube amp just for comparison. But the Katana is just stupidly great. You chose well.

[@michaelmachado2049]

Brilliant as usual!

[@sorenahlback]

I love the comparisons you do.

[@zachglisson]

For me tone amps are superior because in person you can’t just feel/hear the difference they make. KZbin videos make them sound the same but there’s just something different about a legit tube amp that’s so sweet, that said the Katana still sounds incredible! And price wise it’s definitely the better deal, but for me Tube is the way to go

[@flintdavis2]

Maybe just what your accustomed to. There’s no place like home.

[@iancurrie8844]

You’re hearing with your eyes.

[@aronfebles]

Have to say that this channel has become my gold standard for guitar tone here on KZbin. Great job!

[@MrMattsac232]

Thanks for this video. This is good and informative content. Applicable for most players. My own opinion is that the clean on the jcm 900 might be the best pure clean sound Marshall has ever done. It’s glassy and almost clinically clean. Definitely of the late 80s early 90s sound wise. Channel A on thst amp is the one I use the most. For distortion I liked the matchless. Katana for the price though is going to be hard to match.

[@bigbluesigh]

First off, Thanks for this. It's fortunate for me (everyone?) to have such a resource. There's a sweet spot for every amp. Matchless sounds ok, not a bad sound. Not a sound that draws me in though. The Marshall sounded like it was waiting for you to really "USE" it's offerings. The katana sounds like a pedal. My experience has been that when a player/amp interaction is called upon, a real transformer and power section is second to none other. Pre amp tones are simple I'd say. When tone doesn't matter as much, the Katana would probably do. There's an interaction however, the Katana simply can't provide. Oh, and the Marshall was far and away the best for me. Especially the clean tones! Cheers guys and thanks again.

[@jamiebriggs8277]

What a great comparison. The differences are almost negligible, and most listeners would never know the difference for sure. On a side note - I'd love to see a short video on how to play the clean riff. You use it all the time in your demos, and it sounds great, and I'm never entirely sure how you're playing it. :D

[@TeleCaster66]

Hear them in person, big difference.

[@jamiebriggs8277]

@@TeleCaster66 hear them in person on a stage with a band, or on a record, and the vast majority of people will never k ow the difference, and most of the ones who say they do are lying lol

[@williamfoster1034]

I had the Katana on an MXR AB box with some of my other amps. In person, you will hear a massive difference. Even my tone deaf wife who knows nothing about guitars or amps was shocked at how good the real thing sounds relative to a modeling amp.

[@milkandmeat]

In real life you would notice big time

[@TeleCaster66]

@@jamiebriggs8277 Maybe, but your equipment is for you not them. You think of Chef buys $1,000 knife because the customer eating the meals going to know the difference or that he knows the difference? And there is a pretty big difference between a tube amp and a boss katana.

[@MarkCoffin]

BOSS always has and continues to innovate. Nothing against the other incredible amps, but for most average players it's excellent to know that BOSS is there for you and always has been.

[@jaredray7001]

Cool video. Thanks guys.

[@renevanderbruggen731]

Thanks again for this quality content. Well played, well recorded .. the matchless has a bit more low end but not worth the price difference

[@jamesswanson4391]

Interesting. My issue with testing amps with loops or samples is that the responsiveness of the amp may change the way that you play, as opposed to just being a post-production effect...

[@ianparr1533]

@@kevone08 Usually, you split the guitar signal and play through (and record) one amp whilst also recording the "dry" (un-amped) signal on another track. So the player gets to hear a real amp whilst tracking.

[@kevinoconnor2921]

Bingo!!!

[@IanTheGreatYT]

I have to appreciate how they took an A power chord and turned it into the most banging song I've ever heard 😂

[@voyxu143]

Great Demo guys. Paul has some really great guitar technique. Cheers.

[@daddylogan]

Was wondering if you have used the Katana hooked to another for stereo tones? Also with that in mind have you explored the EVH "Balance Era" detuned sound he used along with that delay he gets where one delay follows the other? If not that would be a wonderful tutorial/example. Great work...love the videos.

[@mississipiblues]

Just proves how much technology has evolved. Great video Rats🤟🤟

[@noahallen1996]

Even in little more than the past few years. I tried, and hated, my dad's little Line 6 modelling amp when he bought it in 2018. Two years later, I ended up buying a Katana. Yes, different brands, different prices, etc. But I legitimately could not justify spending 3-4 times the money on a tube amp when the Katana was blowing me away.

[@ericwarrington6650]

I spent more re tubing my bassbreaker than I did on the katana brand new..pretty amazing

[@kennethc2466]

Then you got ripped off on your tubes.

[@ChrisMoewesBystrom]

The Marshall has a bit of a growl that the Boss doesn't but wow, impressive how well it hold up.

[@trailcamdailey]

Great Video!!

[@jr0706]

The heavier gain stuff minimized the nuances of the amps. However, that edge of breakup tone revealed a lot. All 3 sounded amazing in that context. But honestly, the Marshall won that. I own a Katana MK2 50. Love it.

[@Mojoman57]

I would love a follow up video where he plays a similar thing but now live with each amp so we can hear if there's anything extra that comes from the amp's live tone to the player. What I'm trying to ask in the worst way possible is, how do these amps really feel?

[@oldguybuildingstuffandassa8530]

This shows that an amp is just an amp, I just love to here this guy play! I am working on all the riffs he used in this video!

[@daysleeper3910]

I was rummaging through some of my old amps last week and thought this exact thing when I sat down and just went straight into a DAW. The Katana100 MkII is a leap as far 'value modelling'... I do prefer the low gain from a good valve amp, but when it comes to gain, it’s far easier to manage. But the cleans were decent, and the addition of the centaur in the drive section helps.

[@aliengrey6052]

I’ve had the katana. It sounds harsh and metallic. Not like my tube amps which are full and luscious.

[@lachairamusic]

As far as modeling amps were, had a katana for about a year, sounded fine, then out of curiosity I bought a 16 year old peavy vypry 2... Katana was sold in 2 weeks.

[@aliengrey6052]

@@lachairamusic lol

[@hollywoodactress]

Katana sounds phenomenal up against the matchless and Marshall when factor in the price. Great review guys 👍 Would be good to see line 6 catalyst or the Fender GTX against the katana in a future video

[@kmichaelp4508]

But what do you say if not priced out?

[@hollywoodactress]

@@kmichaelp4508 good question . I would say if not priced out, have space to store and use the amp either with a cab or reactive load. Go for the one you always wanted. So if you always wanted a Marshall or a Matchless go for it. Buying the katana still great but deep down you will always be longing for the other amp. Plus if you get the amp for a good deal Secondhand, you won’t lose money in the long run

[@kmichaelp4508]

@@hollywoodactress , ala Paul! Hahahaha. You know which way he will go.

[@CosmicNed]

Very interesting & well executed video chaps! Very intrigued by the Kantana - always looking for viable gig worthy alternatives to my eye-wateringly expensive valve amps & factor on the reliability/availability of valves these days i’m sorely tempted… sounded great but how does the Katana’feel’ under the fingers? This is my main issue with modelling amps etc…

[@mccauley6027]

Feels like a solid state amp. If you’ve had past experience with one you know what I mean. Feels sterile, thin, and lifeless like it’s not reacting to you.

[@lordcustard-smythe-smith9153]

The massive benefit for me, teaching online and recording is that the usb output is exceptionally good on the Katana and avoids making a lot of noise that would disturb the neighbours with a valve amp - which probably wouldn't sound very good unless it was up LOUD. The USB out is also stereo into the DAW.

[@murff625]

I’ve had two Katana amps. I liked them at first but I never could get them to sound like a Fender Deluxe Reverb. If you want a really good solid state amp get a Quilter.

[@JPMonstie]

The fact that the Quilter is SS and not digital is a key aspect. The Katanas are amazing value and ideal for many people though.

[@thomasd9237]

Quilters are amazing amps & the support is fantastic. If you want to see a fun review of it, watch the J. Leonard Jay review ☺️

[@JB-br2pr]

I love using a tube preamp pedal through my Quilter UK Superblock's power section. I get the best of all worlds. The Superblock on its own sounds pretty damn great too. And it can be used with headphones and direct out too. Its bulletproof.

[@digitalchris6681]

In my house the Katana range (I've tried a few) hum and buzz so loud as to be unusable. My Marshall, Vox and Princeton are silent. I've tried mains filters, and even got an electrician in, but it seems the Katanas are just very sensitive to mains-borne interference.

[@joejohnson8966]

yep

[@kevinmoser8913]

Do you have a lot of LED lighting in your home? Mine tend to buzz as well. But adding the noise suppressor in boss tone studio made it silent. For what it’s worth, my Vox buzzed too.

[@digitalchris6681]

@@kevinmoser8913 Yup, my entire house uses LED lighting - no choice nowadays! And of course I've got a fridge and two freezers turning on and off randomly, and numerous other electrical appliances. That's modern living! But the valve amps just seem immune....

[@michelvondenhoff9673]

@@digitalchris6681 A power conditioner and ferrites (RF) might do the trick. The latter are on more or less every signal cable (USB, Playstation etc.).

[@digitalchris6681]

@@michelvondenhoff9673 I've got ferrite rings on every cable I can find, but a power conditioner is a step too far, especially as I've read that the cheaper ones (really intended for UPS duties) only emulate a sinewave and thus are not recommended for audio kit. The one conditioner I found recommended for audio was £2,000. Easier and cheaper to stick with valve amps !!

[@elbowjames7625]

I will add that if you decide to dive in the deep end, as I did, using the Tone Studio Editor and a USB cable, you can take these settings and tones way further. I have dialed in a warm, edge-of-breakup tone that is so much to my liking that my K50 is currently my preferred amp.

[@betts12220]

This man has got a thousand and 1 videos about Tone Studio. I think he knows :D

[@davidjoel111]

This speaks volumes to the importance of the speakers, so much that the amp matters less than the speakers/mic positions. Glen Fricker is right!