Boss Katana-Artist MkII: Premium 100W Modeling Combo With Waza Speaker

The Boss Katana-Artist MkII, released in 2023 starting at $350, is the premium tier of Boss’s wildly popular Katana amplifier series. Featuring a custom Waza speaker designed after 1960s 25W British stack speakers, 100 watts of power, 5 amp types, and full Boss Tone Studio integration, the Artist MkII delivers the Katana’s acclaimed modeling engine through a speaker specifically engineered for wide dynamic response and smooth midrange. The closed-back cabinet with wide baffle provides the focused, punchy tone that sets the Artist apart from other Katana models.
Boss Katana-Artist MkII Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Modeling Combo Amplifier |
| Street Price | From $350 USD |
| Power | 100W |
| Speaker | 1×12″ custom Waza |
| Amp Types | 5 |
| Cabinet | Closed-back with wide baffle |
| Software | Boss Tone Studio compatible |
Custom Waza Speaker
The Waza speaker is what distinguishes the Artist MkII from other Katana models. Designed to recreate the characteristics of 1960s 25-watt British stack speakers, the Waza delivers a warm, articulate midrange with smooth top end and authoritative low end. Where the standard Katana speakers are designed for versatility, the Waza speaker is voiced for tonal excellence, making the Artist MkII the best-sounding Katana in the lineup for players who prioritize speaker quality.
Who Should Buy the Katana-Artist MkII
The Artist MkII is for players who love the Katana platform but want the best possible speaker performance, guitarists seeking a premium 1×12 combo for home, rehearsal, and small-to-medium gigs, and musicians who value the closed-back cabinet’s tighter, more focused tone compared to open-back designs.
Related Amps & Gear
If you found this review helpful, check out these related articles:
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- Boss GT-1000 Core Firmware V2.0: X-Amps Come to the Compact Platform
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Katana-Artist different from the regular Katana?
The Artist MkII features a custom Waza speaker, closed-back cabinet with wide baffle, and premium construction. The modeling engine is the same, but the speaker and cabinet design deliver noticeably better tone.
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