Gear article

Boss Katana 2x12 Cabinet with Waza Speakers

The Boss Katana 2x12 Cabinet with Waza Speakers is a high-performance guitar speaker enclosure designed specifically to complement the Katana Artist MkII Head. It features custom-designed Waza speakers and a versatile cabinet construction that allows for both open-back and closed-back configurations.

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Overview

The Boss Katana 2x12 Cabinet with Waza Speakers is a premium guitar speaker enclosure engineered to deliver high-fidelity sound for professional guitarists. While part of the broader Katana series, this specific cabinet is built to match the sonic requirements of the Katana Artist MkII Head. It utilizes a twin-speaker layout to provide a broader soundstage and increased air movement compared to single-speaker alternatives.

Design and Construction

A primary feature of this cabinet is its adaptable construction. It includes a removable back panel, allowing users to switch between a closed-back performance for tight, focused projection and an open-back performance for a more airy, ambient sound. The cabinet is built with premium materials intended to maximise the resonance of the internal drivers, ensuring that the physical enclosure contributes positively to the overall tonal output.

Custom Waza Speakers

The cabinet is equipped with custom-designed Waza speakers, which are inspired by the legendary 25-watt British stack speakers of the 1960s. These drivers are engineered to provide a classic 'brown' sound character but with modern power handling and reliability. The speakers are noted for their immaculate articulation, providing a full-bodied tone that remains clear even under high gain.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the Katana 2x12 Waza cabinet is defined by tight low-end response, punchy midrange frequencies, and a smooth high-end roll-off. This character makes it suitable for a wide range of genres, from vintage blues and rock to modern metal. The dual 12-inch configuration ensures an immersive and impactful sound that can easily fill a stage or studio environment.

Compatibility and Setup

While designed to be the primary partner for the Katana Artist MkII Head, the cabinet is compatible with various other amplifiers. For users seeking a larger presence, Boss suggests pairing two of these units together to create a clean 4x12 stack configuration. This modularity allows players to scale their rig depending on the venue size.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard enclosures like the Orange PPC212 or the Vox BC112, the Boss Katana 2x12 offers unique versatility via its switchable back panel. While units like the SubZero GC212 or Blackstar TV-10 B provide more entry-level or specific low-wattage solutions, the Katana 2x12 with Waza speakers is positioned as a higher-end, professional-grade solution focused on tonal articulation and custom-voiced drivers.

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Frequently asked questions

What speakers are used in this Boss Katana cabinet?
The cabinet is equipped with custom-designed Boss Waza speakers, which are engineered to reproduce classic 60s-style guitar tones with modern reliability.
Can the back of the cabinet be removed?
Yes, the cabinet features a removable back panel. This allows the user to switch between a punchy closed-back sound and a more resonant open-back sound.
What amplifier head is this cabinet designed for?
It was designed specifically to pair with the Boss Katana Artist MkII Head, though it can be used with other compatible amplifiers.
What is the sound character of the Waza speakers?
They provide a full-bodied 60s style tone. Expect tight lows, punchy mids, and a smooth high end with immaculate articulation.
Can I use two of these cabinets together?
Yes, you can pair one Katana 2x12 with another to create a 4x12 setup for a larger, more impactful sound stage.
What is the typical price for this cabinet?
The typical price range for this specific Boss Katana 2x12 cabinet is approximately £536.
How does the construction affect the sound?
The premium construction is specifically designed to maximise the resonance of the twin Waza speakers, resulting in an immersive and impactful audio performance.
Is this cabinet suitable for modern high-gain music?
Yes, the tight lows and punchy mids of the Waza speakers make it well-suited for high-gain riffs while maintaining clarity and articulation.
How does this compare to the Orange PPC212?
The Orange PPC212 is a dedicated closed-back cab, whereas the Boss Katana 2x12 offers a removable panel for greater tonal flexibility between open and closed styles.
What is the benefit of a 2x12 configuration?
A 2x12 setup offers more volume and air movement than a 1x12 like the Blackstar TV-10 B, but is more portable and compact than a traditional 4x12.
Are Waza speakers different from standard Katana speakers?
Yes, Waza speakers are premium, custom-designed drivers intended to provide a more refined, vintage-inspired tone compared to standard cabinet speakers.
Does this cabinet include a built-in rack space?
No, this is a dedicated speaker cabinet. For rack-mounted gear, products like the Gator GR-STUDIO-4U would be required.