Know Your Gear Podcast - Episode 410: "Boss Katana The Best Amp Ever, Fight ME!"
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Host: Phil McKnight
Introduction
In Episode 410 of the Know Your Gear Podcast, Phil McKnight delves into two primary topics: the intricacies of reporting gear exchange transactions for tax purposes and an in-depth discussion on the best guitar amplifiers capable of delivering Fender-like clean tones alongside Marshall-style distortion. The episode, titled “Boss Katana The Best Amp Ever, Fight ME!”, provides valuable insights for guitar enthusiasts navigating both financial and technical aspects of their gear.
Gear Exchange and Tax Implications
[00:00 - 20:00]
Phil opens the episode by addressing a listener's concern about receiving a W9 form from Sweetwater Gear Exchange ahead of the expected 1099 form for 2026. He explains the evolving nature of tax reporting thresholds, noting that while traditional thresholds for gear sales were over $20,000 or 300 transactions, recent changes have lowered this to $600, and Sweetwater has now adjusted to a $2,500 threshold.
Notable Quotes:
- “I have one belief. That's it, guys. They will tax you every way possible.” [04:15]
- “If you're selling on Reverb, eBay, Gear Exchange, wherever, just be prepared for it.” [09:30]
Phil emphasizes the inevitability of taxes on gear sales, whether digital or physical, and advises listeners to consult with tax professionals to navigate these complexities effectively.
Discussion on Guitar Amplifiers: Boss Katana vs. Line 6 Catalyst
[20:01 - 45:00]
The core of the episode centers around comparing the Boss Katana and the Line 6 Catalyst amps. Phil shares his preference for amps that offer high-quality clean tones with versatile distortion options. While acknowledging that higher-end models like Ample Phonics and Gain by Amplified Nation exist, Phil favors the practicality and affordability of the Boss Katana and Line 6 Catalyst for most players.
Key Points:
- Sound Quality: Phil prefers a good Fender-like clean amp and adds distortion as needed, rather than relying solely on the amp’s built-in distortion.
- Versatility: Both the Katana and Catalyst are praised for their capability to handle various genres and pedal integrations.
- Portability and Functionality: The Katana is highlighted for its lightweight design and excellent pedal platform, making it ideal for gigging musicians who require flexibility.
Notable Quotes:
- “I would always prefer a good Fender amp with a good Marshall distortion over anything else.” [25:45]
- “The Katana is a fantastic pedal platform.” [38:20]
- “The biggest thing people hate about the Katana is it's freaking everywhere.” [42:10]
Phil also touches upon the competition from modeling amps, suggesting that while boutique tube amps will remain relevant, digital modeling will continue to improve and become more affordable, catering to players seeking convenience and versatility.
Sponsorships and Channel Funding
[45:01 - 1:10:00]
Phil transitions into a candid discussion about the podcast's funding through Patreon and sponsorships. He humorously recounts the challenges of securing sponsorships, sharing anecdotes about reaching out to 23 companies, with only four responding positively. Notable highlights include:
- Major Sponsors: Phil reveals that the Country Music Association (CMA) was his largest sponsor, contributing approximately 70% of the sponsorship revenue in the previous year. This revelation sparked audience engagement, with listeners guessing the sponsor and Phil encouraging direct contact via email for participation in giveaways.
Notable Quotes:
- “If companies want to keep sending me free pedals and pedal boards, I'll build a pedal board again.” [53:30]
- “My biggest sponsor last year was the Country Music Association.” [1:02:15]
Phil also shares his experiences with various other brands, many of whom have not financially supported the channel despite offering free products or support in other forms. He underscores the importance of not becoming beholden to a single sponsor to maintain the channel's integrity and content quality.
Listener Questions and Technical Advice
[1:10:01 - 1:35:00]
Phil addresses a variety of listener-submitted questions, providing expert advice on topics ranging from guitar maintenance to amplifier selection.
-
Best 61 Strat Pickups:
- Recommended brands include Fender, Lindy Frailan, DiMarzio, and Seymour Duncan. Phil emphasizes the abundance of high-quality options available for 61 Strat-style pickups.
-
Pedalboard Build Contest:
- Phil showcases a recent pedalboard build, highlighting its compact design and efficient cable management. He expresses gratitude towards sponsors that contributed products for the build.
-
String Gauge and Intonation:
- Responding to a question about changing string gauges from 10 to 9, Phil explains that while intonation adjustments may or may not be necessary, it largely depends on the guitar's specific setup and the player's ear sensitivity.
Notable Quotes:
- “If you did it and you hear an issue, you know to get your intonation done.” [1:20:30]
- “Intonation is not a perfect pitch thing. It’s about how much you play physically.” [1:21:10]
Phil also discusses optimal pickup heights and string action, suggesting starting with a moderate height and adjusting based on individual playing preferences and guitar resonance.
Anecdotes and Personal Stories
[1:35:01 - 1:50:00]
Phil shares several personal stories that provide deeper insight into his experiences within the music gear community:
- Vola Guitar Interaction:
- Phil recounts an awkward dinner with Vola guitar representatives after expressing reservations about their chunky neck designs. Despite the initial tension, he purchased a Vola guitar, though he later sold it due to dissatisfaction with its neck thickness.
Notable Quotes:
- “If somebody wants to make a channel where they just literally smash guitars, then that’s good. I’m not interested.” [1:45:50]
- “It was an awkward meal, to say the least.” [1:39:40]
- Cadillac Barritz Memory:
- Reflecting on his grandfather’s Cadillac Barritz, Phil humorously details the car’s features and the ensuing adventures when hood ornaments were stolen, emphasizing the blend of nostalgia and practical lessons learned from such experiences.
Notable Quotes:
- “They taxed you on money you didn’t make, on money you thought about making once.” [00:15:30]
Closing Remarks and Upcoming Content
[1:50:01 - 1:55:00]
Phil wraps up the episode by teasing upcoming content, including potential deep dives into specific guitars like the GNL Tribute Fallout and the dream build video featuring his personal guitar collection. He expresses enthusiasm for future projects inspired by listener feedback and his wife’s creative input.
Notable Quotes:
- “I think those are coming down the pike, so to speak.” [1:49:10]
- “If I did the pedal board build, something like that seems really useful based on your comments.” [1:54:20]
Phil concludes by thanking the Patreon members for their support, reinforcing the community-driven nature of the podcast.
Conclusion
Episode 410 of the Know Your Gear Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of both financial considerations in gear trading and the technical nuances of selecting the perfect amplifier. Phil McKnight’s honest discussions about sponsorships, coupled with his expert advice on gear maintenance and selection, make this episode a valuable resource for guitarists seeking to enhance both their knowledge and their setups.
Key Takeaways:
- Navigating tax reporting for gear exchanges requires awareness of evolving thresholds and professional consultation.
- The Boss Katana stands out as a versatile, affordable amp, though preferences vary based on specific tonal needs.
- Building and maintaining a successful music gear channel involves balancing sponsorships without compromising content integrity.
- Listener engagement through Q&A segments enriches the community and provides personalized advice.
Notable Quotes Summary:
- “They will tax you every way possible.” [04:15]
- “The Katana is a fantastic pedal platform.” [38:20]
- “If you did it and you hear an issue, you know to get your intonation done.” [1:20:30]
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