Akai EWI4000S (2006)
A MIDI wind controller with onboard analog modeling synthesis, introduced at Winter NAMM 2006.
Overview
The Akai EWI4000S is a MIDI wind controller developed by Akai, introduced at Winter NAMM 2006. It is part of the EWI (Electric Wind Instrument) family, originally conceived by Nyle Steiner in the late 1970s. This model is notable for being the first wind instrument playable by both woodwind and brass players. It features an onboard analog modeling synthesizer optimized for wind control, with two voltage-controlled oscillators. The instrument uses Electronic Valve Instrument (EVI) fingering and includes three main groups of external controls affecting sound, response, and feel—starting with four white buttons on the body. It supports expressive performance mapping for sax, keyboard, flute, and other configurations.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 26.39" (L) x 1.73" (W) x 2.71" (H) |
| Weight | 1.9 lbs (without batteries) |
| Batteries | 4 AA |
| Connectivity | MIDI input and output, audio output |
| Synth engine | Analog modeling synthesizer with two voltage-controlled oscillators |
| Fingering system | Electronic Valve Instrument (EVI) |
| Manufacturer's suggested retail price | $999 US |
Design
The EWI4000S integrates the synth engine, MIDI input and output, and audio output into a single unit. It was designed to be responsive to breath and finger control, with components arranged to support both woodwind and brass playing techniques. The instrument includes four white external control buttons and supports customizable expression mapping.
Context
The Akai EWI4000S is positioned as a larger sibling to the EWI USB and EWI SOLO models. It follows the legacy of Nyle Steiner’s Electric Wind Instrument, continuing Akai’s role in manufacturing and evolving the line. Patchman Music handled warranty repairs for Akai during the instrument’s production period.
Market
A current used listing offers the EWI4000S for $507.98 or best offer. Some players report issues with MIDI connectivity, noting intermittent disconnections, while others praise its build quality and breath sensitivity. The instrument has been noted to handle finger moisture better than competing models like the Midi EVI.
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