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Description
Dive into the world of expressive MIDI with the Akai EWI 4000s, a wind controller that stands out in its class. Perfect for the wind instrument enthusiast eager to explore digital soundscapes, this device translates your breath into music with unparalleled precision. Its versatile control setup lets you mimic the feel of traditional instruments like saxophones, flutes, or even keyboards, while onboard analog-modeled synths offer rich, immersive tones. With built-in effects such as reverb and chorus, personalize your performance to sound exactly how you envision. Whether for live performances or studio sessions, the EWI 4000s opens up a new horizon of musical possibilities.
Key Features:
- Touch-sensitive keys and an 8-octave range slider for expressive playing
- Breath sensor and bite sensor for nuanced dynamics and articulation
- Onboard analog-modeled synthesizer with powerful oscillators and filters
- Built-in digital effects, including reverb and chorus, for sound customization
- MIDI OUT for direct control of external modules and software
- User-friendly interface with preset storage for quick access to your favorite sounds
Product specs
| Brand | Akai |
| Model | EWI4000S |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2005 - 2025 |
| Categories | Wind MIDI Controllers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the Akai EWI 4000s?
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The Akai EWI 4000s is a digital wind instrument designed for musicians who want to explore electronic sounds with wind instrument expressiveness. It features a built-in sound module and MIDI output for versatile performance options.
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Can the Akai EWI 4000s be used wirelessly?
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Yes, the Akai EWI 4000s can be used wirelessly by connecting a wireless MIDI or audio setup to its base, allowing musicians to move freely on stage without being tethered by cables.
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What kind of sounds can I create with the Akai EWI 4000s?
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The Akai EWI 4000s features an oscillator-based sound engine, allowing for extensive sound customization and a wide range of electronic and synthesized tones suitable for various musical styles.
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Is the Akai EWI 4000s suitable for beginners?
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The Akai EWI 4000s is suitable for both beginners and experienced wind players, offering multiple fingering options such as saxophone, flute, and oboe, making it accessible for musicians with different backgrounds.
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How does the Akai EWI 4000s connect to external devices?
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The Akai EWI 4000s connects to external devices via its MIDI output, allowing integration with MIDI-compatible hardware and software for expanded sound and performance possibilities.
Videos
insaneintherainmusic
Here's Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument).
Here's Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument).
insaneintherainmusic
Steve Tavaglione plays the Akai EWI4000s
XpanderXT
Full Disassembly Of A Nasty AKAI EWI 4000s
Peter Ommes
EWItool and VPowerLeadsBank New sounds for AKAI EWI4000s. How to upload patches into your EWI
Best Sound
Autumn Leaves - Waldemar Golebski Akai EWI 4000s solo
GOLEBSKI!
My One and Only Love (Guy Woods). Akai EWI 4000s / Yamaha VL70m
GOLEBSKI!
Akai 4000s
Sax Instructor
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai EWI 4000s.
Features and functionality
Setup and maintenance
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A user replaced the battery door bolt with a lower profile M3x7 bolt for more comfortable instrument handling.
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A factory reset involves holding LEVEL, FX, SETUP, and TRANS buttons, though some users report it doesn't restore sound banks as expected.
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Condensation issues can arise after 30-40 minutes of continuous play, potentially due to a kink or crack in the tube leading to the pressure sensor.
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Fixing a kinked or cracked pressure sensor tube can restore sound quality and responsiveness, suggesting a check for tube integrity is vital for maintenance.
Source
Software and compatibility
Mods and upgrades
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Consider drilling 2mm holes in the mouthpiece for improved airflow, inspired by a rare Type B mouthpiece.
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Firmware reinstallation is considered by users experiencing operational issues, potentially due to previous owner modifications.
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Adding a wristband or hair scrunchie to the neck can prevent spit from reaching critical components, improving reliability in cold or busking conditions.
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Comparisons
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The Akai EWI 4000s offers more alternate fingerings than Yamaha's WX11, though it may require more finger movement for certain transitions.
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Newer EWI models reportedly handle cold weather better, indicating advancements in design to mitigate issues experienced with older models like the 4000s.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
103
Fantastic vintage wind controller
Great wind controller from 20 years ago. Onboard tones are pretty nice, but you really want to make or buy your own patches to play with. Is very much meant for serious musicians, as it's not as beginner friendly, but pro friendly for certain. Because it's an older synthesizer, it's going to use the old 5 pin, isolated I/O MIDI ports, but that can easily be remedied by using a MIDI to USB cable from Roland. The PC software is very friendly and makes uploading and modifying sounds way faster than expected, something that the older models didn't have as much of a case of.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Best patch is the Patchman Music patch, as it replicates the sounds of 80s/90s synths with little to no difference in quality
Artist usage
Add artist
you can see him playing it in this photo.
In 1987 he featured his new solo album at the JVC Newport Jazz Festival, incorporating the Akai EWI 4000s.
Also find this performance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOEF7f2HGoE
The EWI can be seen 6:31 into this video
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Recording at Red Bull Studios Berlin.
Mentioned in this March 8, 2018 Woodwind & Brasswind interview.
WWBW: Now talk about gear a little bit. Which MIDI controller do you use?
WM: I use an Akai EWI.
*WWBW: And where do the patches come from, the tones?
WM: It’s an analog synthesizer built in. I haven’t really programmed a lot. I’m using the presets.
WWBW: Mostly using it in a bass context?
WM: Yes.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai EWI 4000s, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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