The EWI (pronounced to rhyme with the fruit kiwi, or Mr. Herman's first name, Pee Wee) is actually an acronym for Electronic Woodwind Instrument. The EWI is a breath-driven synthesizer controller capable of closely emulating the subtle nuances of acoustic instruments. The original EWI was dubbed the Steinerphone after its inventor Nyle Steiner and first came to public display in the hands of Michael Brecker who used the instrument extensively on tour with Steps Ahead in 1986. Akai Professional licensed the design and beginning in 1987 has produced three models of EWIs.  Nyle Steiner continues to make EVI's and conversion EVI's in very limited numbers. 

The original Akai EWI, and still the choice of many EWI players, was the EWI1000 and companion EWV2000 sound module introduced in 1987. Akai also introduced the EVI1000 at the same time which used the same EWV2000 module as seen in this photo from the original Akai promotional materials.  The original Akai EWI's and EVI's were discontinued in 1990. Akai has subsequently built two models of EWIs; the EWI3000 with EWI3000m module, and the EWI3020 with companion 3020m and 3030m modules. Akai did not pursue the EVI after the original model. The only way to get a new EVI is to either have an EWI converted to an EVI or to try to get Nyle Steiner to build an EVI from scratch. Nyle is currently making a MIDI only EVI that does not require one of the EWI modules and has numerous unique features. Steiner also made a very small number of MIDI EWIs.

In March 2006 Akai introduced the Akai EWI4000s which incorporates many of the features of the Steiner MIDI EWI but went a step further and put a virtual analog synth and effects right into the controller obviating the need for a proprietary module. You can read all about the 4000s by clicking here. Akai also gave a nod to EVI players with the 4000s by building in an EVI fingering mode. You can power the instrument up while holding a combination of keys and it will play with EVI fingerings. While the instrument has no "canister" like the original EVI, you use your left hand fingerings to replicated the function of the canister.

You can compare the EWI models in the comparison chart or for even more complete descriptions of the EWIs including more technical information follow the Next button through this Introductory FAQ called "What's An EWI?"

Advance through the introductory FAQ by using the "Last/Next" button.