[NAMM] The Akai EWI 5000 has been unveiled

The next generation of Akai EWI will include, among other new features, a 2.4GHz wireless communication system, a rechargeable battery for up to 12 hours of use and more than 3GB of traditional and modern sounds cooked by SONiVOX, with brass, horns, woodwinds, as well as synths, leads… Akai adds that the EWI 5000 adjusts automatically to your playing style.

The EWI 5000 features 12 metal keys, an 8-wheel octave section that you will control with your thumb, and 8 encoders to adjust filter, reverb, chorus, LFO, breath and bite amount, semitone and fine tuning. An EVI (Electronic Valve Instrument) mode is included for brass.

The instrument also offers USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI connectors, along with a 1/4” output for PA or amp, and a 1/8” headphone out for silent practice. The EWI 5000 charges via USB or to wall socket (adapter is included) and ships with a USB cable, a wireless receiver and a neck strap.

No information regarding the retail price and availability. NAMM visitors can discover the EWI 5000 starting tomorrow at booth 6700, Hall A.