Does the Akai Ewi USB Wind Controller sound more authentic than using a Keyboard to mimic Woodwind sounds?

Would using a Wind Controller make the sound of a Saxophone seem more authentic? I know that the authenticity of the sound depends on the quality of the sound patch i use. And so I’m more so asking whether it would sound more authentic in the way of expression?

Thanks in advance!

One of the most important techniques in wind instrument playing is the employment of rapid, finely controlled changes in volume to shape the notes and add greater expressiveness to phrases. This control of volume can be very difficult (but not impossible) to perform in real-time on a keyboard. So, because a wind controller would afford a closer approximation to the playing experience of the actual instrument being mimicked, more often than not, a more realistic result should occur.

However, this is highly dependent upon the skill of the wind controller player versus that of the keyboardist. A keyboardist who may be more familiar with how a saxophonist would approach a particular phrase may be able to deliver a more realistic performance than a wind controller player who is less educated on the subject. In addition, many high end keyboards allow a breath controller unit to be attached, allowing the keyboardist to use his breath to control volume.

So the answer is: usually, but it depends on many factors!

Akai EWI USB

Akai EWI USB Electronic Wind Controller $248 Electronic wind instrument controller Easy to play, easy to use, and easy to own Powerful, flexible, and reliable Plug-and-play USB connection to Mac or PC Custom Garritan Aria Player software, contains wind instrument sounds Multiple fingering modes: sax, traditional EWI, flute, oboe, and EVI brass Expandable sound palette Removable, dishwasher-safe mouthpiece

Akai MPK49 MIDI Controller $314 Maximize musical ideas on-stage or in the studio with the new Akai MPK49 performance controller. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.

Akai EWI4000s Electric Wind Instrument $579 The Akai Professional EWI4000S is a giant leap in the evolution of wind instruments. The heart of the EWI4000S is its “first in the industry” built-in sound module that lets musicians plug a wireless MIDI or audio set up into the base of the EWI, and move freely around the stage without being tethered by wires. At Akai Professional, we understand that artists want to concentrate on creating and performing music, not manipulating buttons, so we’ve made the breath, vibrato, glide time, and bend width controls easily accessible and totally adjustable. In addition, the included software lets both Windows and Mac users edit, customize, store and recall sounds with their computer.

Akai LPD8 – Laptop Pad Controller $46.92 Akai LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller Features: USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note or program changes Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag and ultralight Four programmable memory banks Comes with editor software for Mac and PC USB bus powered no additional power cable needed

Akai APC40 – Ableton Performance Controller $219 Ryan Noise APC40 Tutorial – PRESS PLAY Ableton Live software is a powerful, flexible environment for creating, performing, and producing music. This unique software demands an equally unique control instrument. Akai Professional and Ableton are proud to present the APC40: the Ableton Performance Controller. Combining the APC40 with Ableton Live transforms your experience from constructing tracks on a computer to fluid, musical creation. The APC40 is the link between human and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvass, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC40 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.

Akai APC20 – Ableton Live Compact Performance Controller $149 Akai APC20 Features: Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 specifically for use with Ableton Live The controller is plug-and-play, so no need to install drivers First-time setup is literally 3 steps – load the included Ableton Live software, plug in and power up the APC20, and select the APC20 as Ableton Live’s controller – that’s it The APC20 comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software Every single button and fader on the APC20 can be custom-mapped to completely customize the controls for preferred workflow The controller talks directly to Ableton Live, and Live talks directly to the APC20 The bidirectional communication provides feedback from the software and displays it on its Clip Launch matrix The Clip Matrix gives you an instant view of clip status – what’s loaded, what’s playing, and what’s being recorded

Akai MPD18 – Compact USB/MIDI Pad Controller $79 AKAI MPD18 Features: MIDI controller for production and performance MPC pads: bank of 16, velocity and pressure sensitive Three pad banks for a total of 48 sounds accessible from pads Q-Link assignable fader control MPC Note Repeat MIDI-over-USB interface MPC 16-Level and Full Level 16 configurable presets USB powered, requires no AC adapter

Akai MPK25 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller $249 Akai MPK25 Features: 25-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic creativity MPC-pad section of 12 genuine MPC pads with pressure and velocity sensitivity MPC pads access four banks each for instant access to 48 samples Assignable Q-Link controller section for flexible control of most software parameters Two banks of 12 Q-Link knobs and four buttons, two banks each Dedicated transport controls for tracking and editing MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative processMPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative process MPC Full Level, MPC 12-Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with tempo and dynamics MIDI output over USB, bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable Comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software Works with most MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software

Akai MPK Mini Keyboard Software Controller $99 The Akai Pro MPK mini is an ultra-compact mini-keyboard with an impressive array of buttons, knobs and pads to provide “hands-on” performance and production control no matter your location. MPK mini strikes the perfect balance between portability and comprehensive software control by melding together the complete control offered in the popular Akai Pro MPK family with the grab-and-go convenience of the LPK25 and LPD8. With a 25-note keyboard, 8 back-lit, MPC-style pads and 8 Q-Link knobs, the MPK mini is the ultimate portable controller to get your music moving. The MPK mini keyboard is ideal for quickly entering notes and phrases into your computer. The velocity-sensitive keys allow you to accurately express dynamics, while accessing different pitch ranges is done instantly through dedicated Octave Up and Down buttons.

Akai MPK Mini Keyboard Controller and Bag $138 The Akai Pro MPK mini is an ultra-compact mini-keyboard with an impressive array of buttons, knobs and pads to provide “hands-on” performance and production control no matter your location. MPK mini strikes the perfect balance between portability and comprehensive software control by melding together the complete control offered in the popular Akai Pro MPK family with the grab-and-go convenience of the LPK25 and LPD8. With a 25-note keyboard, 8 back-lit, MPC-style pads and 8 Q-Link knobs, the MPK mini is the ultimate portable controller to get your music moving. The MPK mini keyboard is ideal for quickly entering notes and phrases into your computer. The velocity-sensitive keys allow you to accurately express dynamics, while accessing different pitch ranges is done instantly through dedicated Octave Up and Down buttons

Akai SynthStation 49 – iPad Keyboard Controller $199 Akai SynthStation 49 Overview By UniqueSquared – PRESS PLAY Akai SynthStation 49 Features: Portable, velocity-sensitive keyboard with pitch and modulation wheels Nine velocity-sensitive MPC-style drum pads which light when triggered Dedicated transport control buttons including Play, Pause and Record Play MIDI keyboard and drum pad performances into an iPad via CoreMIDI or AkaiConnect apps Built-in, adjustable dock charges your iPad while positioning the screen at the perfect angle USB port for connecting to a Mac or PC, receiving power and controlling MIDI music software Works with iPad or iPad 2 Professional ¼” stereo outputs with volume control to connect mixers, speakers and recording equipment Headphone output to practice and compose in private

Akai APC40 – Ableton Performance Controller with Road Case $339 Ryan Noise APC40 Tutorial – PRESS PLAY Ableton Live software is a powerful, flexible environment for creating, performing, and producing music. This unique software demands an equally unique control instrument. Akai Professional and Ableton are proud to present the APC40: the Ableton Performance Controller. Combining the APC40 with Ableton Live transforms your experience from constructing tracks on a computer to fluid, musical creation. The APC40 is the link between human and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvass, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC40 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.

Akai MPD26 – USB/MIDI Pad Controller $199 Akai MPD26 Performance Pad Controller Features: 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive genuine MPC pads Access four different sounds from each of the MPC pads for a total of 64 at your fingertips Six assignable Q-Link faders and six assignable Q-Link 360&#xb0 knobs allow you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time Dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used Digital Audio Workstation or sequencing-software controls MPC Note Repeat MPC Swing MPC Full Level and MPC 16-Level on the pads Plug-and-play USB interface allows you to use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers USB powered Traditional DIN MIDI input and output jacks Comes with Ableton Live Lite and Editor Librarian software

Akai MPD32 – MIDI/USB Pad Controller $229 Akai MPDD32 Features: MIDI controller for production and performance MPC pads: bank of 16, velocity and pressure-sensitive Four selectable pad banks for a total of 64 sounds accessible from the pads Eight assignable Q-Link faders, eight assignable Q-Link 360&#xb0 knobs, and eight assignable Q-Link buttons, all three banks MIDI-synced MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing Two assignable footswitch inputs and expression-pedal input Dedicated transport controls Backlit, easy-to-read display MIDI-over-USB or MIDI operation USB powered or powered via optional AC adapter MPC 16-Level and Full Level Comes with custom versions of Ableton Live Lite, FXpansion BFD Lite, and Vyzor Editor Librarian software 30 user-definable presets for DAW applications

Akai MPC Renaissance – Midi Music Production Controller $1299 Fusing Akai ProfessionalÂ’s legendary MPC layout and workflow with the power of your computer, MPC Renaissance is an unrivaled instrument for music production. The new flagship is a fully integrated hardware/software system: MPC Renaissance allows you to create using classic hardware controls and an integrated pop-up display, while its exclusive MPC Software empowers you with unprecedented, expandable production capabilities on your Mac or PC.

Akai LPD8 and LPK25 – Laptop Pad Controller and USB Keyboard Package $99 Akai LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller Features: USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note or program changes Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag and ultralight Four programmable memory banks Comes with editor software for Mac and PC USB bus powered no additional power cable needed AKAI LPK251 Features: USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys Arpeggiator, sustain button, octave up and down, and tap tempo controls Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag Four programmable memory banks

Akai MPK61 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller $499 61-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic creativity 16 genuine MPC pads with pressure and velocity sensitivity MPC pads access four banks each for instant access to 48 samples Control 72 software parameters with 24 assignable Q-Link controllers Key Split enables two different sounds from the same keyboard MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative process Transport controls for use with sequencers and DAWs MPC Full Level, MPC 16-Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with tempo and dynamics MIDI output over USB, bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable Comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software Works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software

Akai MPK88 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller $699 88-key fully weighted, hammer-action keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic creativity 16 genuine MPC pads with pressure and velocity sensitivity MPC pads access four banks each for instant access to 64 samples Control up to 72 software parameters with 24 assignable Q-Link knobs, buttons, and faders Key Split enables two different sounds from the same keyboard MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative process Transport controls for use with sequencers and DAWs MPC Full Level, MPC 16-Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with tempo and dynamics MIDI output over USB, bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable Comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software Works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software

Akai MPK49 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller Cubase 5 Package $699 Akai MPK49 Performance Controller Features: 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

Akai MPK49 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller Propellerhead Reason Package $659 Akai MPK49 Features: 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total) 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

Akai APC40 – Ableton Performance Controller with Samson HP10 Headphones $269 Ryan Noise APC40 Tutorial – PRESS PLAY Ableton Live software is a powerful, flexible environment for creating, performing, and producing music. This unique software demands an equally unique control instrument. Akai Professional and Ableton are proud to present the APC40: the Ableton Performance Controller. Combining the APC40 with Ableton Live transforms your experience from constructing tracks on a computer to fluid, musical creation. The APC40 is the link between human and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvass, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC40 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.

Akai Synthstation 25 Package with MINI Bag $99 Akai Synthstation25 Overview by Unique Squared – PRESS PLAY Akai Synthstation25 Features: 25-key MIDI keyboard controller for iPhone and iPod touch Velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys for expressive performance Pitch and modulation wheels, octave +/-, and sound-bank buttons Stereo RCA line outputs and headphone jack USB/MIDI for virtually any MIDI music software or MIDI hardware devices Seamlessly compatible with Akai SynthStation app Akai MINI Bag Features: Padded, protective bag with perfect fit for SynthStation25 Red, plush-lined SynthStation, and accessory compartments to hold RCA and USB cables Custom-cut, high-density foam protects SynthStation25 Works with the SynthStation25, MPKmini and other compact controllers Hand-carry handles and a shoulder strap

Akai Synthstation 25 – Piano Keyboard for iPhone and iPod Touch $59.99 Akai Synthstation25 Overview by Unique Squared – PRESS PLAY Akai Synthstation 25 Features: 25-key MIDI keyboard controller for iPhone and iPod touch Velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys for expressive performance Pitch and modulation wheels, octave +/-, and sound-bank buttons Stereo RCA line outputs and headphone jack USB/MIDI for virtually any MIDI music software or MIDI hardware devices Seamlessly compatible with Akai SynthStation app

Akai MPC Studio Music Production Controller $599 MPC Studio offers the most streamlined MPC experience yet. At under one-inch thin, with low-profile controls and a brushed aluminum body, itÂ’s made to move. MPC Studio merges real MPC pads, iconic workflow, and the same MPC Software used by MPC Renaissance to give you a fully integrated portable production solution.

Akai MPK49 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller Cubase 5 Package-B-Stock $599 Akai MPK49 Performance Controller Features: 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

Akai MPK49 – Keyboard USB/MIDI Controller Cubase 5 Package-Open Box $499 Akai MPK49 Performance Controller Features: 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

Akai LPK25 – USB Laptop Performance Keyboard $55.8 Akai LPK25 Features: USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys Arpeggiator, sustain button, octave up and down, and tap tempo controls Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag Four programmable memory banks Comes with editor software for Mac and PC USB bus powered – no additional power cable needed

Akai MPD24 USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit $169.99 The MPD24 is a MIDI-over-USB pad controller for DJs, programmers, producers, and others musicians. Built around the controls from Akai Professional’s industry-standard MPC series, the MPD24 is an expressive and intuitive instrument for the studio and stage. The heart of the MPD24 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Pro exclusive. You can access four different banks of sounds from the MPC pads for a total of 64 sounds at your fingertips. The MPD24 also borrows the MPC series’ assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get six assignable Q-Link faders and eight assignable Q-Link 360° knobs so you’ll spend less time with the mouse and more time making music. The MPD24 also gives you a dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used DAW or sequencing-software controls.

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