Why I Recommend the EWI SOLO

As of 2026, the only new models available in the EWI series are the EWI5000 and the EWI SOLO.
For those buying their first EWI and wondering which one to choose, I recommend the EWI SOLO.
Since the EWI5000—which had been launched with much fanfare—failed to live up to expectations, EWI players didn’t have high hopes for this model, which is positioned as an “entry-level” instrument and is less expensive than the 5000. However, it turned out to be a “proper” instrument—even more so than the 5000.
I recommend it not only to first-time EWI buyers but also to intermediate and advanced players who already own the 5000 or 4000S.

No need to connect to an amplifier

The “SOLO” in EWI SOLO doesn’t mean it’s a solo instrument; rather, it likely refers to the fact that it can produce sound on its own.
While there’s been a lot of complaints about the low volume coming from the built-in speaker, not having to set up an amp for practice makes a huge difference mentally.
Even at low volumes, the sound isn’t toy-like—it’s actually quite well-rounded. It doesn’t distort even at ultra-low frequencies, and depending on the sound source, it doesn’t distort even with bass that resonates in your chest.
For recording or live performances, you’ll naturally use the line output, and the sound quality here is better than that of the 5000. However, it lacks the energy and that “EWI-like” character found in the 4000S.

Its large size (length) is a minor drawback, but combined with its woodwind-like appearance, it blends seamlessly into an ensemble with acoustic instruments.
The lower price is also a welcome development, and it’s a very well-made product.

However, having 200 sounds is completely nonsensical; in reality, only a very small number of them are actually usable. I wish they had reduced the number of sounds and focused more on refining each one. In any case, as of now, this is the best EWI product to buy. For an explanation of the initial setup and other details, ⇒see the next page.

Choosing a case to store and transport the EWI-SOLO, which is 77 cm long, can be a bit of a challenge, but using a case designed for tripods and similar items works well.
From top to bottom: the EWI-SOLO, EWI4000S, EWI5000, and various cases. The case in the middle is a multipurpose case for tripods and other items. Be sure to choose the 80 cm size—it was the perfect fit for the EWI-SOLO.

The EWI5000 and EWI-SOLO differ in length by this much. Visible in the background is the JBL “Charge,” which I recommend as an external speaker. It’s small but delivers a powerful sound. If you stream karaoke from your smartphone via Bluetooth and connect the EWI via the line-in jack on the earphone port, you can even play in an ensemble.

↑Differences in the Sounds of the EWI-SOLO, EWI5000, and EWI4000S

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