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How to Use an EWI with Cantabile: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by William Zheng

Ever wondered how to unlock the full power of your EWI and expand your musical possibilities? If you want to blend the expressiveness of electronic wind instruments with Cantabile’s versatile live performance features, you’re not alone. Many musicians are looking for a clear way to connect these tools and enhance their performances.

In this article, you’ll find simple steps, helpful tips, and practical insights on setting up and using your EWI with Cantabile—no confusion, just music.

Related Video

How to Use an EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) With Cantabile: A Comprehensive Guide

Using an Electronic Wind Instrument (EWI) with Cantabile opens a world of creative possibilities for musicians—whether you’re a performing artist, a studio enthusiast, or simply experimenting at home. Cantabile is highly regarded as a host for virtual instruments and effects, making it a powerful companion for your wind controller. If you’re wondering how to connect and optimize your EWI with Cantabile, this complete guide is tailored for you.

What Is an EWI and What Is Cantabile?

  • EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument): A wind controller that allows you to play and control digital music instruments using breath, fingerings, and sometimes bite or pitch sensors, emulating traditional woodwinds.
  • Cantabile: A performance-focused software for Windows that serves as a host for VST plugins (virtual instruments and effects), making real-time performance and sound switching fast, flexible, and reliable.

Why Use EWI With Cantabile?


How to find VST Instruments that load in Cantabile - use an ewi with cantablie

Pairing your EWI with Cantabile gives you:

  • Access to a wide range of virtual instruments and sounds.
  • Real-time control of sound parameters via your instrument’s sensors.
  • Seamless transitions and setup management for live performance.
  • Customizable rack setups and effects processing for truly unique tones.
  • The ability to layer, split, and route multiple instruments.

Step-By-Step: Setting Up Your EWI With Cantabile

Here’s how to get started, even if you’re new to music technology:

1. Get Your Essentials Ready

You’ll need:

  • An EWI device (e.g., Akai EWI USB, EWI5000, EWI Solo, Yamaha WX, Roland Aerophone, etc.).
  • A Windows computer.
  • Cantabile (choose Lite, Solo, or Performer editions based on your needs).
  • USB or MIDI interface cable.
  • Audio playback device (headphones, studio monitors, or PA system).
  • Optional: VST instrument plugins (many offer wind controller compatibility).

2. Install and Launch Cantabile

  1. Download the appropriate edition of Cantabile that suits your needs and budget.
  2. Install Cantabile by following the on-screen instructions.
  3. Launch the program.

Tip: Cantabile Lite is free and a great way to start. Solo and Performer editions offer advanced features for live gigging and complex setups.

3. Connect Your EWI


Wind Controller users - Cantabile - Cantabile Community - use an ewi with cantablie

  • USB EWI: Plug the EWI into your computer using a USB cable. Most EWIs will be recognized automatically as MIDI devices.
  • MIDI EWI: If your EWI outputs standard MIDI, connect it via a USB MIDI interface.
  • Turn on your EWI.

4. Configure MIDI Inputs in Cantabile

  1. In Cantabile, go to Tools > Options > MIDI Ports.
  2. Locate your EWI in the list of available MIDI devices.
  3. Enable it, and (optionally) name it for quick identification (e.g., “Akai EWI USB”).
  4. Set the appropriate MIDI channel (match your EWI’s channel—most default to channel 1).

Advice: If you have multiple MIDI devices, ensure only your EWI is set to input for the wind controller’s VST.

5. Load a VST Instrument

  1. Open a new song in Cantabile.
  2. Add a new plugin slot.
  3. Browse and select a VST instrument plugin (e.g., Sample Modeling, SWAM, Kontakt, etc.).
  4. Make sure the plugin supports wind controller CCs (like breath, bite, pitchbend).

6. Connect EWI MIDI Input to the VST

Cantabile’s routing view makes this easy:

  • Drag the MIDI Input (your EWI) to the VST instrument’s MIDI Input.
  • Drag the VST instrument’s Audio Output to the Main Speakers or Audio Interface.

7. Adjust VST Instrument Settings for Wind Control

  • Open the instrument plugin’s interface.
  • Set it to “MIDI controller” or “EWI mode” if available.
  • Ensure MIDI CC2 (Breath), CC1 (Modulation), and Pitch Bend are mapped correctly for expressions.
  • Adjust any sensitivity or expression curves as needed for your playing style.

8. Play and Fine-Tune

  • Play your EWI—sound should be produced through your chosen instrument.
  • Adjust sound, effects, and mapping for optimal expression and playability inside both the VST and Cantabile.

Advanced Usage and Performance Tips

Take your EWI and Cantabile setup to the next level with these practices:

Multiple Instrument Layers

  • Use Cantabile’s racks or layers to trigger multiple VSTs at once.
  • For example, layer saxophone and synth pads for a fuller sound.

Setlists and Song States

  • Cantabile allows you to build setlists and assign different instruments and effects for each song.
  • Use “Song States” to seamlessly switch between sounds as you perform.

Effects Processing

  • Use built-in or third-party VST effects, like reverb, delay, or chorus, to enhance your instrument’s sound.
  • You can place effects between your EWI MIDI input and VST, or in the audio path after the instrument.

MIDI Filters and Scripting

  • Use Cantabile’s MIDI filters to re-map controllers or transpose in real time.
  • For complex setups, Cantabile Performer supports scripting for automation beyond simple control changes.

Benefits of Using Cantabile With Your EWI

  • Ultra-low latency: Enjoy real-time play with minimal delay.
  • Flexible audio routing: Route sound anywhere, apply effects, and manage complex setups.
  • Easy integration: Connect and configure EWIs and other MIDI devices with minimal fuss.
  • Setlist and song management: Organize patches and songs for instant recall live.
  • Community support: Tap into a large community of wind controller and Cantabile users for tips and troubleshooting.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Getting No Sound

  • Ensure your EWI is recognized as a MIDI device by Windows and Cantabile.
  • Double-check MIDI routing inside Cantabile.
  • Verify that your VST instrument is set to receive the correct MIDI channel.

Expression Issues

  • If breath or bite sensors feel unresponsive, adjust MIDI sensitivity curves inside both EWI settings and the VST instrument.
  • Make sure the VST is set up to respond to CC2 (Breath) or other control messages sent from your EWI.

VST Instrument Not Loading

  • Make sure your VST plugin files (DLL or VST3) are in a folder scanned by Cantabile.
  • Use VSTs that are compatible with your system’s architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

Audio Latency Is Too High

  • Use an ASIO audio driver for lower latency.
  • Lower buffer size settings in Cantabile for more immediate response.

Practical Tips and Best Practices

  • Save Often: After building a song or rack, save your work to avoid losing tweaks.
  • Experiment: Try different VSTs—some are better for wind controllers (look for SWAM, Respiro, Kontakt libraries with breath support, etc.).
  • Organize: Name MIDI ports, routes, and racks clearly for hassle-free setups.
  • Backup: Export your Cantabile setlists and configurations before gigs or updates.
  • Community Interaction: Participate in user forums for shared expertise—many wind controller fans are active and helpful.

Cost Tips

  • Software: Cantabile Lite is free, but if you want deeper customization or live performance tools, Solo or Performer editions require purchase.
  • Plugins: Many high-quality VSTs suited for EWI are paid, but some free plugins provide basic capabilities.
  • Hardware: If shipping an EWI or audio interface internationally, check import duties and shipping costs beforehand to avoid surprises.
  • Bundles: Look for plugin bundles or discounts for wind controllers—often released for seasonal sales.

Concluding Summary

Bringing your EWI together with Cantabile unlocks limitless creative expression. From practice room to stage, you can command a universe of sounds, build expressive performances, and manage complex setups with ease. Whether you’re a first-timer or tech-savvy musician, follow this step-by-step approach and you’ll be making music in no time. Remember, experimentation and community participation are keys. Play, tweak, and enjoy the musical journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use any wind controller with Cantabile?
Yes. Cantabile works with any wind controller that sends standard MIDI messages, including Akai EWI, Yamaha WX, Roland Aerophone, and others.

Which version of Cantabile should I use for EWI?
Cantabile Lite (free) is great for starters. If you require more features like setlists, song states, and advanced routing, consider Cantabile Solo or Performer.

What VST instruments are best for wind controllers in Cantabile?
VSTs that respond to breath (CC2), expression, and pitch bend messages work best. Examples include SWAM instruments, Sample Modeling, Respiro, and certain Kontakt libraries.

How can I reduce latency when using my EWI with Cantabile?
Use an ASIO-compatible audio interface and set a lower buffer size in Cantabile’s audio settings for more responsive play.

Do I need to map breath control or does Cantabile do it automatically?
Cantabile passes MIDI data as received. Ensuring proper breath control mapping depends on your EWI’s settings and the chosen VST instrument’s MIDI mapping options. Adjust as necessary in both.

Experiment boldly, save your setups, and enjoy the expressive world of EWI and Cantabile!

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