Wind synth as midi controller

Hey guys! Hoping to get some feedback and see if I’m thinking along the right track.

I want to get a wind synth and use it primarily as a midi controller. I play saxophone and would like something that uses similar fingerings, so the learning curve is easier to manage. I have hardware and software synths, and would prefer a 5-pin midi connection since that’s what my other controllers use and what I’m most familiar with. I don’t plan on using pretty much any built in sounds with whichever controller I go with. My budget is around 1k USD.

In the research I’ve done, it looks like the NuRad would be the best option but the 2 year waitlist and cost is a big ask for me rn. Definitely want one down the line, but it’s just not realistic given the nature of the beast.

Second best option looks to be an EWI 5000. It fits the budget, has the 5-pin, and the reviews I’ve seen make it look like a pretty solid option. I’ve seen a few users here say they like the USB model- but I’ve also seen that it has limitations like octave range and they don’t make it anymore. I’d be looking for this synth to last me until I can eventually get my hands on a NuRad, is it worth it to get the 5000 or would the USB fit my needs?

Also how are the Roland’s for controlling hardware synths? They seem pretty decent, but the ae-20/30 aren’t exactly a savings over the EWI and reviews seem to say the EWI’s are better. I’ve also seen plenty of people playing EWIs with hardware synths but haven’t seen much of that with the Roland’s, which makes me think there’s a reason people tend to go with the Akai.

Is there another brand/model I’m missing? What would be your recommendation?