Summary of the Comparison
The Midas HD96-24 suits live engineers seeking superior analog-style workflow and sonic warmth. In contrast, the Digico SD9 is ideal for touring engineers needing flexible routing and compact design. Choose the HD96-24 for studio-level sound clarity, or the SD9 for adaptable, space-saving performance in complex live setups.
Sweetwater is one of our most trusted partners.
The Midas HD96-24
The Digico SD9
Main Differences Between the Mixers
- Midas HD96-24: 144 input channels; Digico SD9: 96 input channels
- Midas: 96kHz sample rate; Digico: 48kHz or 96kHz (Stealth Core 2 upgrade)
- Midas: 24 motorized faders; Digico: 24 motorized faders (12 per bank, dual-bank layout)
- Midas: Large multi-touch screen with intuitive UI; Digico: Smaller touchscreen with tab-based UI
- Midas: Advanced automation and show control; Digico: Strong snapshot & session management
- Midas: Powerful onboard FX processing; Digico: Includes Waves integration (optional SoundGrid)
- Midas: Designed for fast workflow in live sound; Digico: Versatile for live, broadcast, and install
- Midas: Built-in 32-channel USB audio interface; Digico: MADI and DMI expansion options
Specs and Feature Comparison
| Feature | Midas HD96-24 | DiGiCo SD9 |
|---|---|---|
| Input Channels | 144 input channels | 96 input channels |
| Faders | 24 motorized faders | 24 motorized faders |
| Processing Channels | Above 287 total processing paths | Up to 96 flexi input channels, 48 busses, 12×8 matrix |
| Touchscreen | 21″ full HD multitouch screen + 3 additional screens | 15-inch TFT touchscreen |
| Sample Rate | 96kHz | 48kHz or 96kHz (via optional upgrades) |
| I/O Configuration | Ultranet, AES50, MADI, Dante (optional) | MADI, Optocore (Dante via expansion) |
| Network Support | AES50, Milan-ready, Dante (optional) | Optocore, Waves, MADI, Dante (optional) |
| Ideal Use Cases | Live performances, stadiums, broadcast, church | Live performances, touring, corporate events, churches |
| Approximate Price | $35,000 – $45,000 USD | $20,000 – $30,000 USD |
Best Situations for the Midas HD96-24
- Ideal for live sound mixing in mid to large venues
- Perfect for touring acts and concert productions
- Great for houses of worship with complex audio needs
- Excellent choice for broadcast and live streaming setups
- Useful in theater productions requiring multiple scenes and automation
- Studio-grade mic preamps for high-fidelity audio capture
- Flexible I/O configuration for custom setup needs
- Integrated automation and snapshot recall for fast show transitions
- Large touch screen and intuitive interface streamline mixing workflow
- Supports remote control via iPad for front-of-house freedom
- Multiple effects engines for onboard processing without external gear
- Expandable with DL stage boxes for additional inputs and outputs
- Networked audio capability for integration with AES50 devices
Best Situations for the Digico SD9
- Ideal for medium to large live concert venues
- Perfect for touring acts needing compact, powerful control
- Great for broadcast applications with detailed routing options
- Excellent for theaters with complex show cues and automation
- Useful in houses of worship requiring flexible sound management
- Supports up to 96 channels for large input counts
- Snapshot automation for dynamic setlist changes
- Advanced onboard effects reduce need for outboard gear
- Dual-engine architecture for redundancy and reliability
- Remote control and offline editing via DiGiCo software
- Convenient for corporate events with multitrack playback
- MADI and DMI card support for expanded I/O flexibility
More Pro Audio Content
Written by Guitar Chalk on Mixers & Roundups
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Mixers & Roundups
We link to products on Sweetwater that help support our site and keep the lights on. If you click through our orange buttons, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you all for your generous support over the years! ~ Bobby and Danielle
Our disclosure↬
Comment Policy: You're down to leave a comment? That's awesome. Keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. Please avoid any spammy keywords or a domain as your name, otherwise your comment will be deleted. Let's stay on topic, keep questions relevant and have a meaningful conversation. All the best.