Q: What is HD96-AIR?

A: The HD96-AIR is the latest and highly anticipated addition to the Heritage-D series. This revolutionary lightweight console is unmatched in its class, offering more power and features than any other console of its size. AIR blends innovative technology, portability, and performance.

Q: What are the key features of HD96-AIR?

A: HD96-AIR is fully equipped with all the features found in the larger-format HD96-24-CC.

It boasts 144 simultaneous input channels, a 96 kHz sample rate, and 123 time-aligned and phase-coherent mix buses, offering sound engineers unparalleled control and precision. Its ergonomic 21-inch full-colour TFT display screen features capacitive touch sensing with an advanced multi-gesture user interface. The unit will also include 8 XLR inputs and outputs with award-winning Midas microphone preamplifiers.

The HD96-AIR will further support HyperMAC and AES50 networking, allowing for up to 480 inputs and 480 outputs at a 96 kHz sample rate, and include a dual network bridge format converter with up to 128 bidirectional channels and asynchronous sample rate conversion. As per the HD96, AIR will also offer 24 VCA (variable control association) groups, 24 POPulation groups, up to 48 assignable 1/3 octave Klark Teknik DN370 graphic equalisers, and up to 24 multi-channel digital signal processing effects engines.

There will be many more additional features built-in, including fully interpolated touch-sensitive controls and dual redundant auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supplies, however full specs will be provided once testing is completed.

Q: What are the specifications of HD96-AIR?

A: As the console is still undergoing rigorous testing and minor mech changes, the final specifications for the HD96-AIR are not yet officially confirmed. However, our goal is that AIR will be a fully flyable console*. Size wise, we are expecting the console (excluding the flight case), to sit around the following dimensions. However, please note that these are subject to change:

32 x 17.5 x 8.5 inches (Length x Depth x Height)

* Dependent on baggage weight allowance of aircraft carriers.

Q: But I want faders! What’s my solution

A: Alongside the HD96-AIR, we are also releasing the HD96-FB16, an additional fader bay with 16 faders, USB connection and in a portable format. You will be able to assign up to four additional fader bays using the fader ports in the back of the console – this also applies to the HD96-24-CC.

Q: How does the HD96-AIR fit into the Midas eco-system?

A: The HD96-AIR is designed for fly-dates and for shows where space is limited. It is fully compatible with the same products as per the larger-HD96-24-CC.

Q: When can we expect to be able to buy the HD96-AIR?

A: We appreciate that our customers are excited to get their hands on this console, but due to some delays outside of our control, the official release date is expected at Q1 2025. This is the same for the additional Fader Bay (FB16). As of right now, tooling is in process and next on the list comes the Safety/EMC checks, which can take several months. However, we are working tirelessly to bring this to market sooner – please bear with us, it’ll be worth the wait!

sQ: What is the cost of HD96-AIR?

We are working through the Bill of Materials and hope to have a more accurate price soon, but we can say that the cost will be significantly different to the HD96-24-CC. The HD96-AIR doesn’t compromise when it comes to features or audio quality. It’s a true Midas Heritage console, just in a smaller format.

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Specification

* Full specifications are still a work in progress and are subject to change