How to resolve AdBlock issue? Andrew Dewar relies on Focusrite RedNet TNX
Focusrite’s RedNet TNX has become a critical component in the live event workflow of Chicago-based freelance audio engineer Andrew Dewar, owner of Do or Die Productions. Specializing in large-scale corporate events, trade shows, product launches and live productions, Dewar depends on RedNet TNX to provide the robust redundancy and low-latency Dante® connectivity required in environments where technical failures simply are not an option.
Dewar’s work regularly supports general session events ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 attendees, where playback systems, recordings and live audio feeds must perform flawlessly. Drawing on a background that spans both studio recording and live production, Dewar understands that reliability is just as critical as sound quality when the audience is hearing content in real time. Seeking a more comprehensive redundancy solution than traditional dual-computer playback systems could provide, he turned to Focusrite’s RedNet TNX shortly after its release. “In my world, there are no second takes,” said Dewar. “If a playback machine fails during a CEO keynote or a critical presentation, you can’t ask them to come back out and do it again. RedNet TNX solved a problem that had been missing from many playback systems by giving me true redundancy across both the computers and the Dante network itself.”
Dewar’s mobile playback rig utilizes two RedNet TNX interfaces operating simultaneously on primary and secondary Dante networks at 96 kHz. This configuration ensures uninterrupted operation in the event of either a network failure or computer malfunction, creating what Dewar describes as a “redundantly redundant” playback system. “Every other part of our audio networks is typically redundant, but many engineers still end up rolling the dice on the computer at the end of the chain,” he explained. “With RedNet TNX, I no longer have to make that compromise. It’s a professional solution that gives me confidence that my playback system is protected from the kinds of failures that can cost you a client.”
Designed as a fly-pack system, Dewar’s entire RedNet setup travels worldwide in a single case, serving as the central hub for playback, recording, system analysis and additional Dante-connected applications. What initially began as a solution for playback redundancy has quickly evolved into the backbone of his audio workflow.“What surprised me most was how much room I still have to grow,” said Dewar. “I originally thought I would only need around 12 channels in and out of each TNX. Within the first year, I’m already approaching 20 channels each way as I continue integrating tools like Smaart and additional audio applications. The channel count and flexibility have made it much more valuable than I originally anticipated.”
The Dante-native architecture of RedNet TNX also provides significant operational advantages in fast-paced live environments, allowing Dewar to quickly adapt to changing production requirements. “In live events, the plan always changes once you’re on site,” he noted. “Dante gives you the flexibility to troubleshoot and reroute audio in real time, and RedNet TNX makes that process seamless. Whether I’m working with Yamaha, DiGiCo, SSL or another console platform, it integrates effortlessly into the network and just works.”
Dewar also credits Focusrite’s support team for helping streamline deployment and identify additional opportunities to expand his Dante infrastructure: “The Focusrite support experience has been excellent. Any questions I’ve had were answered quickly, and the team has already helped me identify other RedNet products that could expand my workflow even further.”
Having utilized RedNet TNX on nearly 50 events in its first year of operation, Dewar says the investment has more than justified itself: “It was simple math. If a playback failure costs me a show or a client relationship, that’s far more expensive than investing in the right technology from the beginning. RedNet TNX gives me the confidence that I’ve eliminated one of the biggest risks in my workflow.”
Looking ahead, Dewar sees even greater potential for RedNet TNX as live production workflows continue to evolve. “Processing is becoming increasingly important in modern audio production,” he remarks. “I can already see that Focusrite engineered this platform with future growth in mind. If TNX continues to expand its capabilities while delivering the reliability I’ve experienced so far, it becomes even more valuable to engineers working in mission-critical environments like mine.”