TEMPE, AZ (11.10.23) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce it had an immensely successful SEMA 2023 show, and is looking forward to its 2024 MasterTech Expo.
“This year’s SEMA Show was a platform for Mobile Solutions to display our latest advancements in fabrication products,” explained Bryan Schmitt, Mobile Solutions founder/CEO/president. “Additionally, we spotlighted our upcoming MasterTech Expo event slated for 2024. Attendees were treated to a series of live fabrication demonstrations, showcasing our commitment to hands-on, dynamic education. At Mobile Solutions, our mission aligns with staying ahead of the curve and equipping top-tier builders with the newest innovations in tools and techniques that set the industry standard.”
The SEMA Show, renowned as the globe’s premier automotive specialty products trade event, showcases the finest in talent and automotive marvels. The event is a phenomenal opportunity to renew old friendships and cultivate new connections within the automotive community.
“Mobile Solutions is at the heart of this vibrant network, fostering a culture of continuous learning and superior craftsmanship,” Schmitt concluded.
The 2024 MasterTech Expo is scheduled for March 3-6 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. To learn more and register for the event of the year, please visit www.MasterTechExpo.com.
The final 2023 MasterTech training event will be held at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz. Nov. 16-19. For more information and to register, visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com/modern-fab.
MESA, AZ (11.10.23) – MSC America is proud to announce the delivery of Audiotec Fischer DSP tuning kits. Free to dealers with a qualifying DSP order, the kits are the ideal solution to properly and efficiently set up and tune cars using proprietary software.
“The tuning kit has a laptop loaded with the current Audiotec Fischer DSP PC tool software, Audiotec Fischer MTK1 Tuning Microphone, AnyDesk so that we can login in remotely for assistance, two Audiotec Fischer PTK1 Polarity Testers, a Bosch Laser measurement tool, and all necessary USB connection cables,” explained Jason Digos, MSC America Vice President. “Since every installation is different and every customer has different wants and needs, it is an invaluable tool for every dealer and installer.”
MSC America has also been conducting its new Audiotec Fischer DSP Training for invited authorized dealers whereas these DSP tuning kits are featured. The purpose of these in-person trainings is to educate authorized Audiotec Fischer dealers on how to properly and efficiently set up and tune cars using proprietary software.
L to R: Merle Kescoli (Sounds Good Mobile); Jason Digos (MSC America); Matt Hipps (Sounds Good Mobile); James Mageary (Sounds Good Mobile); Nic Grace (Sounds Good Mobile); and Kraig Kinnard (Sounds Good Mobile) during MSC America’s recent visit to the Sounds Good Mobile shop in Flagstaff, Ariz. to deliver their Audiotec Fischer DSP tuning kit.
“We were thrilled to receive the DSP tuning kit from MSC America,” said Matt Hipps, manager of Sounds Good Mobile in Flagstaff, Ariz., who recently completed MSC America’s Audiotec Fischer DSP Training. “As vehicles and consumer behaviors evolve in the car audio market, MSC America has played a crucial role in preparing us for the fast changes. A time is approaching when after-market radios will be replaced by integrated factory systems. With Audiotech Fisher’s products at our disposal, their exclusive DSP integration technology has made the previously impossible, possible.”
MSC America tries to do as much hands-on as possible so that its dealers are in the cars using the software and performing the tuning process.
“We use simulators to show different scenarios they may see on today’s modern OEM audio systems and how to correct them,” Digos added.
Hipps concluded, “These tuning kits have simplified the integration process into vehicles, making it seamless. We have other test equipment at our store, and we have used the Audiotech Fisher tuning kit more than anything else in the last six months. Moreover, the tuned vehicles always sound exceptional. MSC America’s top-notch training and products always create an unforgettable experience. “
FORT SMITH, AR (11.10.23) – Tri-State Enterprises, Inc. has announced the recapitalization of the Company in partnership with HCI Equity Partners (“HCI”) and management. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Tri-State is based in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and is a warehouse distributor of automotive aftermarket hard parts, consumables, accessories, and paint. The Company serves automotive service centers, independent parts and accessories stores, e-commerce retailers, and business fleets, and also operates a network of company-owned stores.
The Company was founded in 1977 and acquired by long-time employee, Tristan Taylor, in 2015. Since that time, Tri-State has experienced rapid growth, culminating in its acquisition of fellow Parts Plus member WM Automotive in 2021.
Tristan Taylor, CEO of Tri-State, said, “Since the acquisition of WM Automotive and the opening of our 492,000 square foot Arlington Warehouse, the Tri-State team has had their eye on several new territories and further product line expansion to beter serve its customer base. HCI is the perfect partner to help us accelerate that growth. We are confident that their expertise in supporting growing businesses will help us implement our vision for future growth. Our commitment to customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of our business strategy, and HCI shares that view.”
Scot Gibaratz, Partner at HCI, said “HCI is excited to partner with the management team of Tri-State. We share a common vision for the future and will support the Tri-State team with our resources and expertise to help them continue their extraordinary growth and best-in-class customer service. Tri-State represents a unique opportunity to partner with a dynamic growth platform in the fragmented automotive aftermarket industry.”
“Our biggest goal in looking for a new financing partner was to find someone that shared our values. They needed to be a cultural fit for us. Throughout this entire process, I have been impressed with the HCI team and how they took the time to understand what makes us tick. We are extremely grateful for their trust and look forward to the future as we expand Tri-State Enterprises,” said Tristan Taylor.
Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, PLLC served as legal counsel to the Company. Dickinson Wright PLLC served as legal counsel to HCI.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.09.23) – Nakamichi Car Audio wrapped up a successful week in Las Vegas during last week’s SEMA Show. The week started with a National Sales Meeting held on Monday evening with management and sales reps. Nakamichi president Kiyokazu Igarashi was in attendance flying in from Japan for the meeting and the show.
Robin McNeal pictured in the booth holding the company’s new NDST550A Hi Res DSP.
The next four days were busy for the Nakamichi crew meeting with dealers and distributors. One of the highlights on display in the booth was a new Digital Signal Processor. The Nakamichi NDST550A is a High Res amplified DSP with 10 inputs and 12 outputs. The unit boasts 10 amplified channels: 4 x 50W + 4 x 80W +2 x 160W (bridgeable to 1 x 300W) and 31-bands of equalization. The unit is scheduled for release in early Spring 2024.
Ed Weber-Foss Audio shaking hands with Sheamson Yeo, Global Sales-Nakamichi, as Angela Carrol-Foss Audio looks on in the booth.
“We had a busy four days,” stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio, “I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of foot traffic… even on Friday.” Nakamichi also received a strong international turnout with distributors visiting from around the globe.
The Nakamichi NDST550A New Product Sheet
This was Nakamichi’s fourth straight SEMA Show appearance and plans are already underway for next year’s event.
NEW YORK, NY (11.09.23) – At SiriusXM’s Next Generation Industry & Press Preview, the Company unveiled the new SiriusXM Streaming app, rolling out to subscribers across North America beginning on December 14. Accompanying the app is a refreshed brand platform and the newly-priced Streaming All Access Plan for $9.99 a month*, aimed at welcoming in a new generation of SiriusXM listeners.
“The introduction of the new SiriusXM streaming experience marks a pivotal moment in our history, one that kicks off a new era of innovation at our Company,” said Jennifer Witz, CEO, SiriusXM. “And this launch is just the beginning; we will continue to iterate and develop our product offerings throughout the next year and beyond as we strive to deliver our subscribers the best listening experience on the go, in the car, and wherever they choose to tune in. From can’t miss live moments to the perfect soundtrack for any occasion, with the new SiriusXM, we are putting our differentiators at the forefront and welcoming in a new generation of listeners, bringing them closer to what they love.”
The event also included a first-look at the Company’s new logo and brand platform, embracing the stars and bringing to life SiriusXM’s promise to bring listeners CLOSER. Additionally, SiriusXM unveiled its new mascot, a fresh take on its iconic dog, now playfully named Stella. More information on SiriusXM’s brand refresh is available here.
THE NEW SIRIUSXM APP
The new SiriusXM app, which will begin rolling out in the App Store, Google Play, and on Amazon Fire devices on December 14 with additional platforms and features to come in early 2024, will offer listeners a more personalized, easy-to-use, lean-back streaming experience that puts discovery at the forefront.
Key features coming to the new SiriusXM app include:
Always-On Personalization & Curation: Listeners will now be welcomed in with four curated sections: Music, Talk & Podcasts, Sports, and For You, a customized landing page for each listener. Personalized touch points will greet users across the app experience – even during playback, where listeners who reach their skip limits will be presented with alternative recommendations, allowing them to pivot to content better suited to their mood.
Greater Content Discovery: New pages dedicated to teams, shows, channels, artists and more bring fans closer, allowing them to go deeper into what they love.
Revamped Playback: The new and improved media player will be optimized for each type of content, with new audio segments allowing listeners to jump to key moments; transcription and speed control for podcasts and on-demand talk content; live listening updates for sports and beyond; enhanced airplay and casting; and more.
Enhanced Search: Upgraded search capabilities will make it easier for users to quickly find who or what they are looking for, while the addition of a new search home page will provide curated recommendations for listeners who are looking to discover more.
Improved Podcast Listening: Podcasting holds a place of honor in the new SiriusXM app, with an expanded library and new features such as key moment markers.
Central Audio Library: A revamped library will allow fans to save the content they love – from live channels to on-demand and podcasts, from artists and bands to teams and leagues – in one centralized location, with new offline listening and download capabilities.
Interactive Onboarding: New subscribers will be invited to tailor their SiriusXM experience at sign-on by selecting artists, genres, personalities, leagues, and topics that they love, then browse through and sample tailored channel recommendations with a simple swipe.
NEW ORIGINAL CHANNELS & SHOWS COMING TO SIRIUSXM
SiriusXM announced a variety of new channels and show details, offering something for every listener and bringing fans closer to the artists, personalities, and music they love. These include:
Kelly Clarkson Connection: The new year-round channel launched today and welcomes listeners into Kelly’s world. Listeners are presented with the music she loves and is inspired by, along with the stories behind the music from Kelly’s two-decade long catalog of award-winning hits. Additional details are available here.
New audiochuck channel curated by Ashley Flowers: Expected early next year, the channel will be curated by audiochuck and its Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Ashley Flowers, the host behind chart-topping podcasts including Crime Junkie. Additional details are available here.
Life with John Mayer channel to debut November 22: The exclusive new year-round channel hosted by the seven-time GRAMMY® Award winning singer-songwriter will feature a slate of shows hosted by Mayer, renowned DJ Diplo, and legendary producer Don Was. Additional details are available here.
This Life of Mine with James Corden: Marking his entrance into audio, Corden’s new weekly show will explore the people, places, moments, and memories that helped shape today’s biggest stars, and will launch exclusively for SiriusXM subscribers early next year. Additional details are available here.
Dolly Parton’s Rockstar Radio: The new channel launching November 15 and available for a limited time will feature songs from Dolly’s upcoming album Rockstar as well as familiar hits and hand-picked favorites that inspired the making of the new album. Additional details are available here.
Smokey’s Soul Town: The new year-round channel available now and curated by legendary singer, songwriter and producer Smokey Robinson will play the best of Classic Soul, R&B and Motown from the 60s and 70s. Additional details are available here.
Shaggy’s Boombastic Radio: A new year-round channel available now, curated by the GRAMMY® Award winning reggae icon, immerses listeners in the sounds of reggae, dancehall and vibrant afrobeats. Additional details are available here.
Three new channels are dedicated to different genres of music from the 2000s:
The Flow features the R&B hits after the turn of the millennium from artists including Alicia Keys, Ciara, H.E.R., John Legend, Khalid, Ne-Yo, Usher and more.
Flex2K is dedicated to Hip-Hop from the 2000s, a special time that saw the debut of classic albums like 50 Cent’s “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” and the rise of superstars Drake, Nicki Minaj, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross and others.
Alt2K relives the energy, emotion and exploration of 2000s alternative rock from the breakthrough artists that defined the generation including Cage The Elephant, Coldplay, Fall Out Boy, MUSE, The Killers, Death Cab for Cutie and much more.
With the launch of the new SiriusXM app on December 14, the company will be introducing new guest DJ channel takeovers from over 160 of the world’s top artists and bands, ranging from Olivia Rodrigo and Cardi B to Alice Cooper, Luke Combs, and Maren Morris. These new takeovers bring listeners even closer to the artists they love with music hand-curated by the stars.
For more information and images for the programming announcements made at SiriusXM Next Generation Industry & Press Preview and to access SiriusXM’s complete updated channel guide, please refer to the Media Kit available here.
NEW & EXPANDED DISTRIBUTION
With the launch of the next generation, SiriusXM is focused on establishing and expanding distribution agreements with automotive manufacturers, brands, key industry players, and more to get its unparalleled offering into the hands of potential new subscribers. The Company announced a slate of new and expanded relationships, including:
SiriusXM and Audible are working together to share content and give subscribers the opportunity to experience each other’s offerings beginning in early 2024. Further details on this collaboration will be announced at a later date.
SiriusXM expanded its agreement with Polestar, which is expected to launch with 360L in select model year 2024 Polestar vehicles.
And next year, SiriusXM is expected to be available for guests staying at select properties within the Hilton portfolio as part of the hotel companies’ Connected Room Experience. This enables the millions of guests visiting U.S. Hiltons each year to try out SiriusXM – controlling their in-room entertainment from the Hilton Honors app – and to continue their listening at home, for those looking to take a little piece of vacation with them.
For more information about all the news announced at SiriusXM’s Next Generation Industry & Press Preview and access to hi-res imagery, please visit: www.corporate.siriusxm.com/media-assets.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (11.09.23) – RDV Automotive Technology a leader in OEM integration is proud to announce the first releases of it’s new Amplifier replacement line of products the AR1 line. The first of its kind amplifier interface for BMW vehicles with the iDrive 7 and iDrive 8 infotainment system. Also being released is a BMW MOST 25 amplifier replacement interface.
Rich De Sclafani the owner of RDV said about the new products being released. “This new interface for BMW is a game changer! The new AR1-BMW-E provides exactly what is needed from the new BMW’s iDrive system to seamlessly integrate aftermarket amplifiers into new BMW’s. The AR1-BMW-E works on ALL of the ID7 and ID8 iDrive platforms. The 12volt community has been asking for this and I am extremely happy to bring these products to market. These two interfaces will be available to ship no later than January 1st. We have more applications that we will be releasing very shortly for VW, Mercedes Benz, Land Rover/Range Rover, GM, Lexus, Volvo and more makes and models moving forward.”
Rich DeSclafani, RDV Owner, holds one of the new replacement amplifiers in the company’s Pompano Beach, FL HQ.
1 Series: 2019+, 2 Series: 2020+, 3 Series: 2019+, 4 Series: 2020, 5 Series: 2018, 6 Series 2018+, 7 Series: 2020+, 8 Series: 2019+, X3 2020+, X4 2020+, X5 2019+, X6 2020+, X7 2019+, Z4 2019+ / All M-SERIES performance versions of the cars are also compatible.
Features:
Plug n play
Full frequency digital output
Retains all OEM sounds (door gong, turn signals, Bluetooth etc.)
Front and Rear Toslink and Coaxial outputs
Software tunable
3 Year Warranty
AR1-BMW-M: iDrive: CCC, CIC, NBT, EVO ID7 & EVO ID6
2004 and up BMW’s with MOST 25 Fiber Optic systems (Except 7-Series)
Features:
Plug n play
Full frequency digital output
Retains all OEM sounds (door gong, turn signals, Bluetooth etc.)
Toslink and Coaxial outputs
Software tunable
Includes Logic 7 Software Programming
3 Year Warranty
The AR1-BMW-E and AR1-BMW-M digital amplifier replacement interface for BMW is an advanced electronic device designed to seamlessly replace the factory-installed amplifier in select BMW vehicles. It is engineered to integrate with the existing audio system and provide improved sound quality and functionality without the need for extensive modifications or rewiring.
Key features of the AR-BMW-E / AR1-BMW-M digital amplifier replacement interface are:
Compatibility: Tailored to work specifically with certain models of BMW vehicles, ensuring a direct fit and functionality with the car’s audio system.
Enhanced Audio Quality: The interface is engineered to deliver superior sound quality by leveraging digital signal processing (DSP) and data controlled functions.
Plug-and-Play Installation: Designed for straightforward installation, the interface often requires minimal modifications or wire splicing. It typically connects directly to the existing wiring harness making it a very easy install.
Integration with OEM Controls: It allows seamless integration with the vehicle’s original controls and head unit, preserving features like volume control, Bluetooth, and other audio settings.
Customizable Sound Settings: Our interfaces offer customizable sound settings, allowing users to adjust audio parameters such as door gong, Bluetooth, and other audio preferences for a personalized listening experience.
Designed for Aftermarket Upgrades: Optical output and coaxial output provide flat hi bit rate digital signal directly to your amplifier or DSP.
Reliability and Durability: Built to meet high standards of durability and reliability, ensuring long-term performance and stable operation within the vehicle with a 3 year warranty
Compatibility Updates: Some interfaces might come with firmware or software updates that improve compatibility with new technologies or provide additional features over time.
This interface effectively serves as a modern replacement for the factory amplifier, offering significant improvements in sound quality and customization without compromising the original functionality of the BMW’s audio system. Users can experience an upgraded audio performance tailored to their preferences while retaining the seamless integration and control offered by the vehicle’s original entertainment system.
HOUSTON, TX (11.08.23) – Sunday, November 12th, is a landmark day for SSR Distributors. Sunday November 12th is the date for the SSR Distributors 25th Anniversary Dealer Show in Houston.
Amir Dhanani related “Response has been very strong from dealers across our territory. Over 20 of our top 12volt vendors and manufacturers will be displaying products with representatives on site. We are set to offer crazy deals on select products at the event. Also, there will be training classes through the day plus prizes and giveaways.”
Very busy aisles, like this image from last year, are anticipated for the 25th Anniversary Dealer Show this Sunday.
The SSR Dealer Show is a family friendly event with activities for kids along with food and refreshments.
Nina Conteras, SiriusXM’s Western Sales representative, is set to be in the house. John Velez will fly in from SoCal to show the latest Massive Audio products while Jeremy Foss, Jensen Western Division Sales Manager, is traveling in from CoCal for the SSR Show to talk hot CarPlay and Android Auto features on the Jensen headunit line.
The SSR Houston warehouse is set up so many dealers can attend training sessions like this image from 2022.
Area rep firms scheduled to be in the house include Momentum Marketing, Team Sales, SMS Marketing, Southwest Sales and Marketing, Jonathon Brothers with Metra and Don Butler with Memphis Audio plus David Toliver, Synergy Marketing, will be in the house representing Reikken Battery.
Make your plans for this Sunday to attend the SSR Distributors Dealer Show in Houston at 5725 Hartsdale Drive Houston TX 77036. 713-783-3973.
AVON LAKE, OH (11.08.23) – Design Engineering Inc. (DEI) received three Global Media Awards at the 2023 Specialty Equipment Market Association Show (SEMA) last week in Las Vegas, Nevada. DEI won Global Media Awards for its Advanced Thermal Acoustic Coating (ATAC™), EV Charge Cord Protector and RFI Shield split line sleeve and tape.
The annual SEMA show was Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and celebrates motorsports and car culture by bringing together some of the biggest names in each industry.
Every year, a panel of international journalists evaluate nearly 3,000 featured products. Each journalist voted on the 10 products they believed would be the most compelling to their readers and/or the most likely to succeed in their respective countries.
ATAC is a paint-on material that creates a thermal barrier on floors, walls and roofs, reducing heat and sound in the vehicle cab. EV Charge Cord Protector, provides a split sleeve to protect cords from damage, and RFI Shields provide shielding/sleeving for fuel injection wires and cable bundles preventing radio frequency intrusion issues.
“It is an honor for DEI’s products to be recognized by this esteemed panel of journalists,” said Mike Buca, product manager at DEI. “We are thrilled to keep innovating new heat and sound control solutions for motorsports fans everywhere.”
DEI provides performance heat and sound control products that help motorsports enthusiasts improve performance, protect components, and improve the comfort inside passenger compartments. Industry-leading materials and custom solutions provide cooler in-cabin temperatures and thermal containment, even in the tightest of spaces.
RALEIGH, NC (11.08.23) — Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues their rapid growth in North Carolina with the opening of their newest location in North Raleigh.
Tint World North Raleigh is owned by former software professional and entrepreneur Nicklaus Wynne. His location will introduce North Raleigh and neighboring communities to a robust selection of services and premium aftermarkets solutions such as custom audio and video systems, wheels and tires, security upgrades, industry leading window tinting, paint protection films and more.
“After building a successful career in IT and software, I realized it was time to invest in another passion of mine,” Wynne said. “I’ve always loved automotive upgrades and aftermarket enhancements, and Tint World’s stellar franchise model helped turn my hobby into a lucrative business opportunity. Our team of top-notch technicians and service experts are ready to meet the needs of drivers throughout North Raleigh and transform their dreams of customization into realities.”
Wynne began his journey into franchise ownership during a special year for Tint World – the company’s 40th anniversary.
“When we began speaking with Nicklaus in 2022, it was clear to us that he would be a fantastic culture fit and that his professional background would lend itself toward finding success in our system,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “We’ve poured years of work, testing and talent into creating a reliable system of repeatable process that is proven to not only work, but truly empower dedicated owners to create memorable experiences for their customers and enjoy life with a profitable business. As the latest member of our family, we welcome Nicklaus with open arms and look forward to hearing excellent stories about his service in the North Raleigh market.”
Tint World North Raleigh, located at 13411 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 102, Raleigh, North Carolina 27614, serves the Raleigh, Wake Forest, Rolesville, Youngsville, Knightdale, Wyatt, and Neuse areas. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (919) 432-5334 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nc/north-raleigh-144/.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (11.07.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. has announced that it was named Stellantis’ North American Supplier of the Year during the Company’s third annual Global Supplier Awards ceremony at the Conner Center in Detroit.
Alps Alpine was recognized for their collaboration and partnership in creating industry-leading products, including Premium Audio Systems, as well as for their innovation and technology in new products. This is the second Supplier of the Year award Alps Alpine has received from Stellantis.
“We are honored to be recognized by Stellantis as the top supplier in North America,” said Robert Hill, President and CEO of Alps Alpine North America. “This award recognizes the superior efforts and dedication of the entire Alps Alpine team that supports our Stellantis business and programs.”
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s ‘Supplier of the Year’ winners whose dedication and impeccable standards have helped us navigate challenges and achieve new heights,” said Maxime Picat, Chief Purchasing and Supply Chain Officer, Stellantis. “Their collaborative spirit, exceptional performance, uncompromising quality, and timely delivery of parts and services have been integral to our achievements.”
The 2023 Global Supplier Awards recognized 40 suppliers around the world for their outstanding commitment, performance, quality, and operational excellence in 2022. Suppliers were selected by cross-functional leadership teams at Stellantis to receive the “Supplier of the Year” award.
12VoltNews.com 