Author: 12VoltNews

AudioControl DM-Smart DSP Public Beta Now Available

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CLEARWATER, FL (01.06.23) – The highly anticipated updates to the AudioControl DM-Smart App are now available for Public Beta testing. Thanks to your feedback, these updates have made the app more powerful, reliable and stable for your AudioControl DSPs and DSP amplifiers.

Click below to watch the video walkthrough, where Jeff Smith takes you through all of the important updates and changes.

Click here to download v1.4.01

For Tech Support or app feedback please email: support@audiocontrolmobile.com

Alpine Introduces Next-Generation R-Series Sound System Line

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.05.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) introduces the Next-Generation R-Series sound system line. This line features the same “Loud and Fun” experience synonymous with previous Alpine R-Series systems, now certified for High-Resolution Playback.

“The heritage of R-Series is built on a ‘Loud and Fun’ performance quality that long-time fans have enjoyed since its’ inception,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “The Next-Generation R-Series system honors this tradition while addressing the needs of an evolving industry and customer.”

The Next-Generation R-Series system uses “trickle-down” technology, inspired design, and performance cues from the Ultra-High-Resolution AlpineF#1Status and Alpine Status systems with High-Resolution Playback capabilities that will take R-Series to the next level in sound performance.

Hi-Res Audio Certified

The Next-Generation R-Series speaker line is Hi-Res Audio Certified, able to reproduce up to 40kHz frequency response for music that is closer to the original source. The speaker line offers two pathways: “Pro Series” and “Standard” models.

The Pro Series speakers are available in 2-way or 3-way configurations, each with a highly adjustable crossover network for improved sound tuning and installation. The speaker components are constructed with a highly rigid, die-cast aluminum basket that eliminates flexing and resonance during playback to ensure the highest music quality. The speakers utilize a premium, glass fiber-reinforced cone and an Alpine-exclusive High-Amplitude Multi-Roll (HAMR) surround that all contribute to greater mid-range during playback. Magnesium Hard-Dome tweeters contribute to the “loud and fun” sound signature popular with R-Series, with an extreme swivel mount design and threaded removable housing for flexible factory applications.

The Pro Series includes a Hi-Res 3-Way Speaker Set (R2-S653) with a 6.5” Mid-Bass, 3” Mid-Range, and 1” Component Tweeter and 3-Way Passive Crossover Network for flexible vehicle application. The Pro Series also offers a 2-Way Speaker Set (R2-S652) with a 6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Component Tweeter and a 2-Way adjustable Passive Crossover Network.

The Standard Series speaker models offer 2-way component and coaxial configurations with a flexible crossover network that simplifies installation. The speakers utilize a traditional composite basket with a glass fiber-reinforced cone, a larger motor structure, and HAMR surround technology, like the Pro Series models.

The Standard Series includes a Hi-Res Coax Speaker Set (R2-S65) with a  6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Coaxial Tweeter and a Hi-Res 2-Way Speaker Set (R2-S65C) that includes a 6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Component Tweeter. For the customer with full-sized trucks or vehicles with 6×9” factory speakers, a 6×9” Coaxial (R2-S69) and 2-Way Component (R2-S69C) speaker set are also available. The 6×8” speaker model (R-S68) will carry over from the previous R-Series line.

Impressive Power

The Next-Generation R-Series Amplifier line is High-Res Audio Certified, able to reproduce up to 40kHz frequency response, and includes a full lineup that boasts impressive power, yet is compact in size, for powerhouse performance.

The Next-Generation R-Series Amplifiers include a 4-channel amplifier and two mono amplifiers, for more flexibility in sound system building.

In an effort to simplify the process in the installation bay, intentional designs were made that consolidated access to the speaker connections to one side of the amplifier and controls conveniently located at the top of the amplifier under a removable plate. Mounting “feet” were also integrated into the chassis of the amplifier to simplify the installation process. The amplifiers also feature a smaller footprint for easier installation in most vehicle applications, while still boasting the same power as the previous R-Series generation

The amplifier line includes a Hi-Res 4-Channel Amplifier (R2-A60F) with 100W x 4 @ 4Ω, a Mono Amplifier (R2-A75M) with an impressive output of 750W x 1 @ 2Ω, and a massive Mono Amplifier (R2-150M) with the flexibility to run 1500W x 1 @ 1Ω or 1200W x 1 @ 2Ω. Carrying over from the previous R-Series line is the versatile 6-Channel (R-A90S) amplifier for fully active 3-Way Speaker configurations.

Clean, Deep Bass

The recently launched Next-Generation R-Series Subwoofer line features a new design, but the same deep and clean bass performance that is synonymous with the R-Series line.

Featuring a larger motor structure and utilizing the Alpine Exclusive HAMR technology, the subwoofers are able to produce maximum output for deeper bass. A pulp Kevlar cone and ceramic/polypropylene composite dust cap contribute to a lighter, yet rigid design that results in lower distortion during play. To simplify installation, a twist lock grille system replaces the concealed mount gasket of the previous models.

The subwoofer line includes a 12” (and 10” option that boasts 750W RMS and an 8” option with 350W RMS, with the ability to choose between 2Ω and 4Ω load depending on the desired application.

The Next-Generation R-Series Speakers and Amplifiers will ship in the Spring and Summer of 2023, respectively. The Next-Generation R-Series Subwoofers are available now and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

Product information is based upon current information at the time of press but cannot be guaranteed. All designs, features, specifications, and delivery dates are subject to change without notice.   

2022 IASCA Worldwide Wrap Up, Finals, & 2023 Plans

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EAST WENATCHEE, WA (01.05.23) – With a successful 2022 IASCA season behind them, IASCA President Travis Chin would like to thank all IASCA Members, Sponsors and Judges for their support and participation during the season.

“The 2022 IASCA season was a huge success, certainly a very positive sign over 2021 and since the COVID pandemic. It was great to see many new competitors, as well as veteran competitors, at events across the country.” said Chin “I would like to thank each and every one of them who helped IASCA grow in 2022. The 2022 IASCA World Finals were once again very exciting and did not disappoint.”

The 2022 IASCA World Finals were held at three different venues; for SQ (Sound Quality), the event was held at the Cowan Center in Lebanon, MO. The Judging staff included many long time SQ names that have history through the years, including:

Keith Turner

Harry Kimura

Mike Myers

Justin Silva

Andrea Paulson

Shazad Rahaman

Scott Welch

A stunning collection of IASCA trophies await winning competitors at the IASCA Finals.
The scene from above from the 2022 IASCA Finals in Lebanon.

SPL competition was held in two events, one east coast and one west coast. The East coast event took place at the Farm Bureau Expo in Lebanon, TN and the west coast event at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Albany, OR. Many record scores were set at both events and officiating these competitions included IASCA SPL Judges from across the country, including (judges and support staff):

Scott Sinde

Jeremy Taylor

Ray Pimley

Salvador Vargas

Jose Vargas

Joey Perry

Christle Perry

Tamesha Ledford

Competitors gathered with their trophies at the IASCA Finals in Albany OR.
Competitors capturing action in the Finals’ lanes.

“I would also like to thank all IASCA Sponsors at Finals and throughout the year,” Chin continued to say “Their support reinforces that car audio competition has great value to our industry and we will continue to bring them and our members first class events throughout the 2023 season.”

Sponsors include:

Sundown (https://www.sundownaudio.com)

Karma Mobile Audio (https://www.karmamobileaudio.com/)

Italia HiFi (https://www.italiahifi.com/)

Crystal Audio Solutions (https://crystalaudiosolutions.com/)

Autotech Engineering (https://autotechengineeringusa.com/)

German Maestro (https://www.german-maestro.de/)

TRU Technology (https://www.trutechnology.com/)

Zapco (https://www.zapco.com/)

Arc Audio (https://www.arcaudio.com/)

B2 Audio (https://www.b2audio.com/)

Audio Concepts

Sky High Car Audio (https://skyhighcaraudio.com/)

Surf City Soundoff (https://www.facebook.com/groups/526553134043246/)

Kamilche Dental Center (https://kamilchedentalcenter.com/)

“The work hasn’t stopped since Finals ended though,” Chin stated “We’ve been working on the 2023 rules for both SPL and SQ, 2023 World Finals plans are under way and many major events on the 2023 schedule are being finalized, some of which may be announced prior to this press release, including the Surf City Soundoff, Slamology and the Summer Showcase. We will also be conducting Judges Training seminars in the spring, both nationally and internationally. There’s a lot in store for 2023  and I’m looking forward to yet another successful season of IASCA competition!”

For more information on IASCA Worldwide, visit iasca.com.

The12volt 6-Pack Is Set to Showcase Positive Activities Across The 12volt Industry

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.05.23) – It’s the 12volt 6-Pack. As the 12volt Central Studios works to deliver fresh industry news each day of the week the 12volt 6-Pack is a way for 12volt industry to catch up on news from the day as they enjoying refreshing in the evening.

Utilizing the 12volt STP Tool industry members in the office or on the road can highlight their day’s activities in the 12volt 6-Pack.

The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to txt their positive activities to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844. PRESTO…..your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.

On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are nearly all dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Check out the 12Volt 6-Pack as The 12volt Central Studios will work to make 6 social media posts each business day delivering fresh positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

For more see 12voltnews.com

Motorsports Industry Mourns the Passing of Ken Block

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.04.22) – Prominent rally racer and action sports star Ken Block passed away after a snowmobile accident in Utah on Monday, January 2, according to a statement posted on the Hoonigan website. Ken was 55 years old.

“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed,” said his team, Hoonigan Racing, in a statement.

In addition to his autograph sessions and special appearances, Block was a featured speaker at the 2022 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, where he discussed the making of “Electrikhana” a tire-shredding trip on the Las Vegas Strip through the lens of a bespoke, 800-volt, bi-motor, AWD Audi S1, developed and built by Audi.

Ken Block takes a photo with a fan during an autograph session at the 2022 SEMA Show.

Block also competed in the American Rally Association (ARA) along with his wife Lucy and 16-year-old daughter Lia, one of three children. Block, a co-founder of the skateboarding brand DC Shoes, was also known for his Gymkhana action videos that received a large following on YouTube and related social media outlets.

For more information on Block, visit the Hoonigan Racing website.

Alpine First in Aftermarket to Offer SiriusXM’s Latest Generation 360L Platform

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.04.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) will be the first aftermarket car audio company to offer SiriusXM-Ready head units enhanced with the satellite and streaming capabilities of 360L – SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment platform.SiriusXM with 360L will become available on compatible head units via a free software update from Alpine in February 2023 and requires the SiriusXM SXV300 Tuner and a subscription, which are sold separately. The compatible head units include the Alpine Halo11 iLX-F511, the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509, the iLX-507, and Jeep-specific head units i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK.

A History of “Firsts”

Alpine and SiriusXM have a history of “firsts” throughout their 20-year relationship when it comes to providing audio entertainment in aftermarket head units. In 2011 Alpine was the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready head units in the industry. Now, Alpine introduces the first aftermarket head unit that is SiriusXM-Ready with 360L features and functionality.

“As the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready connectivity on an aftermarket head unit, it seems fitting that Alpine is also the first to feature SiriusXM’s groundbreaking 360L platform on an aftermarket head unit,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “In addition to adding value to our exciting new line-up of High-Resolution head units, SiriusXM with 360L will provide even more audio entertainment content and personalization from SiriusXM.”

SiriusXM with 360L’s Personalized Listening Experience

SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, providing more choice and a more customizable listening experience. SiriusXM with 360L delivers more SiriusXM channels (350+), SiriusXM’s Pandora Stations, “For You” recommendations, recorded on demand content and podcasts, and more. SiriusXM with 360L in Alpine’s head units will also feature individual SiriusXM listener profiles to allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize and maintain their own SiriusXM favorites and personalized recommendations, as well as voice search functionality.*

SiriusXM’s music channels are expertly curated, ad-free, and deliver an exceptionally wide array of audio choices for listeners. Covering every genre across many decades, channels feature popular tracks and deep cuts from popular artists, as well as introduce listeners to new and emerging musicians and bands. Artist-branded channels from Hall of Fame and iconic talent feature original content that can’t be heard anywhere else. SiriusXM’s concept-based channels, such as Road Trip Radio and Yacht Rock Radio, or its many activity and mood-based channels, are designed to deliver a personalized music experience that fits the moment.

SiriusXM offers the most extensive lineup of professional and college sports in audio; news from around the country and the world from many sources and political perspectives; the scoop on the latest from the world of entertainment; hours of stand-up by the funniest comics; and more.

“We are pleased to be expanding the availability of SiriusXM with 360L and its extensive offering of audio entertainment content and enhanced features to many more drivers by making it available in several of Alpine’s state-of-the-art aftermarket head units,” said Hasib Mohammed, Vice President, Dealer and Retail Sales, SiriusXM. “Alpine’s advanced head units are the perfect way to introduce SiriusXM with 360L to the aftermarket industry.”

SiriusXM offers promotions for Alpine head unit owners that purchase and activate the SXV300 Tuner. Visit siriusxm.com/activatenow for offer details.

Subscribers can also listen to SiriusXM outside their vehicles on the SXM App, available on the App Store or Google Play, and on connected devices and speakers in their homes.

The free software update that includes SiriusXM-Ready with 360L will be available in February 2023 and can be found on the Alpine Knowledge Center (https://kb.alpine-usa.com). SiriusXM-Ready with 360L is available on compatible Alpine head units and requires the SXV300 Tuner and subscription (sold separately).

Timmy Fresh Brand Creates Custom Bicycles and Adds the PowerBass BT-200

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CLOVIS, CA (01.03.23) – Tim Garcia has been building custom bicycles for nearly 8 years in his shop in Clovis CA. Garcia spent a number of years in the aftermarket automotive before opening the Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle shop.

Tim Garcia in the showroom of his Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle store in Clovis CA.

Garcia related “I have always enjoyed creating and working on projects. I decided to own my own business and saw an opportunity to open a bicycle shop. The community of people spending time outdoors and riding their bikes covers a wide age range of individuals. Adults see advantages in customizing a wide variety of products. Bicycles are no exceptions when they learn of the possibilities. We build a variety of customs bicycles with different styles, graphic designs and wheel sizes…normally 26” and 29” with various widths. Our Timmy Fresh Brand creations can add riding comfort for riders.”

Tom Garcia pictured with Yankee star Aaron Judge with a Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle at an All Ride Charity Auction.

Continuing “In addition, with Bluetooth products, riders can add listening enjoyment on their rides. Many of our customers have portable bluetooth devices. We added the PowerBass BT-200 Bluetooth portable to our store product selection and now make a custom bracket to secure the BT-200 to the frame of a Timmy Fresh Brand bike. About 20% of our customers add the BT-200 and bracket to their creation. We also sell our bracket to bicycle shops across the country.”

The Metallica Charity bike in the Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle Store.

Offering custom items at charity auctions is a unique venue for a company to know about their brand and products. Early this year Garcia learned of the Metallica All Within My Hands Charity Auction and submitted a proposal that was accepted.

The Metallica Charity Timmy Fresh bike in the PowerBass booth at SEMA 2022.

Garcia and Erik Harbour from PowerBass, had worked together in the past and both are live concert attendees and huge Metallica fans. They had put a program in place to display a Timmy Fresh creation in the PowerBass SEMA Show booth with a BT-200 for all to see. Utilizing the Metallica branded bike was a win/win as many enjoyed seeing the bike in the booth and experiencing the BT-200 rockin’ on the bike.

The Timmy Fresh Brand custom bracket for attaching a PowerBass BT-200 to a bike on the store counter.

“PowerBass was definitely proud to partner with friends at T-FRESH/TIMMY FRESH BRAND custom bicycles and their Metallica Themed Charity Auction Bike. The top auction bid of $6500. was definitely amazing.The bike was a draw in our booth at SEMA and that visibility continued at the Metallica Concert at the Microsoft Theater on December 16th. Having a proactive bike shop owner see the business potential to add portable PowerBass Bluetooth products to their product offerings is a win for all” Harbour related.

Garcia concluded “We are waiting until the information for the winning bid is verified and we receive the information for delivery. We hope the winner is in our area so we can deliver the Metallica Timmy Fresh custom bike in person.”

For more see powerbassusa.com.

HELLO And A Big Welcome To Year 2023

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THE 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (01.03.2023) – Today begins the first business day, for most, in the New Year… HELLO and a Big Welcome Year 2023.

In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News and the 12volt Central Studios work to deliver positive industry news each business day. A feature article post, along with 2 news articles, are posted on 12voltnews.com each business day. The 12volt Beat newsletter delivers fresh industry news from previous days twice weekly… early Monday and Thursday mornings.

From The 12volt Central Studios we feel it is very important for industry members to stay informed about fresh industry news. New products from manufacturers, event activities happening across in the industry, brick and mortar dealers moving forward with events, new showroom remodels or displays plus successful promotions.

Manufacturer rep firms are a vital to delivering information in the field and bringing a sense of community across the U.S. The annual CES show was traditionally a way for the 12volt industry to kick off the new year. The days of the LVCC North Hall being filled with 12volt exhibitors appears to be history. Not many 12volt companies connecting with industry members in Vegas starting this Thursday, January 5th.

Creating the 12voltSTP in 2020 was another example of making it easy for industry members to put their company’s brand and positive activities in front of members of the 12volt industry.

Put the 12voltSTP Tool to work for your company. The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. Snap..Txt..PRESTO. Your company’s positive news could be in the news. 318-465-0844 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles for information and news delivery. The fact remains all people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news to help them grow their respective businesses. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

Click a thumbnail above to enlarge

Today a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone. To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. No crazy TikTok drunk driving posts.

For more see 12voltnews.com

Aegis Distribution To Be Distributor for Dynaudio Car In United States And Canada

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VACAVILLE, CA (01.03.22) – Aegis Distribution Incorporated (ADi) announces its agreement with Dynaudio, the iconic Danish speaker maker, and Dynaudio Americas to become the sole distributor of Dynaudio Car products in the USA and Canada.

ADi, headquartered in Vacaville, California, was formed in 2022 by a group of manufacturers and investors with the goal of bringing high-end car audio products to the Americas, tailored and fine tuned to fit the unique needs of these regions.

“Dynaudio will be one of the cornerstones of our high-end enterprise. There is simply no better sounding system speaker,” says Scott Welch of ADi. “I was blown away the first time I heard a properly set up Dynaudio Esotar system, and the meticulous tweaks to the Esotar2 have made them even better.”

“What is truly exceptional about the whole line,” he continues, “is that they have taken a great deal of the engineering that built the Esotar2 and applied it to all their drivers. The MSP cone material, the under-hung dual magnet motors, oversized voice coils, and the HF dome material are now used throughout the line. When you look at their most expensive model and their least expensive model, you can see the differences, but you can also see the similarities. Those similarities, from shared engineering, are what makes the whole line such a great sound value, to all levels of audiophile listeners. We expect great things with the Dynaudio Line, and we can’t wait to get started.”

Dynaudio combined their knowledge gained from over 40 years of innovation with their expertise in building award-winning home hi-fi speakers. Dynaudio’s audio experts have their own uncompromising ideas about how an in-car sound system should really sound in terms of top performance and sound quality.

“Dynaudio is proud to be working with Scott Welch, John Borges and the team at Aegis Distribution,” said Michael Manousselis, president of Dynaudio Americas. “Their extensive product knowledge, incredible passion for high performance audio, and their vast industry experience make them the perfect partners to support the company’s car audio loudspeakers.”

For more information or dealer inquiries, please contact ADi at sales@aegisdis.com or by phone at 707-446-6749.

The 12Volt 6-Pack Delivers Fresh Industry News To The 12Volt Industry

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.03.23) – It’s the 12volt Central Studios 12volt 6-Pack. As the 12volt Central Studios works to deliver fresh industry news each day of the week the 12volt 6-Pack is a way for 12volt industry to catch up on news from the day as they enjoying a refreshing evening.

Utilizing the 12volt STP Tool industry members on the road could highlight their day’s activities in the 12volt 6-Pack.

The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to txt their news to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318 465 0844. PRESTO…..your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry. On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Check out the 12Volt 6-Pack as The 12volt Central Studios will work to make 6 social media posts each business day delivering fresh positive news the 12volt industry.

For more see 12voltnews.com