Memphis Brings the Heat to the Under Seat Bass System Game with a New Nanoboxx and Selectable Impedance Shallow Subs

MEMPHIS, TN (12.23.2021) – Memphis Audio has been working diligently on creating solution-based items that help dealers succeed. A new addition to the Memphis lineup is the Nanoboxx (NANO110P) 10” under seat bass package. This compact all-in-one solution measures in at an exceptionally small 13.9” x 9.8” x 3.3” and is designed to be mounted virtually anywhere in a vehicle.

The Nanoboxx features an oversized passive radiator which significantly enhances the bass output of the single 10” powered subwoofer. The internal amplifier is a powerful but efficient class D amplifier which stays cool in environments with less-than-optimal air circulation. Memphis added an ultra-cool RGB LED down firing light to the unit which adds to the ambiance of any vehicle. “We had a great sounding under seat solution before that people loved and we wanted to build off of that success. Our aim was to control the cost and provide an even better solution. We achieved both. The performance of this new under seat bass solution is better than its predecessor and the cost actually dropped a bit,” said Nick LoMonaco, president of Memphis Audio.

If you have a little more room to work with, Memphis Audio’s all new Power Reference Shallow subwoofers are the perfect solution. Available in a 10” and 12” with a mounting depth of roughly 3” and a power handling 350/700W of power, Power Reference slim subwoofers are built for big bass in a tight space. These subwoofers look similar to their predecessors but are actually an entirely redesigned woofer. The new design sees the addition of Memphis FLEXTM Selectable Impedance Technology allowing you to effortlessly switch the impedance between 2Ω and 4Ω. The basket was also upgraded to a heavy duty stamped design which is built to last. The engineers at Memphis also improved the sensitivity and low-end response of the woofers making them a formidable addition to the Memphis line.

The Memphis NANO110P will be available in January 2022. The Power Reference Slim Subwoofers are in stock now and shipping.

Visit www.memphiscaraudio.com for more.

Design Engineering Formed Sensor Covers Protect Equipment from Heat, Moisture, and Dirt

AVON LAKE, OH (12.23.2021) – Protect vulnerable sensors, plugs and wire connectors on your off-road, race or street machine with new Formed Sensor Covers from Design Engineering, Inc.

Extremely lightweight and easy to install, the covers fully encase automotive sensors, acting as a thermal barrier to prevent failures.

“Formed Sensor Covers are a great way to protect sensors, plugs and wire connectors from heat, moisture and dirt,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “They are made from an aluminized insulation that acts as a thermal barrier.”

Featuring a split-top design that makes installation a breeze, the silver covers are offered in 25mm (#10753) and 32mm (#10754) sizes to fit a variety of sensors, wire connectors and plugs. Additionally, DEI offers the 25mm and 32mm sizes sold in one kit (#10759) that can be nested together to fully cover sensors near engine manifolds, turbos and other heat sources.

The covers are constructed with an insulating inner layer and heat-reflective outer layer.

For more information about Formed Sensor Covers and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

KICKER Mourns the Unexpected Passing of Vice President Rob Limbaugh

STILLWATER, OK (12.22.2021) – KICKER is deeply saddened to announce the unexpected passing of colleague Rob Limbaugh.  Limbaugh departed this life Friday while at home.  An 18-year KICKER employee and longtime industry veteran, Limbaugh first served as National Sales Director at Stillwater Designs, ultimately ascending to Director of Business Development and Vice President.

“He was an amazing visionary for the big picture,” said KICKER President and co-founder Steve Irby.  “We will certainly miss his contributions, his viewpoints, and his insightful plans.”

While under Limbaugh’s watch, KICKER expanded the Marine and Powersports lines of products, formed the Home and Portables division, and relocated 200 employees into the company’s new world headquarters in Stillwater, Okla. He was instrumental in keeping KICKER relevant into the 21st century, playing an essential part of moving KICKER products into big-box retail and developing KICKER’s current UMAP (Unilateral Minimum Advertised Pricing) policy so dealers could grow their revenue.

He also got the KICKER brand involved in his auto passion, One Lap of America, for several years, and he co-drove a BMW during the 2018 road-course race.

Limbaugh started his audio career in 1975 at Pacific Stereo in Fresno, Calif.  His passion for audio led him to be vice president at Linear Power for six years. After that he led Polk Audio’s car-audio division for more than a decade before joining KICKER’s sales team.

“Rob was always extremely sharp,” said KICKER Director of Global Supply Chain Greg Lew. “He loved going to soundoffs. He loved loud audio.  He was witty, trustworthy, and a great friend – somebody you could chat with and challenge.”

Behind his famously dry wit and wry smile, Limbaugh was known to be a deep thinker and consistent voice among KICKER leadership.

“He had an amazing mind for seeing the overall plan,” recalled KICKER General Manager Jay Ralston. “He was an integral part of every major decision and had a gift for considering all the angles.”

“He was always presenting a bigger picture solution and played that role very well,” Irby said. “It’s important to have a diversity of opinions in a company to make balanced decisions, and we could always count on Rob.  He will definitely be missed.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

HKI USA Debuts Its Line of Vehicle Enhancement Products from TURY at KnowledgeFest Dallas

DANIA BEACH, FL (12.22.2021) – Tury, a tier one OEM partner with Nissan, Toyota, Fiat, Jeep, Hyundai and many others, specializes in high tech vehicle add-ons. Tury engineers, manufactures, and offers a complete line up of interfaces from Factory Key Fob window, sunroof and side mirrors automation to a throttle response kit designed to eliminate the gas pedal delay found in many drive by wire vehicles. Tury is also developing trailer connection harness specifically catered to the US market, and many other unique items that will be announced over the next several months.

“We are very excited to bring TURY to the US. After over a year of studying and preparing TURY for the US market we can say we are finally ready to start our long journey on becoming one of the top vendors in this segment.” says Diogo Iannaccone, CEO of HKI USA.

“HKI USA is the perfect partner for TURY in the US with their great team. We are looking forward to our expansion into the US market.” says Daniel Turi, CEO of TURY.

Contact your HKI USA OE Rep or call us at (844) 590-2233 to hear more about becoming a dealer. For more information about TURY visit www.tury.com.br/international

Heise is Now Shipping Its Next Generation of LED Lighting Solutions

HOLLY HILL, FL (12.22.2021) Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronicsis now shipping its next generation of Blackout Series lightbars, driving and cube lights, featuring refined frames, cleaner lines, and upgraded optics. The optics have changed from a direct placement to an indirect placement, allowing more control of the location and pattern of the beam. This allows the lights to be tailored to the vehicle, its entire lighting system, and for the driver’s lighting coverage needs. Heise is also shipping its new heavy-duty Edgeless Series of work and driving lights that combine form and function for a sleek appearance that doesn’t compromise performance. Just in time for winter, a heated work LED light has also joined Heise’s new product lineup, and adding to the existing Infinite Series line of RGB backlit lights is a new 5-inch flush mount cube. These new lights were introduced at the 2021 SEMA Show and are now shipping.

Blackout Series Lightbars

A new and improved design and upgraded optics make the latest generation of Heise’s Blackout Series a versatile lighting solution. Function meets style with refined frames and cleaner lines for a sleek yet minimalistic look. The hybrid 90-degree flood and 8-degree spot beam pattern combination delivers intense spotlights in the center flanked by widebeam lights on each side. Available as a dual-row lightbar in 8, 14, 20, 22, 32, 42, and 50-inch lengths, or as a single-row slimline lightbar in 9.5, 20.5, 31.5, 39.5, and 50.5-inch lengths.

Blackout Series Driving Lights and Cubes (Standard and Flush Mount)

Heise’s Blackout Series driving lights and high output cube LED lights are small but powerful for better coverage at night. These lights also have the next-generation improved Blackout Series design with upgraded optics for more control of the location and pattern of the beam. Two IP67 rated options for driving lights feature an intense 15-degree spot beam pattern and 6 LEDs, available in a standard or flush mount option. The IP67 rated cube lights are available in various spot or flood beam patterns, sold as a set, and include the HE-DLWH1 dual light wiring harness for installation. Flush mount options are also available and sold individually without a harness.

Edgeless Series Work and Driving Lights

The new Edgeless Series features lights with a clean, edgeless frame with no screws on the front face for a sleek appearance that doesn’t compromise performance. This new series features four new spot beam pattern lights in 7 or 9-inch round options, the HE-EL3 and HE-EL4, a 4-inch driving light option, the HE-EL2, and a 5-inch work light, the HE-WL5. The new Edgeless Series also features a rectangular work area light with a flood beam pattern, the HE-WLAF.

Heated Work Light

Designed for winter, the heated feature in Heise’s new HE-WL4H light helps to melt the frost and prevent snow from covering the light and reducing visibility. This heavy-duty work flood light is designed for off-road, rugged, and dark night conditions to illuminate the path for a better drive. This 4.3-inch light is sold individually and has a 75-degree flood beam pattern with 9600 raw lumens.

Infinite Series Flush Mount RGB Cube Light

Heise’s popular RGB backlit LED lights, the Infinite Series, now has a flush mount cube light option for the perfect fit inside the bumper. Light colors can be changed with the swipe of a finger, with pure white light and 16 million selectable colors as a backlight, controlled by a smartphone app. The HE-FMICL2 cube light requires Metra’s RGB-CB1 controller, which is sold separately and required for RGB operation. This light is compatible with the entire Heise Infinite Series and can be synced with other Heise or Metra RGB lights that use the same RGB-CB1 controller.

All of Heise’s new lights are now shipping and more information and specifications can be seen at HeiseLED.com. Heise LED lights are sold for off-road use only. These products should not be used on public roads.

SEMA Launches New Online Education Library for Automotive Professionals

DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.21.2021) – SEMA launched a new online education library to provide the automotive aftermarket with easy and affordable year-round access to experts and leaders.

From technical details about advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and legislative and advocacy updates, to best practices and tips on common business skills and behind-the-scenes conversations with industry leaders, celebrities, and icons, the new SEMA Virtual Education website at www.sema.org/education includes a comprehensive collection of educational webinars and resources targeted to the automotive aftermarket.

“The SEMA Virtual Education website provides the automotive aftermarket with a one-stop shop of industry-leading education and resources that will support the industry throughout the year,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA Sr. Manager of Professional Development. “The website is user-friendly and provides businesses and employees a convenient way to learn best practices and increase their knowledge in order to advance in their careers.”

SEMA’s new online education library will provide the automotive aftermarket with year-round access to seminars and exclusive virtual content.

Employees of SEMA member companies will have the distinct advantage of being able to access most education at no cost or at a discount, but all sessions are available to anyone in the industry – regardless of SEMA membership status.

The new website includes exclusive recordings from the 2021 SEMA Show, which will be free to everyone.

Through www.sema.org/education, users will find:
Recordings of 2021 SEMA Show Education seminars (to be added in the coming months)
Live and simu-live virtual sessions that allow participants to connect with speakers in real-time
Recommended sessions, based on individual profiles
Easy-to-find sessions sorted by categories, topics, and industry segments
A personal dashboard of purchased or registered items

“We collaborate with leading subject-matter experts and the most dynamic speakers to bring the industry the best experience possible,” added Vigil. “Participants of the education program can expect comprehensive presentations, insightful discussions, and entertaining videos that teach, inform, and inspire.”

Over 50 on-demand sessions are already housed on the SEMA Virtual Education website. Searchable categories include but are not limited to marketing and sales, small business strategies, legislative and regulatory, trends and research, vehicle technology, and professional development. New content will be added weekly.

Users can access the program and create a personal profile at www.sema.org/education

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping A 300-Watt Complete Sound Upgrade for Jeep

AUBURN HILLS, MI (12.21.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the new PSS-24WRA 300-Watt Complete Sound Upgrade Package for the four-door, non-amplified 2018 and Up Jeep Wrangler and non-amplified 2020 and Up Jeep Gladiator.

Top-Off Performance for Your Jeep
Now Jeep owners can get top-off sound for cruising down the highway or weaving through off-road trails with the PSS-24WRA. This 300-watt complete package has 5-channels of powered sound that replaces the factory Jeep system.

The system includes two sets of 6.5” weather-resistant mid-bass drivers and 1” weather-resistant tweeters that replace the front and rear soundbar factory speakers tuned for the unique cabin environment of the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. Powered by a 4-channel power pack amplifier, the speakers are designed for powerful, top-off performance that’s unhindered by weather, wind, or other noise while driving. An 8” powered, compact subwoofer adds deep, accurate bass that grounds the sound system.

System Compatibility
Building a complete sound system has never been easier. The PSS-24WRA is compatible with the i407-WRA-JL 7” Multimedia Receiver and the X409-WRA-JL 9” Weather-Resistant Navigation System with Off-Road Mode. A vehicle-specific T-harness is included for installation with the factory radio into compatible, four-door, non-amplified 2018-Up Jeep Wranglers or 2020-Up Jeep Gladiators.

Plug-and-Play Installation
Alpine takes the guesswork out of installation with vehicle-specific speaker connections and pods designed for the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. Tweeter adapter plates use the original factory tweeter locations. Vehicle-specific mounting brackets are included to secure the 8” compact subwoofer and the 4-channel amplifier under the passenger seat, without drilling.

The PSS-24WRA is now shipping at a MAP of $1999.95 and is available at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

Features:
Complete five-channel powered sound system upgrade package
Compatible with four-door, non-amplified 2018 – Up Jeep Wrangler and non-amplified 2020 – Up Jeep Gladiator
Includes Alpine’s SPV-65X-WRA, SPV-65-JLT, PWE-S8, and KTP-445U
180W, 4-channel Power Pack amplifier
120W, 8” powered subwoofer
(2x) 6.5” weather-resistant mid-bass drivers
(2x) 1” weather-resistant teteron dome tweeters with vehicle-specific connectors and crossovers
Vehicle specific front speaker pods with vehicle-specific connectors
Tweeter adapter plates that allow for use of the original factory tweeter locations
The SPV-65-JLT weather-resistant rear soundbar speaker system
Rugged, premium grills designed to emulate the factory look and appeal
Vehicle-specific connectors for plug-and-play speaker installation 
Utilizes factory bolt locations
Durable stamped, steel frame speaker basket design
Includes template for ease of mounting
Vehicle specific T-harness for installation with OEM radio into compatible 2018 – Up Jeep Wrangler and 2020 – Up Jeep Gladiator vehicles
Vehicle specific mounting brackets that allow for the powered sub and amp to be secured under the passenger seat without drilling

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

Memphis Releases Dual 15” MOJO Loaded Enclosures, with 12″ Model Arriving Early 2022

MEMPHIS, TN (12.21.2021) – The Memphis MOJO is one of the most sought-after subwoofers on the market. This impressive subwoofer has been equipped with all the innovative technology that Memphis could muster to create the most impressive, high performance MOJO subwoofer since their inception years ago. Patented Memphis FLEX Selectable Impedance Technology allows you to configure the woofer in either 1Ω or 2Ω, Direct Vent Voice Coil Cooling optimizes the air flow throughout the subwoofer to rapidly cool the voice coils as they are played loud and hard, V-Groove surround provides for increased excursion and more effective surface area for more air movement than any MOJO to date. Combining these features along with a lot of high-level engineering resulted in a subwoofer worthy of the MOJO name.

Memphis released a single 12” loaded enclosure (MOJOE12S1) which is a single 12” side ported enclosure wired at 1Ω and capable of handling 1500w/3000w of power. Memphis has now unveiled a dual 15” loaded enclosure to launch in 2022. This big boy on the block features dual 15” subs and is capable of handling an absurd 3000w/6000w. The new subwoofer pairs wonderfully with Memphis’s new VIV3000.1V2 3000watt amplifier.

All MOJO Loaded enclosures feature a sleek black piano finish front panel and carpet wrapped exterior with orange Memphis MOJO branding giving this box a very custom and high-end appearance. The enclosure itself is designed to the exact T/S parameters of Memphis MOJO subwoofers allowing them to milk every ounce of bass. A single sided port allows the box to be side loaded into any vehicle where room permits.

“After the success of Mini MOJO loaded enclosures, we decided to give a series of full-size enclosures a try. A lot of dealers are pressed for time and many are dealing with labor shortages at their shops. By enhancing our loaded enclosure line, we’ve taken a lot of the burden of box building off their backs. Some projects require a fully custom enclosure which we are huge fans of, but other just need a really good-looking high-performance box capable of delivering the results the customer expects from Memphis subwoofers. These boxes fill that gap and allow the dealer to set the customer up with a product that looks amazing and delivers results without the need for going fully custom. We had great deal of success with dealers when we launched our first round of MOJO and M7 full size enclosures but dealers kept asking for the big guys to make an appearance. They wanted 15’s so Memphis delivered. The dual 15” MOJO loaded enclosure is an absolute beast and I can’t wait to see them loaded into larger vehicles who want the loudest subwoofer box Memphis has to offer,” said Nick LoMonaco, president of Memphis Audio.

Memphis MOJO 12” enclosures arrive March 2022.

Visit memphiscaraudio.com for more

Laketown Speed And Sound Traveled to KnowledgeFest Dallas

DRAPER, UT (12.20.2021) – The opportunity to experience new products, attend trainings and network with industry members across the US drew 4 members of the Laketown Speed and Sound Team to travel from Draper UT to KnowledgeFest in Dallas December 10th-12th. Owner John Mueller, Angel Rivera, Craig Russell and Isai Hernandez spent the Friday through Sunday making the most of every minute over the 3 jam packed days.

This lunch at the Hops and Hens was a strategy session for Isai, John and Craig (L to R) with Angel in the foreground.

John Mueller, Laketown Speed and Sound owner, stated, “Three members of our staff and I attended the recent KnowledgeFest in Dallas. I was excited to find other industry professionals like Ken Ward, Carlos Ramirez, Brian Mitchell and Jason Kranitz with whom I could collaborate with on the challenges we currently face across the 12volt industry.”

Isai, Carlos Ramirez-NVS Audio and Angel (L to R) paused in front of the Sony booth for a quick photo on the event floor.

Mueller indicated there was excellent instruction for integration in newer vehicles and ways to improve design processes. “In updating our businesses practices, giving our personnel much needed tools plus instructions, time spent at KnowledgeFest delivered valuable direction,” Mueller added.

This post by Angel shows networking at a HKI Dinner.

During time at the event Laketown Speed and Sound staff members selected training sessions and seminars to attend so they could gain as much knowledge and insight at possible. Angel and Isai were especially interested in checking out the latest products and installations in various demo vehicles on the event floor. The Slingshot and bike in the HKI booth, bike in the Hertz booth, pickup in the Metra booth and seeing the SEMA award winning 9500 in the Sony booth were top takeaways.

These 2 images only begin to show the company’s amazing location in Draper UT.

Dinners and time spent networking with industry members who traveled from across the US was an added benefit for the Laketown Speed and Sound team.

“I am personally very appreciative of the efforts MEA and its instructors invested in the KnowledgeFest Dallas event. I would highly recommend other retailers invest their time and money to attend future KnowledgeFest events. Now that we are back at our store we are excited to implement what we learned in Big D,” Mueller concluded.

The 12volt Central Studios staff has noted very well done and informative posts on social media by Anger Rivera. Those posts showcase a very impressive facility as well as superb custom work featuring top brands the company offers to consumers in their marketplace.

A very large 12volt News hats off to John Mueller for making the commitment to take team members to KnowledgeFest in Dallas and supplying words for this article. Also, a big thank you to Angel Rivera for suppling images and input.

Visit knowledgefest.org and laketownspeedandsound.com for more.

Excitement Builds for CES 2022 as Confirmed Exhibitors Surpass 2,100

ARLINGTON, VA (12.20.2021) – The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced that CES® 2022 , the world’s most influential technology event, is adding an additional layer of health protocols and will offer complimentary COVID-19 rapid testing kits. This additional measure builds upon the previously announced requirement that all in-person attendees must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

Upon arriving at designated badge pick up locations, CES attendees will be provided with Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Self Test kits. Each BinaxNOW Self Test kit contains two tests, which can be used twice while attending the show. The test is easy to use, requires only a shallow nasal swab, takes 15 minutes and can be done from the convenience of your hotel room. CES strongly encourages all participants to test for COVID-19 before they leave home and within 24 hours before entering a show venue. 

“CES is a global event, and we continue to see strong momentum with new exhibitors signing up every day,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “In August, we announced that every CES attendee must be fully vaccinated. CES will also provide complimentary COVID-19 rapid tests, onsite at badge pickup locations, as an additional step to protect the health and safety of all our attendees, exhibitors and staff.”

CES 2022 returns to Las Vegas Jan. 5-8, 2022, convening over 2100 exhibitors, global media, top retailers and industry leaders. Confirmed exhibitors include brands like Abbott, Amazon, AMD, Autograph, Damon, Goodyear, Hisense, Hyundai, IBM, Intel, LG Electronics, Meta, Microsoft, Oracle, Panasonic, Procter & Gamble, Qualcomm, Revival Health, Samsung Electronics, Sierra Space, Sony, Waymo and more. A full exhibitor directory and floorplans can be accessed at CES.tech.

Below are the updated health protocols planned for CES 2022:

Testing – All CES attendees MUST be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We also request that attendees test for COVID-19 within the 24 hours period prior to entering a CES venue.

CES will provide complimentary PCR testing for non-US based attendees who require testing prior to their return flight home.

Vaccination Requirement –CES attendees MUST show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend CES. Detailed information on the proof of COVID-19 vaccination process can be found here.Attendees must be fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or World Health Organization (WHO). A list of approved vaccines can be found hereU.S. based attendees are encouraged to use the CLEAR complimentary mobile app and Health Pass feature to expedite vaccine validation. Non-U.S. based attendees, as well as U.S. based attendees who may be unable to use CLEAR, will need to provide their proof of vaccination at designated locations on-site. Mask Requirement –Masks are required for large indoor events in the State of Nevada. CES attendees will be required to wear masks as follows:In exhibit booths and indoor exhibit facilities.In conference and keynote rooms.CES shuttle buses and any CES transportation services.Safety ambassadors will be walking the exhibit floor to offer masks to those who may need one.

Additional health protocols include:Venues – Enhanced ventilation systems and cleaning protocols in CES venues.Conference programming and meeting rooms – Set to enable social distancing.Show floor design and flow – Wider aisles and one-way traffic flows in certain areas. Food and beverage – Sanitizing stations and guidance on attendee best practices.Detailed information for all CES 2022 health protocols can be found here. Those unable to travel to Las Vegas will be able to access CES digitally.