MB Quart Reference RA1 Amplifiers Unleash New Sound

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (10.20.2021) – MB Quart adds depth of new sound with the ALL-NEW Reference RA1 amplifier lineup. A perfect companion for Reference speakers and the ALL-NEW Reference RW1 subwoofers, this new line of compact amplifiers comes in a sleek, black finish while delivering top-quality sound.

When installation space is tight, Reference RA1 amplifiers create luxury for hearing more details in audio while remaining compact where you need space most. MB Quart engineers have gone above and beyond in delivering an amplifier line that signifies quality and innovation while bringing out the best sound from any genre of music.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “With this ALL-NEW line of Reference RA1 amplifiers, we are proud to be launching such a superior class of quality in an amplifier line to go along perfectly with the Reference speaker line and our newly launched Reference RW1 subwoofers. Reference RA1 amplifiers deliver higher quality sound in every aspect of performance while bringing out more clarity and detail in any song.”

ABOUT THE REFERENCE RA1 AMPLIFIERS LINE

Every Reference RA1 amplifier projects deeper audio in new dimensions of listening with clear sound and immersive playback. Featuring top-mounted controls with several multi-channel and mono configurations – RA1 amplifiers give ultimate control, higher quality sound, and customization into every playlist jam session.

Reference RA1 amplifiers include Tiffany Style RCA inputs to the PC Board for additional protection and an electronic equalizer that tailors specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers for cleaner details in sound.

FEATURES INCLUDE:
TOP-MOUNTED CONTROLS
Bass controls, crossover functions, gain adjustments, and more are conveniently located on top of every RA1 amplifier.
360° HEAT SINK DESIGN
PC Board is floating and designed with components in a 360° layout as this gives RA1 amplifiers best-in-class thermal stability.
TIFFANY STYLE RCA INPUTS
Tiffany Style RCA inputs to the PC Board add additional protection.
LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Q-Stasis Preamplifier Stage: Maximum low voltage signal from source unit comes into amplifier circuit with minimal distortion for high-quality sound.
LED System Protection Circuitry Diagnostics
Monitor overload and speaker short protection with illuminated indicators on amplifier end panel.

Feel and embrace what music should sound like through Reference RA1 amplifiers. Make sure to contact your sales representative or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.

See complete line details at mbquart.com.

New Double-Sided Adhesive Transfer Tape from Design Engineering

AVON LAKE, OH (10.20.2021) – Bring your heat and sound barrier projects together with Adhesive Transfer Tape from Design Engineering, Inc.

DEI’s Adhesive Transfer Tape is a very aggressive, pressure-sensitive, double-sided tape designed to bond substrates while maintaining a high-tack level. Use it to attach heat and sound barrier materials without the need for a spray adhesive.

“Adhesive Transfer Tape is a clean option for installing materials without the mess,” says Mike Buca, Product Manager at DEI. “Accurate placement of the adhesive allows for a clean, professional install.”

Available in single (#50205)- or dual-roll packs (#50207), the tape measures 3″ wide and comes in 32-foot lengths. Providing a high-strength, long-term bond, it can be used for scrim reinforcement, as it resists water, condensation, and aging. It is temperature-resistant from -22 to 248 degrees F.

DEI’s Adhesive Transfer Tape creates a quick and reliable seal for use in many other industries requiring the need for bonding, holding, and joining materials together. The tape can be applied to irregular surfaces.

For more information about Adhesive Transfer Tape and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Oracle Lighting Launches Skid Plate with Integrated LED Emitters for Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT at 2021 SEMA Expo

METAIRIE, LA (10.19.2021) – Oracle Lighting has launched their new Skid Plate with Integrated LED Emitters for the 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler JL and the 2021-2022 Gladiator JT (p/n 5883-001/006) during the 2021 SEMA Show, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from Nov. 2-5 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth #C20547. Now available for pre-order and scheduled to ship in November, the new Integrated LED Emitters has an MSRP of $449.95.

“Offering additional protection for your JL or JT sway bar and steering box, this innovative skid plate also integrates high-powered functional LED lighting,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “This heavy-duty skid plate is formed from a 3/16in. steel plate with a satin black powder coat finish, which provides durable underbody protection.”

The LED Lighting modules feature precision optics for a 30 degree beam width and an option of white or yellow LED light. These LED emitters can be easily replaced individually if there is ever damage to one of the modules.

“This Skid Plate is a simple no drill installation with all necessary hardware included,” added Hartenstein. “Wiring is easy with the included harness, which includes a switch for easy on/off operation or connect to your AUX switches if your Jeep is equipped.”

Additional product specifications and features include:
• 9x High-Output 15W LED Emitters
• Total Wattage: 135W
• Total Lumens: 9000Lm
• Total Power Draw: 6A @12V DC
• Advanced LED Optic Design
• Modules DOT, SAE, & E9 Marked
• IP Rating: IP68 Ingress Protection
• 1-Year Warranty
• Package contains:

  • Skid Plate Lighting System
  • Switched Relay Wiring Harness
  • Mounting Hardware

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

The Audio One Completes Virginia Zoo Train Installation

NORFOLK, VA (10.19.2021) – Great to see unique installations by proactive 12volt retailers like The Audio One in Norfolk, VA.

Mike Kreiselman, Shop Foreman at the Norfolk VA The Audio One, recently completed a system in the Goode Family train that runs through the Virginia Zoo train that carries children and guest along a track in the 53 acre zoo that was founded in 1901. The zoo has 700 animals representing 150 species.

The ‘Little Engine’ that could.
The control console was a unique experience.

“I went out to the zoo after they contacted our GM Bob Mickonis. We have done a number of unique projects and he felt I could handle this project. On September 29th I went to the zoo to check out the train to see what would be needed. I went back on October 6th and completed the job in about 6 hours. Basically sent up the installation of the radio, found juice in the engines and ran wires to the speakers on the cars. A zoo staff member had fabricated a bracket to mount the radio,” Kreiselman related.

Another unique learning experience.
Mike Kreiselman’s veteran hands and skill set made it all come together on the train at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk.

There were 2 trains the zoo uses and one needed a radio installed in the engine. Kreiselman put in a REI Radio the zoo supplied which is designed for tour buses that includes a mic input for PA uses. There were already 3 speakers on each of the 4 train cars. The REI Radio had enough power to run the system.

Concluding, Kreiselman offered, “This job was definitely a different and unique experience I had never done before. That said I really like doing this kind of work and can imagine everyone on the train having a very nice and informative ride.”

Visit theaudioone.com for more.

How Exhibitors Can Improve Connections with Future Workforce

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.19.2021) – Changes to this year’s SEMA Show Student Program will give participating exhibitors and students more quality connections and value than ever before.

Through the Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast, Thursday, November 4, from 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m., exhibitors will host a networking table where they will engage in quality, intimate conversations with a limited number of students. Host companies will build connections by sharing their expertise, helping students explore career opportunities and inspiring students in their career paths.

“The focus on the Student Networking Breakfast is on quality connections, rather than quantity connections,” said Byron Bergmann, SEMA project manager, member services. “Whether companies are hiring or not, members have a vast amount of knowledge to share and can be a great resource for students.”

Exhibiting companies are encouraged to participate in the program. Participation, which is free to exhibiting companies, simply requires one-and-a-half hours from one company representative. No setup time or marketing materials are required.  

Register your company.

Written by Ashely Reyes for SEMA.org

Nakamichi Shipping New 2022 Head Units in Advance of SEMA Show

MIAMI, FL (02.18.2021) – Nakamichi released three new head units this month just weeks ahead of the 2021 SEMA Show. The three models include one Double DIN with CarPlay and Android Auto along with two single DIN units.

Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi car stated the following, “I am pleased to announce that we are shipping 2022 models ahead of schedule.  With all the delays the CE industry has experienced over the last year-plus it is really great to be able to offer 2022 models in October.”

Robin McNeal

The NAM3510-M7 is a 7” TFT mechless Double DIN receiver with wired CarPlay/Android Auto.

Key features Include:

  • 1080P HD video playback
  • Dual USB ports
  • Front panel Micro SD card port
  • Rear Camera RCA input
  • Two RCA video outputs
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • 16-band EQ
  • Time Alignment
  • SWC (Steering Wheel Control) compatible (adapter required)
  • Short chassis with sleeve
  • Includes IR remote control
  • MSRP: $399.95

The NQ821B is a single DIN CD receiver using Nakamichi’ s popular new 2-line 12 bit VA LCD display.

Key features include:

  • Multi-color (custom choice) readout and buttons
  • Built-in Bluetooth for hands free-calls and music streaming
  • Front panel USB and 3.5mm input ports
  • Detachable front panel
  • Three sets RCA outputs (front, rear and sub)
  • Downloadable APP Control for IOS and Android phones
  • 10-band EQ
  • SWC (Steering Wheel Control) compatible (adapter required)
  • Maximum output power is 50W x 4
  • MSRP: $134.95

The NQ921B is the same as the NQ821B except it can play DVD’s as well as CD’s and has an RCA video output. MSRP is $154.95.

These plus other new models will be on display in the Nakamichi booth 12465 North Hall during the SEMA Show November 2-5, 2021.

“We will be showcasing several other new items at SEMA”, commented McNeal, “be sure to stop by our North Hall booth in the LVCC.”

For more information visit www.nakaichicaraudio.com

The Team Nutz Crew Traveled to KnowledgeFest in Indy

PITTSBURGH, PA (10.18.2021) – The Team Nutz crew made the 360 mile trip from Pittsburg to Indianapolis late Thursday, October 7th, to attend KFest Indy that ran Friday through Sunday, October 8th-10th.

The Team Nutz SUV and the Vince Murray’s Jeep Gladiator stopped for a break Thursday night between Pittsburgh and Indianapolis.
One last late night stop between Pittsburgh and Indy.

Team Nutz leader Ed Nuttall related, “We looked at this is a great opportunity to attend a number of training sessions by National Trainers, see products from a number major brands on the event floor with their reps and network with other members of the 12volt industry. Staff members from our sales and installation made the trip. Staff members included Ben Bjerke, Brandon Star, Colleen Gregory and Mike Pent.”

Early Saturday morning it was time to check in and get ready for the day.
 The Team Nutz crew at the Race Sport Lighting booth listening to a presentation from Steve Jergensen.

In addition, Vince Murray was with crew. “Vince is a friend and customer plus his Jeep Gladiator Sport S was displayed in the Metra booth. Team Nutz completed the installation on Vince’s Gladiator with an extensive selection of Heise lighting and Metra products” Nuttall stated.

Continuing, “We arrived in Indy after midnight and caught a few hours of sleep before getting all done with event registration Friday morning. After getting our badges we split into groups and attended every training session through the day. As soon as the show floor opened we made the rounds to check out the booths of vendors we work with in our store. Seeing Vince’s demo vehicle in the Metra booth with Jason Anderson was terrific” Nuttall added.

Team Nutz Ed Nuttall (R) and Rusty North-End Result. “It’s great to see the commitment Team Nutz made to attend KFest as a group and to grow their business” North stated.
The Team Nutz crew recapped KF Day 1 and enjoyed group dinner.

Further Nuttall offered “Spending time in the Race Sport Lighting booth to see new products with Steve Jergensen and Ignacio Ayala was time well spent as the lighting category is certainly growing. Rusty North, End Result, is our rep and it was good to make plans for growth with him.”

During a nice dinner Friday night the crew discussed the days activities and then rested up to get ready for Saturday.

Team Nutz believes in getting it done. Nuttall has already applied for and received his first certification, signed by Kris Bulla, from MECP that began during KFest Indy.

On Saturday the crew again split up to attend every training session on the schedule. They spent time in the Sony booth to check out the new demo car and the new head unit that debuted at KFest. In addition they spent time with Kris Bulla in the MECP booth to check out a new program MECP has introduced.

Vince Murray (L) and Jason Alexander in the Metra booth with Vince’s Jeep Gladiator Sport S loaded with Heise Lighting and Metra gear on the KFest floor.

“I was very impressed with the new MECP package and purchased an application for our entire staff of 12 people. As Saturday wound down we made the decision to head back to Pittsburgh since we had already attended all of the trainings that were on the Sunday schedule. Attending KFest Indy was overall a positive experience for Team Nutz as we met our objectives,” Nuttall concluded.

Visit teamnutztechnology.com and knowledgefest.org for more.

Put the 12VoltSTP Tool to Work for Your Company

SHREVEPORT, LA (10.15.2021) – 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. Creating the 12voltSTP is another example of making it easy for industry members to put their company’s brand and activities in front of members of the 12volt industry.

Mel Valadez sent this image from the front seat of his Ford Explorer on the route between Dallas and Sacramento for the Western DBDRA Finals.
Vince Murray (L) sent this image from KFest Indy of his Jeep Gladiator Sport S In the Metra booth with Jason Anderson on the trip with Team Nutz-Pittsburgh.

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 people need still, and look forward to, receiving news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

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.

End Result sent this great image as they were traveling with Race Sport Lighting’s Ignacio Ayala from the bay in Auto Sounds Willoughby, OH with Craig Wardell (R)  and a ‘64 Mercedes 230 SL that was white owned by Elizabeth Taylor.
Rich DeSclafani shown in his Palm Beach FL office with new ZZ-2 CarPlay products for select Land Rover and Jaguar products.

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. It’s the 12volt Central Studios 6 Pack. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send 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.

Big Daddy’s Morris Hartman jumped into the 12volt Chevy Studio for another ride around the Big Apple.
Kicker Marine Audio is ‘going overboard’ in Lake Havasu City AZ this weekend for the NRG Spark Plug Formula 1 Power Boat Race October 15-17.

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.

Visit instagram.com/12voltnews for more.

On The Spot Audio Wins NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 149

SHREVEPORT LA (10.16.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. On The Spot Audio won the NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, October 15th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Nine months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 149th time on Friday morning October 15th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space. The On The Spot Audio slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out by phone and talked with Vince Resto at the store in Pennsauken NJ. He was very happy to hear a NavAtlas prize would be heading their way. 

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Silencer, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and Magnadyne. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX and Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK,  Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME,  Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA,  Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham Al and Trail Star Audio in Minnesota. Congratulations to all.

Tint World Recognized as a Top 400 Brand by Franchise Times

BOCA RATON, FL (10.15.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has been named to the prestigious Franchise Times Top 400 list, solidifying its claim as the No. 1 auto styling center in the world. With a ranking of 363, the company saw a sales growth of 20.9% and a unit growth of 16.4%.

“Making the Franchise Times Top 400 list showcases our dedication and commitment to our customers as well as our team’s willingness to go above and beyond,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our footprint in the industry continues to grow internationally because of our determination to offer the best automotive styling experience in the world. That is one of the primary reasons we remain competitive and a leader in the automotive styling industry.”

Formerly known as the Top 200+, Franchise Times renamed its annual ranking of the 400 largest U.S.-based franchise systems by systemwide sales to better encompass the biggest brands in franchising. However, despite their list’s increase in growth, the rigorous approach to research remains the same, said Franchise Times Editor-in-Chief Laura Michaels.

The Franchise Times’ Top 400 project is the result of a five-month research and reporting effort that leads to the most credible and objective franchise ranking available. Their collection of systemwide sales data also provides useful insight into the franchise industry’s performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While many businesses struggled to keep their doors open throughout the pandemic, the Tint World team made the necessary adjustments and had the resources in place to power through and keep our stores open,” Bonfiglio said. “None of this would be possible without communication with leaders at every level, from our support staff at headquarters to the individual franchisees. We made sure everyone had the tools to continue thriving despite the pandemic, and this placement is an acknowledgment of that.”

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio-video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more.

Visit tintworld.com for more.