Author: 12VoltNews

Presenting the Official CMA Industry Week Schedule

Posted on by in Featured and tagged .

TORONTO, CA (03.15.2021) – Canadian Mobile Audio is proud to present the complete broadcast schedule for the inaugural CMA Industry Week – Spring Showcase. The online broadcast consists of 9 days of LIVE streaming from over 100 brands, producing an unprecedented 100+ hours of original mobile electronics content.

Mark your calendars to watch either live or on-demand, the schedule features in-depth interviews, training sessions, keynote speakers, product unveilings and much more.

For the latest information and most updated schedule for CMA Industry Week – March 22nd to April 1st, 2021:

2021 CMA Industry Week Schedule (All Times ET)

Monday, March 22nd
9:00am – 10:00am:  You Won’t Hear This Anywhere Else – SiriusXM
10:00am – 11:00am:  Benefits of Selling – SiriusXM
11:00am – 11:30am:  Car Audio Products, Just Hold the Audio – JVCKENWOOD
11:30am – 12:00pm:  Toys for the Trails, Tracks and H2O – JVCKENWOOD
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  YES, Bigger is Better – JVCKENWOOD
1:00pm – 2:00pm:  Wetsounds – Hearing is Believing with Tim White – Trends
2:00pm – 3:00pm:  Mosconi / Gladen – Featuring Legendary Trainer Nick Wingate  – Trends
3:00pm – 3:30pm:  Aquatic AV – Watertight Reputation with Kyle Aeschliman – Trends
3:30pm – 4:30pm:  MTX – Car Audio with Rico Felice & Jason Planck – Trends
4:30pm – 5:30pm:  Illusion Audio – The Secret Weapon with Alan Hulsebus – Trends
5:30pm – 6:00pm:  Blackhole – Improve Your AQ – Trends
6:00pm – 6:30pm:  Exile Audio – Back in Canada with Marine & Car feat. Bill Hasbrook – Trends
6:30pm – 7:00pm:  iConnects – Pure 100% OFC – Trends
7:00pm – 8:00pm: Wetsounds – New Venue Series – Trends
8:00pm – 9:00pm:  MTX – New Powersports 2021 – Trends

Tuesday, March 23rd
9:00am – 9:30am:  Power Systems / Accessories / Mobile Video – VOXX Electronics
9:30am – 10:00am:  Security Systems – VOXX Electronics
10:00am – 10:30am:  ADAS – VOXX Electronics
10:30am – 11:00am:  Rostra – VOXX Electronics
11:00am – 11:30am:  Introduction, Website Review – Importel
11:30am – 12:00pm:  Sonax – Professional Car Detailing for 90+ Years – Importel
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Connects 2 – Premium Vehicle Solutions – Importel
1:00pm – 2:00pm:  I-datalink Maestro – Seamless Integration – Importel
2:00pm – 3:00pm:  Euphoria – Pro / Moto / Powersports / Car Audio – Importel
3:00pm – 4:00pm:  Heise / Saddletramp – Extensive Harley Upgrade Solutions – Importel
4:00pm – 5:00pm:  Audiofrog – High Fidelity Car Audio Designed by Experts with Andy Wehmeyer – Importel
5:00pm – 6:00pm:  Wavtech – Ultimate Audio Integration feat Jason Kemmerer – Importel
6:00pm – 7:00pm:  Kingpin – Fabrication Solutions with Jason Kranitz – Importel
7:00pm – 8:00pm:  XS Power Batteries – Real Power, Unreal Performance with Shawn Mayo – Importel
8:00pm – 8:30pm:  USA Spec (BSM200) – Blindspot & Lane Departure Solutions – Importel
8:30pm – 9:00pm:  Lukas / Qvia – Industry Leading Dash Cams and ADAS Technology – Importel

Wednesday, March 24th
9:00am – 9:30am:  Metra – BB Distribution
9:30am – 10:30am:  Focal – Live from France –  BB Distribution
10:30am – 11:00am:  Clifford – Security, Starters & Telematics – BB Distribution
11:00am – 11:30am:  Acc. & Connected Solutions – Auto Connect / Auto Cell / VOXX / AIS – BB Distribution
11:30am – 12:00am:  Powerbass – Marine & Powersports – BB Distribution
12:00pm – 12:30pm:  Consumer Lighting Solutions – Vivid Lumen / ODX / Heise – BB Distribution
12:30pm – 1:00pm:  Focal – Cone Technologies – BB Distribution
1:00pm – 1:30pm:  Accessories & Drive Safe Solutions – Accele / Boyo / Rydeen – BB Distribution
1:30pm – 2:00pm:  MIO Dash Cams – Change the Way You See the Road – BB Distribution
2:00pm – 2:30pm: Focal Inside – Hi-Fi OEM Upgrade Solutions – BB Distribution
2:30pm – 3:00pm:  Clifford – Smart Start Connectivity & Tracking – BB Distribution
3:00pm – 3:30pm:  Powerbass – Audio Solutions – BB Distribution
3:30pm – 4:00pm:  EFX & Scosche – Complete Installation Solutions – BB Distribution
4:00pm – 4:30pm:  SounDigital – Size Doesn’t Matter – BB Distribution
4:30pm – 5:00pm:  Commercial & Fleet Safety Products – BB Distribution
5:00pm – 5:30pm:  Commercial & Fleet Lighting Solutions – BB Distribution
5:30pm – 6:00pm:  Ground Zero – Ride the Lightning – BB Distribution
6:00pm – 6:30pm:  Wirez – Install It Once, Install It Right – BB Distribution
6:30pm – 7:00pm:  Sound Shield / JK Tapes – Elite Essential Only the Pros Use – BB Distribution
7:00pm – 7:30pm:  Musway – Hi-Fi German DSP – BB Distribution
7:30pm – 8:00pm:  Mobile Solutions – Top 2021 Fabrication Trends with Bryan Schmitt – BB Distribution
8:00pm – 8:30pm:  Focal – Utopia M, the Pinnacle of Car Audio – BB Distribution
8:30pm – 9:00pm:  MasterTech – Product Unveiling with Bryan Schmitt – BB Distribution  

Thursday, March 25th
9:00am – 10:00am:  Metra
10:00am – 11:00am:  Axxess – Metra
11:00am – 12:00pm:  Saddle Tramp – Metra
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Heise / Daytona Lighting – Metra
1:00pm – 2:00pm:  Powersports / IBeam – Metra
2:00pm – 3:00pm:  Website Training – Metra
3:00pm – 3:30pm:  Accele Electronics – Mobile Video Solutions
3:30pm – 4:00pm:  Accele Electronics – ADAS / Collision Avoidance Tools
4:00pm – 4:30pm:  Accele Electronics – Beuler Consumer & Automotive Products
4:30pm – 5:00pm:  Accele Electronics – Safety & Convenience / Littworx Lighting
5:00pm – 6:00pm:  5 Axis Innovations – Custom Displays For Success
6:00pm – 7:00pm:  Fortin – New & Exciting 2021
7:00pm – 8:30pm:  Arc Audio – The Brand Professionals Use with Fred Lynch – Importel
8:30pm – 9:00pm:  Crux – Vehicle Integration Solutions – Importel

Friday, March 26th
9:00am – 11:00am:  Car Lighting District
11:00am – 12:00pm:  Pioneer – History / Know-How / Speakers / Subwoofers / Amplifiers
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Pioneer – Smart Audio / AV Receivers / Driver Assistance Solutions / Marine
1:00pm – 1:30pm:  Audiotec Fischer – DSP Software Explained – MSC
1:30pm – 2:00pm:  Audiotec Fischer – Technology Explained – MSC
2:00pm – 2:30pm:  Brax / Helix – Standalone DSP Lineup – MSC
2:30pm – 3:00pm:  Helix / Match – Multi-Channel System Design – MSC
3:00pm – 4:00pm:  Match – OEM System Upgrades Explained – MSC
4:00pm – 4:30pm:  Systems by MSC
4:30pm – 5:30pm – Stinger – Speedtrap Protection – MSC
5:30pm – 6:30pm – BLAM – Product Overview – MSC
6:30pm – 7:00pm – Escort – Radar / Laser Integrated Defence Systems – MSC
7:00pm – 7:30pm:  Ground Zero – Respect the Music – BB Distribution
7:30pm – 8:00pm:  Vehicle Audio & Install Solutions  – Maestro / Installbay / JVC / VAIS – BB Distribution 
8:00pm – 8:30pm:  Focal Inside –  Harley Davidson – BB Distribution
8:30pm – 9:00pm:  TekTrax – Rewards & Incentives LIVE – BB Distribution

Monday, March 29th
9:00am – 10:00am:  BPS Lighting – Sobel
10:00am – 11:00am:  Viper – Sobel
11:00am – 12:00pm:  Pioneer – Sobel
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Metra – Sobel
1:00pm – 1:30pm:  Atrend / MTI Acoustics – Save Time & Reduce Dust: Pre-Made Enclosures – Gemsen
1:30pm – 2:00pm:  Dynamat – Serious About Sound Treatment – Gemsen
2:00pm – 2:30pm:  Clarion Marine – 2021 New Product Debut –  Gemsen
2:30pm – 3:00pm:  Kicker Marine – GO OVERBOARD with Our Extensive Lineup of Marine Gear – Gemsen
3:00pm – 3:30pm:  JL Audio Marine – High Performance Marine Audio – Gemsen
3:30pm – 4:00pm:  BOSS Elite – Affordable Industry Acclaimed Source Units – Gemsen
4:00pm – 5:00pm:  AudioControl – Simple OEM Integration – 1 Amp Can Do It All – Gemsen
5:00pm – 6:00pm:  JL Audio Mobile – DSP OEM Integration & System Tuning Products – Gemsen
6:00pm – 7:00pm:  Kicker Mobile – “Unmasked” Products New for 2021 – Gemsen
7:00pm – 8:00pm:  Morel – New Product Launch – Hi-Fidelity Sound for Every Budget – Gemsen
8:00pm – 9:00pm:  NavTV – Vehicle Integration Solutions for Cars, Trucks & Trailers – Gemsen

Tuesday, March 30th
9:00am – 10:00am:  PAC Audio – AAMP
10:00am – 11:00am:  Echomaster – AAMP
11:00am – 12:00pm:  Stinger – AAMP
12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Phoenix Gold – AAMP
1:00pm – 1:30pm:  ODX Lighting
1:30pm – 2:00pm:  Auto Oxide
2:00pm – 3:00pm:  Hertz Audio – Automobility
3:00pm – 4:00pm:  Audison – Automobility
4:00pm – 5:00pm:  Rockford Fosgate – Automobility
5:00pm – 5:30pm:  Radenso – Automobility
5:30pm – 6:00pm:  Thinkware Dash Cam – Automobility
6:00pm – 6:30pm:  Cobra – Automobility
6:30pm – 7:00pm:  OE Integration – Automobility
7:00pm – 8:00pm:  TBA – Automobility
8:00pm – 9:00pm:  TBA – Automobility

View the full schedule and French dates at the website below.

Visit www.CanadianMobileAudio.com/IndustryWeek for more.

2021 Polaris RZR Kicker Audio Build At LakeTown Speed And Sound

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

DRAPER, UT (03.15.2021) – An Instagram post of an amazing Polaris RZR build by Laketown Speed and Sound grabbed eyeballs at the 12volt Central Studios.

The Polaris RZR pictured by the Laketown Speed and Sound facility in Draper, UT.

Angel Rivera and Isai Hernandez spent the better part of 4 days completing the amazing build that featured Kicker products and included substantial customization. Customized door pods, mount panels and modification to the glove box were color matched in neon green and made using weather resistant Sinatra plastic. All wiring, interconnects and aux battery to help with voltage stabilization were from Stinger Electronics.

The Kicker Pods and Tubes installed and ready to be Livin’Loud.

“This Polaris RZR screams with 2000 watts of Kicker RMS goodness. The system is extremely loud and projects extremely well thanks to the Kicker 11” HLCD,” Rivera offered.

Check out the custom panel work and neon green paint to match the RZR body color.

The list of equipment is as follows:

  • Kicker KXMA 800.8 running Mids and HLCD mounted on custom amp board made of Sintra plastic
  • Kicker KXMA 1200.1 running subwoofers mounted on custom amp board made of Sintra plastic
  • 3 sets of Kicker KM654L LED Coax
  • 2 Kicker KMTC11 11″ Horn Loaded Compression Drivers
  • 2 Kicker TB10 10″ tube subwoofers (mounted to custom sub board made of Sintra plastic and attached using factory mounting points for durability and functionality)
  • Stinger X2 series interconnects
  • Stinger 0 gauge power and ground
  • Stinger 0 gauge to 4 gauge distribution blocks
The Kicker gear to be installed in the RZR in the installation bay at Laketown Speed and Sound.
System wiring in progress.

Concluding, Rivera stated, “In our Big Sky area the Powersports category is growing rapidly. We see Polaris RZR quite often plus the Can Am Maverick. Thanks again brother for the shout outs and for your work in this industry. We need more people like you keeping things alive, especially in these unusual times.”

Visit laketownspeedandsound.com and kicker.com for more.

Lou Ottens, Dutch Inventor of Cassette Tape, Has Died at 94

Posted on by in Industry.

DUIZEL, NETHERLANDS (03.15.2021) – Lou Ottens, the Dutch inventor of the cassette tape, had died.
An estimated 100 billion cassette tapes have been sold worldwide, according to Philips, the company he began working for in 1952. Ottens also supervised the team that developed the compact disc (CD).

An engineer by trade, five years after joining Philips, Ottens became the head of the company’s product development department at its audio plant in Hasselt, Belgium.

In 1960, Ottens and his team developed the first portable tape recorder. At the time, all recorders used the reel-to-reel system, which meant the tape had to be manually wound. He revolutionized recorders two years later by inventing the compact cassette. Because of the laborious nature of the reel-to-reel process, Ottens wanted to simplify the process, said his family.

Ottens cut a block of wood that would fit into the side of his jacket pocket to find an ideal size for the new carrier. The block became the model after which the first portable cassette recorder was made, said Philips.

Related: Woman reunited with mixtape more than 20 years after she lost it

In 1963, the development of the cassette and the playback device had done so well that they were presented at the Internationale Funkausstellung — a trade exhibition for audio products — in Berlin.

Guests from Japan were inspired by his invention. The cassette was quickly copied by Japanese manufacturers into a different format and sold onto the Japanese market. The cassette recorder was a huge hit around the world, but particularly with young people in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

Ottens supervised the team that invented the CD, which was produced extensively by Sony-Philips and sold more than 200 billion copies worldwide. He retired in 1986.

Click to view the full article on CNN.com

Pro Audio Center Wins 12volt News Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 118

Posted on by in Featured.

SHREVEPORT LA (03.13.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. Pro Audio Center won the 12volt News $100. prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, March 12th.

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

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 118th time on Friday morning March 12th. The Wheel landed on the 12volt News space. The Pro Audio Center 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 to Vicky Hamm and she was pleased to hear the news.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, the 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, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, JBL, Design Engineering, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 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 and Car Stereo Max in Houston.. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel will be on Friday, March 19th.

Kingpin University to Resume In-Person Training April 24

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

LAS VEGAS, NV (03.12.2021) – Kingpin University will resume in-person training with an Advanced Laser course, to be held April 24-26 at its new retail and training facility at 1610 Raiders Way in Las Vegas. A maximum of 12 attendees will be required to follow mandated protocols and the learning environment will be augmented and equipped to ensure a safe learning experience. The three-day course marks the grand opening of the new Kingpin University training facility as well as the first in-person training course since classes were paused in March 2020 due to COVID-19.

“Of course, our first priority is to keep everyone safe,” said Jason Kranitz, president and lead instructor for Kingpin University. “We will adhere to the safety protocols that are laid out by our city, county and state, as well as some common-sense practices. All participants will be required to mask up, wash hands frequently and observe social distancing. Workstations will be wiped down before and after every use. We want everyone to leave with new knowledge but with the same good health.”

The Advanced Laser course is intended for intermediate- to advanced-level professionals who have experience using a laser cutter or CNC and want to improve their skill and creativity. Over three days, students will gain additional familiarity with CAD (Computer-Assisted Drawing) software, learning to convert ideas into machine-compliant drawings. Hands-on measuring and assembly will improve manual skill alongside software knowledge. The class project will be a take-home display that professionals can use to showcase their store’s capabilities to customers. In addition, the course will instruct attendees on how to bill profitably for laser and CNC labor and materials. Tuition for the in-person course is $999.

Those who are less experienced are invited to take a live online course as a prerequisite to the in-person course. Entitled “Step One: The Drawing,” this virtual course on March 27-28 teaches professionals how to get started using a laser or CNC cutting machine. It focuses on the software required to turn ideas into drawings and then onto finished work, adding value to jobs and building profitability for the store. Students receive an in-home, follow-along packet prior to the course, plus trial software to use on their own computers. Cost for the two-day course is $299.

All virtual and in-person attendees will receive special pricing on laser cutters through a partnership with Spectrum Laser, a nationwide laser-cutting machine supplier based in Las Vegas. This includes attendees of future courses including the Street Rod and Fab Design in-person course, scheduled for May 14-17.

To sign up for courses or get more information in Kingpin University courses and products, visit kingpinuniversity.com.

The DS18 Product Line Available at Tint World Automotive Styling Centers

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (03.12.2021) – DS18 has officially partnered with Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading window tinting and automotive accessory franchise.

DS18 CEO, Sasha Susterman, has secured a new venture for the internationally recognized franchise, as authorized sellers and installers of ALL DS18 products.

DS18 will now have the exciting opportunity to show Tint World customers their shared passions in great customer service and love for all things LOUD.

DS18, the official Jeep Sound Systems vendor, also specializes in a variety of other audio segments which include a vast and complete line of Mobile, Marine and Pro Audio. This new partnership with Tint World extends full access to all DS18 products, services and support.

With over 80 retail locations worldwide, Tint World makes it even more accessible for audio loving customers to get their DS18 gear at a moment’s notice.

Visit ds18.com for more.

Metra Electronics to Host Product Training Sessions at KnowledgeFest West Live

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

HOLLY HILL, FL (03.12.2021) – Metra Electronics is presenting three different product training sessions for installers at the virtual KnowledgeFest West Live event. KnowledgeFest is hosted by the Mobile Electronics Association and the online event from March 19 to 21 will take place for the West Coast audience, with events hosted from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM Pacific Time. Metra Electronics will host a different session each day to cover LED headlight bulb replacement, motorcycle lighting, and integration solutions for Jeep Wrangler. Attendees can connect with Metra on their virtual booth page and register online now for these training sessions, which will be hosted by Jason Anderson, Metra’s VP of Product Research and Development. Attendees will also have the ability to post questions or comments in the live chat section of the training session and receive answers from Metra’s technical support or sales team. The upcoming training sessions are as follows:

“LED Headlight Replacements” – Friday, 3/19/21 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Pacific Time
Attendees will learn about Metra’s different LED lighting solutions for replacing automotive headlight bulbs and how to upsell each feature. This session will explain what makes an LED lightbulb last longer, compare features of the latest models, and demonstrate how to properly install and adjust the newest Pro Series headlight bulbs from Heise.

“Installing RGB Lighting on Motorcycles” – Saturday, 3/20/21 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Pacific Time
Attendees will see firsthand how Saddle Tramp’s new RGB lighting kit, the BC-RGB-K1, can instantly transform the look of a motorcycle with significantly less installation time. Metra will review all of their RGB LED lighting options available and demonstrate how the new RGB LED strip light kit for Harley-Davidson is installed, plus show off unique features available in the Metra RGB smartphone app. RGB motorcycle lighting is a popular upgrade, so any installers looking to reduce time spent on these projects then won’t want to miss this informative training session.

“Integrating with Jeep Wrangler JL” – Sunday, 3/21/21 from 2:40 PM to 3:40 PM Pacific Time
Metra’s newest integration package from Axxess makes the installer’s job much easier when replacing the radio with select Pioneer modular in-dash receivers. This training session will show installers how to retain important vehicle information and features on the Pioneer touchscreen using the AXPIO-JL1 dash kit, integration package, and its included replacement backup camera. Installers will see a real installation on a 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL and a demonstration of how they can upgrade the radio without losing audio controls on the steering wheel, HVAC gauges on the screen, heated and cooled seats, and other personalization options that were shown on the factory screen.

Registered attendees will be able to log in to the event website and register for Metra’s training sessions at knowledgefestwest.live. Metra’s online booth will also be open to attendees to view starting March 19 at metraelectronics.knowledgefestwest.live.

The KICKER AMA ArenaCross Season Wrapped With Championships In Amarillo

Posted on by in Featured.

AMARILLO, TX (03.11.2021) – Rounds 9 and 10 on Friday and Saturday, March 5th and 6th respectively, wrapped the KICKER AMA ArenaCross schedule for 2021. The track at the Amarillo National Center was set for the riders.

Massive screens above the track at the Amarillo National Center displayed a KICKER product ad.

KICKER was represented on site by maddog_media and Lorin Morrell. “Both nights people in the stands were enthusiastic as the riders made their way around the track. The Texas Governor announced that Friday the statewide Mask Mandate would end the following week. The COVID-19 Pandemic certainly is limiting on site events but the Amarillo National Center took social media precautions throughout the event. KICKER was definitely Livin’Loud” Morrell related.

KICKER Athletes @jeraldlarue56 and @jttiffany are #livinloud Jammin’ to linked BF400 & BF200 Bullfrogs.

A KICKER wide selection of KICKER products were set up under a tent in the lobby area. Attendees checked out the Lifestyle, Marine and Audio products with the Kicker BullFrog grabbing a lot of attention.

The Kicker RZR was Livin’Loud with on the track demos.

Kevin Campbell, speaking for KICKER, commented “We have enjoyed more than ten years of partnership with Tod Hammock and Cycle City Promotions, the producers of KICKER ArenaCross, and with each year we’ve faced and overcome challenges along the way. However, nothing like this year of postponements and rescheduling due to the Pandemic. Tod and his crew did a fantastic job, and despite the adversity, they managed to make the season a rousing success. I look forward to working with Tod on next season as well as some awesome upcoming Enduro-X events.”

Riders took practice laps during midday Friday, March 5th.

For more see @kickerarenacross on Instagram.

DS18 Shipping New Korean Half Bridge Amplifiers

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (03.11.2021) – The new DS18 Korean Half Bridge amplifiers are shipping with MORE power, MORE options and all coming on a smaller frame.

These new amps are designed for serious audiophiles that demand the most wattage for window breaking bass. These competition amps are designed to uphold the highest efficiency all while producing obscene amounts of pure power for subs in the SPL system.

The H-KO2 is a new offering from DS18 to push smaller subwoofers to the maximum all while using half-bridge Korean monoblock power. Korean amps are traditionally knows to be beefier and use the highest quality components compared to their Brazilian full-bride competitors.

Korean amps are known to have te highest signal to noise ratio of all amplifiers available and have prove through the ages to perform the best for SPL and loud bass in general.

Visit ds18.com for more.

2021 Progressive AFT Season Primed for Spectacular Launch at Volusia HM Doubleheader

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (03.11.2021) – Months of intense preparation and eager anticipation will at last be rewarded as the 2021 Progressive American Flat Track season is just days away from its spectacular Daytona Bike Week launch. The 17-round battle royale to determine this year’s Grand National Champion will officially begin doubleheader style, with this weekend’s Volusia Half-Mile I & Volusia Half-Mile II presented by Daytona Dodge on Friday, March 12, and Saturday, March 13 at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida.

Riding high on two consecutive GNC triumphs, Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) returns as the championship favorite in the premier Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle class. That said, he’s been forced to dig deep to overcome the legendary Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), who scored career wins #49 and #50 at Volusia Speedway to open the 2020 season.

Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Coolbeth-Nila Racing Indian FTR750) and Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) ranked third and fourth, respectively, a year ago, each grabbing the checkered flag in the process. The two are back for a second season with their respective squads and should only continue to grow in that capacity.

And Robinson is not alone at a Mission Roof Systems outfit that’s quickly developing into a paddock power with the addition of Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) alongside Brandon Price (No. 92 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750).

Former roadracing champions turned flat track aces JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) and James Rispoli (No. 43 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X) stand as the series’ greatest hopes to prevent an Indian season sweep of the top spot on the podium. Beach took his Yamaha MT-07 DT to a pair of wins in 2019, while Rispoli proved to be a dominant force on his Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R en route to the 2020 AFT Production Twins title.

AFT Singles

Dallas Daniels (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) has managed to outperform even the most unrealistic expectations thus far in his short Progressive AFT career. Now entering just his second full season as a professional, Daniels is brandishing the #1 plate in his AFT Singles title defense with an ocean deep pack of rivals itching for a chance to prove themselves against the sport’s newest superstar.

Daniels famously failed to qualify for the Main Event in last season’s opener at Volusia, only to strike back the following evening with a timely victory that set the stage for the remainder of the season.

The rider who walked away with opening night honors while Daniels watched from the fences was Australian Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE), who blossomed into a championship runner-up in 2020. Whale should prove even more formidable this season as he joins the category’s all-time winningest rider, the newly hyphenated Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE), on the official KTM squad.

Premier-class race winner Henry Wiles (No. 17 American Honda/United Rentals CRF450R) will lead a stout three-rider effort for Turner Racing/American Honda that also features Cole Zabala (No. 51 American Honda/United Rentals CRF450R) and Trevor Brunner (No. 21 American Honda/United Rentals CRF450R).

Meanwhile, a stacked class of rookies is primed to spring into action, headlined by the highly touted Kody Kopp (No. 143 Smartop/Jones Honda/Latus Motors CRF450R).

AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

With reigning AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines champion Rispoli stepping up to Mission SuperTwins duty, the fight for the #1 plate begins anew.

Cory Texter (No. 65 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) wore the number all through the 2020 season and is well positioned to make another run at it this season. In many ways, Texter was even more impressive during last year’s championship runner-up campaign than he was when he actually took the title in 2019.

Texter split last year’s Volusia HM wins with fellow championship hopeful Ryan Varnes (No. 68 RVR/RoyBuilt Don’s Kawasaki Ninja 650). Two additional 2020 race winners — Ben Lowe (No. 25 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) and Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield Twins FT) — are back as well. Lowe is now armed with an XG750R while Lewis’ Royal Enfield FT should have been well served with a full offseason of development following its impressive 2020 debut.

Another threat lurking within the field is the now full-time AFT Production Twins-focused Chad Cose (No. 49 Voodoo Ranger/Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) whose 2020 campaign yielded a staggering seven podium finishes.

While Rispoli may have moved up to Mission SuperTwins, the premier class returned the favor in the form of the talented duo of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Cycles/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R) and Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07). Gauthier and Bromley each have the potential to upend the established AFT Production Twins power structure; they are both recent AFT Singles champions, skilled all-around racers, and come in hardened following a year of bar-to-bar battle with the greatest riders in the sport.

Beyond the on-track action and the multitudes of Bike Week activities, Progressive American Flat Track will welcome in the new season with live music at the venue and an appearance by the weekend’s Grand Marshal, Isle of Man TT legend and DAYTONA 200 rookie Michael Dunlop.

Click to view Progressive ADT Events Health & Safety FAQ

Spectator safety remains the top priority and Progressive AFT has worked closely with local health and government officials toward those ends. For more on the specific precautions being undertaken, please consult the Progressive AFT Events Health & Safety FAQ.

Tickets are available for purchase now at this link. General Admission Grandstand and Turn 1 General Admission Grandstand (walk-in only) tickets are $33 in advance (children 12 and under are free in both GA areas with the purchase of an adult admission). The few remaining Premium General Admission Grandstand tickets, centrally located in the highest rows along the front stretch, are $60 in advance ($20 for children 12 and under). A $10 multi-day discount is available for each pair of Friday/Saturday GA tickets purchased in advance.

Thursday-Sunday weekend camping passes are also available in four tiers (Premium Reserved Covered, Premium Reserved, Reserved Hook-Up, and General Admission).

Gates will open for fans on both Friday and Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies set to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.

Live coverage of the entire weekend’s racing activities will be available on any device for only $1.99 a month via TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold with on-track activity beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT each day.

The Volusia Half-Mile I & II presented by Daytona Dodge will air back-to-back on NBCSN on Saturday, March 20, starting at 12:00 p.m. ET/9:00 a.m. PT. The broadcasts will include exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and the expert commentary of Progressive AFT legend Chris Carr.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit www.americanflattrack.com.

To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at store.americanflattrack.com.