MECA Kicked Off the 2021 Season with a Judges Training and Events Weekend

Posted on March 25, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

NASHVILLE, TN (03.26.2021) – The Mobile Electronics Competition Association, Inc. -MECA- kicked off the Spring season with a dedicated SQL Judge Training session at Audio Specialists in Clarksville. Commissioner Stern introduced 16 trainees to veteran judges Vinny Taylor from Tennessee and Matt Roberts from South Carolina.

Vinny Taylor conducting a SQL Judges training for 18 on Saturday morning at Audio Specialists in Clarksville, TN.

Attending the Judges trainings were:
Tommy Craig, Colorado
Nick Graham, Ohio
William Grimme, Indiana
Jason Hale, Tennessee
Cassie Hall, Ohio
Joseph Heddon, Illinois
Russell Jones, Florida
Jordan Kisler, Florida
Michael Myers, Tennessee
Joseph Norton, Arkansas
Shannon Price, Illinois
Mick Shuck, Ohio
J. Silva, Colorado
Mic Wallace, North Carolina
Scott Welch, California
Andrew Woodward, Colorado

The weather brought out competitors and big numbers on the meter in Ashland City.

Trainees reviewed selected tracks from the list of official test songs maintained by the MECA organization. 9 outstanding vehicles were on-site for intensive listening sessions with accomplished judges and well-versed vehicle owner/competitors.The 9 AM – 7 PM schedule on Saturday, March 20th, featured the most revealing and informative track descriptions and evaluations in the club’s 23 year history.

The Sunday SPL Event in Ashland City TN had a strong turnout of competitors.

On Sunday, March 21st, MECA split the March Madness event into 2 locations, to better accomodate the unique requirements of both SPL and SQL contests. Audio Specialists owners Rob Bess and Robert Corwin hosted the SQL activites at the store, with Vinny Taylor as Head Judge.. Trainees continued with informational exchange and scoring systems to get more seat time. Robert Corwin earned the SQL Best of Show, The Zenner trophy and Rob Bess had the highest Sound Quality score at the event.

Commissioner Stern lead the SPL faction to Middle Tennessee’s best venue, the Cheatham County Fairgrounds in Ashland City.

Chris Gregory unveiled his new CRX build at the SPL event in Ashland City.

Greg Kelley (Kelley’s Car Toyz/High Voltage) from Newport, TN had highest scores in Sound Pressure and Park & Pound contests, winning the big SPL Best of Show trophy. Judges Eric Halfacre and 2020 SPL Judge of the Year Malani Puni handled the lanes. It was a beautiful day at the Fairgrounds and the show very engaging, fun, and competitive.

Many new faces attended the events, and several OG’s who haven’t competed in over 10 years came out to play: Mike Elder (KY), Freddrick Simpson (KY), MECA is building a very active schedule in the USA and should be running on all cylindars by June.

MECA SQL Judges were treated to live bluegrass music at Caney Fork Restaurant in Nashville by The Meltones. This was a great listening experience for the trainees.

MECA has laid the ground work for an exciting year in 2021. A huge Thank You goes out to Manufacturer Members that are supporting the MECA SQL Clinics program. Specifically Arc Audio, JL Audio, Linear Power, Stereo Integrity, TRU Technology and XS Power are providing valuable assistance to showcase the MECA Sound Quality League.

Planning for a Unified Finals with IASCA and dB Drag Racing is in the works.

Contact the Commissioner for info and scheduling opportunities at mecacaraudio@comcast.net or office 615-851-7428.

Visit mecacaraudio.com for more.

KICKER Promotes Install Veteran to Lead Special Projects Team

Posted on March 25, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

STILLWATER, OK (03.26.2021) – KICKER announces the promotion of veteran technician Tim Smith to KICKER’s Installation and Special Projects Supervisor. Smith takes over team management, effective immediately. The announcement is a result of the resignation of long-time team manager Randy Botts who recently moved on to pursue other interests.

“Tim has devoted more than 20 years to KICKER,” said Kevin Campbell, Global Marketing Director. “Over that time, he has learned a great deal. He has evolved into a creative leader of that team. The sky’s the limit with the kind of builds you’ll see coming out of his installation bay.”

A native of Kenai, Alaska, Smith has been fascinated by trucks and audio for much of his life, and has been actively working on audio systems for nearly 30 years. Consumers can find Smith’s handiwork on many KICKER staple demo cars and award winners, including the 1950 Studebaker Champion and the 2011 Chevy Cruze.

“I want to continue the tradition of the supervisors before me of building reliable and impactful vehicles that people remember,” Smith said. “I’m extremely excited to see what’s next for us in the coming years.”

KICKER’s Special Projects division is a dedicated team of in-house installers, creating custom audio systems for select KICKER partners and events across the country. The team also designs original product displays and distributes branded public-address systems to KICKER’s stable of marketing influencers, helping promote romote the brand.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Wet Sounds Announces 2020 Sales Awards

Posted on March 25, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Wet Sounds.

LAS VEGAS, NV (03.26.2021) – Wet Sounds has announced the recipients of their 2020 Independent Rep of the Year and 2020 Direct Rep of the Year awards.

Scott Baughman, Principal of Reliable Product Marketing (RPM), has been selected as the Wet Sounds 2020 Independent Rep of the Year. Baughman, who is based in Stockton, California, has shown true commitment to Wet Sounds that has resonated for over 10 years.

“Scott’s attention to detail, product knowledge, and leadership skills have proven to be valuable assets to Wet Sounds and his dealers,” stated Richard Prieto, Wet Sounds Regional Sales Manager.

Baughman persevered through a challenging year to truly excel, especially with the acquisition of the new dealers.

Mike Cullers has been selected as the Wet Sounds 2020 Direct Rep of the Year. Cullers joined Wet Sounds as a Territory Sales Manager in October 2019 and has made an immediate, lasting impact.

“Mike is a leader in sales, while focusing on building and nurturing dealer relationships,” commented Ray Woodall, Wet Sounds National Sales Manager..

Cullers has developed a reputation of quality service and technical knowledge regarding application and installation and he is continuing this momentum into 2021 and beyond.

Wet Sounds continues its strong sales growth into 2021 across the United States and multiple international territories.

“Wet Sounds remains focused and dedicated to deliver a clear, loud, and live audio experience for consumers who want the best solutions in the most demanding environments,” stated J.R. Stocks, Wet Sounds CEO. “The recent launch of our Venue Series to the outdoor home market confirms our mission to extend the Wet Sounds experience beyond the marine and powersports markets.”

Visit wetsounds.com for more.

Tint World Partners with Official Jeep Sound Systems Vendor DS18

Posted on March 24, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged DS18, Jeep, Tint World.

BOCA RATON, FL (03.25.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced its partnership with DS18. As part of the collaboration, Tint World will serve as an authorized seller and installer of all DS18 products.

“We’re always excited to be able to offer our customers the top automotive electronic products on the market,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “Partnering with DS18 lets our customer have access to top-end car audio products, and we can’t wait to see how they enjoy them.”

DS18 is the official Jeep sound systems vendor. The Miami-based company specializes in mobile, marine and home electronic equipment. DS18 offers several products including amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, tweeters, component sets and a multitude of other audio accessories.

“We want to be able to reach an audience that enjoys the nuances of a great sound product as we do,” said Sasha Susterman, CEO of DS18. “Joining Tint World’s extensive franchise network will allow us to expand our reach and continue to show why we are an industry leader.”

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 ds18.com and tintworld.com for more.

Nakamichi Receives Seven Entries in Annual Car Audio Buyers Guide

Posted on March 24, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Nakamichi.

MIAMI, FL (03.25.2021) – The 11th Annual PASMAG Car Audio & Technology issue hit the streets earlier this month. The issue includes individual Buyers Guides for five car electronics categories.

In the coveted head unit category, models were featured from Alpine, Jensen, JVC, Kenwood, Nakamichi, Pioneer and Sony.

“We are very pleased to be included with such good company”, stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager, for Nakamichi. Continuing McNeal commented, “Since Nakamichi’s U.S. relaunch in 2019 the brand has been carefully building a network of traditional 12volt retailers and distributors. One of the cornerstones fueling the successful relaunch is the enforcement of the brand’s MAP program.”

PASMAG is the only major consumer magazine that is focused on both mobile electronics and performance products. The print edition is distributed throughout the USA and Canada and publication can be viewed digitally as well.

For more information visit PASMAG.com or NakamichiCarAudio.com

Nakamichi received 7 entries in the PASMAG 2021 Car Audio & Technology Buyers Guide

NA3605-Double DIN CarPlay Receiver
NQ721BE-DIN Digital Media Receiver
NQ911B-DIN DVD Receiver
N60t-Audiophile Six Channel Tube Amplifier
NGXA120.4-Four Channel A/B Amplifier
NDS6120-Digital Signal Processor
NS6Q3-Audiophile Component System

On Newsstands Now

Saddle Tramp Ships New RGB LED Lighting Kit for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

Posted on March 24, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Metra.

HOLLY HILL, FL (03.25.2021) – Saddle Tramp by Metra Electronics is now shipping a new plug-n-play RGB lighting kit designed for 1996-up* Harley-Davidson Touring models. The BC-RGB-K1 is a 12-piece kit that can be controlled via the Metra RGB smart device app for 16 million different color options, preset lighting transitions and flash patterns, the ability to flash the lights to music, and more.

Saddle Tramp’s new kit is pre-wired with trigger controls so installers can customize it to light up with the brake and turn signals, providing extra visibility for riders. The easy-to-install kit includes 12 pre-wired LED strips for the headlight trim, front fender, crash bar, gas tank, back engine, saddlebags, and Tour Pak. Metra has engineered the BC-RGB-K1 with water-tight connectors and OE plugs for a fast installation that will withstand the elements of the open road.

A video explaining this product that was first introduced at SEMA360 is also available below:

The 5050 RGB lighting strips have 3M adhesive backing with prep materials included. Metra Electronics provides a 1-year warranty on the LED strips and RGB controller. A video outlining the product features and installation tips is available from the Metra YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/VtmBrj0-feE. A 6-piece version of this lighting kit, the BC-RGB-K2, will be available soon from Saddle Tramp.

Product Specifications

Designed for 1996-up* Harley-Davidson Touring models with Tour Pak
12-piece kit is completely plug-n-play with OE style connections
Water-tight connectors to withstand the elements
5050 RGB LED strips with black base and 3M adhesive backing
RGB controller included
Lights controlled via the Metra RGB smart device app for 16 million different color options, preset lighting transitions and flash patterns, the ability to flash the lights to music, and more
Ability to turn lights on/off with an optional hard-wired switch, even when the ignition is off
Pre-wired trigger controls for brake and turn signal activation to add extra visibility for riders
Pre-wired LED strips for headlight trim, front fender, crash bar, gas tank, back engine, saddlebags, and Tour Pak
1-year warranty on LED strips and RGB controller
Installation level: Easy
Kit Includes:
- 12 RGB LED strips with adhesive backing
- RGB controller
- Plug-n-play rear lighting T-harnesses
- 1996-2013 Harley-Davidson 8-pin OE plug
- 2010-2013 Harley-Davidson 6-pin OE plug
- 2014-up* Harley-Davidson 6-pin OE plug
- Independent on/off switch that can turn lights on with the ignition off
- Alcohol prep pads, adhesive promoter, and zip ties

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

KICKER Awards Car Toys as Multi-Location Dealer-of-the-Year

Posted on March 24, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Car Toys, Kicker.

STILLWATER, OK (03.24.2021) – To give credit to one of the hardest working teams in the 12-volt category, KICKER has honored retailer Car Toys with the Multi-Location Dealer-of-the-Year award. Based in Seattle, the 48-store chain has locations in Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Texas. KICKER recognizes Car Toys to be an outstanding partner through a challenging 2020, and into 2021.

JQ Quesada, Senior Merchandising Manager for Car Toys

“Car Toys did an extraordinary job overcoming the hurdles of 2020,” said Tracy Focht, KICKER’s Western Regional Sales Manager. “Car Toys explored new inventory options last year, allowing [it] to keep up with rigorous demand. [It] has consistently shown a willingness to try new gear that fits customer’s needs.”

A long-standing partner with KICKER, Car Toys expanded its 2020 commitment to the brand by bringing in several sizes of wiring kits and loaded enclosures. Focht received ample feedback from the Car Toys install team, resonating how pleased its customers were with the product.

“Car Toys appreciated the convenience and performance of an enclosure that was made specifically for the subwoofer it is loaded with, and tuned for peak output,” Focht continued. “Their dedication is doing – and getting – the best for their clients. We’re going to continue to grow with them.”

Visit cartoys.com and kicker.com for more.

In other West-Coast dealer news, KICKER sales representative Dana Doyle (Weser Sales, Folsom, Calif.) presented Rick Khan of West Coast Car Stereo (Citrus Heights, Calif.) and Stereo City Pros (Fair Oaks, Calif.) with the Northern California Dealer-of-the-Year award. Michael Topalian (Audio Outlet) and Sarkis Topalian (559 Car Audio and Alarm) won Most Improved Dealer awards, and John Tatro (Sierra Select Distributors) won the Distributor-of-the-Year.

Design Engineering Announces New Universal Upholstery Material

Posted on March 23, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Design Engineering.

AVON LAKE, OH (03.24.2021) – DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material (# 50028) is constructed from black, perforated vinyl and laminated on an open-cell, 1/8″ foam backing. Extremely lightweight and flexible for easy installation, the material can be used to reduce heat and noise while providing an attractive finished appearance, making it an ideal solution for any custom interior project.

“This Universal Upholstery Material is perfect for headliners, door panels or package trays,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material has your whole interior covered.”

The Universal Upholstery Material features a high-quality, leather-look pattern texture, a sound-insulating foam backing and an attractive black finish. It comes in a versatile 54″ x 79″ sheet size that reduces the number of seams on larger projects. DEI’s Hi Temp Spray Adhesive (# 010490 or # 10490) is recommended for installation of DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material.

For more information about the new Universal Upholstery Material and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

BB Distribution Earned PowerBass Outstanding Sales Achievement Award

Posted on March 23, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged BB Distribution, PowerBass.

ONTARIO, CA (03.23.2021) – PowerBass presented BB Distribution with an Outside Sales Achievement Award, for reaching outstanding goals for 2020.

Pictured (L to R) Geoff Theoret, Alvin Dixon, Justin Bond, Dave Berry and Jaren Hjelmeland. Dixon and Berry are the owners of the company.

“We are excited to see how much growth is going on in Canada with our partner BB Distribution, otherwise known as PowerBass Canada. We look forward to a strong 2021 and thank everyone for their support of PowerBass in Canada. Working with the BB Staff is great as the guys get audio and enjoy selling it and talking about it with all of their customers. They put the customer first and go over and above to satisfy their needs on the retail floor. This has enabled BB to grow the brand by leaps and bounds!” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP of Product Development & Global Marketing stated.

BB Distribution participated in the CMA Industry Week, a virtual platform that showcased the PowerBass brand to dealers across Canada.

BB Distribution has locations in Edmonton Alberta and Oak Valley Ontario.

Visit bbdistribution.ca and powerbassusa.com for more.

Zorg North America Releases Plug and Play Automatic Trailer Camera Systems That Display on OEM Screen

Posted on March 22, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

RALEIGH, NC (03.23.2021) – Zorg North America has introduced a complete line of easy-to-install, plug-and-play trailer camera systems that automatically change the camera view from the tailgate to the rear of the trailer when towing.

Chris Luft pictured with a Zorg North America Trailer Connect Kit ready to make the installation.

“The Zorg North America team has designed custom kits for most Pickup trucks from 2015-2021 model years. The kits include a T-Harness that connects to the OEM tailgate camera harness under the truck, an IP69 rated waterproof switcher, a trailer connect kit with all parts required for both the trailer and the tow vehicle. The trailer side comes with either a white or black IR assisted, color, heavy-duty camera, 10-meter extension cable, and trailer side connector and bracket. The system provides all camera power, so no other connection on the trailer is required,” Cris Luft, Zorg NA GM stated.

After installation, the camera will automatically show on the OEM radio monitor anytime the trailer is connected, and the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. The installation does not require any cutting or modifications to the vehicle wiring. Zorg will be releasing a similar system with a toggle switch for applications where customers have special application needs.