There Are 220 Days Left in 2020… “Let’s Get Our Shine On”

SHREVEPORT, LA (05.25.2020) – The World, and the 12volt World are 146 days into 2020, with 220 days to go. That’s right, 2020 is a leap year, and has 366 days. It certainly goes without saying the last couple of months have been unprecedented.

Richardson Electronics’ packing lot is packed with customer’s vehicles. Boxes from shipments are stacked outside the Jasper AL retailer’s store in this image from Blake Potts at AED.

In the remaining 220 days of 2020 let’s redouble our efforts across the 12volt industry to “Get Our Shine On”

Many retailers are reporting record sales days. Distributors are reporting strong sales to support retailers in their areas. All of this happening after stay at home orders ended in many states. Blake Potts, AED in Birmingham stated “I am busy talking orders in the morning and helping out the warehouse crew in the afternoon ‘picking and packing’”

Sondralee Orengia, Custom Audio-Erie PA, placed this 2’x8’ banner on the busy road facing the front of her store.

Chad Seekers at Angel Distributing offered “Dealers are coming in and asking what we have in inventory. They are not as brand or model conscious as usual. Their customers are looking to upgrade the sound in their rides”

David Holland, Shiflet & Dickson GM in Gastonia NC related “Mike, we are doing business like we did in the late “80’s and ’90’s. Key brands Kicker, PowerBass, JVC, DB Drive, Planet Audio, Metra and AudioControl are all shipping. We are lovin’ every minute of it!”

John Kelly, JCK Sales, in his office wearing an Ultra Safety mask.

John Kelly, JCK Sales in the Mid-Atlantic relayed “We are seeing strong sales to distributors. In addition Ultra Safety, from Ultra Start, is offering a new line of PPE products for dealers to help keep their customers and staff members safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic”

SonicSound in Arlington, VA completely remodeled their install bay… looks brand new. Their customer’s cars and installations shine too!

Ronnie Brashear, Epsilon VP stated “Business has been excellent in light of the COVID-19 Pandemic…but it really has been strong”

Jeff Shultz, Pioneer District Sales Manager, related “Just yesterday for me was outstanding and chaotic. Business was like what spring should be. It was non-stop and just felt great”

PHC Custom Audio in Wilmington CA is always working to get their ‘Shine On’ as they make attention grabbing posts of hot vehicle jobs!

The quotes above are especially positive for brick and mortar retailer in light of the ongoing growth of online sales. During the COVID-19 there as been a tremendous spike in online sales.

Paul Anja was thrilled to receive this order of new Kenwood products in his 5 Star Car Audio store in Clearwater FL in this image from Mike Sajecki-M.A.G. Sales.

Kicker recently reported there had been a surge in calls to the Kicker Tech Support line. More consumers seeking tech support for online purchases means there has been less face-to-face interaction with knowledgable staff members at local brick and mortar retailers.

Custom Sounds and Tint completely remodeled the store in El Paso during the COVID-19 downtime.

During the COVID-19 downtime, many 12volt retailer have spent time, energy and money to remodel their stores, showrooms and installation bays. We commend their investments to get their company’s ‘Shine On’”

A group on site at the 14th Annual Vinny in Tennessee as MECA works to restart the competition season.
Alan Wojtas, Wojtas Associates, will definitely have his ‘Shine On’ as he hits the road in TX, OK, AR and LA in this shiny new Camaro.

In the coming 220 days, weeks and months to finish 2020 the 12volt News will also redouble our efforts to showcase positives across the 12volt industry as we encourage all ‘To Get Our Shine On’”

Race Sport Lighting Launches WPG to Offer PPE and Reopening Tools

RINGWOOD, IL (05.26.2020) – Race Sport Lighting has announced the launch of a brand new company Wholesale Product Group.

Pictured from Left: Steve Jergensen and Deputy Chief Thompson) WPG donates two gallons of hand sanitizer to Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office was thankful as they were running low and need to keep healthy and sanitized on the front line.

WPGsupply.com specializes in Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for small businesses to get back up running, including PPE kitsmasksglovesretail sneeze and cough shieldssocial distancing decals/stickers, and vehicle protection. WPGsupply.com is already serving customers from the mobile electronics and automotive industries and hired on several MFG reps firms to represent its products in their territories.

Orders from small shops, to large chain stores to WD’s have already been flowing in daily. The line up consists of about 50 products right now that 90% is in stock in our warehouse and shipping now.

“When we decided to launch WPG, our first concern was for the thousands of small businesses Race Sport Lighting has been in relationship with for over 13 years. We are all in this together and we want to help keep the people in our industry safe and healthy.”

“As the world goes back to work and gets their local and national economies moving again, we have the proper PPE safety equipment available for individuals and small businesses to remain compliant and protected. Also, when you support WPG you support US small business and healthcare and front-line workers. With 5% of our profits dedicated to front line workers, and 80%+ of our products supplied by US based small business”

-Steve Jergensen, WPG President

Visit wpgsupply.com and racesportinc.com for more.

DEI Introduces Can-Am Maverick Sport XC Two-Seater Heat Control Kits

AVON LAKE, OH (05.26.2020) – Design Engineering, Inc has introduce a new product to help UTV riders keep their cool. DEI Heat Control Kits are now available for 2014-’18 Can-Am Maverick Sport XC two-seater applications.

The Maverick Heat Control Kits (Part # 010885) reduce the radiant heat coming through the seats, console, cupholders and driver’s right leg area while operating the popular UTV. At only 3/16-inches thick, the material is 10-mil dimpled aluminum with a glass fiber layer and an aggressive self-adhesive backing, allowing for a quick, clean installation.

“UTVs have cockpit heat issues, including the Can-AM Maverick. DEI offers a great solution with a CNC-cut Heat Control Kit,” said Mike Buca of Design Engineering Inc. “The material will withstand 1,750 degrees F of continuous radiant heat while increasing the comfort of you and your passenger.”

DEI’s adhesive-backed, precision-cut thermal barrier material blocks heat build-up in the UTV cockpit area while reducing engine noise and vibration. The kits are shipped with all components clearly labeled for a straightforward installation in 2014-’18 Maverick Sport XC two-seat models with no modifications required.

To learn more about DEI’s entire lineup of innovative heat and sound controlled products, please visit DesignEngineering.com

“UTVs have cockpit heat issues, including the Can-AM Maverick. DEI offers a great solution with a CNC-cut Heat Control Kit,” said Tom Miller of Design Engineering Inc. “The material will withstand 1,750 degrees F of continuous radiant heat while increasing the comfort of you and your whole crew.”

DEI’s adhesive-backed, precision-cut thermal barrier material blocks heat build-up in the UTV cockpit area while reducing engine noise and vibration. The kits are shipped with all components clearly labeled for a straightforward installation in 2014-’18 Maverick Sport XC two-seat models with no modifications required.

Click here to for additional product details.

To learn more about DEI’s entire lineup of innovative heat and sound controlled products, visit DesignEngineering.com.

The 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Is Rolling In 2020 – Xtreme Autosports Wins Spin 77

SHREVEPORT LA (05.23.20)  WTF…Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Five months ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Click to view.

The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 77, is Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA. The Wheel landed on the N&H space Friday morning May 22nd. A $100. check will be headed to Mike Hatter at Xtreme Autosports. Mike was thrilled to hear the news and his phone was ringing off the hook in the background.Spinning out a new winner each Friday, a 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, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Precision Power, JBL, Power Acoustik, Farenheit and Image Dynamics. 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 and Electronics Plus in Salinas CA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, May 29th.

KICKER Hosts Zoom Training for South Africa Distributor and Dealers

STILLWATER, OK (05.22.2020) – On Thursday morning, May 21st, KICKER hosted a Zoom training session designed to inform the 12volt community across South Africa about the company’s latest products. KICKER’S John Myers, a 41-year industry veteran, conducted the very informative session. KICKER’S distributor in South Africa, PlanetWorld, notified their dealer network about the training session that was well attended.

John Myers kicked off the session with F.I.T. to the rescue.

David Glasgow, KICKER International Sales Manager, organized the Zoom meeting that was the second in the Zoom series scheduled for PlanetWorld. “Overall the meeting was fantastic. It is so important to get important information out to our international distributors and dealers. John Myers does a great job and all now understand KICKER’S Failsafe Integration Technology. F.I.T. sets the standard in amplifier performance.”

Quewen Webb pictured in his PlanetWorld office in Johannesburg during the KICKER Zoom call training session.

PlanetWorld has 3 locations in South Africa… Johannesburg, Durbin and CapeTown. Quewen Webb, PlanetWorld National Sale Manager, participated in the session and reported that dealers attending the meeting had very positive feedback.

KICKER’S Kip Litsey, Brand Marketing, making a point during the presentation.

“During the COVID-19 down time we have redoubled our efforts to engage and deliver vital information to our distributors around the world. Preparing our distributors and their dealers will turnout to be a terrific investment for all in the long run. We have 3 more sessions scheduled with PlanetWorld. We have also completed sessions with Celsus_Uk and other international distributors. We want all to know the latest so they will all be Livin’Loud with KICKER” Glasgow concluded.

Glasgow and Myers traveled to South Africa earlier this year to work with PlanetWorld and their dealers.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Let Accent Mobile Entertain You

SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (05.22.2020) – Accent Mobile, a division of Accele Electronics focused on solutions for Expeditors, Restylers, Upfitters and Fleet Managers is pleased to announce their latest innovation in the Rear Seat Entertainment category, the ACTHRVOD10K. This system is the perfect solution for new vehicles that have Active Headrests. Each mount has adjustments for different headrest pillow depths and includes different post diameter adapters. Adjustability of 90 degrees allows for an optimal viewing angle.

An industry first, just like on Airplanes, our Accent Mobile VOD Entertainment system streams Wireless HD content from your hard drive to up to 6 users This system supports up to 1TB of hard drive or USB Storage. Each user may individually control functions such as Play, Stop, Pause, FF, Rewind etc.,” said Bob Goodman, Accent Mobile, Director Of Channel Sales.

“The image displayed on the Two 10.8” 1080P HD Active Matrix LCD displays is absolutely stunning and each High Res monitor features an android OS based Touchscreen. The system has 1 HDMI input, 1 A/V input, a USB / SD Card Reader, built-in Bluetooth transmitter and Dual WiFi channels of 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz plus the option of 3G or 4G. Users can now enjoy a full Android Experience with Play Store and available game and streaming Apps. Installers will find the system easy to install and easily removable, utilizing a slide clamp style mount with only Power and Ground connections needed for the entire VOD system. Additionally, they can offer their customers the convenience of a Quick release mechanism that enables removing players from headrests easy while leaving the mount in place,” added Goodman. Like all Accent Mobile products, the ACTHRVOD10K has a 3 Year Warranty and is available immediately.

Visit accentmobile.net for more.

Axxess Shipping New Plug-N-Play DSP Packages, Bluetooth and Toslink Accessories

HOLLY HILL, FL (05.22.2020) – Axxess by Metra Electronics is now shipping new AXDSP-X and AXDSP-L packages for a wide range of vehicles. These kits include the digital signal processor, a vehicle-specific wiring harness and if needed, an amplifier bypass harness and data interface for seamless integration. These new DSP kits provide everything in one convenient package and cover newer vehicle technologies, including B&O A2B amplifiers. Accessories for adding a Toslink optical output from the DSP “Lite” and audio streaming via Bluetooth are also now available. Metra Electronics continues to safely develop and ship new products from all of its warehouse locations to ensure that dealers have the solutions they need to keep their businesses running.

New Axxess DSP Packages:
The AXDSP-X features 6 inputs, 10 individually assignable outputs with a 31-band graphic EQ on each channel and high, low and bandpass filters. New packages with the AXDSP-X and a vehicle-specific T-harness included are:
● AXDSPX-A2B2: Includes data interface. Designed for B&O A2B amplifiers for Ford 2017-2019
● AXDSPX-MST1: Chevrolet 2014-2019 and GMC 2014-2018
● AXDSPX-GL10: GM 2016-2018
● AXDSPX-GL30: Chevrolet 2019-up* and GMC 2019-up*
● AXDSPX-GM31: Chevrolet 2019-up* and GMC 2019-up*
● AXDSPX-HN2: Honda 2016-up*
● AXDSPX-HN3: Honda 2016-2019
● AXDSPX-HK2: Hyundai/Kia 2011-2016
● AXDSPX-TY3: Toyota 2018-up*
● AXDSPX-VW2: Volkswagen 2016-2019, non-amplified models only

The AXDSP-L, DSP “Lite”, features 4 inputs, 6 outputs and a 15 band graphic EQ. New packages with the AXDSP-L and a vehicle-specific T-harness included are:
● AXDSPL-CH3: Chrysler 2011-2019
● AXDSPL-CH4: Chrysler 2007-2018
● AXDSPL-CH5: Chrysler 2013-Up*
● AXDSPL-FD1: Ford 2003-up*
● AXDSPL-FD2: Ford 2011-up*
● AXDSPL-GL1: GM 2006 -2012

Saddle Tramp DSP Packages:
A new water-resistant package, the AXDSPX-HD2, is now available for Harley-Davidson 2014-up* models and includes a water-resistant case and harness with the AXDSP-X. This package is also available for the same applications but with the AXDSP-L, sold as AXDSPL-HD2. A universal AXDSP-L package, the AXDSPL-HD1, has a water-resistant case and includes a harness with a rubber boot that snaps into the housing, designed for outdoor use. These Axxess packages are in stock and available now under Metra’s Saddle Tramp motorcycle accessories product line.

Bluetooth Input for DSP “Lite”:
Axxess is now shipping the AXDSPL-BT, used for adding a Bluetooth interface input for the AXDSP-L, which allows the user to stream music directly to the interface. This is ideal for use in UTVs or other powersports applications, golf carts or boats that may not have a head unit or room in the dashboard to add one. The AXDSPL-BT utilizes Bluetooth 3.0 technology for audio streaming.

Toslink Accessories for DSP “Lite”:
Optical cables for the AXDSP-L are now available from 1 to 5 meters in length. The AXDSPL-SP is used for adding an optical 2-channel output from the AXDSP-L to deliver a cleaner signal with more noise rejection. This allows installers to utilize a 2-channel Toslink input that is commonly required for certain high-end amplifiers or processors. The optical cable part numbers are AXDSPL-T1 through 5.

Axxess has recently updated all of their part numbers; the AX-DSP-X is now the AXDSP-X and the AX-DSP-LITE is now the AXDSP-L, with kits and harnesses following these same part number updates. Additional product information is available at AxxessInterfaces.com and installers can look for live webinars each month from the Metra YouTube channel to learn more about these products.

*See AxxessInterfaces.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.

KICKER’s Evolution of the Smart Line-Output Converter Featuring KEY Technology Ships Worldwide

STILLWATER, OK (05.21.2020) – KICKER has solved a common amplifier integration challenge with a single, elegant solution. Now shipping worldwide, KICKER introduces the KEYLOC – the first frequency, speaker-lead identification system and fully functional line-output converter in one.  The KEYLOC Smart LOC is available at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online, and retails for $129.95.

Emerging from KICKER’s cutting-edge line of KEY Technology, KEYLOC is a revolutionary, DSP (digital signal processor)-controlled line-output converter that automatically detects the frequency range of speaker leads and phase of a factory audio system to assist in hooking up any aftermarket amplifier for a more modern entertainment setup.

KEYLOC’s patent-pending KEY algorithm automatically detects and analyzes crossovers, EQ, time delay, and all-pass filters present, and then level-matches the left and right audio channels.  Once analyzed, it corrects these various filters for the smoothest frequency response possible and a clean, uncolored audio signal for all aftermarket gear.

Using KICKER’s FIT 2+ advanced input design, KEYLOC has the most versatile input sensitivity in the car-audio aftermarket. Ranging from 125mV to 10V (low) or 1V to 40V (high), KEYLOC is prepared to work with nearly every vehicle on the road today.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Brutus is Back with More Power Than Ever

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.21.2020) – BRUTUS Gamma (BG) amplifiers provide audio with undistorted clarity while producing big power. Incorporating Super D Class and Super A/B Class technology that features Ultra-Fi MOSFET outputs, selected for both balance and output power, BRUTUS Gamma amplifiers set the standard for RMS.

The true power of an amplifier is the heart of the RMS rating and BRUTUS Gamma amplifiers continue to set the precedent of power in Hifonics amplifiers. RMS ( a terminology that means the average/running speed of the amplifier, not the most or least power it can do, but it’s the cruising and continuous power it can maintain), is where the amplifier is the most efficient at by pushing out true power to audio installations.

Alden Stiefel, President/CEO of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “We are really excited about this line of amplifiers, especially the technology that is in it. We have pushed the boundary of what is possible while setting a measure of expectation at Hifonics for years to come.”

For the BRUTUS Gamma lineup of amplifiers, RMS signifies the customer’s expectation of power to be delivered to their speakers and subwoofers. The all-new and upcoming BG-4000.1D BRUTUS Gamma amplifier unleashes strapping abilities to link with another amplifier to use 2 amplifiers for one output while maintaining huge power. 

To view full product line details, click here.

Features of the BRUTUS Gamma (BG) amplifier line include:
• LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier circuit with minimal distortion
• RCA INPUTS
Nickel-plated RCA jacks create the most efficient High/Low-level audio connection and resist corrosion
• HEAT SINK
Classic aluminum Hifonics design to minimize heat build-up on the Ultra-Fi output devices
• LED SYSTEM PROTECTION CIRCUITRY DIAGNOSTICS
Monitor overload and speaker short protection with illuminated indicators on the amplifier end panel
• BASS REMOTE INCLUDED
The wired bass remote allows adjustments to bass frequencies from the control which can be mounted anywhere in the vehicle

Visit hifonics.com for more.

CRUX Releases Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention

CHATSWORTH, CA (05.21.2020) – CRUX has released a Brand New Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for JBL Amplified Systems for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up.

The CRUX SWRTY-61P Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for JBL Amplified Systems for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up. It facilitates the integration of an after-market radio to enable retention of certain factory features when replacing a factory-installed radio.

Compatible models include:
TOYOTA
2020 – Up 4Runner
2019 – Up Avalon
2018 – Up Camry
2019 – Up CH-R
2018 – Up Corolla
2020 – Up Highlander
2019 – Up Rav4
2020 – Up Sequioa
2018 – Up Sienna
2020 – Up Tacoma
2020 – Up Tundra
2016 – Up Mirai

To visit the SWRTY-61P product page, click here.

Note for vehicles that do not have JBL Amplified System please purchase SWRTY-61C  Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up. 

To visit the SWRTY-61C product page, click here.

Key Features:

  • Retains factory features in select Toyota vehicles while functioning with an aftermarket radio.
  • Pre-programmed to retain factory Steering Wheel Controls.
  • Retains factory JBL amplifier
  • Retains factory back-up camera and sensors
  • Retains factory birds eye view feature (if equipped).
  • Retains factory Auxiliary Audio Input.
  • Includes factory USB retention adapter cable.
  • Includes antenna adapter.

Visit cruxinterfacing.com for more.