Author: 12VoltNews

KICKER Marine Audio Adds ABYC- and USCG-Compliant Marine Power and Signal Accessories

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STILLWATER, OK (04.28.2020) – KICKER Marine Audio delivers a higher standard to its Marine Power and Signal Accessories, engineered by boat owners, for boat owners. A complete wiring solution, a new family of interconnects, power wire, fusing, power distribution and amplifier kits are all built to the highest standards in the marine industry, meeting or exceeding U.S. Coast Guard and ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) testing standards. They will be available at Authorized KICKER Marine Dealers in-store and online. Complete marine power kits retail from $129.95 to $199.95.

MARINE WIRE (retail range $99.95 [20 ft. 8 AWG] to $549.95 [50 ft. 1/0 AWG])

To ensure maximum power transfer and reliability, KICKER takes pure, full-spec OFC (oxygen-free copper) and tins it to prevent corrosion. Compliant with USCG and ABYC standards, the power cable features soft, flexible jacketing that makes installation easy, even when running cable around corners. The power and ground wire are offered in eight, four and 1/0 AWG. The speaker wire is 16 AWG.  A spool with 150 feet of combo speaker/RGB wire is also available.

MARINE INTERCONNECTS (retail range $19.95 to $49.95)

KICKER Marine interconnects feature split-pin connections and OFC wire for superior bass response and signal clarity. Specific to the marine line, the PVC jacketing is extended to completely cover the ground ring, providing a superior seal between the elements and your amplifier. All marine RCA cables feature an ultra-slim union for snag-free cable routing in tight places. It is offered in one, three, seven and 10-meter lengths, and a male-to-dual-female Y adapter is also available.

MARINE POWER DISTRIBUTION (retail range $19.95 to $79.95)

KICKER is the only 12-volt aftermarket brand to offer a power-distribution system that meets USCG and ABYC standards, therefore safe enough to be used in new boat construction. 

KICKER’s MRBF fuses also meet SAE-J1171 standards for ignition protection and are IP66 rated. Sizes ranging from 40 to 300 amps are available.

The RT series of easy-crimp ring terminals (available in eight, four and 1/0 AWG), KMFMF Master Fuse Holder, KMFDB3 Fused Distribution Block and KMDB3 Ground Distribution Block are all nickel-coated to prevent corrosion, and all meet the same stringent standards of the rest of the new marine accessory line.

The KMFMF is engineered to fit directly on a marine battery, while the power distribution block is designed to conveniently fit an MRBF fuse on each of the three threaded posts, with an RT ring terminal securely fastened to each.

Visit kicker.com/marine-audio for more.

Omega R&D Announces “Power-Training” Webinar Series

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DOUGLASVILLE, GA (04.28.2020) – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. is excited to announce a new live webinar training series on how to leverage Omega’s product line and take advantage today’s safety conscious culture shift. Dealer sales & installation staff will be taught the latest tips & innovations to leave no stone unturned. It’s time to maximize customer experience while maximizing dollars- per-car with high value add-ons and system performance techniques.

The training series will be offered in 30 minute bite-size segments at multiple times during the week to optimize our dealer’s valuable time and learning experience. Our training schedule is convenient for east and west coast dealers. Trainings will cover everything from how to use the latest remote start firmware features to selecting a product line philosophy that’s best for your shop culture and customer base. We’ll also be offering future trainings on telematics, maximizing online branding, vehicle integration, our full line of t-harness solutions, and much more over the coming months.

This is your chance to evolve and utilize culture shift to your advantage and leave your competition in the past. Each training will also have various giveaways for attending dealers! Home Depot/Lowes Digital Gift Cards, Free product, Omega swag, and more.

Check the schedule at www.OmegaRules.com/training to see upcoming topics, giveaways, and register!

KICKER Quietly Makes Community Contributions Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

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STILLWATER, OK (04.27.2020) – Stillwater Designs, the parent company of KICKER Audio, is actively supporting the regional community during the international Coronavirus pandemic.

While KICKER’s management team has sent employees home to work remotely and to care for families and kids, the organization has also flexed its resources and manpower to support regional health-services providers.

Kyle Ambrose assembles the 3-D printed headbands & shield.

KICKER, with support from several component suppliers, recently stepped up to the plate to offer 10,000 facemasks in support of community efforts to fight COVID-19. Believing that “charity begins at home,” 8,300 masks were donated to Stillwater (Okla.) Medical Center to accommodate hospital patients and the staff caring for them. 

Another 1,200 face masks have been sent to Hillcrest Medical Center, a 620-bed hospital in Tulsa, Okla., through a KICKER staff connection.

Another 500 masks were contributed to a group of New York City hospitals through KICKER brand and sports marketing director Roger Demaree, whose nephew is a surgeon currently working at a NYC hospital.

6-year-old Noah demonstrates the protection of the face shield.

Additionally, the company was pleased to offer a supply of clear face shields to area first-responders.

Besides distributing the vendor-supplied face masks, a 15-year KICKER team member and his family have also found a way to make a positive impact in the local community.

Kyle Ambrose, who works in research and development, began experimenting with the company’s 3-D printer, normally used for creating prototype parts. Ambrose consulted with a healthcare professional about local needs and learned that beyond face masks, face shields were in great demand. Ambrose subsequently researched and discovered approved patterns online and created a headband that could be used to secure a clear face shield. He reached out to Stillwater Christian School where his children are enrolled to inquire about the availability of clear safety film used for overhead projectors. He enlisted the school’s participation in donating needed materials and also secured additional film donations from Fenton Office Mart (Stillwater). 

While 3-D printing is a slow process, Ambrose is able to produce three bands simultaneously in under three hours. To date, he has hand-crafted over 100 shields which were initially slated for Stillwater Medical Center and then redirected on the hospital’s recommendation to the area’s senior-assisted living homes that were experiencing shortages. Ambrose personally delivered the shields to each home where they were gratefully received.

“We are pleased to be able to share our resources with our community,” says KICKER founder Steve Irby.  “Stillwater is our home and we appreciate the opportunity to support those who care for us.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Opus Marketing Group Working With All Together

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FALLSTON, MD (04.27.2020) – The Opus Marketing Group manufacturers rep firm is working closely with their dealer base throughout the Mid-Atlantic territory plus the state of Michigan.

Jamie White in the Opus Marketing HQ Office in Fallston, MD.

Opus Marketing Group Principal Jamie White offered “We are in the ‘customer service business,’ from the vendor to rep to dealer to consumer. During the COVID-19 the concept of customer service can and should be emphasized. Communication between all parties, especially during the COVID-19 national emergency, is vital to deliver that customer service.”

There are 7 members on the Opus Marketing Team, five are located in cities in the Mid-Atlantic territory and two in Michigan. Jamie White offices in Fallston MD. Three sales team members work from home offices across the Mid-Atlantic territory with Chuck Otatti in Eastern PA, Bruno Berg in Bear DE and Todd Ess in Forrest Hills MD. Judy Zega, Office Manager, works from Succasunna, NJ.

Geoff Dixon and Katie Carney cover the state of Michigan with Dixon working from Troy and Carney from Commerce Township.

“It goes without saying that this COVID-19 time is unprecedented. There are many local regulations regarding business hours, social distancing and stay at home orders. We all know our dealers want to get back to doing business. It’s great to see stores, like Sonic Sound VA in Arlington, redoing installation bays. In this down time others are remodeling showrooms, revamping displays, working on inventory and attending training seminars. We have heard of other retailers only coming in at night to work on jobs.  Communicating and working together is now more important than ever,” related.

Opus Marketing has an extensive lineup of vendors on the company’s line card including Kicker, Directed, SounDigital, Ground Zero, Focal America, Jensen, Dual, BrandMotion, Atrend, Dynamat, Design Engineering, Polk, Lucas Lighting, Wet Sounds, Waylens, Morel and DD Audio. Brands represented in Michigan include Kicker, Directed, SounDigital, Ground Zero, Focal and DD Audio.

For more visit opusmarketinggroup.com

Webinar from Metra Electronics for Axxess AXSWC

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HOLLY HILL, FL (04.27.2020) – Metra is doing everything they can to keep employees safe but also keep operations going so that they can continue to ship products on time but also continue to develop new products to support dealers. They hosted a live webinar last week (as a test) and had really great engagement, so they will be doing more of these.

The company’s next live webinar is on Tuesday, April 28. See details below:

Axxess AXSWC and AX Series Installation Webinar
Tuesday, April 28 at 3PM EST

https://youtu.be/SGfbP9TmPVI

Gatlin Sandhu from Metra Electronics will unbox the best-selling Steering Wheel Control Interface from Axxess, the AXSWC (formerly known as the ASWC-1), and discuss tips and tricks for installation. Gatlin will discuss this product, show the harness, do a stand-alone installation and a paired installation with the AX Series installation modules. He’ll talk in-depth about programming, updating and troubleshooting for the AXSWC. He’ll also discuss the Axxess AX Series of products that also use this same patented built-in technology for steering wheel control retention. 12volt installers can join the conversation in the live chat on Tuesday, April 28 at 3PM EST.

Here is info about last week’s webinar, which was a popular topic for dealers:

Axxess DSP X and Lite: Live Video Webinar with Q&A
Metra Electronics sales rep. Gatlin Sandhu discusses the Axxess AX-DSP-X and “Lite” Digital Signal Processors and answers questions from installers in a live video webinar, hosted by Metra Electronics. These DSP products featured patented technology with a built-in interface and so much more.

https://youtu.be/BPfCR3G8OPQ

Visit www.metraonline.com for more.

Memphis Audio Partners with Virtual Marketing Consultants to Cover MINK States

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MEMPHIS, TN (04.24.2020) – Memphis Audio is excited to announce big improvements in service for the M.I.N.K States (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas & Southern Illinois). Memphis has partnered with Jon Kluiter from Virtual Marketing Consultants (VMC). Jon is a long time Memphis Audio alumni with ties to the brand dating back over 20 years. Jon was a territory sales representative for Memphis from 1997 – 2006. Jon spent several years as a retail store owner and has been deeply involved in the Powersports and motorcycle industry for decades.

Jon Kluiter, Virtual Marketing Consultants (VMC)

VMC has enhanced its coverage capacity by contracting with Anthony Weinman, a successful Memphis Audio sales rep recently with CPS and EMA to continue to provide exceptional coverage to his territory. Anthony has been a representative of Memphis for several years and has a proven track record of sales growth and exceptional service. 

Anthony Weinman

Memphis has also established a new regional distribution partnership with Santa Fe Distributing to provide fast and efficient just in time inventory for the territory to make doing business with Memphis even easier. This partnership will not impact the margins, profitability and service dealers in the territory expect from Memphis. Santa Fe Distributing will increase the availability of products and service for dealers in the area.

Change always raises nerves, but these changes are Moving Memphis in the right direction. We are servicing this territory with two seasoned Memphis Reps who have proven themselves in the field to provide the best service and expertise possible in the territory. We are expanding our just in time capabilities for dealers who need product right away. We couldn’t be happier with the way things have worked out with these new partnerships and we are confident our dealers will see a tremendous benefit to their business in the immediate future. We are looking forward to retail stores getting the green light to open back up for business and show our dealers the benefits of these recent changes,” said Nick LoMonaco, president of Memphis Audio.

Jon Kluiter from VMC can be reached immediately for any business related questions at Jon Kluiter can be reached at 913-231-1714. Memphis Audio can be reached at 800-489-2300.

Visit www.memphiscaraudio.com and vmcpros.com for more.

JVC KENWOOD Webinar Series Is Connecting With Dealers

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LONG BEACH, CA (0424.2020) – The JVC KENWOOD webinar series is drawing strong attendance from dealers. JVC Product Trainings, KENWOOD eXcelon and KENWOOD Regular/Distributor sessions was been scheduled over the past weeks. Seth Halstead, National Training and Content Development Manager, along with support from Josh Bowen and Marcus Vasconcellos have presented the engaging seminars for dealers.

During the past week JVC and KENWOOD presentations have provided attendees the opportunity to win a valuable prize. The Kenwood prize is a CAX-HL10Qi Motorized Clamping QiCharger Phone Mount. The JVC prize is the new JVC KW-560BT Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Ready Receiver.

John Zambrano, Ai Vinyl Graphics and Mobile Electronics in New Rochelle NY, won the first Kenwood prize. “The Kenwood Webinar I attended on Wednesday April 15th was very informative. The presenters did a great job. It’s super to see Kenwood putting together these training webinars during this Coronavirus down time. Learning more about the DVD was super. These webinars give us a sense of community. I can’t wait to receive the Qi charger and put it in my car” Zambrano related to 12volt News.

Caleb Paulson, The Audio Garage in Fargo ND, was the most recent winner of the KENWOOD Qi mobile charger. Paulson stated “The presentation was very good and Josh Bowen did a super job. I can’t wait to see the AC Camera… also the new mechless receiver with the new screen.”

Dusty Liebhaber won a new JVC KW-M560BT during the early JVC webinar on Thursday, April 23rd. “During the webinar, I learned a lot about the in-vehicle connectivity features of the new JVC radios. When working with customers on the sales floor they will see the connectivity benefits” Liebhaber commented to 12volt News. Liebhaber is with Muntz Audio in Appleton, WI.

For more information about the JVC KENWOOD Webinar series, contact your JVC and or KENWOOD representative.

Visit jvckenwood.com for more.

ZZ-2 Launches New Lexus Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto Interface

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WEST PALM BEACH, FL (04.24.2020) – ZZ-2 Has released the IT-LEX line of interfaces. The IT-LEX line consists of three different models, the IT-LEX15, IT-LEX17 and IT-LEX19. These three models cover most Lexus vehicle starting in 2014. Rich DeSclafani stated “We are extremely excited to release these new products for Lexus vehicles. These interfaces provide a complete all in one solution.

They offer connectivity, safety, convenience and are easy to use. The interfaces are all plug n’ play, use the OEM microphone and come with a 3-year warranty. We do not sell direct to consumer, so these interfaces provide a great opportunity for 12volt retailers to offer a profitable and reliable product to their clients.”

FEATURES:
• Wireless CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Backup Camera Input (w/Dynamic Moving Lines)
• Front Camera Input (w/ Parking Mode)
• Uses OEM Microphone
• Smartphone Mirroring/Mirror Link
• USB A/V Playback
• Plug n’ Play
• Works with all screen sizes 7”, 10”, 12”

Compatible with these 2014-2019 LEXUS models:
RX, GS, ES, GS, UX, NX, IS, LS, LX, LC, RC, CT

Visit zz-2.com for more.

Race Sport Lighting Takes LED Wheel Lights to the Next Level

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RINGWOOD, IL (04.23.2020) – Race Sport Lighting, the undisputed leader of aftermarket lighting solutions for the automotive, truck accessories, marine, and power sports industries, has announced the release of updated features now available on the companies ColorSMART Led Wheel Light kits.

Rigidity of Frame

The first improvement was made to the frame thickness. We have increased the thickness of the aluminum frame to add rigidity. The stiffer frame eliminates movement of the product on the vehicle.

Turn Signal and Brake Function

The second new feature we added to these LED wheel lights is a turn signal and brake function. Now when you stop the rings can illuminate red. When you flip your turn signal on both rings on the corresponding side of the vehicle will illuminate amber. Brighter means safer while driving on the road.

Smartphone Controlled Chasing Patterns

The third feature to discuss about these LED wheel lights is that they DO feature our Chasing pattern technology. Pattern selection is made via Bluetooth on your smart device.

Visit racesportinc.com for more.

2020 NFL Draft Coverage on SiriusXM

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NEW YORK, NY (04.23.2020) – SiriusXM will provide listeners nationwide with comprehensive coverage of the 2020 NFL Draft, airing the live announcements of every selection with in-depth analysis on the SiriusXM NFL Radio channel, as well as additional NFL Draft-focused programming on SiriusXM’s college sports and fantasy sports channels. 

For what will be the most unique NFL Draft in its history, at a time when many people would welcome the diversion of a live event from the sports world, SiriusXM will offer coverage that spans all three days of the Draft.  From the first round on Thursday, April 23, through the seventh and final round on Saturday, April 25, the SiriusXM NFL Radio channel will carry the live announcements of every selection by every team.  This coverage will air Thursday and Friday starting at 7:00 pm ET, and Saturday starting at noon ET.

Before and after each selection, listeners will hear informed analysis from SiriusXM’s NFL Draft experts, as well as interviews with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and dozens of draftees, general managers and coaches from around the league.  SiriusXM NFL Radio’s draft broadcast team will feature Pro Football Hall of Fame member and legendary player personnel executive Gil Brandt; former NFL scout, coach and front-office executive Pat Kirwan; former veteran NFL quarterback Jim Miller; and lead host Jason Horowitz.  Former college coach Rick Neuheisel will join the broadcast team for the Friday and Saturday draft rounds.  All hosts will be broadcasting from their home studios.

SiriusXM NFL Radio’s coverage will also direct listeners on how they can support the NFL’s “Draft-A-Thon,” (NFL.com/Relief) the three-day virtual fundraiser that will help support six national nonprofits and their respective COVID-19 relief efforts.

SiriusXM NFL Radio is available to subscribers nationwide on SiriusXM radios (channel 88) and those authenticated subscribers with the SiriusXM All Access package can also tune in via the SiriusXM app and at home with Amazon Alexa, the Google Assistant or however they stream in their house. 

Go to SiriusXM.com/NFLonSXM for more on SiriusXM NFL Radio.

The SiriusXM NFL Radio channel continues to air live all day every day, covering the league and taking calls from NFL fans around the country.  In the leadup to the draft, SiriusXM NFL Radio has conducted interviews with scores of NFL Draft prospects, and produced specials focusing on standout players at specific positions, giving fans insight into some of the athletes their favorite teams may be interested in.  These interviews and specials can be accessed anytime on demand on the SiriusXM app.

Interviews: https://siriusxm.us/3crRZxC   
Specials: https://siriusxm.us/2z9eV6k 

In addition to SiriusXM NFL Radio’s coverage, listeners can also tune into draft-focused programming on other SiriusXM channels.

SiriusXM’s 24/7 college sports channel, ESPNU Radio (channel 84), will air a live special on the draft’s first and second nights.  Starting at 7:00 pm ET, host Rhett Lewis will talk with a number of SiriusXM’s college analysts to get their reaction to the first-round selections, discuss their college performances and predict the impact they may have for their new teams.  Listeners will hear from former coaches, players and others including Danny Kanell, Brock Huard, Chris Doering, Rick Neuheisel, Mark Dominik, Jon Jansen, Anthony Herron, Evan Moore, Jacob Hester, Ben Hartsock, AJ Hawk and Bobby Carpenter.

Throughout the first three rounds of the draft, the SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio channel (XM channel 87 and Sirius channel 210) will offer pick by pick analysis from a fantasy football perspective.  Fantasy experts John Hansen, Jeff Ratcliffe, Brad Evans, Bob Harris, Michael Fabiano and others will share insight on which rookies may have the greatest impact on fantasy football rosters.

On VSiN (The Vegas Stats and Information Network) on SiriusXM (channel 204), Brent Musburger, Michael Lombardi and other VSiN hosts will offer the gaming perspective on the selections from the 2020 draft and their future impact on their teams. 

Visit www.siriusxm.com for more.