Author: 12VoltNews

Midbass Distribution Limited and Aurigin Inc. Join Together in International Collaboration

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SUTTON COLDFIELD, UK & ATLANTA, GA (04.10.2020) – Midbass Distribution Limited is the master distributor of Vented Innovative Bass Enclosures (VIBE) Audio, founded in 1993, the first brand in the world to trademark the now-iconic alloy spun turbo port in all of its bass enclosures. The VIBE product line consists of speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers, powered enclosures, and installation accessories, is the UK’s biggest 12V car audio brand, and recipient of numerous European awards including the EISA award for best speaker in 2019.

Aurigin Inc. is owned by Scott Buwalda, who also founded Hybrid Audio Technologies in 2005. Hybrid Audio is best known for producing some of the world’s finest car audio speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers, and have garnered more International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) wins than any other manufacturer in the past ten years. The company celebrates its 15th Anniversary in 2020 with a commemorative component set known as the “XV Series,” and planned release of their first DSP amplifier later this year.

The collaboration will include Aurigin Inc. warehousing and order fulfillment of VIBE products in the USA with sales and marketing coordination by Midbass from their UK offices, while Midbass assumes responsibility for Hybrid Audio Technologies warehousing and exclusive distribution through the European Union, EMEA, and the UK.

Jon Knowles, Head of 12V Midbass Distribution and Director of Sales for VIBE Audio stated “we are very happy to be taking big steps back into the US market, after an overly long time away. We now will have a mechanism in place to warehouse the VIBE products and ensure timely order delivery from Aurigin’s Georgia headquarters and a satellite fulfillment and support location in Chicago, Illinois.” Knowles went on to say “further, having the Hybrid Audio Technologies line-up in the EMEA fills a void in the high-end audio categories for us, and is a natural fit.”

“We formed Aurigin Inc. two years ago for this very purpose” explains Klifton Keplinger, VP of Sales for Aurigin and Hybrid Audio Technologies. “We are positioned well to be a warehousing and order fulfillment center for VIBE as they seek to grow their business in the USA.” Keplinger continues “furthermore, Midbass will be an asset to Hybrid Audio Technologies as the brand is proliferated throughout the UK and Europe, thanks to Midbass’s extensive distribution network which covers thirty countries in EMEA.”

Midbass will market both brands (VIBE in the USA and Hybrid Audio Technologies in UK and EMEA) as protected lines, with a focus on the specialist “brick and mortar” retailers. In Europe, the Hybrid Audio Technologies line completes the Midbass portfolio of products and bolsters the super high-end and SQ product lines currently not fulfilled by the company with VIBE Audio and EDGE Car Audio.

For more information on VIBE Audio, contact Jon Knowles, Director of Sales, Midbass Distribution Ltd. at jon.k@midbass.com, or by calling +44(0) 121 311 9090. For more information on Hybrid Audio Technologies, contact Klifton Keplinger of Aurigin Inc. at klifton@aurigin.us, or by calling toll-free 1.833.AURIGIN x.101.

Automotive Industry Groups Seek National Approach for Defining “Essential” Businesses

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WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 1, 2020) — The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), in partnership with eight other automotive trade associations, urged the National Governors Association and Governors of all 50 states to standardize the definition of essential businesses and workers. The groups recommend adoption of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) March 28 directive, “Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce: Ensuring Community and National Resilience in COVID-19 Response,” which identifies essential workers and business operations throughout the economy. DHS guidance clarifies that automotive repair, maintenance, and transportation equipment manufacturing and distribution facilities are “essential services” that are critical to ensuring the safe and ongoing operations of our nation’s transportation and logistics sector.

The organizations sending the letter represent companies that manufacture parts and supply services to help maintain the nation’s fleet of public and private vehicles during COVID-19—from cars, trucks and buses to police and emergency vehicles. The letter notes that Governors and local authorities have been making difficult decisions balancing “essential” commercial activities with “Shelter in Place” directives. It is important that states adopt the DHS Guidance, which provides a uniform national approach for protecting the country’s critical transportation and manufacturing needs.

Click here to view a PDF copy of the letter.

The letter was signed by the Auto Care Association, Automotive Oil Change Association, Automotive Service Association, California Automotive Business Coalition, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association, Specialty Equipment Market Association, Tire Industry Association, Service Station Dealers of America and Allied Trades, U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association.

Visit sema.org for more.

AudioControl to Host LC Amplifier Web Training

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SEATTLE ,WA (04.09.2020) – This week will be the 4th installment of AudioControl’s training series broadcast on ZOOM and Facebook Live from the Company’s HQ in Seattle, WA.

On Thursday, April 9th at 11AM PST, Matt Palumbo-National Trainer and Chris Bennett-Director of Mobile Audio will focus on the AudioControl LC Series amplifiers. Palumbo related “We will cover what makes these amplifiers different and how to use these powerful, feature packed amplifiers in the most efficient way for better sounding installations.”

This presentation is the 4th in the series as the AudioControl Team is encouraging all practicing social distancing, and staying at home, to utilize their time to prepare to get back to work.

“The first 3 sessions have been well attended and we trust we will have a large audience for our 4th training session” Palumbo concluded.

The zoom link is: https://zoom.us/j/219359570 if you’d like to join us (recommended).

Otherwise you can watch via Facebook Live at www.facebook.com/audiocontrol

In the future, the plan is for Training Sessions to be edited and uploaded to YouTube.

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

Nakamichi Car Audio Appoints Elite Sales & Marketing for Michigan

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MIAMI, FL (04.09.2020) – Diplomat Trading, exclusive U.S. agent for Nakamichi Car Audio, has announced the appointment of Elite Sales Marketing as the new Michigan sales representative. Elite will take over the state of Michigan from Audex Marketing and the retiring Bill Barron. 

“Bill did a great job sowing the seeds and launching the Michigan market to let everyone know that ‘Nak is back’ in the USA,” commented Robin McNeal, Nakamichi Car Audio National Sales Manager. “And now we are looking forward to continued growth with Neal.” 

Neal Batson – Rep Principal of Elite Sales & Marketing

Neal Batson is the rep principal of Elite Sales & Marketing and has covered the Michigan territory representing 12V manufacturers for over 18 years.

“Over the years Neal has built great relations with dealers throughout Michigan and the Motor City and we are pleased to have him as part of our nationwide rep force,” said McNeal.

Dealers interested in finding out more about Nakamichi can contact Neal Batson at (248) 765-9717 or nealtherep@gmail.com

For more information about Nakamichi Car Audio, visit their global website at www.nakamichicaraudio.com

Covid-19 Update from AudioControl CEO Alex Camara

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AudioControl Friends,

I’m writing to share two things you might find helpful relative to the Covid-19 pandemic.

First, I want to reassure you that AudioControl continues to remain fully open and operational. Please reach out to myself or any of our office and support team, working from home for any needs….

Secondly, after a number of calls and meetings with many of you, I want to provide links to valuable information from the Small Business Administration that might be helpful to you at this time. Many of you may have already tapped into these resources but I wanted to send out what I have collated over the past days….

1) I listen to this brief webinar most days at 9am Pacific. It is noted by Ami Kassar of Multifunding Advisors (NOT a loan company). His webinar is staying abreast of the current situation and provides daily updates as regulations change. A good daily update. Register here:

https://webinars.multifunding.com/

2) Paycheck Protection Program : An SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
3) Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance: A loan advance that provides up to $10,000 of economic relief to businesses currently experiencing temporary difficulties. 
4) SBA Express Bridge Loans: Enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly.
5) SBA Debt Relief: Information on the SBA’s financial reprieve to small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.
6) U.S. Department of the Treasury: Comprehensive information on all aspects of the CARES Act.

I hope these links and the link to Ami Kassar’s daily update are helpful at this time. Keep in touch with anything we can do to help…

Sincerely,
Alex Camara
CEO – AudioControl

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Announces Universal Dynamic ColorSHIFT LED Underbody Kit

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METAIRE, LA (05.08.2020) – Oracle Lighting has announced its new Universal Dynamic ColorSHIFT LED Underbody Kit (p/n #4229-332) is now available with an MSRP of $229.95.

“Underglow is nothing new but our new Dynamic ColorSHIFT kit has a ton of unique features and allow the user to adjust every aspect of the lights with their smartphone for the ultimate in controllability,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “Our specially-designed kit includes four self-adhesive LED strips that fit most vehicles. Although not intended for on-road use, our LED underglow lights give your car or truck the appearance of floating and will make it stand out from the crowd at the next car show.”

The new Oracle Lighting Dynamic ColorSHIFT technology is the latest advancement in the company’s expansive lighting modifications. The Dynamic features allow the user to run multiple moving color patterns through the LEDs using the free app, creating a vivid eye-catching lighting effect. The LEDs can be set to individual colors to match any color paint or vehicle theme.

“Conveniently controlled through a free smartphone app, the system features more than 200 pre-programmed moving patterns as well as static color control,” Hartenstein continued. “In addition to the pre-programmed features, the user can also create custom designs through pixel editing in the app.”

The LEDs are Double insulated to IP69 standard for durability and are waterproof enough to be submerged underwater. Installation and wiring is easy with Plug-and-Play connectors and a controller that installs by simply connecting the black and red wires to the battery. With the controller connected to the battery the user can then control the lights via your smartphone. 

Package Includes:

  • (2) 4-Foot Dynamic ColorSHIFT IP 68 waterproof strips for vehicle’s front and back underbody
  • (2) 6-Foot Dynamic ColorSHIFT IP 68 waterproof strips for the vehicle’s passenger and driver side underbody
  • (1) Dynamic ColorSHIFT Bluetooth® controller
  • Installation accessories

Having celebrated its 20-year anniversary in 2019, Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive market since 1999. Oracle thrives on low-to-mid production specialized components with a goal of providing a dual benefit to clients by lowering manufacturing costs and reducing lead-time for product development.

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

PowerBass Releases New XL Series Subwoofers

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ONTARIO, CA (04.08.2020) – PowerBass’ newly designed XL Series Subwoofers, feature the same great look and performance you are accustomed to but are now optimized for extended low frequency response giving you even more bottom end sound and increasing the overall sound quality aspect of your bass tones.

Boasting a custom turbine style frame constructed of polycarbonate/glass fiber, this unique basket supports dual stack magnets and a extended dome backplate.

PowerBass utilizes a combination of perimeter and pole venting to keep air circulating over the voice coil so everything stays cool.

XL SERIES SUBWOOFERS
Dual and Single 4Ω Voice Coils
XL-844/844D 200W RMS
XL-1044/1044D 350W RMS
XL-1244/1244D 400W RMS

Features:

  • NEW Large Roll Santoprene Surround
  • 8″, 10″, & 12″ Dual or Single 4-Ohm Subwoofer
  • Proprietary Non-pressed Paper DDC Coated Cone
  • 2.0″ Vented BASV Voice Coil Former
  • Perimeter Aero-Vent Voice Coil Cooling Vents
  • Proprietary Non Resonance Polycarbonate/Glass Fiber Basket
  • Chrome Push Terminals
  • Optimally Designed for Both Small Sealed or Ported Enclosures

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

Tint World Hosted Virtual Car Meet Via Zoom

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ORLANDO, FL (04.07.2020) – Tint World Longwood, the Orlando area’s leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, invited Orlando-area auto enthusiasts to safely connect with up to 300 other fellow car lovers this past weekend at an online event created to keep the local car scene running during a period of social distancing and stay-at-home mandates.  

Pete Muller posted this image on Sunday,  to test the live video feed, prior to the live  Virtual Car Meet Zoom call.

“Orlando has a huge car scene,” said Tint World Longwood owner Pete Muller. “You can typically find a car show every day of the week. For many people, it’s an important part of their social life. So while we’re all staying in place as much as possible, we hosted a virtual car show this past weekend that anyone could join from their own driveway or garage.”

This image is a screenshot of the live Virtual Car Meet Zoom call. Images of enthusiasts on the call are pictured. Muller is pictured on the top row-Second from the left. Tara Bush, Zoom call co-host, is pictured top row 3rd from the left.

The virtual car meet was hosted on Zoom on Sunday, April 5, from 4-6 p.m.

TintWorld Orlando’s Pete Muller commented to 12volt News, “This was a very good ‘experiment’ and possibly the very first live car meet on Zoom. In and out we generally had over 20 enthusiasts on the Zoom call. We were all relaxed, had a beverage in hand and talked car stuff. All could see the cars and garages of those on the Zoom call. All in all it was a very positive 2 hours.”

Tint World Orlando posted this announcement for the Live Virtual Car Meet days prior to the Zoom call.

Tara Bush, who owns FLACarShows.com, co-hosted the Zoom live car meet with Muller.

“I noticed there were several names on the Zoom call that I was not familiar with from the store. They will be good followup opportunities. Also, I noticed a few on the call had a ski rig or an ATV,” Muller added.

Great to see proactive 12volt retailers, like Pete Muller, exploring new ways to connect with consumers and create interest in the wide selection of products 12volt retailers offer in today’s marketplace.

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Stinger Marine Announces New Universal Dash Kit

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CLEARWATER, FL (04.07.2020) – Stinger Marine has announced the first universal dash kit for boat owners who want to upgrade their marine audio, with minimal modifications.

The SEADASH dash kit allows you to easily add or convert to a 3-inch gauge marine-style aftermarket radio, even if the current opening is an oversized splash protector or single DIN rectangle. The 8 independent mounting configurations will not require additional modifications on most applications.

Available in white and black, these dash kits feature OEM-grade ASTM-G154-16-certified UV-protected ASA and stainless hardware for a multitude of installation configurations without having to modify the console in any way. Of course, they also work perfectly with Stinger’s new SPXM1 Radio, launching this summer 2020.

The kit is available at a very low MSRP of $39.99.

Visit stingerelectronics.com for more.

BOSS Audio Launches Four New Elite Series Amplifiers

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OXNARD, CA (04.07.2020) – BOSS Audio Systems has announced the launch of four new Elite Series amplifiers. The BE1200.1D, BE600.2D, BE300.4D, and BE2200.5D are now shipping.

“As more and more consumers are looking for more power for the buck, BOSS Elite has the answer with four new amplifiers that are powerful, but also provide the durability at a price point that can’t be matched,” explained Doug Kern, BOSS Audio Systems VP of Sales. “Compact in size but with Class D power, these amps really pack a punch in little packages allowing those with not much space in their rides to create a great system. No matter the install, BOSS Elite has the amplifier for you.”

The new BOSS Elite amplifiers feature:
• High and Low Level Inputs
• Fixed High/Low Pass Crossovers
• Variable Bass Boost
• Remote Subwoofer Control
• Illuminated End Panel Strips
• 5-Year Elite Warranty

The BOSS Elite BE1200.1D 1200W (MAX) monoblock, Class A/B amplifier also features:
• Power (Max): 1200 W X 1 @ 2 ohm; 600 W X 1 @ 4 ohm
• Dimensions: 7.8in. L x 4.6in. W x 1.7in. H
• MSRP: $99.99

The BOSS Elite BE600.2D 600W 2-Channel Full Range, Class D amplifier also features:
• Power (Max): 300 W X 2 @ 2 ohm; 150 W X 2 @ 4 ohm
• Dimensions: 9.7in. L x 4.6in. W x 1.7in. H
• MSRP: $124.99

The BOSS Elite BE300.4D 1200W 4-Channel Full Range, Class D amplifier also features:
• Power (Max): 300 W X 4 @ 2 ohm; 150 W X 4 @ 4 ohm; 600 W X 2 @ 4 ohm (Max bridged)
• Dimensions: 9.7in. L x 4.6in. W x 1.7in. H
• MSRP: $139.99

The BOSS Elite BE2200.5D 2200W 5-Channel Full Range, Class D amplifier also features:
• Power (Max): 300 W X 4 @ 2 ohm; 150 W X 4 @ 4 ohm; 600 W X 2 @ 4 ohm (Max bridged); 1000 W X 1 @ 2 ohm (5th channel); 500 W X 1 @ 4 ohm (5th channel)
• Includes Remote Subwoofer Control
• Dimensions: 15.3in. L x 4.6in. W x 1.7in. H
• MSRP: $229.99

“Packed with features and the reliability BOSS Audio has become famous for, our new Elite Series amplifiers won’t break the bank while providing your system the power it craves,” Kern concluded.

Visit www.bossaudio.com for more.