Author: 12VoltNews

Directed Announces Updated Dealer Agreements to Protect and Empower Brick and Mortar Retailers

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

VISTA, CA (10.28.2019) – Directed has announced a new suite of sales policies to protect its valued 12 Volt dealer partners and enable them to compete effectively in today’s changing retail landscape.

“We listen very closely to feedback from our dealer partners, and they have consistently emphasized the importance of protecting our brands and channel, especially as consumer electronics internet sales become an expanding part of the business,” said Bob Struble, Directed CEO. “These comprehensive policies will safeguard brick and mortar retailers from unauthorized online sales and set clear guidelines for them to expand their online businesses. I’m thrilled about how these actions will protect and empower our retailers.”

The actions include a Unilateral Pricing Policy (UPP) and comprehensive Online Selling policies. “These policies will give us the ability to strongly control our products on the internet,” said Al Fontane, Vice President Sales. “Only our authorized dealers will be allowed to sell online. We can then systematically clean up sales that hurt our brand perception. If we find unauthorized products online, we’re going to take them down.”

Directed is also serializing all of its systems. “We can then police the sale of all products, both direct and distributor lines with enhanced teeth. Where our products are sold is vital to consumer satisfaction. The highly skilled professional installers at our brick and mortar 12 Volt partners ensure the best possible consumer experience,” said Fontane.

Additionally, Directed is moving to ISP-based access for the Directechs Technical Support database to prevent unauthorized use. “Directechs is the gold standard for vehicle wiring diagrams,” said Struble. “We spend millions to provide this important benefit to our retailer partners. ISP-based access will allow us to provide the best information, give easy access to our dealers and eliminate unauthorized use. Having protected access to Directechs will again become a competitive advantage for our 12 Volt partners.”

For more info, visit www.directed.com/contact or call 1-800-876-0800.

AudioControl Brings Complete Lineup of High Performance Car Audio Products to SEMA 2019

Posted on by in Featured.

SEATTLE, WA (10.25.2019) – AudioControl has announced that they will be showcasing a full lineup of premium aftermarket car audio products at the 2019 SEMA tradeshow in Las Vegas, Booth 11665 North Hall. Highlighted new models include 5-channel amplifiers with 1300 watts of total system power and available DSP. Additionally, AudioControl will introduce several new Load Generating Devices (LGD’s) that enable technicians to add aftermarket audio components to a wide range of OEM entertainment systems from Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati.

“Our newest amplifiers and LDG’s open up significant opportunities for our dealers, and we are very excited to showcase them at the upcoming SEMA show,” stated Chris Bennett, National Sales Director – Mobile at AudioControl. “Additionally, these new products round out the most compelling full line of aftermarket car audio products available from any brand, including premium amplifiers from 1 to 6-channels, our legendary DM-RTA audio analyzer and OEM integration solutions that represent vital opportunities to deliver best sound quality for each customer.”

New 5-Channel Amplifiers: Two new 5-channel amplifiers from AudioControl both offer 125 watts X4-channels RMS at 4-Ohm (200watts RMS X4 at 2-Ohm) and 500 watts X1-channel at 2-Ohm along with eight speaker level inputs with selectable summing capability. The D-5.1300 delivers onboard DSP control of all amplified outputs and a pair of low-level outputs as well. The DSP interface is managed by the highly intuitive DM Smart App designed for all of AudioControl’s DSP amplifiers. The LC-5.1300 offers the same outstanding specs and performance without the DSP features.

OEM integration with two new Load Generating Devices (LGD)

Most new vehicles use a class D amplifier platform in their factory sound systems. These amplifiers can become unstable when they are connected to aftermarket audio equipment, causing system noise and overall compatibility issues. In order to maximize the upgrade opportunity for 12-volt retailers, AudioControl engineers created the LGD series of solutions, which seamlessly interfaces these newer OEM systems with aftermarket amplifiers. The AudioControl AC-LGD20 was designed specifically for Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati audio systems without an amplifier. The AC-LGD60 provides interface capability for these same vehicles that feature audio systems with an amplifier.

DM-RTA: The AudioControl DM-RTA is a sophisticated yet compact audio analyzer containing powerful analysis software designed to provide installers with the features of a fully functioning Oscilloscope, Voltage Meter, Real Time Audio Analyzer (RTA), SPL Meter and Polarity Checker. Because installers are often on-the-go and in cramped spaces when building a car audio system, the DM-RTA was designed to be light weight, compact and durable. Input/output options are staggering, including balanced XLR inputs, phono and RCA style unbalanced inputs as well as speaker level inputs designed to make OEM audio system interface a snap. Digital audio output options include Optical, COAX and USB. The DM-RTA is powered by a 5-hour rechargeable battery so that it can be effortlessly deployed anywhere.

Visit AudioControl at SEMA 2019, Booth 11665 in the North Hall

See audiocontrol.com for more.

VAIS Technology to Present a New Innovative Solution at SEMA 2019

Posted on by in Industry.

ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.25.2019) – VAIS Technology, a Colorado based manufacturer of audio, video, Bluetooth streaming and SiriusXM integration is showing at SEMA 2019, Booth# 31315

EVP, Dennis Hopper comments: SEER is a culmination of several years in design and more details to follow just before the SEMA show. We’ll also be showing all of our integrated solutions including the Harley Davidson solution.

Visit www.vaistech.com to learn more.

Clarissa Zulick Joins Directed as Chief Financial Officer

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

VISTA, CA (10.25.2019) – Directed has announce dthat Clarissa Zulick has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer. Reporting to CEO Bob Struble, she will sit on the Executive Staff and oversee all aspects of Directed’s finance and human resources functions.

“Clarissa came to Directed on an interim basis in June and her efforts and performance made it an easy decision to make her a permanent employee,” said Struble. “She was instrumental in our recent effort to spin Directed out of our parent holding company and set us up as a standalone, and has excelled in managing our financial and HR functions.”

Before joining Directed, Zulick served in several executive roles across industries including consumer products goods, computer hardware distribution and medical device manufacturing. She most recently served as CFO at Mamma Chia and COO/CFO at Arbitech. As an operator, Clarissa has driven significant value creation across several businesses. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Math Applied Science at UCLA and her MBA from Yale.

“I’m thrilled to join Directed as CFO,” added Zulick. “In the few months that I’ve been here, it has been exciting to see how Directed is leading innovation in the aftermarket automotive space. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to continue working with Bob and his executive team to further grow the brand and bring value to our channel partners.”

Zulick is based out of Directed’s Vista, California office.

Visit directed.com for more.

KICKER Sponsors Another Competition at the 12th Annual MWSPL Finals

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , .

STILLWATER, OK (10.24.2019) – Fresh off attending and supporting the Unified Car Audio Championships (Louisville, Ky.) and USACi World Finals (Lawton, Okla.), KICKER continues its support of car-stereo competition by sponsoring the MWSPL Finals for the third consecutive year. The finals will be The The held at the Missouri State Fairgrounds October 26-27.

More than 120 competitors have committed to attend, according to the MWSPL Finals Facebook Event page.

After the competition has ended Saturday, a competitor’s party with costume contest will add more fun to the festivities, with prizes donated by KICKER awarded to the best costume. KICKER is providing prizes for many of the functions that night.

MWSPL will also run a silent charity auction during the Finals, with items donated by KICKER and other manufacturers. This year’s goal is to raise at least $4,500, with proceeds earmarked to help an ailing child in Arkansas. Details are available on the MWSPL Facebook page.

This year’s MWSPL Finals will feature a separate “progressive outdoor competition” that builds a competitor’s potential points for the 2020 season. The point value of the competition increases as the attendance of the outdoor event rises. 

“It’s a way to build some excitement,” said MWSPL founder Steve Benton. “The more of (competitor’s) friends they can get to compete, the larger the potential reward.”

Visit midwestspl.com and kicker.com for more.

MTX Audio Returns to the North Hall at SEMA 2019

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

PHOENIX, AZ (10.24.2019) – MTX Audio invites you to visit them this year at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show November 5th – November 8th in Las Vegas, NV.

MTX Audio is making its return to the North hall this year and can be found in Booth #11823 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The company will have a second booth located outside of the Performance Pavilion in booth #62150. MTX will be showcasing new model specific audio components, current best sellers, and a variety of products that they manufacture for several OEM partners.

In their North hall booth, MTX will be displaying their custom “Junkyard Cat” Wildcat UTV loaded with an audio system featuring the MTX AWMC3 media controller, compression tower speakers, MUD amplifiers, and custom Subwoofer enclosure as well as an assortment of performance upgrades that make this Arctic Cat something you don’t want to miss. Additionally, they will feature a Polaris RZR S model UTV outfitted with their new vehicle specific, plug and play audio kit that also is compatible with the newer “Velocity” models as well as backwards compatible with older generations of RZR vehicles.

Their outside booth will have two Polaris RZR vehicles in it. One featuring their new Turbo S system powered up and ready for demo as well as theircustom XP model featuring multiple MUD65PL cage speakers, four square S65 model woofers in a custom under-seat enclosure and their all new front pod speakers ready to belt out the tunes.

As an additional treat, they’ll also have not one, but two custom drag cars from the Street Outlaws, No Prep Kings TV series on display. Shawn Wilhoit and his car “The Mistress” along with Brad “B-Rad” Eglian and “Luminasty” will be available to take photos and get autographs from the guys throughout the event. They’ll also be hosting a poster signing on Wednesday from 1-3 p.m.”

Visit mtx.com for more.

Metra Electronics Introduces New Dash Kits for Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Volkswagen

Posted on by in Industry.

HOLLY HILL, FL (10.24.2019) – Metra Electronics is excited to showcase 13 new vehicle-specific dash kits at the 2019 SEMA Show. These new kits are engineered to fit either standard ISO Single-DIN or Double-DIN radios in addition to several custom engineered kits for specific “L” shaped Double-DIN radio chassis designs. These new plastic TurboKits will be on display with an additional 20 new kits designed specifically for the Pioneer DMH-C5500NEX 8-inch radio that will be announced next week.

Metra’s plastic dash kits are proudly made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastic using injection molding technology to ensure a superior design and fit. Dash kits will fit select models for Jeep Cherokee, Kia Forte, Mazda 5, Mercedes Sprinter, Nissan Altima and Kicks, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Corolla and Hatchback and the Volkswagen Jetta. Installers can see Metra’s dash kits on display in Metra’s main booth 11639 in the North Hall of the SEMA Show from November 5th – 8th and featured in the 2019 New Product Guide, available for download at MetraOnline.com on the opening day of the show.

Dash Kit Part Numbers, Vehicle Models and Specifications:

95-6554B
Jeep Cherokee 1997-2001
● Permanent dash modifications required
● A new Double-DIN version for an old application
● A complete replacement panel for a factory look

99-7394B
Kia Forte 2019-Up*
● Designed for most Single-DIN radios and a special design for ISO Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black

99-7527S
Mazda 5 2006-2007 (with factory NAV)
● Storage pocket included to replace the factory NAV screen
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket or Double-DIN radio provision
● Painted silver

95-8731
Mercedes Sprinter 2019-Up* (excluding models with the factory touchscreen radio)
● Designed specifically for Double-DIN installations
● Polished gloss black to match the factory finish

99-8731
Mercedes Sprinter 2019-Up* (excluding models with the factory touchscreen radio)
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Polished gloss black to match the factory finish

95-7637
Nissan Altima 2019-Up*
● Designed specifically for an ISO Double-DIN radio with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted gloss black with bright silver trim and a textured back plate to match the factory finish

99-7637
Nissan Altima 2019-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted gloss black with bright silver trim and a textured back plate to match the factory finish

95-7636B
Nissan Kicks 2018-Up*
● Designed specifically for Double-DIN installations
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish

99-7636B
Nissan Kicks 2018-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish

95-8911HG
Subaru Ascent 2019-Up*
● Designed for Double-DIN radio provision
● Painted gloss black

99-8911HG
Subaru Ascent 2019-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted gloss black

99-8270HG
Toyota Corolla Hatchback 2019-Up* and Toyota Corolla 2020-Up*
● Designed for most Single-DIN radios and a special design for ISO Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted high gloss black to match the factory finish

99-9014HG
Volkswagen Jetta
● Specifically designed for an ISO Double-DIN radio with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the top of the screen (or the current Pioneer 6.8″ screen and separate chassis)
● Blank plate included for Single-DIN installations
● Painted a color-matched gloss black to match the factory finish

Visit MetraOnline.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific applications.

IASCA INAC 2019 and Unified Car Audio Championship, including IASCA, MECA and dB Drag, a Huge Success in Louisville

Posted on by in Featured.

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (10.23.2019) – The 2019 IASCA North American Championship (INAC), concluded on Sunday, October 13th, 2019 with over 100 competitors from the U.S., Canada and Mexico vying for championship titles in sound quality, installation quality, IdBL and Bass Boxing SPL competitions.

“It was a proud moment to see all of our competitors ready to battle for another championship.” said Moe Sabourin, Director of Operations for IASCA Worldwide, “There were also a lot of new faces in both the SPL and SQ lanes, which was exciting. It’s also great to see old friends that I only get to see once a year here in Louisville. It reminds me of all the awesome times we’ve had together at this event over the years.”

The inaugural IASCA Motosounds Competitors at INAC. This was the first to have a Finals Competition for Motorcycle and PowerSports formats. Terry Floyd (C)made it happen and is pictured with Competition in the formats.

Awards this year featured a custom cnc machined base with dye sublimated plaques for INAC and the 3X event, sponsored by Arc Audio, along with the traditional 3 foot cup for Triple Crown and the much desired boxing belts in IASCA Bass Boxing.

Notable Champions include Brian Mitchell, successfully defending his Triple Crown 2 seat Championship for 2 years in a row now, winning his third this past weekend. Brian was also the weekend’s entertainment with crazy costumes each day, keeping everyone smiling.

Robert Corwin successfully defended his Triple Crown 1 seat Championship, and newcomer Anthony Rodriguez was awarded the Champion spot in the Novice SQ Class. And, this year’s INAC saw the return of Scott Buwalda’s infamous “Black Betty”, which took top honors in all formats of the Extreme Open SQ class.

The awards table held all of the IASCA Awards for INAC and the 3X event, including the Triple Crown Trophies and Bass Boxing Belts.

The Unified Car Audio Championship and IASCA were also supported by many industry members as well, such as Arc Audio (SQ Hall sponsor and Trophy Sponsor), JL Audio, Hybrid Audio Technologies, Kicker, US Acoustics, Focal, Pioneer and many more.

“Special thanks go out to our entire Judging Team, support staff and supporters” Sabourin continued to say; “These great people worked their butts off and delivered a first class event. Without their hard work and dedication to IASCA competition, we would not be here today.”

The Sound Quality (SQC) Judging Team consisted of Travis Chin (Head Judge), Keith Turner, Tim Goudy, John Sketoe, Steve Head, IASCA Caribbean Director Shazad Rahaman, Jeff Smith and after a brief absence from the judging lanes, Gord Stansell returned to judge install (IQC).

Top Competitor Brian Mitchell lit up the Competition lanes. The white jacket, with LED’s, drew attention to the “bling” around his neck and on his fingers. An ARC Audio amplifier medallion, with the brand CNC’ed, hangs from a necklace.

The SPL Judging team consisted of Head Judge Aaron Dunkle, Scott Sinde, Brandon Rosser, Matt Miller from the West Coast, and Joey and Chrystle Perry.

INAC also saw its first ever “Motosounds” motorcycle Championship with LA Audio shop owner Larry Adams taking the top spot in his class. Head Judge Terry Floyd worked hard all season long to build the motorcycle competition format and had a great time with the Motosounds competitors.

Amazing custom installations were featured in Competitors vehicles in Louisville.

Support Staff include Kim Sabourin, Terry Floyd and Kim Cook.

The Rules and Ethics Committees have already begun drafting the new rules for 2020, which are set to be released in January.

Winners of the IASCA INAC and the 3X competitions will be posted on the IASCA website in the coming days. You can view the results at www.iasca.com/events.

For more information, contact IASCA at (386) 322-1551 or email memberservices@iasca.com.

Daimler Chairman Ola Källenius to Keynote at CES 2020

Posted on by in Industry.

PARIS, FRANCE (10.23.2019) – During CES Unveiled in Paris, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced that Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz, will deliver a keynote address at CES 2020. Källenius will take the stage for a preshow keynote on Monday, Jan. 6 at 8:30 PM at the Park Theater at the Park MGM Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.

Källenius will present a groundbreaking concept car inspired by one of the most innovative entertainment brands, envisioning a completely new form of interaction between humans, technology and nature. CES has been named one of USA Today’s 10 Best Auto Shows, with top auto manufacturers choosing CES 2020 to unveil their latest innovations. Vehicle technology at CES is larger than many stand-alone car shows, with more than 140 exhibitors representing the entire vehicle tech ecosystem including, 10 major auto manufacturers, top automotive suppliers, self-driving companies and automotive software companies. CES 2020 will showcase the latest in self-driving vehicles, concept cars and connected vehicles.

“CES is the epicenter for the latest advancements in vehicle tech, with technology innovation making our roads safer and our cars more connected,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “We look forward to hearing Ola Källenius’s vision for the future of Daimler and his thoughts on driving the industry forward with innovation.”

Ola Källenius has been a member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG since Jan. 1, 2015 and was named Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG on May 22, 2019. He is also Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division.

Källenius joins other confirmed CES keynote speakers, including Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian; Quibi CEO Meg Whitman and Founder Jeffrey Katzenberg. The CES Keynote Schedule will update regularly with the full keynote lineup as additional speakers are announced. More than 1,100 visionaries and thought leaders are expected to speak and share insights on premiere technologies at CES 2020. Visit the CES Featured Speakers page to see the latest.

Owned and produced by CTA, CES 2020, the world’s largest and most influential technology event, will run Jan. 7-10, 2020, in Las Vegas, Nevada. CES will provide access to the most transformative tech across various marketplaces, such as 5G, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, smart home, smart cities, vehicles, digital health and more. Industry leaders and rising stars will come together to pioneer future innovation driving the ever-evolving tech industry.

Visit CES.tech for all CES updates and register for CES 2020.

Stinger Announces Patent Issued for X-Link

Posted on by in Industry.

CLEARWATER, FL (10.23.2019) – Stinger Electronics has announced the grant of US Patent No. 10,381,184 B1 for the X-LINK Distribution Block

The patent protected X-LINK, revolutionizes circuit protection in high performance audio installations, providing an all-in-one system that allows for easier, cleaner than ever fused power, and/or ground distribution on any install.

Click here to enlarge the image above.

Patent No. 10,381,184 B1 describes that the X-LINK apparatus for enabling distribution of electric power, fusing, and/or ground connection in electrical systems is provided. The apparatus may include an extensible, interlocking, modular block of multiple-use modules. Each module may be configured to include a fuse or a link bar mounted within it.

The grant of this patent further recognizes the quality and innovation being generated by Stinger. “Being granted the patent only solidifies what we already knew, X-LINK’s innovative design allows retailers to stock a single part that covers dozens of fusing and distribution items they would have had to cover with a larger mix in the past, and the sales have proven that our customers agree.” Said Kevin Kuenzie, Director of Audio Product Strategy & Development.

Stinger X Ultimate Wiring Kits Featuring X-LINK

Stinger X Ultimate Wiring Kits are designed to provide the highest power transfer and system flexibility for no compromise installations. The best components were created to achieve the maximum performance from your system including X-LINK. With its ability to transform from an inline fuse holder to an expandable power, ground, or power and ground distribution block, while able to accept 0,4, or 8Ga input/outputs and either ANL or MIDI/AFS fuses. The X-LINK block is accompanied by Hyper-Twist Tru-Spec wire, Expert Ground Terminals, Power Terminals, Wire Ferrules and an accessories pack to complete the installation.

Power delivery, and just as important, but often overlooked, ground integrity are the main goals of these kits. So, to make sure the ground potential is as equally robust as the power delivery, we have included a ground reinforcement cable to be used from the battery to the chassis and on the amplifier side the Expert Ground Terminal for a large footprint, low resistance, non-rotating grounding terminal.

To complement the power and ground delivery performance we would recommend utilizing other leading products from Stinger X including interconnects, optical cables and sound damping products for the best power and sound.

Available now from Authorized Stinger X dealers:

XFDB108 Universal 0-8GA Power or Ground linkable fused distribution block

X2K01 0GA Ultra-Premium power delivery and ground upgrade kit
Designed specifically for car audio systems up to 3000 watts or 300 amps

X2K41 4GA Ultra-Premium power delivery and ground upgrade kit
Designed specifically for car audio systems up to 1750 watts or 175 amps

X2K8 8GA Ultra-Premium power delivery and ground upgrade kit
Designed specifically for car audio systems up to 800 watts or 70 amps
For more information regarding the MAP protected X-LINK and Ultimate Wiring Kits, contact your Stinger sales representative.

Visit stingerelectronics.com and aampglobal.com for more.