Eton Car Audio Introduces ‘Point Source’ System

LAS VEGAS, NV (12.26.2019) – Eton Car Audio of Germany, has announced that their new, RSX 80, premium 3.2” Component ‘Point Source’ system, is now shipping. Designed to offer drop-in solutions for a wide array of dash-mount applications, including Jeep, Dodge Ram and Lexus vehicles, it also will fit numerous other dash-applications, and any vehicle that uses standard 3.5” dash or door speaker size.

Eton is recognized as one of the premier, Hi-Fi component driver manufacturers and has received numerous stellar reviews from leading European hi-fi magazines for many years. This new RSX system represent their latest, advanced technology mobile system, featuring new, edge-damped, 15mm Aluminum dome tweeter, delivering flat-response out well beyond 25 kHz.

The RSX series complements both their array of highly-regarded Component systems and their unique ‘Upgrade’ OEM systems and Coaxial systems, for BMW, Mini Cooper, Range Rover, VW and recently introduced, Mercedes Neo motor,‘FrontBass’ platforms, all of which are all designed, engineered and manufactured in their State-of-the-Art factory Neu Ulm Germany.

In addition, the RSX employs a low-profile, vented, cast-alloy frame, with bi-amp inputs, needed for use with the outboard crossovers, and for DSP fully active systems. It also hosts an array of advanced, cutting-edge, home audio driver technologies, including compact, 25mm Neo motor, and feature Eton’s proprietary, Carbon Fiber, foam-core, 3-layer, composite sandwich cone, as used in their highly regarded ‘RSR’ component mid-driver and systems. This advanced cone technology offers exceptional stiffness-to-mass ratio, in addition to being extremely well-damped, to minimize any typical cone-induced distortion modes.

The RSX 80 component system, which includes both premium outboard Crossovers, and also unique, 3.5 inch multi-mount adaptor plate, carries MSRP of $550, and $449.95 Minimum Resale Price (MRP).

Eton is now shipping products from three (3), strategically located, US regional warehouses, to provide upscale 12V Retailers ideal ‘JIT’ delivery to majority of domestic major markets.

Retailers who will be attending CES and or who are interested in setting up a meeting, or simply learning more about this exciting opportunity to offer this unique brand, are invited to contact AMG at (310) 941-2171, or send email to Eton AMG at; Matto@Audiomobile.net for additional information.

Visit eton-gmbh.com for more.

General Motors Offers SiriusXM with 360L on Nearly 1 Million Vehicles

DETROIT, MI (12.26.2019) – General Motors is bringing a new way to listen to music, sports and talk shows to nearly 1 million Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners with SiriusXM with 360L. Available on select 2020 model year vehicles, the rollout is the broadest integration by any automaker of SiriusXM’s next generation listening experience.

SiriusXM with 360L represents the future of in-vehicle audio entertainment. The new platform and easy-to-use interface delivers content via both satellite and streaming to give drivers and their passengers more than 200 live SiriusXM channels, plus the ability to make on-demand programming choices from a library of more than 10,000 hours of SiriusXM content – including SiriusXM exclusive interviews, shows and performances. SiriusXM with 360L’s “For You” recommendations also make it easier to find the programming that drivers and passengers love.

“Whether on a road trip, dropping off the kids at school or on their daily commute, drivers can get more choice in entertainment with our embedded SiriusXM with 360L experience,” said Santiago Chamorro, vice president for Global Connected Services, GM. “By bringing SiriusXM with 360L to nearly 1 million drivers, we are making it easier than ever for our customers to listen to their favorite SiriusXM channels or on-demand content.”

Additionally, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac drivers in the United States with a Remote Access Plan can now set up their SiriusXM “Favorites” through the myChevrolet, myBuick, myGMC or myCadillac mobile apps1 – even if they’re not in the vehicle – and the selections will sync to the infotainment system.

Drivers can also check and manage their SiriusXM subscription right from their myChevrolet, myBuick, myGMC or myCadillac mobile app. A three-month subscription to SiriusXM All Access is included for customers who purchase equipped 2020 vehicle models, meaning those customers can enjoy the benefits of SiriusXM in the vehicle, and also listen outside the vehicle on the SiriusXM app. Customers can also download the SiriusXM app through their myChevrolet, myBuick, myGMC or myCadillac mobile app.

“General Motors has always been a leader in delivering innovative technology to their customers and our SiriusXM with 360L platform is a great example of this,” said Steve Cook, EVP, Sales and Automotive, for SiriusXM. “SiriusXM with 360L transforms the way we listen to audio in the car by marrying our satellite network to embedded connectivity in vehicles. This allows for significantly more channels and choices than ever before while also making it easier than ever for our subscribers to find and listen to what they want to hear. This truly changes the way people will expect to be entertained in the car.”

The benefits of SiriusXM with 360L include:

More variety

  • More channels available to listeners, including many of SiriusXM’s exclusive streaming channels.
  • Access to 10,000 hours of on-demand SiriusXM exclusive shows, interviews, and events in the car, giving listeners more of what they want, when they want to hear it.
  • Enhanced sports play-by-play offering that makes it easier to find the listener’s favorite team when it is game time, and gives them access to the official broadcasts for more pro and college teams.

A more personalized experience

  • Smart content recommendations enable listeners to discover more of what they love, based on listening habits, and it is all served up on screen in an easy to use way.
  • Individual vehicle profiles allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize and maintain their own presets and favorites.

Ease of use

  • Dynamic user interface allows for easy navigation between satellite and streaming channels and SiriusXM On Demand content.
  • Drivers and passengers sit back and let “For You” recommendations serve up great content choices.
  • SiriusXM with 360L will be available on 13 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac model year 2020 vehicles. A Connected Access plan and a SiriusXM All Access or SiriusXM Select subscription is required to experience the benefits of SiriusXM with 360L. More information about vehicle eligibility will be shared as the vehicles hit dealer lots.

Visit siriusxm.com and gm.com for more.

MECA Ends 2019 on a High Note

GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (12.24.2019) – MECA Car Audio wrapped up the 2019 competition season with an emphasis on events geared to giving back to the community.

Steve Stern, MECA Commish, stated, “One of the best things about MECA’s club and contests is that we are involved with local, regional, and sometimes national charities. MECA was affiliated with 21 events in 2019 that donated money, time, and toys to benefit various local communities. Our Event Directors and Judges donate their time, too, which benefits the overall outcome of the events. As we conclude the year, and get ready for the “winter break,” the MECA club has been involved with 8 Toy Drives, most associated with the Marines Toys For Tots program.”

Dottie Buck shows some of the toys donated for Roy’s Kids during the Audio Anarchy MECA event in Shreveport LA on Saturday December 21st.

The Audio Anarchy ‘Santa’s Sleigh Shaking Toy Drive’ event brightened Christmas for children and dogs. Brandon Buck, company owner, offered, “Our event on Saturday, December 21st, gave MECA members an opportunity to show off and crank up their systems in the SPL Smackdown. Donations of Christmas toys for children, along with food donations for a big dog rescue organization, all came together for a great event.”

Dottie Buck commented “The children’s toys will be delivered to Roy’s Kids for Christmas giving. Over 100 pounds of dog food, toys and dog beds will be delivered to Saved by Grace Animal Rescue. The organization focuses on taking care of and finding homes for large dogs.”

Steve Stern (L) pictured after a Crusin’ For Breast Cancer Cure event benefitting the Susan G Komen initiative.

“Thanks to our dedicated Members who support, participate, and more often than not, initiate our charity events. The car audio community consistently demonstrates MECA’s involvement in worthwhile projects and events. These events highlight our sport and the people who take the time to contribute to the common good. Our Manufacturer Members often donate products and swag for fund-raisers that elevate our participation. Our Retail Members are the backbone of our program, acting as hosts and sponsors for these events,” Stern related.

Concluding, Stern offered, “As our organization begins it’s 22nd season, and continues to grow, we renew our dedication to community service. We invite all those who would like to bring MECA contests to their area. We can fortify the image and impact of the car audio community. The more the merrier, especially during the holiday season.”

Visit mecacaraudio.com for more.

Metra PowerSports Launches New Off-Road Products for Polaris UTVs at CES

HOLLY HILL, FL (12.24.2019) – Metra PowerSports by Metra Electronics has new audio solutions designed for a wide range of Polaris UTV models heading to CES 2020. New speaker and subwoofer enclosures that enhance and protect an aftermarket sound system along with updated Double-DIN dash kits will debut at the show. These new products are specifically engineered to meet the harsh requirements of outdoor environments and designed for a seamless fit and finish, allowing owners to upgrade the sound system in their UTV with OEM-quality materials that do not compromise the look and feel of the vehicle.

Polaris RZR Speaker Enclosure for 6.5″- 6.75″ Speaker Pods

Protect aftermarket speakers with durable, weather-resistant Polaris RZR speaker enclosures designed for 6.5″ – 6.75″ aftermarket speaker pods. With high-quality HDPE construction that can withstand harsh outdoor environments and a black textured coat, these enclosures are a perfect match and fit for 2014-up* Polaris RZR models. The enclosures conveniently bolt into the upper footwell to allow for plenty of foot room and easy installation to ensure that speakers are safe from the elements.

MPS-RZSP Product Specifications:

  • Left and right front kick panel speaker pods for 6.5″ – 6.75″ aftermarket speakers
  • Fits 2014-up* Polaris RZR models
  • High-density polyethylene (HDPE) construction provides a corrosion-resistant and eco-friendly material ideal for harsh outdoor environments
  • Protects speakers without compromising sound quality
  • Bolts into the upper footwell, away from riders’ feet
  • Black textured coat finish matches the factory finish for a flawless look
  • Includes stainless steel mounting hardware

Polaris RZR Subwoofer Box and Amplifier Brackets

Add bass to enhance the listening experience with a durable, weather-resistant subwoofer box and amplifier brackets for Polaris RZR. With high-quality HDPE construction that can withstand harsh outdoor environments and a black textured coat, this enclosure provides a seamless fit for mounting a 10” subwoofer into 2014-up* Polaris RZR models. This enclosure replaces the entire glove box and includes an amplifier mounting bracket for easy installation, ensuring that equipment is safe from the elements.

MPS-RZSB Product Specifications:

  • Fits 2014-up* Polaris RZR models
  • Provides a 10″ subwoofer mounting solution
  • Replaces the entire glove box
  • High-density polyethylene (HDPE) construction provides a corrosion-resistant and eco-friendly material ideal for harsh outdoor environments
  • Protects the subwoofer without compromising sound quality
  • Black textured coat finish matches the factory finish for a flawless look
  • Includes stainless steel mounting hardware
  • Includes amplifier mounting bracket

Audio Upgrade Kit for 2014-up* Polaris RZR

Both the MPS-RZSP and MPS-RZSB are available as a single kit, the MPS-RZKIT, for convenient ordering.

Radio Dash Kits for Polaris

Metra PowerSports introduces four improved radio dash kits designed for select Polaris UTV models. New improvements allow standard Double-DIN radio provisions to fit into the dashboard without the need for major modifications to the vehicle. Designed to replace the OE pocket or cover plate, the MPS-RZR01 Double-Din Radio Kit fits 13 different 2014-2019 Polaris RZR models. Both the MPS-GEN01 Double-Din Radio Kit and the MPS-GEN02 Radio Gauge Mounting Kit fit Polaris General UTV 2016-up* models, while the 95-9999 Universal Double-Din kit can be cut to fit the front plate of any Polaris model.
Product Specifications:

MPS-RZR01 – Polaris RZR Double-Din Radio Kit

  • ●      Replaces OE pocket or cover plate
  • Designed to fit:
    • ○      2015-2019 RZR 900
    • ○      2015-2019 RZR S 900
    • ○      2015-2017 RZR 4 900 EPS
    • ○      2016-2018 RZR S4 900 EPS
    • ○      2015-2017 RZR 900 XC EDITION
    • ○      2014-2019 RZR XP1000
    • ○      2016-2019 RZR S 1000
    • ○      2019 RZR S 4 1000
    • ○      2014-2019 RZR XP 4 1000
    • ○      2016-2019 RZR XP TURBO
    • ○      2016-2018 RZR XP 4 TURBO
    • ○      2018-2019 RZR XP TURBO S
    • ○      2019 RZR XP 4 TURBO S

MPS-GEN01 – Polaris General Double-DIN Radio Kit

  • Fits Polaris General 2016-up* UTVs
  • Designed for mounting Double-DIN radios
  • Custom texture replaces OE pocket or cover plate

MPS-GEN02 – Polaris General Radio Gauge Mounting Kit

  • Fits Polaris General 2016-up* UTVs
  • Universal blank plate for gauge mount radios
  • Custom texture

95-9999 – Universal Double-Din Kit for Polaris

  • ISO brackets molded and cut to fit the front plate to fit any Polaris model

These new and improved products will be shipping soon and can be seen on display at CES from January 7-10, 2020 at booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

*Visit MetraPowerSports.com for up-to-date vehicle specific applications and additional product information, which will be available January 7, 2020.

JVC Shipping In-Car Air Purification Systems

LONG BEACH, CA (12.24.2019) – JVC Mobile Entertainment has introduced two new premium products that will provide enhanced convenience for health conscious users. The new KS-GA100 (MSRP $99.95) and the KS-GA10F (MSRP $29.95) will now allow users the option of in-car air purification right from their vehicle’s cupholder.

The KS-GA100 is an in-car air purification system. The class leading KS-GA100 sports a compact design that will fit easily into a cup holder, helping to remove smoke smells and other odors. Its unique design allows the KS-GA10F (replacement HEPA filter, included with the KS-GA100 and available separately) to remove allergens and germs, as well as keep your vehicle’s interior smelling fresh and clean. There’s no longer a need to hang stinky trees from your mirror!

With a diameter of 2.8” and a height of 4.6” the new KS-GA100 rests easily tucked away in the cupholder. It comes with a 2-way power supply giving the option of the traditional 12 Volt socket, or a USB powered option as well. It also offers a 3-layer purification system which allows it to quickly purify up to 350 cubic feet of air in just 5 minutes. The KS-GA100 will be available in select channels only. 

Visit us.jvc.com/car for more.

Memphis Audio Celebrates 2019 Successes and Showcases New Product at National Sales Meeting in San Diego

SAN DIEGO, CA (12.23.2019) – Memphis Audio treated their sales force to a trip to sunny San Diego California for a two-day national sales meeting and new product kickoff event. Members of the Memphis home office staff made the trip out west to play host to the event and conduct a day worth of informative trainings and new product showcases at the Hard Rock hotel in San Diego.

Nick LoMonaco President addresses the sales force.

Arthur Fulmer III, owner of Memphis Audio kicked off the ceremony with positive notes about the bright future of the 55-year-old audio brand and encouraged everyone to focus on all the ways Memphis can help their dealers succeed in 2020.

Left to right: Thom Lerch Memphis Sales Leader Of The Year, Nick LoMonaco President, Arthur Fulmer III Owner.

The sales team delved deep into the new product offerings from Memphis, most of which will debut at CES 2020 live at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. There was a strong emphasis on direct fit OEM offerings and solution-based products which were well received and created a buzz amongst the Memphis sales staff.

LEFT: VIV Six Five Series Subwoofer on display. CENTER: New Powersports kits on display. RIGHT: New Memphis Audio Side By Side Roof Audio Systems.

Memphis introduced Larry Williamson and Jeremy Slaven from Lucky 7 Customs who have partnered with Memphis to fabricate the best roof audio solutions for side-by-sides in the business. The duo detailed the build process for the roofs and pointed out the significant improvements and upgrades to the build quality that they are implementing. They noted the enhancements in the quality and consistency of the wiring as well the their new shipping quality standards they are implementing to ensure the items will be delivered without damage to a dealers doorstep. Memphis went on to introduce their new powersports direct fit OEM side-by-side kits which offer dealers a plug and play solution for the most popular machines in the powersports industry. The sales team left the meeting with an impressive array of new powersports offerings which will allow their dealers to have an extremely successful new year.

A new display program introduced at the meeting.

After the meetings concluded, the group was treated to a fun-filled outing to Tavern & Bowl for a private event with stand-up comedy, dinner, drinks and good times. President of Memphis Audio, Nick LoMonaco presented the Memphis Audio annual sales leader championship belt to seasoned sales rep Thom Lerch in front of a room full of his peers.

Custom subwoofer and amplifier cakes served as dessert.

“This is one of my favorite times of the year. Our sales reps are spread across the country and work so hard every day to deliver unmatched service to our dealers. It is great to have the team together and recognize everyone’s accomplishments and strategize about how we can all have a successful 2020 and beyond,” said LoMonaco.

Visit memphiscaraudio.com for more.

PowerBass Appoints Erik Harbour to VP, Product Development & Global Marketing and Jeff Falk to National Sales Manager

ONTARIO, CA (12.23.2019) – PowerBass USA, Inc. has appointed Erik Harbour to the position of Vice President, Product Development & Global Marketing. In his 20 plus years in the industry Harbour has been involved in every aspect of the industry, from the car audio retail store owner and installer, to the marketing and product development of brands across the industry.

Harbour has been with PowerBass for 6 years taking on various roles within the company while also leading the path for the company’s marketing footprint as well as extensive help with product development. This new appointment comes as a natural fit and progression. All in the PowerBass organization look forward to the future of the brand’s Product Development and Global Marketing with Harbour at the wheel.

Erik Harbour (L) has been appointed Vice President-Product Development and Global Marketing. Jeff Falk has been promoted to National Sales Manager.

PowerBass has also promoted industry veteran, and 4-year PowerBass Eastern Regional Sales Manager, Jeff Falk to the position of National Sales Manager. Falk brings over 30 years of sales experience to the position and has been a major factor for sales growth in the Eastern Region during his time as sales director. Falk has a passion for the industry and takes a hands on approach to sales at the core, the dealer level, where he takes pride in ensuring that every dealer feels the partnership he brings to the table with PowerBass. The PowerBass organization is excited to see the positive changes coming to the distributor, dealer, and rep networks under Falk’s leadership.

Erik Harbour and Jeff Falk will head up PowerBass USA activities during CES 2020 at the Hard Rock Hotel. The new PowerBass lineup of Mobile, PowerSports and Marine products will be on display in the HRH Tower SPA Villa 10110 Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday…January 6th, 7th and 8th respectively with complimentary food, drink and a rockin’ good time.

For more information on PowerBass, visit www.powerbassusa.com

For more information on how you can become a PowerBass dealer email Jeff at j.falk@powerbassusa.com

For more product information, marketing requests, and international dealer inquires email Erik at e.harbour@powerbassusa.com

PAC Releases New RadioPRO Integrated Installation Kit for RAM Trucks

CLEARWATER, FL (12.23.2019) – PAC has announced the release of its new RadioPRO Integrated Installation Kit for RAM Trucks.

RPK4-CH4101 is a complete radio replacement solution with built-in climate control retention for 2013 – 2018 RAM trucks and 2019 RAM Classic. This radio replacement solution includes a factory-matched dash kit with a full set of climate controls, and mounting hardware to beautifully mount any aftermarket radio into the RAM replacing the factory 8.4” radio.

PAC’s integrated 5.2” LCD touchscreen control panel gives the RAM owner quick access to performance gauges, climate control functions, vehicle settings, and allows for direct section of cameras to view on the aftermarket radio.

“Our Beta testers are loving this kit! The graphical user interface (GUI) was designed from the ground up by the PAC product development and engineering team and offers the driver with a seamless factory-like experience. The touchscreen allows for swiping and tapping just like on a smartphone or tablet, making it easy to use, while the stunning graphics look like they should have always been included with the truck.”

This complete kit includes all the climate control knobs and buttons, so there is no need to reuse any of the original climate controls with this solution. This integrated kit also retains many other important and convenient vehicle features like: Steering wheel control functions, reverse camera, amplified audio system, warning chimes, and more.

As many aftermarket radios do not support USB Hubs, PAC is providing a replacement USB hub with this kit. This PAC hub features USB, HDMI, and 3.5mm aux connections, and factory-matched plastics to replace the factory USB hub, which would most likely not be compatible with the new radio.  The PAC replacement USB hub will be available in first quarter of 2020, and PAC has a website setup for owners to register their Integrated kit, and they will provide a FREE hub as soon as it is available.

RPA-16P5V 5 camera input harness is available separately for adding additional cameras to the truck as a driver safety upgrade. A total of 5 cameras can be connected and selected, using the kit’s 5.2” LCD touchscreen, for viewing on the aftermarket radio.

APH-CH01 AmpPRO Speaker Harness is plug in harness for use when bypassing the factory amplifier. This harness plugs into the OEM wiring and allows the use of the original wiring with the aftermarket amplifier and speakers.

Visit pac-audio.com for more.

JVC Ships Double Din Audio Receiver with Alexa Built-In

LONG BEACH, CA (12.20.2019) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is excited to introduce three new premium products that will provide enhanced convenience for tech savvy and health conscious users. The new KW-X840BTS (MSRP $139.95) is 2-Din Digital Media Receiver that is now offering Alexa Built-In, while the new KS-GA100 (MSRP $99.95) and the KS-GA10F (MSRP $29.95) will now allow users the option of in-car air purification right from their vehicle’s cupholder.

The KW-X840BTS is the 9th receiver from JVC to include Amazon Alexa. With Alexa built-in, it’s never been easier to enjoy your favorite music and content from streaming services like the SiriusXM and Pandora mobile apps, play audiobooks and podcasts, receive driving directions, and more – all while keeping your focus on the road ahead. Users with Alexa-compatible smart home devices can also easily control devices right from the car, including thermostats or porch lights. Simply download the Amazon Alexa companion app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to set up Alexa on your JVC Receiver.

The KW-X840BTS that recently began shipping, will be replacing the previous year’s model KW-X830BTS and builds upon the features it offered to increase driver safety and convenience. In addition to its new Alexa integration, the new KW-X840BTS will also feature a shallow chassis for ease of installation. It will maintain several key features like, JVC Streaming DJ, K2 Technology with a 13 Band EQ and Digital Time Alignment, and a 1.5 Line LCD display with 2-Zone Variable Color Illumination.

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit us.jvc.com/car

Stinger Electronics Introduces 10-Inch Floating Display Infotainment Hub at CES

LAS VEGAS, NV (12.20.2019) – Stinger Electronics has announced the highly anticipated HEIGH10, available now, at the Westgate Resort and Casino, Goldcoast Suite #2998.

Featuring a high-resolution, 10-inch capacitive touchscreen with 16.7 million colors for a full visual experience, HEIGH10 is designed to enhance screen size and infotainment features for drivers of any vehicle. The display and main tuner box offer a modular design, bolstering installation flexibility in space-limited applications––and in some cases, even where no installation dash kit is available.

Don’t think you can fit a 10” screen in your application? For highest possible applications HEIGH10 works with most standard Double DIN installation kits or use a specialty kit like the upcoming PAC Wrangler JL kit that will with either 10” HEIGH10 or 8” ELEV8. For those looking for a single-DIN solution, the sold-separately SE-SDIN iso-mount allows for a variety of vehicle fitments that wouldn’t be possible with a full-featured multimedia system.

HEIGH10 delivers a wide variety of media inputs and integration options, giving you total control of your music, navigation, and other media, easily and safely while on the move. In addition, the HEIGH10 is feature-packed with Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM-Ready (SiriusXM Connect SXV300 satellite radio tuner required; sold separately), Android Auto, AM/FM radio, two USB rear inputs w/1.5-amp output, Hands-free Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP with aptX™ (for hands-free calling and music streaming), and optional iGO navigation (sold separately). Also included is an onboard steering-wheel control interface that makes integrating the HEIGH10 and retaining factory functions easy.

Audio features in HEIGH10 are what true audiophiles demand, thanks to the variable digital fiber-optic (Toslink) output, and features such as the 15-band graphic equalizer, crossover, and time correction allows users to fine-tune their sound systems at any time. Rounding out the system is a 4×50-watt (peak) built-in amplifier; 4-volt six-channel RCA audio outputs with subwoofer control; and three separate user EQ presets for each audio source.

Click here to visit the HEIGH10 product page.

HEIGH10 enhances safety on the road with four independent camera inputs, so that drivers can feel confident that their vehicles and their precious cargo are protected. The camera-mode display allows drivers to select up to four separate cameras to ensure that they can see what’s in their blind spots for added safety on the highway. In addition, the sound from the optional RV camera microphone can be fed into the system, allowing the driver to hear as well as see what’s going on.

Visit stingerelectronics.com for more.