Subaru Makes SiriusXM Standard Across Entire Model Year 2025 Vehicle Lineup

NEW YORK, NY (07.18.24) – SiriusXM announced that Subaru has expanded the installation of SiriusXM to make the audio entertainment offering a standard feature beginning with its entire model year 2025 vehicle lineup in the United States.

“We are excited to continue expanding our relationship with Subaru by making SiriusXM a standard feature across their entire lineup of vehicles,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “Every Subaru customer will now have the opportunity to experience and enjoy SiriusXM’s extensive lineup of ad-free music channels, plus live sports, news, entertainment and comedy programming in their new vehicle.”

SiriusXM’s standard availability in Subaru follows the introduction of SiriusXM with 360L to Subaru’s vehicle lineup earlier this year. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more content, better discovery, and a more personalized listening experience. For more information about SiriusXM with 360L in Subaru, click here

Newly purchased or leased Subaru vehicles in the United States receive a four-month trial subscription to SiriusXM that delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access at home and on the go through the SiriusXM app on connected devices and speakers. 

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit SiriusXM.com.

The Full Tilt Riders MC Bike Show And Audio Competition Rolled July 13th

LAKEWOOD, WA (07.17.24) – On the sunny Saturday motorcycle enthusiasts in northern Oregon and southern Washington rolled into the Streetscenes Moto Garage Center in Lakewood WA. Store owner Kevin Lamar organized the event. Bikers started arriving early to register and soon the area surrounding his store was filled with over 50 bikes and over 100 bikers and enthusiasts. A bike wash was also set up to benefit a local charity.

The area out front of the Streetscenes Moto location began to fill up early.

“Feeling the energy from all at the event was special. Our shop has been open for 10 years now and the motorcycle category has grown so much. We are planning additional events this summer as we strive to grow the area biker community even more. Having Mark on site from PRM will help us extend our visibility even more” Lamar stated.

Before noon the area was filled with bikes and enthusiasts.
PRM’s Mark Giovannetti (R) and Jerry Lamm-Rainier Audio Authority owner flank Kevin Lamar the owner of Streetscenes.
Kevin Lamar pictured out front of the Streetscenes store with the showroom on the right….spotlighting Diamond Audio.

This past Saturday, Mark Giovanetti, the Diamond Audio Northwest representative, was on site the Full Tilt MC Bike Show and Audio Competition and Bike Wash supporting the firm’s Diamond Audio dealer.

Mark Giovannetti (L) and Jerry Lamm flank Dakota Hall who designed and created the Rainier Audio Authority first place prize winner in the Audio Lightweight Class.
A young bike enthusiast is pictured on his decked out bike and Jasmine, who was on site doing bike washes for a local charity, is all smiles and decked with body art.

Giovannetti related “The sunny day drew a great turnout of over 100 people and 50 bikes attending the event. Kevin’s shop is a strong supporter of the Diamond Audio motorcycle products category and he really organized a super event for area bikers. In addition Jerry Lamm, from nearby Rainier Audio Authority, made the 100 mile trip up from Rainier OR to compete with his new shop bike and took home first prize in the Audio Lightweight Class for the best overall sound. Jerry’s installation tech Dakota Hall made the trip and was absolutely thrilled with the first place prize award.”

Matt Daigle Joins SEMA Government Affairs as Director, Communications

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.17.24) – Matt Daigle has joined the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) as Director, Communications for Public and Government Affairs, based in Washington, D.C.

Daigle is a seasoned communicator with more than 20 years of experience and leadership in advocacy and member communications. He has served on Capitol Hill, in a consulting company, and in-house at multiple professional associations.

“We’re very excited to have Matt join SEMA’s D.C. team. He brings a wealth of experience in media relations and advocacy communications,” said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs. “Matt’s expertise will help bolster SEMA and PRI’s brand in Washington, D.C., and state capitols and better elevate the important issues we advocate for on behalf of our industry every day.”

Daigle joins SEMA from the American Hospital Association where, as Director of Advocacy and Member Communications, he collaborated with the policy, federal government relations, and legal departments on developing public- and member-facing messaging reflecting the goals and mission of the association for hospitals and health systems, Congress, government agencies, and the public.

In his new role, Daigle coordinates communications strategies and executions with SEMA’s marketing, councils, membership, political action committees (PACs), and other internal teams. He supports the development and execution of public relations that help shape the views of voters and opinion leaders about the automotive aftermarket industry, its products, and its leadership in the public policy arena.

“I’m excited to join SEMA at such a pivotal time for the automotive aftermarket,” said Daigle. “Our members make a tremendous contribution to the American economy, and I’m looking forward to sharing their accomplishments and driving positive change for the industry.”

A native of South Orleans, Mass., Daigle received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Marist College and a Master of Science degree in Journalism from Northwestern University.

Visit www.sema.org for more.

PowerBass Now Shipping BT-500 SOUND TUBE Portable Bluetooth Speaker

ONTARIO, CA (07.17.24) – What better way to enjoy your favorite tunes when you are not in your car than with our new BT-500 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This portable speaker has a built in 3600 mAh Li-ion battery for hours of play while at the beach, camping, at home, or even at a party! Recharge the unit with the supplied USB charge cord and let the music play!

Packed with great features such as Bluetooth, USB-A input ,and Hands-Free calling, selectable custom sound modes, and user selectable RGB Lighting Effects!

The BT-500 also comes equipped with TWS pairing for True Wireless Stereo playback. Connect 2 separate BT-500 Sound Tubes together for an immersive stereo sound experience or share your tunes with a friend while out on a hike, the adventures never have to end with your PowerBass Sound Tube!

The BT-500 PowerBass Sound Tube is Bluetooth ready and will pair with most Bluetooth devices such as iPhone, iPod, android and the likes and provides a handsfree microphone so you can also take calls while enjoying some tunes. Your BT-500 can also charge your mobile device using the USB-A output to plug in and charge while you have party Mode ON!

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

Lucky Star Trading LLC, Parent Company of Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio, Announces Ron Trout as New President

PHOENIX, AZ (07.16.24) – Lucky Star Trading LLC, the parent company of Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio, is pleased to announce the appointment of industry veteran Ron Trout as its new President.

Ron Trout brings a wealth of experience to Lucky Star, having spent the last 12 years as Director of Sales for JVC Mobile at JVCKenwood. Prior to that, he dedicated 20 years to Rockford Fosgate, where he launched the company’s technical training school RTTI, founded the accessory division Perfect Interface, and served as VP of New Product Development.

Larry VanSickel, CEO of Lucky Star Trading, commented, “Ron’s decades of experience make him the ideal choice to lead our brands into the future. His strategic insights and market expertise align perfectly with our commitment to innovation and quality. Ron was also a close friend of our late founder, Larry Frederick. They shared many hours together as founding members of IASCA, technical gurus, and friendly competitors.”

Forrest Hamberlin, Cicada Tech Support and Operations Director, added, “I’m excited to work with Ron again. My first job was under his leadership at Rockford Fosgate’s Perfect Interface Division. Given our success at Cicada Audio, I’m confident he will help us manage our current growth trajectory.”

Marty Deane, Cicada Director of Sales and Product Development, stated, “Ron’s track record speaks for itself. His vision will drive Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio to new heights.”

Visit cicadaaudio.com and recoilaudio.com for more.

About Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio:

Cicada Audio, founded by the late Larry Frederick, has been a trailblazer in motorcycle audio systems. Larry’s vision led to iconic brands like Audiomobile, Proton, and Phoenix Gold. Cicada Audio continues this legacy, offering top-tier motorcycle audio solutions.

Recoil Audio, a global brand, focuses on car audio. Their commitment to “quality for price” defines the brand.

For more information, please contact Marty Deane at marty@recoilaudio.com.

Meyer Distributing Announces Winner of the Mustang Giveaway

JASPER, IN (07.16.24) – Meyer Distributing announces the winner of the Mustang Giveaway: Midwest Aftermarket, a retailer for aftermarket auto parts based in Litchfield, IL.

Holley, Air Lift and Mickey Thompson sponsored the giveaway of this 2024 Mustang GT Premium in Grabber Blue. The 5.0L Mustang was outfitted with a 6-speed manual with Hurst shifter, Recaro seats, 9” Brembo brakes with painted-to-match calipers, active exhaust with Flowmaster Outlaw catback, Carroll Shelby 20×9.5 CS3 Gunmetal front wheels with 255/35R20 Mickey Thompson Street Comp Tires, Carroll Shelby 20×11 CS3 Gunmetal rear wheels with 305/35R20 Mickey Thompson Street Comp Tires, raised wing rear spoiler, and full Air Lift Performance suspension with 3P and dual compressor setup.

“We are very excited to announce the winner of the Mustang Giveaway to Midwest Aftermarket. The Cooper brothers have been great partners for all aspects of products we carry at Meyer for a long time now,” says Austin Zehr, Performance Sales Manager at Meyer. “It was awesome to be able to deliver the car directly to them at the shop and see their reactions first hand. They have a great team and we look forward to continue watching them grow.”

“My relationship with the Cooper brothers has grown tremendously,” claims Zach Wood, Sales Manager at Meyer. “They are hardworking, good people with a strong vison in sight. They are more than deserving winners of the Mustang Giveaway.”

“The car is way above expectations. I loved to get to meet Austin to hear about all the different aspects of the vehicle and appreciate his willingness to take time out of his day to deliver,” states Zac Cooper, owner of Midwest Aftermarket. “My relationship with Meyer and Zach is amazing. I would have never expected a company the size of Meyer to be such a personal partner and go above and beyond every day to make sure my account is a priority. Relationships in business have become a thing of the past with most companies, but not with Meyer Distributing.”

Meyer Distributing is a complete international automotive and RV/towing distributor. With 107 locations nationwide and over 3,500,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, Meyer has a huge inventory of parts to service their customers. With strategically positioned warehouse facilities, Meyer Distributing is able to provide next day delivery to most locations using Meyer Logistics direct ship.

Visit mymeyer.com for more.

Lucky Star Trading, LLC Appoints Justin Miller as Regional Sales Manager for Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio

PHOENIX, AZ (07.16.24) – Lucky Star Trading, LLC, operating as Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio, is pleased to announce the appointment of Justin Miller as Regional Sales Manager. This strategic hire comes in response to the surging demand for the company’s Motorcycle Audio category, the last project spearheaded by late founder Larry A. Frederick.

Justin Miller brings over two decades of industry experience to the role, with a strong background in audio solutions for the Powersports and Motorsports markets. His appointment is aimed at managing the explosive growth in the Motorcycle Audio segment while upholding the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.

The late Larry A. Frederick, co-founder of Cicada Audio, had previously stated, “The Motorcycle Audio market represents an untapped potential for high-quality, innovative audio solutions. Our goal is to revolutionize how riders experience music on the road.” This vision has proven prescient, with the category experiencing unprecedented demand.

Ron Trout, newly appointed President of Lucky Star Trading, commented on the hire: “Justin’s extensive experience and deep understanding of our market make him the ideal candidate to lead our regional sales efforts. His addition to the team will help us meet the growing demand while maintaining the high standards set by Larry Frederick.”

Marty Deane, Director of Sales and Product Development, added, “The response to our Motorcycle Audio line has been overwhelming. Justin’s expertise will be crucial in managing this growth and expanding our market presence. His appointment reaffirms our commitment to Larry’s vision of delivering exceptional audio experiences to motorcycle enthusiasts.”

Miller’s role will involve overseeing sales strategies, building customer relationships, and ensuring the successful market penetration of both Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio products across his assigned region.

“I’m honored to join the team at Lucky Star Trading,” said Justin Miller. “Larry Frederick’s legacy in the audio industry is unparalleled, and I’m excited to contribute to the continued success of his final project. The potential in the Motorcycle Audio category is enormous, and I look forward to helping the company meet this growing demand.”

Visit cicadaaudio.com and recoilaudio.com for more.

About Lucky Star Trading, LLC (Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio): Lucky Star Trading, LLC, operating as Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio, is a leader in innovative audio solutions. With a strong focus on quality and customer satisfaction, the company offers a wide range of audio products designed to enhance the listening experience, particularly in the Powersports and Motorsports markets.

Contact: Marty Deane Director of Sales and Product Development Cicada Audio and Recoil Audio Email: marty@cicadaaudio.com Phone: 480-716-7769

Alpine Returned to New Jersey Jeep Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor

WILDWOOD, NJ (07.15.24) – Alpine returned to the New Jersey Invasion 2024 as the Official Audio Sponsor. Alpine occupied a booth during the vendor show from Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 14 where they offered special, event-only pricing on all products. As part of their continued investment, Alpine increased their booth presence by 2000 square feet to showcase more exciting solutions designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.

The Wildwood Jeep Invasion got off to a rainy start with remains from Hurricane Beryl.

The Jeep Invasion activities got off to a disruptive start as remains of Hurricane Beryl traveled from south Texas through the northeast with wind and heavy rain. On Friday morning all were directed to leave the beach as severe weather approached.

Jeeps were set up in the booth for demos and sales presentations.

In addition to the vendor booth, Alpine also had an installation bay, powered by Tampa-based Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves. Jeepers could drive home with their Alpine purchase installed. The installation space was located directly next to the Alpine booth space in Install Alley.

Small ducks are standard giveaways at Jeep events and this inflatable duck took it to a new level.

Alpine showcased two loaded 2018 Jeep Wranglers in their booth. In addition a 2015 Jeep Wrangler was on-site outfitted with Jeep specific solutions designed for older model Jeeps.

The Soundwaves Tampa crew stayed busy with full install bays during the event.

Better weather started the day on Saturday as the large Alpine staff, Opus Marketing team members and the Soundwaves Tampa crew assisted Jeepers with demos, sales and installations. DOW Technologies had a team on site that provided logistical support with a large truck filled with Alpine inventory. The Soundwaves Tampa crew traveled from Tampa FL, 1100 miles to Wildwood, pulling a trailer filled with tools and supplies to complete the many on-site installations for Jeepers attending the 2024 Jeep Invasion.

The 2024 New Jersey Jeep Invasion wrapped on Sunday under a sunny clear sky. Three images above from @dowtechnologies.

Terminator Amplifiers Are Back & Shipping Now For 2024

PHOENIX, AZ (07.15.24) – MTX, a MiTek Electronics and Communications company is proud to announce the entire lineup of new Terminator amplifiers are now available for purchase and are shipping to customers now! For decades the Terminator series has maintained a stellar reputation of quality and affordability, and this new lineup is no exception.

The new Terminator amplifier lineup consists of six Class-D models in various configurations including a highly anticipated 5-channel version. These Class-D amplifiers are more efficient and compact than their predecessors, making them a simple yet powerful solution for any installation. Chock-full of features such as high and low-level input, variable crossovers, updated direct-Insert terminals, protection indicators and short, thermal, and under/over-voltage protection, these amplifiers are certain to gain popularity quickly.

Of course, the mono-block models also include Bass Boost technology along with a Subsonic filter and the Remote Bass Control knob is now included providing an even greater value overall. Lastly, each Terminator amplifier now includes a distinct birth certificate where you’re sure to find power ratings that consistently exceed those listed on the box.

“Given the economic challenges consumers continue to face, our timing couldn’t be better in providing a broad range of stout yet cost-effective amplifiers to our dealers and consumers. Whatever the genre and whatever the volume, music can be therapeutic, and we want everyone to have the chance to enjoy it without breaking the bank” said Jason Fickas, VP of MTX.

Visit mtx.com for more.

Mobile Solutions Announces MasterTechAdvanced Door Panel Fabrication Training

TEMPE, AZ (07.15.24) Mobile Solutions, a leader in creating the tools and training needed for custom automotive electronics, audio, and interior installations, is proud to announce its MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training, scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz. During the event, attendees will learn from the best in the business and enhance their shop’s capabilities by utilizing Mobile Solutions’ comprehensive training program that will reveal the secrets to mastering CAD design automation, 3D fabrication, upholstery, and high-end automotive finishes.

The MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training offers in-depth examples of three real-world design projects, executed to the highest level. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Bryan Schmitt and special guest, the acclaimed automotive designer and master fabricator, Tom Miller.

What to expect from the MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training:

  • Hands-On Class: Participate in a hands-on class project that walks you through the entire design process from ideation to execution.
  • Finding Inspiration: Get tips on how to find inspiration and navigate through the ideation phase.
  • Efficient Planning: Improve your efficiency and elevate your design game with a fully realized plan, making it easier to start new projects and pitch ideas to clients.
  • Collaborative Learning Environment: Engage in a collaborative environment where you can share ideas and get feedback from peers and instructors.
  • Boost Your Business: Develop skills to effectively pitch your ideas and present your designs to potential clients.
  • Master Advanced Techniques: Develop a deeper understanding of cutting-edge processes and technologies.

“Everything starts with a plan,” said Miller. “In our Door Panel Fabrication Class, you’ll learn how to turn your idea into a compelling, executable plan. We’ll cover finding inspiration, ideation, sketching on paper, digital rendering, and 3D modeling. Starting a new project or pitching an idea can be tough, often leaving us stuck. This class will boost your design skills and efficiency, helping you create a fully realized plan.”

Schmitt concluded, “This is your chance to elevate your craftsmanship and stay ahead in the competitive automotive industry. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now and ensure your place among the elite in fabrication.”

Class time is 8:15am – 5:30pm each day.

Visit mobilesolutions-usa.com/doorpanelclass for more information and lodging opportunities during the training.

For additional information, visit www.MobileSolutions-usa.com.