MARIETTA, GA (04.16.24) – Vickers AV would like to express our sincere gratitude for the beautiful plaque commemorating our 50-year partnership with Metra Electronics. It’s an honor to be recognized for our long-standing collaboration, and we deeply appreciate the gesture.
Ralph Vickers holds the Metra Electronics 50-year plaque with Chloe, Marc and Kelley (LtoR) in the company’s Marietta GA office.
Over the past five decades our partnership with Metra Electronics has been instrumental in our success. Together, we have achieved numerous milestones and overcome challenges, building a relationship based on trust, reliability and mutual respect. This plaque serves as a meaningful reminder of the enduring bond between our organizations.
Metra inventory fills many shelves in the Vickers AV warehouse.
“Metra is very proud to bd a longtime friend of Vickers AV. It is hard to imagine how many changes both Vickers and Metra have seen in our industry over these 50 years. It is a true testament to Vickers AV that they have withstood the test of time, and we wish them many more successful years” Bill Lauer, Director of Strategic and Tactical Operations, stated.
We value the partnership we have create cultivated with Metra Electronics and look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared success.
Vickers AV contributed this article. For more see vickersav.com
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (04.16.24) – Car audio becomes elevated to new standards of sound with Autotek STREET MACHINE amplifiers. ALL-NEW for 2024 — STREET MACHINE amplifiers deliver a listening experience that brings out higher sound quality with minimum distortion levels and remains more compact and a tighter footprint in size. Get ready to hear sound that is clean, undistorted, and LOUD in every beat with crisp detail and rich layers within audio through the innovative Autotek technology of STREET MACHINE amplifiers. Showcased in a sleek, black finish – STREET MACHINE amplifiers make a bold statement wherever placed in audio installations.
Luis Larralde, Latin America Sales Director at Maxxsonics, said, “This ALL-NEW STREET MACHINE car audio line of amplifiers is for the audio enthusiasts who want clean power paired with LOUD POWER. Every STREET MACHINE amplifier delivers sound that is sharp, detailed, and undistorted – giving audio a fresh layer of playback within any song. Autotek has raised the amplifier bar in 2024, and I’m so thrilled for everyone to hear the clarity, power, and attitude that STREET MACHINE will bring to every listening session – all within a compact size.”
ABOUT THE STREET MACHINE AMPLIFIER LINE Get ready to showcase all of your audio with clean performance ready for every genre of audio. Hear the highest sound quality in audio with quality RCA materials that help prevent interference and minimize distortion in the signal path. Embrace playback that infuses more detail and power into every song with a sleeker and more innovative style and design. A high-energy pulse-width modulated power supply in every Autotek STREET MACHINE amplifier ensures more power is delivered with minimal impact or distortion throughout any song while remaining compact through an innovative smaller footprint.
FEATURES INCLUDE: •LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier through a low voltage circuit •RCA INPUTS Highest sound quality connection with quality RCA materials helps prevent interference and minimize distortion in the signal path •HEAT SINK Sound Shield™ Technology assures additional mass in the heat sink and keeps amplifiers running cool while shielding audio from distortions that can be caused by heat •OUTPUT CONNECTIONS Nickel-plated brass connection with terminals allows for secure connection while resisting erosion •BASS REMOTE INCLUDED Wired bass remote allows adjustments to bass frequencies to be made from the control mounted anywhere in the vehicle
Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics, mentioned, “This incredible line of Autotek amplifiers deliver more from your sound in a compact size that offers flexibility where you need it most in your audio setup! STREET MACHINE brings undistorted power into every song while maintaining crisp and sharp in every beat. I am very excited for others to hear the true potential of their Autotek car audio setup powered through STREET MACHINE amplifiers.”
Car audio deserves power that is clean, LOUD and transcends your playback expectation with higher quality impact and sound. With Autotek STREET MACHINE amplifiers, sound will perform at the highest playback quality while bringing out BIGGER POWER in every beat.
STREET MACHINE is FINALLY HERE. It’s time to embrace an Autotek amplifier line that delivers on deeper performance made with innovative Autotek technology that remains clean and sleek in style and design.
STILLWATER, OK (04.15.24) – A host of KICKER employees judged the 2024 Oklahoma State SkillsUSA Mobile Electronics contest at Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater OK on Thursday April 11. Three of KICKER’s Tech Force training team joined members of the company’s Special Projects Team, R&D, and Marketing departments to judge the effectiveness of 48 Oklahoma student competitors, each attempting to solve the challenges presented by eight independent mobile-electronics workstations. The winning competitors earned awards from the brand and qualify for the SkillsUSA Finals in Atlanta later this year.
45 students awaited the beginning of the complete at the Meridian Technical Center in Stillwater OK.
SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America continues to have a skilled workforce, according to SkillsUSA.org. Students who excel in the program are prepared to shine in the exciting 12-volt industry.
KICKER’s Peter Johnson, Stephanie Surrat and Steven Bambrough are pictured by the sub wiring station.
The mobile-electronics category tests competitors’ abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile-electronics installers. In the industry, these skills have been established through the certification objectives and items created for basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association.
John, Chase and Jacob from KICKER are ready at one of the competition stations.
“We hear from retailers regularly that they cannot find qualified people to hire,” said Aaron Malin, KICKER Tech Force/Global Training Manager. “This challenge stresses various aspects of the real-world workplace. When they complete the SkillsUSA challenge, they are positioned to enter a job and immediately contribute.”
Jacob Luckey overseeing a competition at the amplifier tuning station.
“I would like to encourage other 12-volt industry leaders and manufacturers to get involved with SkillsUSA; we need those young men and women to join us in this quickly evolving industry” Malin added.
Following the competition, a group of students was bused to the KICKER HQ and are pictured in the KICKER UnMasked Studio.
In addition to the challenges presented at Meridian Technology Center, each competitor must take and pass the MECP Basic Certification program before competing. A professional interview and hands-on applications are all required, including the demonstration of several core 12-volt installation skill sets like taking electrical measurements, installing consumer-electronics equipment, soldering, working with relay circuits, and troubleshooting electronic circuitry.
“SkillsUSA is definitely growing,” says Tech Force trainer Jacob Luckey. “Last year we had 10 competitors; this year we had 45. It speaks to the importance of getting the right training, and then using those skills on the job. Being prepared makes all the difference, and these competitors recognize that.”
KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc., are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide.
DANIA BEACH, FL (04.15.24) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital amplifiers, Ground Zero car audio and Tury vehicle enhancement products, announced Davis Distribution Territory Expansion for the Mid Atlantic Territory into South Jersey.
Davis Distribution Systems, current distributor for the Mid Atlantic & Ohio Valley for SounDigital, Ground Zero & Tury Products expands its Territory into South Jersey. This expansion completes the Mid Atlantic Territory for Davis Distribution. “The positive impact that Davis has with all their Dealers is noticed and it’s great to see the dedication and commitment that Davis has” said Elias Ventura, Territory Manager for HKI USA.
Sam Taliani, VP of Operations said “As a proud partner of HKI, we’re thrilled to see our territory expand into Southern New Jersey, further complementing our established presence in the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic markets. With this addition, we’re poised to deliver exceptional car audio solutions across the entire region, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to providing unmatched service and support to our valued customers.”
Blake Miller Mid Atlantic Sales Director said “We are thrilled to be part of the HKI growth in the Car Audio, Motorsports & the 12-volt arenas. And now with Davis Distribution being the exclusive HKI Distributor in the Mid-Atlantic and all of our territories covered by Davis for Soundigital, Ground Zero and Tury we are committed to our Dealers to be able to support their sales efforts 100%.”
This addition expands Davis’ coverage to include South Jersey from the existing MD, VA, DC, DE and East PA in the Mid Atlantic Territory and WV, OH, MI, IN, KY and West PA in the Ohio Valley Territory.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (04.15.24) – DD AUDIO is proud to announce they will be partnering with the Black Wall Street Rally for a third consecutive year. BWSR will be held May 17th and 18th, 2024 in Tulsa Oklahoma’s historic Greenwood District and DD AUDIO will be attending as the Official Presenting Sponsor of the Sound Off Competition hosted by Kustom Wings at the BMX Stadium. In addition, DD AUDIO will have demo bikes and audio installation onsite so attendees can experience superior motorcycle audio at the event and on the ride home. To learn more about DD AUDIO’s commitment to the motorcycle riding experience, visit ddaudio.com/motorcycle.
This FREE (for spectators) rally welcomes all to experience the Greenwood District in a family-friendly environment. It will provide attendees the opportunity to experience the various Greenwood District history sites and enjoy an organized cultural festival. Visitors will enjoy Black Wall Street tours, musical entertainment, a parade of motorcycles, community organizations, day and night parties, Tulsa hospitality, and of course, the Sound Off Competition. Visitors can also enjoy the attendance and support of many vendors like DD AUDIO and King’s Kustoms Car Stereo & Security. Together they will be offering demos, professional advice, onsite installations, and more.
The Greenwood District was once characterized by bustling streets with hotels, theaters, doctors offices, restaurants, nightlife establishments and more. As one of the most prosperous African-American communities in the United States, the district would earn the name, “Black Wall Street”. On May 31, 1921 a white mob attacked black residents and destroyed homes and businesses of the Greenwood District. The Tulsa Race Riot, as it’s now known, is considered the single worst incident of racial violence in American history. The Black Wall Street Rally keeps the memory of the prosperous times alive while shining a light on the atrocities that occurred there just over 100 years ago with a motorcycle inspired event held in the historic Greenwood District. The rally will not condone any form of racism, sexism, intolerance, anti-Semitism, white supremacy or hate speech.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (04.13.24) The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 6.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 267th time on Friday morning April 12th. The Wheel landed on the Q Power space and the Audio Systems slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in MontClair CA with the news. Jack Ruiz was excited to hear the good news on a cloudy Friday and said they will be looking forward to the Q Power prize. Jack mentioned that he had seen the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel post.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, NavAtlas, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, Alphasonik, Race Sport Lighting, Maximum Power, AlloyGator, King Boxes and Massive Audio. 12volt News $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the winning 12volt retailer.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD, Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY, Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA and BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL
Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 268 on Friday, April 19th.
DALLAS, TX (04.12.24) – The SSR University 1.2 event, focused on “The Retail Experience,” held in Dallas Wednesday evening drew a very engaged audience.
“Paul Galanos, our Director of Marketing and Training, truly shined during the session. His engaging delivery and comprehensive explanation of the entire sales process, from the retail parking lot to greeting the customer, making the sale all the way to establishing lasting customer relationships, left everyone impressed” Tracy Farr, SSR Distributors VP of Sales ad Operations stated.
Paul Galanos presenting ‘The Retail Experience’ SSR University 1.2 session at the SSR Dallas location early Wednesday evening.
The April 10th session kicked off at 6:30 and wrapped at 8:30 with a break midway was time for attendees to enjoy a selection of sandwiches, sides and refreshments.
“The Retail Experience in Dallas was yet another successful installment from Season One of this groundbreaking venture by SSR Distributors. The horrific weather earlier in the day didn’t stop local business owners and their respective staff members from participating. The Retail Experience outlines the retail environment from the customers point of view. Often times in retail sales, much emphasis is applied to procedure and tactic with little or no attention paid to how the average customer responds to the quality of their visit” Galanos commented.
Tracy Farr holds his certificate from the SSR University Dallas session 1.1 in his office following the March 6th launch.
Seasoned sales trainer Galanos successfully opened the eyes of dealers with one goal in mind….to consider the retail experience from the customers point of view. Caring for customers from the cradle to grave is the objective that is widely missed across the brick and mortar landscape.
“Through vivid examples and interactive role-plays, Paul kept the audience thoroughly entertained and involved. I’m thrilled to report that the event was a resounding success. It’s clear that these training sessions are not just an investment in our customers but also a testament to SSR’s unwavering commitment to providing value and excellence in every interaction. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making SSR University 1.2 a memorable and an impactful experience. Let’s continue to prioritize our customers’ needs and ensure that these training sessions remain invaluable to our team” Farr concluded.
For future SSRU dates check with your SSR representative and see ssrdistributors.com
STAMFORD, CN (04.12.24) – HARMAN International Industries, the premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets, announced today the launch of the JBL JAM5000N and the JBL JAM3000, two brand-new head units that leverage JBL’s industryleading technology to provide a high-value solution for audio-enthusiast boaters.
The JAM3000 is now shipping with a $229.95 MSRP.
The two head units are designed for multi-element environments, able to meet the demands of extreme conditions. Built to be accessible, the JAM5000N and the JAM3000 head units are engineered to satisfy the performance requirements for marine audio consumers in their price range. The design allows them to integrate seamlessly into any boat design with an elegant and brand-specific look and feel that is capable of being mounted either in the traditional front mounted or can be back mounted for a cleaner smooth dash finish.
The JAM5000N with a $399.95 is scheduled to ship soon.
Both head units boast 2.8-inch screens with easy-to-use controls and an intuitive user interface. Robust and offering unprecedented value, both the JAM3000 and the JAM5000N support multiple audio sources. The JAM3000 allows for use of Bluetooth and AM/FM radio, while the JAM5000N supports even more options, including USB, WB and radio. In addition, the JAM5000N has a sunlight viewable color TFT display, and features three zones with each zone including three channels of right, left and subwoofer output, NMEA 2000, and an input for a rear camera which no other radio at this price has. Both compact IP66 source units provide four channels of RMS power output at 25Wrms.
The JAM5000N and JAM3000 are available for $399.95 and $229.95, respectively. For more information on Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL or their full lines of marine audio products, please visit www.harman.com, www.jbl.com or contact them at HarmanMarine@harman.com.
POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers move the set bar forward for audio and Crunch amplifier technology all in one compact package. POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers are designed and innovated for compact space while creating higher levels of BIG POWER in every beat in any song. HEAR MORE from sound with PZ2!
The perfect addition to any Crunch audio install, POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers create space and opportunity in the tightest and smallest areas. These amplifiers bring out an “in-car” concert experience with any genre of music with sharper details, richer playback, and immersive listening that transforms installations into clean and smooth audio.
PZ2 amplifiers are available in mono, 2-channel, 4-channel, and 5-channelconfigurations and feature undistorted BIG POWER in a smaller space that takes audio to new levels for richer listening. With an included electronic equalizer, control of every PZ2 amplifier output with onboard electronic crossover tailors specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers.
Maximizing vehicle space – whether in the trunk, backseat, underseat, or anywhere in the vehicle, is what makes the POWERZONE PZ2 line stand out from any other Crunch amplifier. PZ2 amplifiers remain compact in size and deliver higher sound quality in every aspect. Every audio install connected to any PZ2 amplifier will receive an instant upgrade in sound quality.
Exclusive Crunch SPEED-FET MOSFET components maximize power efficiency while improving sound quality and minimizing distortion. Monitoroverload and speaker-short protection with illuminated indicators on PZ2 amplifier end panels. QTD (Quick Thermal Dispersion) Technology assures every PZ2 amplifier makes huge power while running cool with undetectable musical distortions.
Take your Crunch soundstage to the compact level of performance with PZ2. Embrace maximizing your vehicle space while delivering higher sound quality to your Crunch car audio installation. PZ2 compact performance!
Learn more HERE about the line of Crunch POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers.
STILLWATER, OK (04.11.24) – SkillsUSA prepares students for the workforce and students in the Mobile Electronics Division will compete for recognition at the National Competition in Atlanta. The conference will be held at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta and attract over 6500 competitors in 110 competitions.
KICKER Audio is a strong supporter of the SkillsUSA initiative. Aaron Malin, TECH Force Global Training Manager, has participated in previous SkillsUSA National Conferences. Malin and Jacob Luckey, KICKER Global Trainer, will be headed to Atlanta for the 2024 Skills USA Conference June 26th and 27th.
Aaron Malin (L) and Jacob Lucky working with students at the 2023 competition in Stillwater.
On Thursday, April 11th, the local SkillsUSA Mobile Electronics Installation competition takes place at the Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater OK, Malin will be on site as students prepare to showcase their installation and communication skills to judges The stakes are high with only three winning spots available for the State high school and secondary/college level competition.
“Each student prepares to perform to their best abilities for the judges. Some of the stations include soldering, wiring speakers and identifying components. Students will be judged on their proficiency in those particular skills and only the top four were chosen to go to state competitions” Malin stated..
Jacob Lucky constructed this amplifier installation and tuning test rig for the SkillsUSA contest. He built four of them and will provide basic plans and discounted products will be provided for schools that want to build their own.
SkillsUSA works to bring motivated individuals to the workforce and teach them lifelong skills. There are local, state and national competitions with 53 states participating, according to SkillsUSA.org. Its mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.
The 12-volt industry is in need of more sharp-minded employees to bring new ideas to the table. The overall employment of mobile electronics installers and technicians is projected to show little to no change from 2021 to 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics years.
Jacob Luckey built this subwoofer wiring test station. Four were built for the contest and they will be used at the state championships as well. After the state contest all eight rigs will be shipped to Atlanta where they will be utilized for the national competition this year and beyond.
“We hear from retailers on a regular basis that they cannot find qualified people to hire,” related Malin. “Take out qualified… they can’t find people to hire.” Malin will again be one of the judges for the National SkillsUSA competition and has been judging for three years. Malin added that many of the students are put in a position where they can find a suitable job by participating in SkillsUSA National Conference.
Through SkillsUSA, students have the opportunity to learn valuable lessons and make lifelong friends. “It is always exciting when you see the ‘lightbulb’ moment as something really clicks in the mind of a student,” Malin said. “The ‘ah hah!’ that lets you know they really got it! Last year at the national competition in Atlanta, one young man was so excited to introduce me to his mom and siblings after we really connected during his job interview competition. He experienced my admiration and his family’s proud moment, all at the same time.”
The Upcoming SkillsUSA Oklahoma State Conference in Tulsa will be a chance for local champions to compete for a spot at Nationals.
“Students not only receive valuable skills from these events, but also priceless communication skills. From difficult interviews, to speaking with industry professionals and presenting their skills they also learn difficult communication skills” stated Chris Jack, Technical Chairperson for mobile electronics installation, for SkillsUSA. “My father always said that “I don’t care if you’re going to wipe up dirt off the floor, wear a suit and tie to an interview…no matter what it’s for.”
Concluding Malin commented “The12volt industry needs workers more than ever, and SkillsUSA helps to ensure that they are proficient in their trade. I would like to encourage other 12-volt industry members and manufacturers to get involved with SkillsUSA at their local, state and national level. As an industry, we need those young men and women to join us in our very exciting and quickly evolving industry.”
For more information, visit SkillsUSA.org or contact Chris Jack who handles the 12volt portion of SkillsUSA.
12VoltNews.com 