Alpine Introduces Lighting Link Control for the New PrismaLink™ Subwoofer Enclosures

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.12.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) introduces a new “Lighting Link” control feature for the new PrismaLink™ S-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Wedge Enclosure line available on Alpine’s iLX-W670 7” Shallow-Chassis Digital Multimedia Receiver, which shipped in October 2023.

“This unique feature, which is exclusively available on the iLX-W670, gives the user the ability to customize their lighting experience on their subwoofer enclosure from the convenience of their dashboard,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “We believe this feature offers a strong sales opportunity for our retailers when offering system builds to their customers.”

New Spectrum of Sound

PrismaLink™ is a sealed wedge enclosure line that comes preloaded with a 12” (S2-SB12), 10” (S2-SB10), or 8” (S2-SB8) subwoofer from Alpine’s Next-Generation S-Series line and features RGBW multi-color trim bar lighting controlled by an included IR remote or the iLX-W670 (sold separately) via Lighting Link feature.

The Lighting Link feature is accessible from the “Sound Boost” menu on the iLX-W670 home screen where users can select from 12 changeable static colors and four “Dynamic Modes,” which offer different light experiences like rainbow, flashing, and cascading colors.

The enclosures have a multi-link design that’s able to connect dual, triple, and even quad-enclosures with an optional linking kit for the 12” (KTX-LK12), 10” (KTX-LK10), and 8” (KTX-LK8) versions. When used as a multi-linked enclosure application, the lighting feature is able to connect across the subwoofers for an uninterrupted visual experience. 

The PrismaLink™ enclosures also come with pre-set inserts to allow for Alpine’s new KTZ -BKT Universal Subwoofer Enclosure Mounting Brackets to be easily installed in a vehicle.

The iLX-W670 7” Shallow-Chassis Digital Multimedia Receiver with “Lighting Link” control is available now for $299.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

The PrismaLink™ S-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Wedge Enclosure line will be available in Spring 2024 in a 12” (S2-SB12) option for $399.95, a 10” (S2-SB10) option for $379.95 and an 8” (S2-SB8) option for $329.95. The PrismaLink™ Linking Kits will be available in a 12” (KTX-LK12) option for $69.95, 10” (KTX-LK10) option for $59.95, and 8” (KTX-LK8) option for $49.95.

SiriusXM Connect Brings Industry Leading ACN+ Safety Technology to Automakers Across North America Through RapidSOS Expansion

NEW YORK, NY (01.12.24) – SiriusXM Connected Vehicle Services Inc. (SiriusXM Connect), a subsidiary of SiriusXM Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: SIRI) and leading provider of connected products and services to vehicle manufacturers, today announced its next-generation ACN+ technology powered by RapidSOS, an intelligent safety company, will now be included as part of its emergency service platform for all vehicles with compatible embedded telematics equipment.

ACN+ provides industry-leading emergency response by sharing critical data with 911 call centers digitally, minimizing the amount of information that must be verbally communicated to first responders. Automakers who rely on SiriusXM Connect can now offer this advanced safety feature to all their customers with available connected data. This enables automakers to expand their safety and security service offering, ensuring drivers receive timely emergency care that could save lives.

“We are committed to continuously improving emergency response for drivers across the country, and by expanding our relationship with RapidSOS we are enabling vehicles on our platform to have access to technology that can help to save lives,” said Steve Coker, Senior Vice President at SiriusXM Connect. “In working with RapidSOS over the last three years, we’ve seen ACN+ reduce 911 dispatch times by an average of 45 seconds compared to voice-only calls; when lives are at stake, every second counts.”

ACN+ powered by RapidSOS digitally provides automated, enhanced safety information and offers the opportunity to collaborate with automakers to expand data fields as they become available, allowing crash, and other critical data, including when authorized by customers, medical profile information, to be delivered to 911 in the workflows they use every day.

“Together, SiriusXM Connect and RapidSOS now provide more than 16,000 public safety agencies that cover 99% of the U.S. population with life-saving contextual data like location, speed, and impact,” said Michael Martin, CEO of RapidSOS. “Additionally, we have the capabilities to provide this vital data to Canada and Mexico, helping more than 1 million field responders across North America.”

”The expanded relationship between SiriusXM Connect and RapidSOS is a significant development for the industry. This action enables emergency responders’ access to ACN+ data directly covering more vehicles on the road. This will empower responders to make faster decisions on the necessary resources required at the scene,” said Brian Fontes, CEO NENA: The 9-1-1 Association. When we have access to more information and in a timely manner, we can better determine the needs of people in distress sooner, thus increasing our chances of saving their lives.”

SiriusXM Connect will offer ACN+ standard on all compatible equipped vehicles covered by an active connected vehicle subscription for this enhanced safety feature by March 2024.

Visit siriusxm.com and rapidsos.com for more.

Alpine Offers Vehicle-Specific Solutions for Ford

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.11.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) announces three new vehicle-specific solutions designed for Ford F-Series Trucks and the new Ford Bronco.

“Alpine is no stranger to vehicle-specific upgrades for Ford,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “Using what we learned from past product offerings, we’re proud to offer solutions and complete sound system upgrade packages that were intentionally designed to both compliment and improve the truck experience.”

The solutions will include two variations of a complete sound system upgrade for select Ford F-Series trucks and an easy bass upgrade for the new Ford Bronco.

Music Made for Trucks
Specially crafted for the 2015-up Ford F-Series truck line, Alpine will offer the PSS-23FORD-F150 Complete Eight-Speaker Sound System Upgrade with OPTIM™8 Technology. This system comes pre-tuned for the unique truck cabin environment and features High-Resolution Speakers for improved dynamic audio range.

The system includes six High-Resolution speakers from the Next-Generation S-Series line that replace the front and rear factory speakers in the Ford F-Series truck with 8” component front speakers and 6.5” coaxial rear speakers.

To enhance the bass performance in the F-Series Truck, the system also includes a 600W RMS (300W x 2) dual eight-inch truck subwoofer enclosure that’s intentionally designed to be installed under the rear seat of the truck, both enhancing the bass output and eliminating the need to take up valuable truck cabin space.

The entire system is powered by Alpine’s groundbreaking new OPTIM™8 8-Channel Hi-Res Sound Processor & Amplifier with Automatic Sound Tuning.

The system will also be available for the 2015-up Ford F-Series Trucks with the factory premium B&O audio system (PSS-23FORD-F150BO) featuring the same product offering powered by a S-Series 5-Channel amplifier instead of the OPTIM™8. Each system includes a vehicle-specific harness OEM integration harness designed for easy plug-and-play installation.

Bass for the Bronco
Alpine is excited to introduce a solution for the highly-anticipated return of the Ford Bronco with the SBP-24BRNC Weather-Resistant Powered Tailgate Subwoofer Enclosure for the 2021-up Ford Bronco. This solution was designed to be an easy bass upgrade for the OEM System in the Bronco with a high-performance subwoofer and easy, plug-and-play installation.

The enclosure comes preloaded with a 12” weather-resistant shallow subwoofer that’s optimized to add impressive bass performance while taking up less cargo space than a traditional subwoofer. The enclosure includes a built-in 500W RMS amplifier designed for uninterrupted performance, even when played at loud volumes.

A custom mounting bracket allows for easy installation on the inside rear tailgate of the 2021-up Ford Bronco Truck. A plug-and-play harness is also included for easy integration into the OEM system.

The complete sound system upgrade for the bass audio Ford F-Series Trucks (PSS-23FORD-F150) and premium B&O audio system trucks (PSS-23FORD-F150BO) will be available in Spring 2024 at $1,499.95 and $1,999.95 respectively. The tailgate subwoofer enclosure for the Ford Bronco will also be available in March 2024 at $999.95.

All products can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

Dalton Duckett Joins SoundSkins Global As Marketing and Design Specialist

CERRITOS, CA (01.11.24) – Dalton Duckett is excited to introduce himself as the new Marketing and Design Specialist at SoundSkins Global. Below, in his words, he relayed his plan moving forward.

I come to SoundSkins Global with a strong background in creative marketing and innovative design. My passion lies in crafting captivating narratives and visually appealing content that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Dalton Duckett is all smiles in the well-stocked SoundSkins Global warehouse in Cerritos, CA

I am deeply committed to building upon the solid foundation that my predecessor established. My objective is to bring fresh perspectives to our marketing strategies and design initiatives, ensuring that Sound Skins Global continues to shine in our dynamic industry.

I’m looking forward to diving into collaborations with all of you and exploring ways to soar to even greater heights. Whether you have marketing or design needs or simply want to say hello, please don’t hesitate to connect with me. I’m here to champion our brand and help it thrive with style and innovation.

Thank you all for welcoming me into the Sound Skins Global family. I’m excited about the journey ahead and can’t wait to make a positive impact as I lead our marketing department.

Visit soundskinsglobal.com for more.

Contact Dalton Duckett, Marketing and Design Specialist
M (562) 390-0263
P (877) 211-5597
E dalton@soundskinsglobal.com

Let’s Put The 12voltSTP Tool to Work for Your Company

SHREVEPORT, LA (01.11.24) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios, work to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP Tool is another example of making it easy for industry members to put their company’s brand and positive activities in front of members of the 12volt industry.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. It’s not an app. Just Snap an image with your smartphone and Txt with a few words to 318 465 0844. Snap..Txt..Presto! Your company’s positive news could be in the news. 318 465 0844 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles for information and news delivery. The fact remains people need still, and look forward to, receiving news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

On the right Bob, JC and Billy sent an image holding a product from their office. PRESTO. Their new product info was delivered to members of the 12volt industry.
JBL is in Vegas for CES. Scott Hichmuth, Real Performance Marketing, sent an image from the Harman Explore setting at the Virgin Hotel.

Today a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.

Interstate Electronics spotlights the company’s new Kenwood Display in their Hazlet, NJ sound room.
Ed Nuttall sent images to Spotlight the huge booth Team Nutz will have at the upcoming show in Pittsburgh.

To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. Fresh industry is also posted each day on the web @ 12voltnews.com.

Lorin Morrell MADDOG MEDIA sends images as KICKER is Livin’Loud at AMA ArenaCross Series events.

The 12voltBeat newsletter, delivering fresh industry news, is emailed early Monday and Thursday mornings to over 4,000 industry members. Check your inbox.

Visit 12voltnews.com for more.

Alpine Offers the First Complete Sound System Upgrade for Tesla

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.10.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) announces the industry’s first complete sound system upgrade for Tesla. The system boasts 1200W RMS of efficient power and requires no custom vehicle modifications during installation.

“Alpine is proud to be the first aftermarket car audio manufacturer to provide a complete sound system solution that’s truly designed for the Tesla,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “As the auto industry continues to trend towards EV vehicles, Alpine will continue to invest in premium solutions catered to the EV driver.”

The system will be available in six different applications designed to fit select Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

Optimized for EV Performance
Designed especially for the Tesla driver, this high-resolution sound system easily replaces the factory speakers in select Tesla models without any vehicle modifications, effectively elevating the performance of the sound system while maintaining the integrity of the interior and retaining all OEM functions.

At 1200W RMS (50W x 4, 100W x 6, 400W x 1) this system boasts an impressive sound upgrade that’s optimized for EV low voltage battery range (12V-16V).

The speakers were sourced from Alpine’s “Blue Series” premium line, an intentionally crafted speaker line made from an ultra-lightweight carbon fiber material with a powerful neodymium magnet and Alpine propriety HAMR surround to ensure efficient sound performance.

A 10” sealed subwoofer, stealth installed in the trunk, provides an exciting 400W RMS of bass performance, while a powerful 12-channel Digital Sound Processor (DSP) comes pre-tuned for the unique interior of the Telsa.

An ultra-efficient amplifier uses less than one mile of range per hour, even when played at full volume, ensuring the efficiency of the battery life.

Each model comes with a vehicle-specific harness that’s designed to easily integrate into the respective system. System offerings will include an 11-speaker upgrade package for the factory base audio systems in the 2018-2021 Tesla Model 3 (PSS-TSLA-213) and 2022-up Tesla Model 3 (PSS-TSLA-223).

For the Model 3 vehicles with the factory premium audio system, Alpine will offer a 13-speaker upgrade package (two additional speakers for the rear deck) for the 2018-2021 Tesla Model 3 (PSS-TSLA-213P) and 2022-up Tesla Model 3 (PSS-TSLA-223P).

Tesla Model Y systems will both feature 13-speaker upgrade packages for the 2020-2021 Tesla Model Y (PSS-TSLA-21Y) and 2022-2023 Tesla Model Y (PSS-TSLA-22Y).

The Complete Plug-and-Play Sound System Upgrade Kits for Tesla will be available in Spring 2024 at $2999.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

KENWOOD Expands Distribution Partnership with Ultimate Marketing

LONG BEACH, CA (01.10.24) KENWOOD USA is excited to announce the extension of its distribution partnership with Ultimate Marketing. Effective immediately, in addition to serving as the distributor for North and South Carolina, Ultimate Marketing will now take on the responsibility of distributing KENWOOD products in Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida.

“We are thrilled about this extended partnership with Ultimate Marketing. Their dedication to building meaningful relationships aligns perfectly with our values at KENWOOD. With their increased role, we are confident that customers in Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida will experience the same level of personalized service and expertise that KENWOOD is known for,” said John Lucas, VP of Sales at KENWOOD.

Kevin and Alicia Holder in the Ultimate Marketing warehouse in West Columbia, SC. Alicia is the Director of Sales and Operations.

About Ultimate Marketing:

  • Brings over two decades of industry experience.
  • Commits to understanding the unique needs of your business.
  • Places a core focus on building face-to-face relationships with its customers.
  • Ensures orders received by 4:30 p.m. EST are shipped the same day.
  • Offers more than just distribution; they provide retailers with access to extensive knowledge in merchandising, product development, sales training, tech support, and show management.

As expressed by Kevin Holder, the Owner of Ultimate Marketing, “To us, our customers are like family, and their success is our top priority. As a family-owned and operated company, we genuinely care about the profitability of our dealers. I want people to know the personal touch we have with our customers, and relationships are the key value to our business.”

This strategic move marks an exciting chapter for KENWOOD and Ultimate Marketing, solidifying their commitment to delivering top-tier mobile electronics solutions for customers in the Southeastern United States. Holder also noted that they are actively pursuing opening an additional operating location to provide even faster access to KENWOOD products throughout the territory.

You can reach Ultimate Marketing by phone: 1-800-425-0753, email: sales@umdistributors.com, & web: https://umdistributors.com/

To learn more about KENWOOD, visit the company’s website at https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/

Elite Distributor Alliance Expands to Puerto Rico

NASHVILLE, TN (01.10.24) – Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) with one day shipping from 23 distribution centers, has broadened its footprint with the addition of Mobile Imports of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Josh Eatherly, EDA’s Executive Vice President said: “We are excited to kick off 2024 with the addition of Mobile Imports.  Danny Cintron and his team fit the mindset and the go to market strategy of EDA perfectly.” Eatherly added, “It is so important that membership is like-minded in their business approach in order to provide added value for our vendors and each other.”

Josh Eatherly, Executive Vice President, Elite Distributor Alliance

Danny Cintron, the President, and CEO of Mobile Imports added, “We are excited to become a distributor partner with EDA.  They represent the most well organized and forward-thinking distributors in our industry.  We look forward to sharing and learning with our new partner.”

Danny Cintron, President/CEO Mobile Imports

Steve Cote, Eastern Regional Sales Manager at JVC added, “Mobile Imports is the right EDA member for Puerto Rico.  Danny’s team is pro-active with dealers across the island daily providing not only logistic support but superior tech level support as a JVC distributor.”

John Yodzis, one of the officers of EDA, and president of DOW Technologies said, “We took our time to find the right partner to add in Puerto Rico.  My company, DOW, has a strong presence on the island, but we felt we needed one more member to really round things out.  Danny and his team are a great fit.” 

Find out more at www.elitedistributoralliance.com.

Interstate Electronics Creates The Kenwood In-Store Experience

HAZLET, NJ (01.09.24) – Interstate Electronics has been the go-to electronics store in Hazlet since opening in 1968. The company serves area consumers with a wide variety of car audio, home electronics plus accessories and parts from the 10,000 St Ft location. To create more excitement in their car audio showroom they worked with Kenwood to cover one entire wall with a display showcasing eXcelon, Reference, Motorcycle, MotorSports and Marine categories. Each category is live in a 5-Axis Innovations display spotlighted with LED lighting.

The KENWOOD display covers this entire wall in the Interstate Electronics car audio showroom.

Fred Orpen, Interstate Electronics GM, related “We were looking to create an outstanding display that would grab immediate attention when customers entered our store. The car audio showroom is directly to the right as people enter and the floor is raised. With the new Kenwood display wall the immediate reaction is WOW. Even if the customer is looking for a television they will walk up the steps to checkout the Kenwood wall. They also tell their friends about the Kenwood display and they will come check it out. Needless to say our Kenwood sales have increased.”

Boxed 12volt product brands have been added to shelving in the store. Note the shiny floor!

The company started to think about the showroom upgrade last May and June. They contacted their area representative, Morris Hartman with Team Progressive, and the ball started rolling. Soon the decision was made and the project was completed just before this past Holiday season.

Installations accessories are all very well merchandised on the racks.

“Since completing the Kenwood displays our customers are so much more engaged. We have customer families stretching 3 generations and they are talking about the Kenwood display with family. Our customer’s engagement led us to rearrange other parts of our store. We have placed boxed products on shelves where parts and antenna were. Now a customer will walk up to the counter with a Kenwood box of speakers to ask specific questions and make the purchase. We also sell camera so security is covered on the showroom floor too” Orpen stated.

Consumers looking for a wide selection of accessories know Interstate Electronics is the place.

Hartman commented “The Interstate Electronics Inc team is one of the most professional, up-to-date and knowledgeable teams there is. They really support their vendor partners with carrying complete categories and promoting their business.”

Morris Hartman

Continuing Hartman offered “Dealers should be investing in their in-store experience. This creates excitement for the end user and allows them to see what we offer not only in car audio but marine, motorsports, motorcycle and safety. The in-store experience is an entry point to let the public know what we do and offer.”

A wide selection of big screen television’s and home audio products are also available.

Seth Halstead began his career at Kenwood and JVC as an on the road product trainer. Halstead, now JVC KENWOOD Sr Content & Digital Marketing Manager, added “The Interstate Electronics team was always on top of their game and totally engaged with learning the sales process when I conducted trainings with them many years ago.”

Orpen recalled Halstead’s trainings and related Seth was a great trainer/communicator and helped their staff in a big way.

The Interstate Electronics amazing In-Store Kenwood Experience is an example of a vehicle to drive in-store traffic and sales for 12volt brick and mortar retailers. A consumer can not experience the highs or feel the bass in their chest on a smartphone or laptop. The total in-store experience is the key to the future for the brick and mortar 12volt industry retailers.

Watch for much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.

For more, visit interstateelectronics.com

SolarFX Window Films Is Set To Roll Into 2024

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, MO (01.09.24) – The Vogler Family has been associated with the mobile electronics industry for decades and now is focused on driving the company’s SolarFX window films business.

Shawn Vogler stated “Our window films business continues to grow year over year and we are excited for the 2024 season as the summer’s heat is just around the corner. We have a ton of marketing POP to grab attention in a dealer’s market and drive business into their stores. Light up outside signs and flag banners plus a wide selection of in the showroom items including neon wall clocks, wall vinyl stickers, stand up banners, welcome door mats and bar stools are available. For the dealer’s customers we offer key chains, koozies, lanyards, wrist bands, sunglasses and the very popular rubber ducks.”

This acrylic sign is available for SolarFX dealer showrooms.

SolarFX also has a dealer buy-in for a 16” X 43” acrylic sign with 4 stand-off brackets. The Product Code is SFX-1643.

SolarFX Window Films are manufactured with the most advanced technologies in the industry. By utilizing these leading-edge technologies the company is able to produce some of the world’s best performing Automotive Window Films, Architectural/Residential Films, Paint Protection Films and Security/Safety Films available on the market today. The Dragon Distributing 27,000 sq ft warehouse is well stocked and ready to ship.

Popular foam, rubber ducks are available for dealers to give customers.

Concluding, “We have a window film to match every budget and performance need. SolarFX Window Films is one of the fastest growing window films companies in the US and we invite all to… Feel the FX of SolarFX Window Films.”

A variety of stickers are also available.

For more see dragondistributing.com or call 816-630-6011 or 800-825-3746.