Firstech to Exhibit at the 2023 SEMA Show in the North Hall

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KENT, WA (10.24.23) – Firstech is set to exhibit at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas for the first time. In the company’s North Hall Booth 10339 Compustar’s remote car starters and the newest vehicle dash cam, the DroneMobile XC, will be showcased.

“If you are attending SEMA this year, and are interested in how Firstech is making cars safer and more comfortable, I would be happy to give you a tour of our booth and to learn about opportunities to work together in the future” Justin Lee, Marketing Director, related.

Firstech will be located in North Hall (Mobile Electronics) at booth location #10339. Below is a calendar link for attendees to request a specific meeting time in advance.

Request a meeting

In the Firstech booth attendees can register to win a giveaway of a $1,200 value dash cam + remote start package.

For more see www.firstechllc.com | www.compustar.com | justinlee@compustar.com

KICKER Was Livin’ Loud at the AMA EnduroCross in Prescott, AZ

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PRESCOTT, AZ (10.23.23) – The AMA EnduroCross Round 2 event took place at the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Saturday evening, October 21st. The EnduroCross riders faced a dirt track filled with boulders, logs, large tires and ramps on their bikes.

KICKER, a series sponsor, was on site with tables filled with products under a large tent in the lobby area. The KICKER RZR was Livin’Loud by the tent in the lobby and ready for demos. To set up the KICKER display Lorin Morrell rolled in with KICKER pickup and trailer on Thursday for Friday setup.

Morrell, who orchestrates KICKER’s presence at AMA EnduroCross events, related “Attendance was strong at the event and an awesome crowd filled the stands. Showing the wide selection of products we had on display directly to consumers and enthusiasts was a great way to drive brand awareness and future car audio, marine, powersports, motorcycle and lifestyle business for KICKER. UTVs are growing in popularity in Arizona and many checked out the KICKER PowerBars, cans and amplifiers. Products for pickups, including underseat sub enclosures, grabbed attention too.”

The AMA Endurocross track was filled with boulders, logs, large tires and ramps.

Continuing, “The KICKER RZR had a new look at this event with a new wrap along with a new interior and system upgrades. The RZR really stood out in the lobby and will be in the KICKER booth at the upcoming SEMA Show in Las Vegas running October 31st through November 3rd” Morrell offered.

The KICKER area was located in the lobby by the main entrance.

The Findlay Toyota Center is a terrific venue for the AMA EnduroCross events. Staff members welcomed crowd members before the racing began for a pit party where all could interact with the race riders. That time also gave attendees time to checkout the KICKER display in the lobby before Scotty, on the PA system, let all know was time for racing to begin.

Visit kicker.com for more.

KENWOOD Returns to SEMA Show in Las Vegas

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LONG BEACH, CA (10.23.23) – KENWOOD USA is excited to announce its return to the highly anticipated SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The event will take place from October 31st to November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, where KENWOOD will be exhibiting in the North Hall at Booth #11029.

Known for its groundbreaking innovations in audio and electronics, KENWOOD is proud to reintroduce itself to the SEMA community, delivering a fresh range of automotive and motorcycle audio solutions. Attendees can look forward to exploring the latest in new products and cutting-edge technologies. 

John Lucas, KENWOOD’s Vice President of Sales, expressed his enthusiasm about the return to SEMA, stating, “We are thrilled to be back at SEMA, a show that provides an ideal platform to showcase our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. We’re returning with an impressive array of products, including our newest motorcycle audio lineup.”

On display at the show will also be a custom Chevy Colorado that has been outfitted with KENWOOD subwoofers, speakers, and amplifiers. This eye-catching vehicle will be showcased in the Central Hall at the Ranch booth (#58129), offering visitors a firsthand look at the exceptional sound quality and innovative technology that KENWOOD products bring to the automotive experience. NTX Audio Innovations expertly executed the custom build, highlighting the collaborative possibilities that can be achieved with KENWOOD’s technology.

Visitors to the KENWOOD booth at SEMA can expect an immersive experience, with product demonstrations and expert staff on hand to answer questions and provide insight into the latest audio and electronics solutions. KENWOOD looks forward to reconnecting with long-standing partners and forging new relationships within the SEMA community.

To learn more about KENWOOD and its participation in the SEMA Show, please visit Booth #11029 in the North Hall or visit the company’s website at https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/

New Axxess Line Output Converters and Accessories Debut at SEMA

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HOLLY HILL, FL (10.23.23) – Axxess by Metra Electronics is unveiling new high-voltage active line output converters (LOCs), an active LOC with bass enhancement processor, active LOCs with bass restoration, load resistors, vehicle-specific active LOC T-harnesses, and active noise canceling (ANC) bypass harnesses products at the 2023 SEMA Show. These products are designed to give car audio enthusiasts reliability and convenience when designing and powering their audio systems and will be displayed from October 31 to November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Metra’s main booth will be #10539 in the North Hall of the LVCC, and its off-roading and powersports products will be displayed at booth #60031 in the West Hall.

High-Voltage Active Line Output Converters (LOCs)

These new LOCs have universal applications and enable installers to add aftermarket amplifiers to OEM source units to make factory systems sound great! This product line features incredible input power capabilities, a load selector, a clip indicator, enhanced output controls, and noise isolation countermeasures. Axxess will also offer an add-on product, the AX-RM1, that plugs into their Pro Series and LD Series LOC products to provide an additional subwoofer level adjustment via an external bass knob. The AX-LOC product line will include a variety of options to fit installers’ unique needs.

6-Channel Premium Active Summing LOC

The AX-LOC6.6-PRO is a 6-channel Active Summing LOC from the Axxess Pro Series that provides seamless integration by summing OEM audio signals, delivering a full-range output that captures every detail and nuance of audio tracks. Various frequency input signals are taken from an OEM amplifier or OEM source unit and output as a full-range summed signal required for aftermarket equipment. The result is enhanced clarity, depth, and balance so that music can be enjoyed like never before. A compact remote control is included featuring a knob for adjusting the primary volume of each of the six channels, and a second knob for controlling the bass level of channels five and six.

Active LOC with Bass Enhancement Processor

This active LOC with a bass enhancement processor has cutting-edge features to enhance the

sound of audio systems, capturing the full range of deep tones within music. This device seamlessly integrates into a vehicle’s factory audio system, preserving the original aesthetics. It scans incoming audio signals from the radio to replace low-frequency information that is lost in compressed music, such as missing bass tones. It then increases bass response accordingly with a built-in line driver. Adaptive activation modes let users choose between a traditional 12-volt remote trigger, the simplicity of DC offset, or audio sense activation for ultimate customization.

This LOC features a programmable subsonic harmonizer that filters out subsonic noise, protecting speakers while enhancing overall clarity. High-voltage output settings unleash the full potential of an audio system, providing an impressive 10-volt output voltage. Installers control their audio experience using the included remote that adjusts bass enhancement levels and output volumes with the touch of a button. Users can precisely tailor their audio experience using built-in load resistor settings, seamlessly matching the requirements of OE equipment. Whether installed with a high-end OE system or a standard radio and amplifier, this technology allows users to align the characteristics for optimal sound reproduction.

Active LOCs with Bass Restoration:

Axxess’s AX-BXLOC2 and AX-BXLOC2-PRO are compact 2-channel line output converters with active input circuitry, allowing them to accept speaker-level signals of up to 400 watts per channel from factory-installed source units or amplifiers. They convert them to high-quality pre-amp signals that can then be directed to aftermarket amplifiers. The AX-BXLOC2 prevents factory audio systems from regulating lower frequencies and reducing the output of bass frequencies as the volume increases. A Bass-X restoration circuit in the LOC allows users to enjoy their music as it was recorded while maintaining the use of factory volume and steering wheel controls. The AX-BXLOC2-PRO includes these features, plus a ground isolation switch, multiple turn-on modes, and built-in load resistors for use with factory radios or amplifiers that mute the audio signal when factory speakers are disconnected.

Load Resistors

Axxess’s load resistors solve common problems for installers adding aftermarket equipment while providing the best possible audio signal. For example, factory audio systems in modern vehicles are designed to mute the radio and/or amplifier output should a speaker fail or get disconnected. Axxess load resistors prevent this so that installers can add aftermarket equipment. These products use specific values to allow for the best possible audio signal and safely stabilize the output of a factory audio system. The AX-LR product line is available in 20-ohm, 39-ohm, or 60-ohm options to fit a variety of vehicles, such as select late-model Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, RAM, and Fiat models.

Vehicle-Specific Active LOC T-Harnesses

Axxess will display new active LOC T-harnesses that make it easy to add a subwoofer or a complete audio system to a variety of vehicle applications. These harnesses are designed to work with the Axxess active line output converters and are versatile enough to be compatible with most sound processors, line output converters, and amplifiers with high-level inputs. They provide convenient access to the speaker-level output signals from a factory radio, making installation easier. They provide signal connections for an audio system, including constant 12-volt (10-amp fuse), ground, and remote turn-on leads, and simplify the connection process for devices like active signal processors. These T-harnesses are easily installed by disconnecting the factory radio and connecting the two T-harness plugs. One plug connects to the radio, while the other snaps into the previously removed plug. This setup allows the radio to remain fully connected to the vehicle while providing additional wires for adding an amplifier.

These T-harnesses are equipped with mating 8-pin plugs that remain connected when installers add a subwoofer amplifier, ensuring that the factory speakers continue to receive power from the radio. On the radio side of the T-harness, there is a pre-wired speaker-level output audio signal for a dedicated subwoofer amplifier or powered subwoofer, making the installation process highly versatile and compatible with various setups. To power an aftermarket system, the wiring can be adjusted by utilizing the 8-pin connectors and harnesses for the integration of a 4-channel amplifier. These Axxess T-harnesses include the materials needed for routing the outputs of an aftermarket amplifier back through the factory wiring to reach the speakers.

Vehicle-Specific ANC Bypass Harnesses

Axxess will introduce new active noise canceling bypass harnesses designed to ensure smooth speaker and subwoofer upgrades for various vehicles with ANC audio systems at SEMA. These new harnesses maintain proper communication between audio equipment and the ANC system, giving listeners complete control over their music without sound distortion, interference, or conflict between devices. They prevent the built-in microphones within ANC systems from creating compatibility issues by mistaking aftermarket speakers and subwoofer vibrations for interference. Axxess’s ANC bypass harnesses also prevent Audio system upgrades from affecting a vehicle’s sensitive electronics and causing system errors.

More product details will be available at AxxessInterfaces.com soon after the show.

GP Car Audio Wins NavAtlas Prize on The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 242

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SHREVEPORT LA (10.22.23)  WTF…Win This Friday. GP Car Audio won the NavAtlas prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 242 on Friday morning, October 20th.

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 5.

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 242nd time on Friday morning October 20th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space and the GP Car Audio 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 Springfield MO. Repeated calls didn’t connect with a phone call. Sent an Instagram message letting them know the good news that a NavAtlas  prize will be headed their way.

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, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, AlloyGator, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Nakamichi, Alphasonik, Race Sport Lighting and Maximum Power. 12volt News $100. cash awards 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 snd Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ.

Congratulations to all.

PRO Cup Challenge Returns to SEMA—Vote for Your Favorite Restyled Build

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.20.23) – The Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, with six new automotive restyled builds that will push the limits of style and creativity.

Designed to spotlight the benefits of accessorizing new-model vehicles, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package that is both profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract a wide range of vehicle buyers to accessorize their vehicles, and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. Six competitors will have their vehicle featured in PRO Cup Challenge Booth #50185 during the week of the SEMA Show and be entered to win one of two PRO Cup Challenge awards. This year’s PRO Cup Challenge companies and vehicles are: 

  • Apex Customs: ’24 Ford Mustang GT
  • Auto Sunroof & Leather: ’24 Subaru Crosstrek Sport
  • RDMBUILDS: ’23 Jeep Gladiator Willys
  • Restylers Aftermarket Specialist: ’23 GMC Sierra 1500
  • Top Coverage LTD: ’23 Ford F-150 Regular Cab
  • VIP Distributing: ’23 GMC Yukon Denali XL

Visit the PRO Cup Challenge Booth (West Hall, Booth #50185) to witness the transformative vehicle packages that were built by PRO member companies, walk away with ideas to accessorize your own car and vote for your favorite build to win the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award.

Judges will determine the PRO Cup Challenge winning vehicle, a separate award, based on how easy the vehicle is to replicate and its estimated profit to automotive restyling companies and dealerships. 

Industry members are invited to attend the winner announcement of both awards during PRO’s Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. in the LVCC West Hall, Booth #50185.

To learn more about the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, visit here.

Nakamichi to Feature DSP Demo at SEMA

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MIAMI, FL (10.20.23) – Nakamichi will be headed to Las Vegas later this month to participate in the company’s fourth consecutive SEMA Show, This year a new 20×20’ booth will be located in the front row of the North Hall in the Mobile Electronics section.

Artist rendering of the new Nakamichi SEMA Show booth #10109

On display will be the latest head units, amplifiers and speakers. The highlight of the booth will be the active DSP demo centered around the NKSD4085AU Digital Signal Processor.  The NDSK4085AU is a 4-in-8 out amplified DSP that boasts 6 user presets with individual phase and time alignment for each output channel.

Robin McNeal during a visit to the booth builder holding the DSP retail gift box.

NDSK4085AU FEATURES

  • Accepts 4 High Level Inputs
  • 8 Low Level Outputs (4 x 80 Watts Amplified)
  • Built-in Bluetooth (Version 4.2)
  • PC Set-up via USB
  • Smartphone App Control via Android or IOS
  • High and Low Pass Filter
  • Elegant Black Brushed Aluminum Heatsink
  • Compact Chassis Measures Just 7” (L) x 4.75” (W) x 1.5” (H)
  • MSRP $289.95
The Nakamichi NDSK4085AU sports an elegant black brushed aluminum heatsink.

Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car encourages all current and prospective dealers to contact their local sales rep to make an appointment or email robin@usa-nakamichi.com

“We are very excited about SEMA and meeting with existing and prospective customers,” stated McNeal.

Nakamichi Car Audio can be found at booth #10109 North Hall during the SEMA Show (Oct 31-Nov 3).

Visit www.nakamichicaraudio.com and www.semashow.com for details.

New Metra Upgrades for Jeep are Coming to SEMA 2023

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HOLLY HILL, FL (10.20.23) – Metra Electronics is introducing new aftermarket accessories and RGB lights designed to fit select Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler vehicles at this year’s SEMA Show. These products will be showcased from October 31 to November 3 at Metra’s off-roading and powersports SEMA booth, #60031, in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Metra is introducing new dashboard speaker grilles, lower dash speaker grille cut-ins, replacement fender clips and rivets, an A-pillar 8 gang switch panel system, 7” LED headlights and 4″ LED fog lights with RGB halo, and a turn signal trigger harness. These new accessories are designed for popular Jeep models and provide customization options that are durable enough to withstand off-roading wear and tear.

Dashboard Speaker Grilles and Lower Dash Speaker Grille Cut-ins

Metra will display two new styles of custom-designed speaker grilles at SEMA, designed to enhance the interior appearance of select Jeeps when installing aftermarket speakers. The JP-1017 is a set of dashboard speaker grilles designed to fit the 2018-Up* Wrangler JL and the 2020-Up* Gladiator JT. The JP-1018 are lower dash speaker grille cut-ins designed to fit the 2018-2023 Wrangler JL and the 2020-2023 Gladiator JT. The JP-1017 allows speakers to be upgraded to a larger tweeter or mid-bass speaker for a more vivid sound while adding a bold style. These speaker grilles feature a black metal mesh grille with silver accents for a rugged and tough off-road look and are designed to complement the new JP-1018 lower dash speaker grille cut-ins perfectly. The JP-1018 allows installers to widen the factory 4-inch opening to accommodate an upgrade to 6.5-inch speakers. They are designed to complement the JP-1017 dashboard speaker covers and Metra’s popular JP-1014 dash speaker pods.

Replacement Fender Clips and Rivets

Metra will introduce products at SEMA that help installers reinstall fenders on the 2018-Up* Jeep Wrangler JL and 2020-Up* Jeep Gladiator when swapping them out and installing new fender lights more efficiently. The JP-FCLIP replacement fender clips and the JP-FPIN replacement fender rivets are designed to replace OE parts that often break during the removal of the fender. These products are sold in convenient 30-piece packs and will save installers time while providing a secure, factory-quality fit. These products eliminate the hassle of repairing or reusing broken clips and offer a convenient solution to single-use OE rivets that commonly break during fender removal.

A-Pillar 8 Gang Switch Panel System

The JP-APS-JK is an 8 gang switch panel system that features vehicle-specific brackets, making it a custom solution for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The included replacement A-pillar cover mounts the water-resistant switch panel vertically, and two types of adapters are provided to fit the panel to Jeep Wrangler JK interiors. This versatile panel can handle all types of 12V DC accessories and allows users to control up to 8 different auxiliary LED lights or electrical devices. An included sheet of 50 decals is designed to fit the vertical orientation of the panel and customize it accordingly, with blue LED backlighting to illuminate the switches. The compact under-hood control box is rated IP68 and easily affixes to OE mounting locations along with the resettable 60-amp circuit breaker using two included vehicle-specific brackets. There are two 30-amp, two 20-amp, two 10-amp, and two 5-amp circuits that can be programmed to latching (on/off) or momentary. T-Spec’s V10 fully tinned OFC marine-grade power and ground cables are included to power the controller for maximum reliability.

7” LED Headlights and 4″ LED Fog Lights with RGB Halo

Metra will display two new light sets at SEMA designed to fit the 1997-2018 Jeep Wrangler TJ and JK, which can also fit the 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT using Metra’s JP-JLB7 adapters. The JP-702RGB is a pair of 7-inch LED headlights with RGB halo, and the JP-702RGBFL are 4″ LED Fog Lights with RGB halo. Both of these sets come with a Heise Connect RGB controller that allows users to easily control their RGB lighting from the palm of their hand when paired with the Heise Connect free downloadable app for smartphones or tablets. The app lets users choose from 16 million RGB color options with a selectable color wheel and provides seamless control with endless customization options. The headlights each have an output of 3600 lumens for the high beam and 1800 lumens for the low beam. Durable polycarbonate lens covers and die-cast aluminum alloy housing make these light sets ideal for adventurous Jeep owners, and they work cohesively with all Heise RGB lighting as part of the Heise Connect Universe (HCU).

Turn Signal Trigger Harness

Metra will also display its new turn signal trigger harness, the JP-TSH2, for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. This harness makes the installation of aftermarket fender lights, alarms, lights, cameras, blind spot sensors, or other equipment that requires left and right light triggers hassle-free. It installs between the factory connector and the wires for aftermarket lighting and eliminates the need to cut or splice a stock harness. Both left and right-side harnesses are included and provide triggers for turn signals and the parking light.

Additional information about these products is available at MetraOnline.com.

SEMA Show Exhibitor News: Steer Smarts, ORACLE Lighting, Saddle Tramp and Axxess

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.19.23) – See the latest news from exhibitors of the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. 

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!  

And, it’s never too early to start your SEMA Show plan. Create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app. 

Steer Smarts to Reveal ‘Ice Cold’ Jeep Wrangler 4xe Build

Steer Smarts

Steer Smarts, the provider of innovative steering solutions, has announced its collaboration with Jeep and Mopar for a one-of-a-kind Jeep Wrangler 4xe guaranteed to generate a buzz! This vehicle will embody all core elements near and dear to Jeep and Jeep enthusiasts while adding a unique and creative spin to the vehicle that hasn’t been done before, the company stated. The final result will be an exciting and captivating build that draws people in, promoting positive interactions and a unique experience.

In teaming up with Steer Smarts, Jeep asked that they create a fun, exciting and memorable vehicle that helps highlight the 4xe’s hybrid system. The goal is to utilize this vehicle to further illuminate the Wrangler’s historic off-road prowess and showcase Jeep’s commitment to creating the greenest SUV brand available.

“We are really excited to work with Jeep and the rest of the awesome brands on this build,” said Jay Velthoven, general manager at Steer Smarts. “We genuinely hope that this vehicle inspires and excites everyone who has a chance to interact with it, and we look forward to taking it to a bunch of shows in 2024 and seeing enthusiasts enjoy this unique experience!” 

Steer Smarts and Jeep will unveil the completed build at the Steer Smarts Booth #57227 in the West Hall on Tuesday, October 31, at 9:45 a.m. PDT. Steer Smarts will also livestream the reveal on its Instagram (instagram.com/steersmarts). For the complete details, visit the Steer Smarts blog post.

ORACLE Lighting Shares Progress on LMTV SEMA Build

ORACLE

ORACLE Lighting has announced its light medium tactical vehicle (LMTV) build is garnering lots of attention. The goal of the project build was to create a highly reliable and equally capable global expedition vehicle that could get users comfortably off-grid for extended durations. ORACLE Lighting also wanted to make a functional meeting space for the many events they attend every year, which meant it also had to serve as a rolling showcase for its LED lighting technology and products.

For this project, ORACLE decided to use the Stewart & Stevenson M1979, the U.S. Army’s replacement for its aging fleet of 2.5-ton trucks.

A stout 6.6L Caterpillar turbo powers it backed by a Allison seven-speed transmission. Giant 46-in. tires with a central tire inflation system allow it to roll over most off-road obstacles, and its smaller dimensions let it fit on most trails. It is even EMP-proof to survive an electromagnetic pulse attack or to settle in for an extended nuclear winter.

Get the complete details in the ORACLE Lighting blog post or visit the ORACLE Lighting Booth #20555 in the Central Hall.

Saddle Tramp Set to Launch New Audio System Kits and More

Saddle

Saddle Tramp by Metra Electronics will introduce new plug-and-play audio systems and speaker upgrade kits for select ’14-’22 Harley-Davidson motorcycles along with universal chasing LED light strip kits in the Metra Electronics Booth #60031 in the West Hall. The audio systems will be sold exclusively to brick-and-mortar dealers for in-store sales only, so be sure to get a glimpse of these products on the SEMA Show floor. Meanwhile, the kits pair Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports amplifiers and speakers from HARMAN with Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment. 

For the complete details, visit the Saddle Tramp by Metra Electronics release.

Visit the Metra Electronics Booth #10539 in the North Hall and Metra Electronics’ off-roading and powersports products in Booth #60031 in the West Hall. 

Axxess to Simplify Product Line SKUs, Update Vehicle Fit Guide Ahead of 2023 SEMA Show

Axxess

Axxess by Metra Electronics has announced that the brand has begun simplifying and restructuring its vehicle-specific interface product line, focusing on condensing the number of SKUs on the market. This process will ultimately benefit dealers and installers of Axxess products, making it easier to quickly locate the correct integration solution for the job at hand. This initiative will begin ahead of the SEMA Show, where the brand will display its new, revamped interface products in the Metra Electronics Booth #10539 in the North Hall.

Another significant part of this plan will be an overhaul of Axxess’s Vehicle Fit Guide, which is the primary tool available to installers to search the brand’s product line for the appropriate interface to fit their audio installation needs.

For the complete details, visit the Metra Electronics blog post.

Sound on Wheels Kenosha Supports the Shriners Hospitals for Children Chicago

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

Sound on Wheels Kenosha owner Marty Alsabbah is behind the counter as he and Scott Heeter hold the KICKER EB200BTB Bluetooth earbuds for the Kenosha Shrine Club Raffle event.

KENOSHA, WI (10.19.23) – Marty Alsabbah and his Sound on Wheels store is a very community minded 12volt retailer for 28 years in the market. Recently he received a request from the Kenosha Shrine Club’s Annual Raffle Night asking for monetary or prize donations for the Saturday night October 21st event.

Marty mentioned the event to Tom Ebeling with Tree Rep who is his Chicago-based longtime area KICKER representative. Tom related he would be glad to help and would also check with KICKER for additional support. The response from KICKER HQ was very positive and within a week 4 KICKER EB200BTB Bluetooth earbuds arrived at the Sound of Wheels location.

“As soon as the UPS shipments came in I contacted the Kenosha Shrine Cub that is close by our store. Shortly Scott Heeter came to the store and was so happy to pick up the KICKER earbuds that will be great items for the Raffle Night. We have been a KICKER dealer for decades, and working closely with Tom, during that time. We truly appreciate KICKER’s support for the Shriners Hospital for Children and our community” Marty stated.

“I know the raffle winners will enjoy the KICKER earbuds for years. KICKER has been Livin’Loud in the territory for decades. As a KICKER rep it’s great to see their support for dealers and communities firsthand” Ebeling stated.

Visit www.facebook.com/Soundonwheelskenosha for more.