DORAL, FL (03.16.23) – Chuck Kenney has joined Blaupunkt Car USA as the company’s National Sales Manager.
With a 30+ year career in the 12volt industry Kenney brings a new dimension to the Blaupunkt sales team.
“Job description Number One at Blaupunkt is to reach out to contacts, dealers and distributors, across the industry to let them know the tremendous product lineup Blaupunkt has in place and the opportunities offered in the marketplace,” Kenney stated.
Chuck Kenney in the well stocked Blaupunkt warehouse in Doral, FL.
Continuing, Kenney offered, “I am a Florida resident and have been spending time at the Blaupunkt facility in Doral and I’m very impressed with the amount of inventory packed into the large warehouse. I am excited and look forward to hitting the road very soon.”
Most recently Kenney was on the sales team at DS18. Previous companies on Kenney’s resume include Massive Audio-National Sales Manager, Epsilon-National Sales Manager, VOXX-Regional Sales Manager, Design Engineering-National Sales Manager and SSR Distributors are included in Kenney’s 30+ 12volt industry career.
MESA, AZ (03.15.23) – “No fairies, pixie dust… or unicorns, it’s all physics. We don’t make it up we just follow the laws… of physics,” according to Larry Van Sickle, that would be the first thing Larry Frederick would teach us if he were here today.
A few words to honor and commemorate the life of Larry Frederick, a 50-year veteran of the audio industry who passed last week.
Larry was a brilliant and passionate man who had a knack for making things work. He was a master of his craft and had a deep understanding of the inner workings of a wide variety of electronics, digital processing, speakers, and woofers. I am sure he, at one point in his life, help many of you to diagnose and repair a complex system with a speed and skill that amazed everyone who had the privilege of working with him. He was a trusted mentor and teacher who was always willing to share his knowledge with others. He was generous with his time and often took on the role of a teacher, passing on his expertise to all who sought it. One of his only requirements was that you owned a voltmeter and knew how to use it. Of course, if you didn’t, he would, send you to the store to buy one and do his best to train you how to use it.
Family and friends gathered for the Larry Frederick Celebration of Life in the Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home on Monday March 13th in Mesa, AZ.
Larry’s early career included working at Altech Lansing Professional, Audiomobile, a few years later, Larry joined Coustic, and drove the mix to include the famous XM3, AMP190 and AMP380 among many other products.
He joined Keith Peterson at Phoenix Gold in 1989 when they were only an audio accessory company. In a short amount of time Larry and Keith introduced the MS-250 and MS-2125 with 24 karat gold plated PCB’s that placed Phoenix Gold with a reputation for high quality products. Larry went on to develop many amps including the “Frank AMP’n stein”.
A large portion of Larry’s career was training, he trained 1000’s of enthusiasts and installers all over the world. He was famous for a flowerful tongue and his nerf gun, shooting students who were not paying attention or answering with a wrong answer.
Also, in the early 90’s Larry was also instrumental in the rules committee and judging of 1000’s of vehicles that competed in ISACA events nationwide. He was very passionate about the fact that the only seat in the car that mattered was the driver’s seat and would only judge a car from that seat.
His career path then took him to Electrromedia where he was instrumental in the introduction and training of the industry’s first serious aftermarket DSP, the Bit One. Larry helped to tune over 250 cars and could make any one of them sound good.
Followed by 10 years at Diamond Audio where he reintroduced the brand as a leader in Harley Davidson Audio.
Finally, he was presented with the opportunity to form his own company. His daughter, Catherine, came up with naming it Cicada, after the loudest bug on earth. Cicada Audio which was formed during the pandemic and started selling to the Motorcycle market just over a year ago. The successful introduction of his first Cicada product, the CH65 6-1/2” Coax Horn Loudspeaker and was first to stock 2 or 4 ohm versions. With its ability to fit into most locations with little or no modification it was a home run. Larry designed and developed 80 additional products in the current line. His passion for the category led him to a product plan of an additional 40 new products arriving to market in 2023 the second year of Cicada Audio’s existence.
Larry’s true passion was on display when he was the one who called the shots, decided the product plan, grooming the staff and was responsible for the bottom line.
Larry’s presence in the electronics industry was a guiding light, and he was a reliable source of support and guidance for all who had the good fortune of knowing him. His legacy in the industry will live on through the many people he touched with his vast knowledge and expertise. Larry will be remembered for his kind and generous nature and for the impact he had on ALL OF our lives. His life was a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft and his drive to make a difference in the world. Today we take this moment to remember, Larry Frederick, a beloved husband to Adriana, father to Catherine and Ashley, grandfather to Marcus and Addison, inventor, founder, friend and mentor to many. His passion for sharing knowledge was his life’s work.
DANIA BEACH, FL (03.15.23) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital Amplifiers, Ground Zero Car Audio, Four Connect Wiring Products, and Tury Vehicle Enhancement products, announced new distribution channels for the Mid-Atlantic Territory.
Davis Distribution Systems, and long time member of the HKI USA family, was asked to take on a new roll as the distribution partner for the Mid-Atlantic Territory.
“I look forward to working with all the Davis Distribution Team and above all supporting all our Retail Partners with our HKI USA Brands,” stated Elias Ventura, Territory Manager for the Mid-Atlantic.
This addition expands Davis’ coverage to include MD, VA, DC, DE & East PA, from the existing WV, OH, TN, KY and West PA territory
As part of this expansion, Davis has also started working with Tury Automotive Enhancement Products from HKI USA, giving their dealers access to some cool new security and convenience products.
ENGLEWOOD, CO (03.15.23) – VAIS Technology has released new satellite radio integrated solutions specifically designed for 2022-23 VW Atlas, Atlas Sport, Tiguan, Taos, Jetta, and Golf vehicles. This solution allows owners of these models to add SiriusXM satellite radio to their existing factory stereo, without compromising factory functionality.
“Since 2003, VAIS Technology have been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM tuners,” stated Dennis Hopper, EVP. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many new OEM vehicles still don’t come equipped from the factory with satellite tuners. For 2023 several more OEM’s have removed satellite tuners from their platforms. Over the last few years Ford, Honda, Kia, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes, and other have removed satellite tuners from their base model vehicles. VAIS Technology develops simple, easy to install integrated solutions that add satellite radio, but preserve factory functions.”
The new kits provide coverage for new VW models. Also, all these models are compatible with the GSR-UV01 (universal unit) which can be flashed using online software. This allows dealers to only stock one unit to do almost all applications. This adapter connects directly to the original factory radio and allows the vehicle owner to listen to satellite radio through the existing factory system. The VAIS integrated solution also allows for full control of satellite radio functions – changing stations, setting presets, steering wheel functions, etc.
GSR-VW02 and GSR-UV01 is available for order now. Retail price is $349.99 with SXV300 tuner included.
STILLWATER, OK (03.14.23) – Experts from Stillwater, Oklahoma based performance marine audio systems manufacturer KICKER joined their European distributor Celsus UK for a series of engaging product training sessions in France, Italy & Germany ahead of what is anticipated to be a busy boating season.
Aaron Malin, Global Training Manager, and David Glasgow, International Sales Manager for KICKER accompanied by Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK embarked on a journey that would see them travel by plane, train and automobile to key partners in Europe.
First stop was Saint Herblain, to meet with KENT MARINE our distributor for France. Attendance in person and via video link allowed Aaron to deepen their knowledge of products, application and technical principals in the marine audio segment. Recent product introduction KM604W value line and the eagerly anticipated KMXL high-out speakers were discussed and warmly received.
Camogli in Italy is where the dynamic trio headed next to host a session at INDEMAR’S national agent meeting, an event hosted at a beautiful hotel and well attended by the distributor’s staff, agents and customers. A live technical training where onlookers were shown best practice for amplifier set-up followed a video message from Kicker founder Mr Steve Irby. The following morning before onward travel Aaron, Mike and David toured Indemar’s headquarters and met many of their team.
The last and final stop on the week’s tour was Bremen to visit the headquarters of BUKH-BREMEN German distributor for the fast growing marine audio brand. Bukh-Bremen had launched with KICKER as recently as BOOT Dusseldorf this year and the room was full of staff eager to learn as much as they could about what sets Kicker apart for both installers and boat owners alike.
Commenting on the roadshow Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK said;
“An extremely positive week, I have to thank Aaron and David for being great company and delivering such good content for our shared partners. Working with a brand like Kicker is a great experience. The attendance in these sessions was amazing, I must applaud our distributors for that and thank them for their hospitality”
David Glasgow, Kicker International Sales Manager adds:
“Looking back on the European marine training tour we just finished, all I can say is “Wow.”
After visiting with Kent Marine in France, Indemar in Italy and our new distributor Bukh-Bremen GmbH in Germany, I was blown away by the friendliness of the people, their facilities, and the overall knowledge they already demonstrate regarding KICKER Marine products. All three convey true professionalism in the marine marketplace, and I am super-excited to help and watch their business grow. A huge “thank you” goes out to all three companies for their hospitality, willingness to advise the KICKER group and their assistance in getting local dealers and installers to attend the training. Thank you all and a job well done.”
KICKER Marine is designed to deliver an exceptional entertainment experience season after season. Engineering excellence, rigorous testing and high-quality components combine to provide the best value premium performance marine audio on the market. The KICKER Marine range of source units, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and accessories has gained a powerful reputation for quality performance and value since their introduction to the European market in 2018.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.14.23) – The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), a subset network of the Specialty Equipment Market Association that supports and raises awareness of women in the automotive industry, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023.
The network, which encourages and supports women pursuing careers in the automotive field, represents over 700 female and male members spanning across various occupations and markets in the aftermarket industry.
Since 1993, the SBN has developed and managed industry-focused programs for women, including networking and recognition opportunities. Most recently, it completed its second all-female vehicle build, hosted its second annual Women’s Leadership Forum, and continues to spotlight the stories and careers of women in the automotive industry though its #SheIsSEMA campaign.
“SBN’s history is one of ambition and progress, and we couldn’t be more excited for the community that we have created,” said SBN Director Nicole Bradle. “It’s a network where all women are recognized and supported for their contributions to this thriving industry.”
To celebrate the milestone, the SBN launched a campaign to highlight the stories and members of the network throughout SEMA and SBN communication channels. The campaign will run throughout 2023 and culminate at the SBN 30th Anniversary Reception and Party at the SEMA Show in November.
“There is no better time than now to reflect on what the SBN has achieved,” added Bradle. “Looking to the future, we aspire to further foster growth, support, and community for women.”
To learn more about the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network, visit www.sema.org/sbn.
NEW YORK, NY (03.14.23) – SiriusXM will offer listeners nationwide extensive coverage of NCAA® March Madness® – a favorite time of year for sports fans – carrying play-by-play of the entire 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, as well as play-by-play coverage of the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship. In addition to tournament game broadcasts, listeners will also get the most in-depth expert analysis leading up to and throughout the tournament on SiriusXM’s exclusive 24/7 college sports talk channels.
From the First Four on March 14-15 in Dayton, Ohio through the Men’s Final Four® and National Championship game on April 1 and 3 in Houston, SiriusXM will air every game – from the tip to the final buzzer – of the 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship.
SiriusXM will air NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship games, including live play-by-play of every game from the Sweet 16 through the Women’s Final Four and National Championship game on March 31 and April 2 in Dallas, plus select early round matchups.
All of the Men’s NCAA Tournament game broadcasts, and the Women’s NCAA Tournament game broadcasts from the Sweet 16 through the National Championship, are provided to SiriusXM by Westwood One, the official network radio partner of the NCAA.
Tournament matchups and SiriusXM channel assignments will be available at siriusxm.com/sports starting Monday, March 13.
On Selection Sunday®, March 12, SiriusXM listeners will get up-to-the-moment coverage as tournament teams and first round matchups are announced:
On Mad Dog Sports Radio (SiriusXM channel 82), Chris “Mad Dog” Russo and Steve Torre will host special Selection Sunday coverage live from 5 – 9 pm ET.
SiriusXM College Sports Radio (SiriusXM channel 84) will air Selection Sunday specials from 5 – 11 pm ET. At 5 pm ET, Kris Budden and Sean Farnham will host coverage of the men’s bracket reveal, then Chris Plank and Nicole Auerbach will take over as the women’s bracket is announced at 8 pm ET.
The official NCAA Tournament Selection Show produced by Westwood One will air on CBS Sports Radio (SiriusXM channel 158) from 6 – 9 pm ET. Hosts Jason Horowitz, PJ Carlesimo and Debbie Antonelli will cover the reveal of both the men’s and women’s tournament brackets.
These shows will feature interviews with special guests, including team coaches as well as NCAA Men’s Basketball Committee Chair Chris Reynolds and NCAA Women’s Basketball Committee Chair Lisa Peterson.
Hall of Famer and five-time national champion former head coach of the Duke Blue Devils Mike Krzyzewski will expand his presence on SiriusXM throughout the tournament. Basketball and Beyond with Coach K, which Krzyzewski has hosted weekly on SiriusXM since 2005, will air twice weekly on SiriusXM College Sports Radio for the next three weeks of tournament play. Fans will hear Coach K preview games and react to performances by players and teams, as well as Coach’s compelling one-on-one interviews with guests that listeners enjoy every week.
SiriusXM’s exclusive, dedicated college sports channels – SiriusXM College Sports Radio, SiriusXM ACC Radio, SiriusXM Big 12 Radio, SiriusXM Big Ten Radio, SiriusXM Pac-12 Radio and SiriusXM SEC Radio – will offer daily expert analysis throughout the tournament from former players, coaches and other college sports insiders. These channels will be a place for fans to call in and discuss the performances of their favorite teams and conferences.
Men’s and Women’s Tournament games, as well as SiriusXM’s exclusive 24/7 college sports talk channels, are available to subscribers nationwide in their cars and on the SXM App.
TULSA, OK (03.13.23) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross 14-City Series rolled into the Tulsa Square Expo Pavilion on Friday March 10th. Expert Customs, a strong KICKER dealer in Tulsa, was in the house with a 3 member team. Owner Chester West, Deuce Carlson and Zach Johnson connected with attendees throughout the evening.
The track was very busy as the Pit Party got the Tulsa AMA KICKER ArenaCross off to a fast start.
“It was terrific to have the Expert Customs crew at the event and under the KICKER tent in the lobby. They really know their stuff when it comes to custom installations. It was also very good to work with Brad Ganz at the event. Brad is the KICKER Central Regional Sales Manager and it’s great to see him on the road following a serious accident on the bike trails” Lorin Morrell, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA Arenacross Series events, related.
KICKER dealer Expert Customs was in the house with a 3 member crew. Deuce Carlson, Lorin Morrell, Chester West and Zach Johnson (L to R). Morrell orchestrates KICKER activities for the Arenacross event series.
The KICKER tent was in the lobby area and virtually everyone attending the event had to pass by and see the selection of products displayed on the tables.
A very busy Pit Party got the action started very shortly after the doors opened. Attendees walked the track and had an opportunity to meet the riders and check out the motorcycles they would be riding around the track and flying high over the mounds. As soon as riders left the starting gate the track was red hot as riders and attendees were Livin’ Loud.
The stands in the Tulsa Square Expo Pavilion were filled with enthusiasts.
Attendees all had a chance to see KICKER’s products under the tent in the lobby.
“This was such a great event. Deuce, Zach and I talked with so many people, handed out all the KICKER lanyards and 150 of our stickers plus handed out nearly all of the 500 business cards we brought for the evening. Several of the people we talked with plan to come to the store next week to pick out a system for their rides.”
Continuing “I also walked the track during the pit party with my youngster. That was so much fun for us and we talked with other attendees and riders. Everyone was just so excited to be at the event. A very big Thank You to all at Kicker.”
Lorin Morrell holds the certificate for the Bullfrog prize and Chester West holds the Bullfrog for the happy winners.
Riders were flying high on the track.
Morrell added “In addition to the action on the track wrapped KICKER T-shirts were tossed into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog prize to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. The crowd member who caught the KICKER T with the certificate came to the booth to the booth and picked up his Bullfrog prize. His son was so happy holding the KICKER Bullfrog he could not stop jumping up and down.”
Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions as Wes Kain was on the PA system exciting members of the crowd to wave checkered flags for a chance to win KICKER Lifestyle products. All the winners smiled with Kicker prizes in their hands.
The next stop on the 2023 AMA KICKER ArenaCross 14-City Series is in Salem VA on Friday, March 17th.
DANIA BEACH, FL (03.13.23) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital Amplifiers, Ground Zero Car Audio, Four Connect Wiring Products, and Tury Vehicle Enhancement products, announced a new Representative for New England and New York.
As brands grow, building a team that can support the passion and love for the products and this industry is important. Who better to grow a brand than MEA’s 2022 Rep Firm of the Year, The 12Volt Specialist.
The addition of Lord Phil Chartier brings some new excitement to the territory, with a deep rooted member of this industry. “I look forward to helping the existing HKI dealers with any of their needs, and have a positive outlook that new dealers will be successful and profitable with the HKI brands in both New England and NY” says Lord Phil as he takes the reins of the newly combined territory for HKI USA.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (03.13.23) – RDV Automotive Technology the go to company for Wireless CarPlay integration is proud to release the first of its kind Radio Replacement for the 2007-2017 Maserati GranTurismo the MAS-SCREEN. There are 3 sku’s for the 3 different radio trim options MAS-SCREEN (Gloss Black / Matte Black / REAL Carbon Fiber) This radio with all 3 available trims are shipping now! In stock!
Rich De Sclafani the owner of RDV said about the new radio “This new radio is a game changer! Until now it was extremely complicated to change the radio in the Maserati GT. This new plug n play radio is a massive upgrade to the vehicle as it also incorporates digital climate controls. I have worked hard to ensure that this radio is fast, stable, and reliable. The hardware used is the best available and the result is a truly impressive product. I stand behind my products 100% and these radios have a 3 year warranty. I will also be releasing a radio for Bentley and Infiniti shortly.”
12VoltNews.com 