Audio Excellence Wins Maximum Power Prize on The Spin-To-Win Wheel 209

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.07.23) – WTF…Win This Friday. Audio Excellence won the Maximum Power prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 209 on Friday morning, January 6th.

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 209th time on Friday morning January 6th. The Wheel landed on the Maximum Power space and Audio Excellence 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 with a phone to call and let them know the good news. Will try again next week to speak with the retailer in Orlando FL to convey the great news that David Holland is looking forward to sending Audio Excellence a Maximum Power 4 Gauge Amp Kit.

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, DS18, JBL, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, Nakamichi and Maximum Power. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

The Maximum Power Amp Kit is the 12volt-Spin-Win 209 prize headed to Audio Excellence in Orlando FL.

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 and Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA……Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday January 13th.

HARMAN Announces New Aftermarket Innovations at CES 2023

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The massive Harman display area in the Virgin Hotel covers nearly 30,000 square feet.

LAS VEGAS, NV (01.06.23) – HARMAN, a premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets makes a strong return to CES 2023 with the announcement of several new aftermarket auto products launches from JBL and Infinity. 

These latest innovations deliver exactly what HARMAN does best – high-quality audio and leading technology. Below are short descriptions of the most recent products to join HARMAN’s Aftermarket roster.

JBL CLUB Subwoofers: Designed to deliver deep bass at an affordable price for drivers, The JBL CLUB Subwoofers leverage technology from JBL’s Professional and Luxury Audio divisions, taking a completely new approach to moving air in a car or SUV.  The two new woofer models – the JBL Club 102 and the JBL Club 122 – feature JBL’s world famous bass response combined with superior technology and power handling, making them a great solution for bass in a car. The new JBL CLUB subwoofers will be available in Q2 and range from $159.95 – $169.95 for the single woofers and $349.95 – $549.95 for the single and double loaded enclosures. 

JBL Rallybar Series: Three new models for powersports and marine applications —the JBL Rallybar XL, JBL Rallybar and Rallybar S—feature JBL’s signature sound combined with superior technology and an even more compact design, making them the premier choice for any off-road vehicle or boat. Equipped with a HARMAN tuned DSP, USB play, aux-in and out, Bluetooth, and the ability to sync to an unlimited number of Rallybars, the series brings best in class audio performance and innovative installation ease. With 7-way customizable party lighting, a map light function for in-vehicle use, and IP66 design, the innovative design is rugged enough for any adventure. The Rallybars will be available in Q2 and retail from $649.95-$999.95. 

JBL Marine Solutions: Launching JBL Marine Amplifiers and CLUB Marine Speakers for the Marine market, the series introduces four new models of amplifiers and four new models of CLUB Marine speakers. All feature JBL’s 75 plus years of sound heritage and cutting-edge design at affordable prices for any boat. The subs play down to 20 Hertz thanks to a massive magnet and cast abs basket making them the perfect fit when playing low bass in the cavity of the boat.  With 300 watt RMS 10” and 400-watt RMS 12”, it is easy to build a sub system with the new JBL Marine amplifiers. The new JBL Marine Amplifier series will be available in Q1 and range from $349.95 – $499.95.  The new JBL CLUB Marine speaker options are available now on JBL.com, and range from $249.95 – $299.95. 

Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker:HARMAN launched its new partnership with Metra Electronics, enabling the pairing of Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers with Metra Electronics’ Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment for the Harley Davidson motorcycle market. The kits consist of 2 speaker, 4 speaker, and 6 speaker audio systems in addition to accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. All products feature Infinity’s signature sound and cutting-edge technology at affordable prices. The amplifiers and speakers, once paired with Saddle Tramp’s direct fit brackets and DSP, are tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to create a best-in-class audio performance and easy installation.  The DSP flattens the factory audio settings through its head unit CAN connection.  Detailed work instructions make the job simple to install and provide a factory looking result which installers are proud of, and end consumers can do on their own. The new Infinity Motorcycle kits will begin shipping in April with options ranging from $999.95 – $2499.95.   

Visit www.harman.com for more.

SBN Presented With Group Achievement Award for Bronco Build

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.23) – The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) was presented with the Group Achievement Award for its all-female Bronco build from the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation. The Group Achievement Award is given to a group of women who work together to make an exceptional contribution to the automotive and mobility industry. This includes exemplary teamwork and leadership exhibited and the significance of the accomplishment. 

’21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak provided by the Ford Motor Co. underwent modifications that represent a culmination of the work of more than 125 female volunteers from throughout the United States and Canada that included veterans, students, mother-daughter and even granddaughter duos, as well as automotive technicians, race car drivers and award-winning car-building sisters.

“The collaboration truly represents the spirit of the build,” added Cathy Clark, SBN chair. “This project was a chance to spotlight women in the automotive aftermarket industry and the ways in which they come together and offer support to each other. We’re excited to see the passion their efforts received at the SEMA Show this year and to see where these opportunities may lead in the future.”

The project began on July 19, 2022, at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, where SBN volunteers, including students from WyoTech, began disassembling, painting and upgrading the vehicle. The Bronco then made its way to the SEMA Garage in Detroit, where final accessories and a vinyl wrap were installed, and the vehicle was prepped for Las Vegas. Throughout 2023, the vehicle will be on display at multiple events highlighting women in automotive.

For more information on the project, visit sites.sema.org/sbn-build.

AudioControl DM-Smart DSP Public Beta Now Available

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CLEARWATER, FL (01.06.23) – The highly anticipated updates to the AudioControl DM-Smart App are now available for Public Beta testing. Thanks to your feedback, these updates have made the app more powerful, reliable and stable for your AudioControl DSPs and DSP amplifiers.

Click below to watch the video walkthrough, where Jeff Smith takes you through all of the important updates and changes.

Click here to download v1.4.01

For Tech Support or app feedback please email: support@audiocontrolmobile.com

Alpine Introduces Next-Generation R-Series Sound System Line

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.05.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) introduces the Next-Generation R-Series sound system line. This line features the same “Loud and Fun” experience synonymous with previous Alpine R-Series systems, now certified for High-Resolution Playback.

“The heritage of R-Series is built on a ‘Loud and Fun’ performance quality that long-time fans have enjoyed since its’ inception,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “The Next-Generation R-Series system honors this tradition while addressing the needs of an evolving industry and customer.”

The Next-Generation R-Series system uses “trickle-down” technology, inspired design, and performance cues from the Ultra-High-Resolution AlpineF#1Status and Alpine Status systems with High-Resolution Playback capabilities that will take R-Series to the next level in sound performance.

Hi-Res Audio Certified

The Next-Generation R-Series speaker line is Hi-Res Audio Certified, able to reproduce up to 40kHz frequency response for music that is closer to the original source. The speaker line offers two pathways: “Pro Series” and “Standard” models.

The Pro Series speakers are available in 2-way or 3-way configurations, each with a highly adjustable crossover network for improved sound tuning and installation. The speaker components are constructed with a highly rigid, die-cast aluminum basket that eliminates flexing and resonance during playback to ensure the highest music quality. The speakers utilize a premium, glass fiber-reinforced cone and an Alpine-exclusive High-Amplitude Multi-Roll (HAMR) surround that all contribute to greater mid-range during playback. Magnesium Hard-Dome tweeters contribute to the “loud and fun” sound signature popular with R-Series, with an extreme swivel mount design and threaded removable housing for flexible factory applications.

The Pro Series includes a Hi-Res 3-Way Speaker Set (R2-S653) with a 6.5” Mid-Bass, 3” Mid-Range, and 1” Component Tweeter and 3-Way Passive Crossover Network for flexible vehicle application. The Pro Series also offers a 2-Way Speaker Set (R2-S652) with a 6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Component Tweeter and a 2-Way adjustable Passive Crossover Network.

The Standard Series speaker models offer 2-way component and coaxial configurations with a flexible crossover network that simplifies installation. The speakers utilize a traditional composite basket with a glass fiber-reinforced cone, a larger motor structure, and HAMR surround technology, like the Pro Series models.

The Standard Series includes a Hi-Res Coax Speaker Set (R2-S65) with a  6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Coaxial Tweeter and a Hi-Res 2-Way Speaker Set (R2-S65C) that includes a 6.5” Mid-Range and 1” Component Tweeter. For the customer with full-sized trucks or vehicles with 6×9” factory speakers, a 6×9” Coaxial (R2-S69) and 2-Way Component (R2-S69C) speaker set are also available. The 6×8” speaker model (R-S68) will carry over from the previous R-Series line.

Impressive Power

The Next-Generation R-Series Amplifier line is High-Res Audio Certified, able to reproduce up to 40kHz frequency response, and includes a full lineup that boasts impressive power, yet is compact in size, for powerhouse performance.

The Next-Generation R-Series Amplifiers include a 4-channel amplifier and two mono amplifiers, for more flexibility in sound system building.

In an effort to simplify the process in the installation bay, intentional designs were made that consolidated access to the speaker connections to one side of the amplifier and controls conveniently located at the top of the amplifier under a removable plate. Mounting “feet” were also integrated into the chassis of the amplifier to simplify the installation process. The amplifiers also feature a smaller footprint for easier installation in most vehicle applications, while still boasting the same power as the previous R-Series generation

The amplifier line includes a Hi-Res 4-Channel Amplifier (R2-A60F) with 100W x 4 @ 4Ω, a Mono Amplifier (R2-A75M) with an impressive output of 750W x 1 @ 2Ω, and a massive Mono Amplifier (R2-150M) with the flexibility to run 1500W x 1 @ 1Ω or 1200W x 1 @ 2Ω. Carrying over from the previous R-Series line is the versatile 6-Channel (R-A90S) amplifier for fully active 3-Way Speaker configurations.

Clean, Deep Bass

The recently launched Next-Generation R-Series Subwoofer line features a new design, but the same deep and clean bass performance that is synonymous with the R-Series line.

Featuring a larger motor structure and utilizing the Alpine Exclusive HAMR technology, the subwoofers are able to produce maximum output for deeper bass. A pulp Kevlar cone and ceramic/polypropylene composite dust cap contribute to a lighter, yet rigid design that results in lower distortion during play. To simplify installation, a twist lock grille system replaces the concealed mount gasket of the previous models.

The subwoofer line includes a 12” (and 10” option that boasts 750W RMS and an 8” option with 350W RMS, with the ability to choose between 2Ω and 4Ω load depending on the desired application.

The Next-Generation R-Series Speakers and Amplifiers will ship in the Spring and Summer of 2023, respectively. The Next-Generation R-Series Subwoofers are available now and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

Product information is based upon current information at the time of press but cannot be guaranteed. All designs, features, specifications, and delivery dates are subject to change without notice.   

2022 IASCA Worldwide Wrap Up, Finals, & 2023 Plans

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EAST WENATCHEE, WA (01.05.23) – With a successful 2022 IASCA season behind them, IASCA President Travis Chin would like to thank all IASCA Members, Sponsors and Judges for their support and participation during the season.

“The 2022 IASCA season was a huge success, certainly a very positive sign over 2021 and since the COVID pandemic. It was great to see many new competitors, as well as veteran competitors, at events across the country.” said Chin “I would like to thank each and every one of them who helped IASCA grow in 2022. The 2022 IASCA World Finals were once again very exciting and did not disappoint.”

The 2022 IASCA World Finals were held at three different venues; for SQ (Sound Quality), the event was held at the Cowan Center in Lebanon, MO. The Judging staff included many long time SQ names that have history through the years, including:

Keith Turner

Harry Kimura

Mike Myers

Justin Silva

Andrea Paulson

Shazad Rahaman

Scott Welch

A stunning collection of IASCA trophies await winning competitors at the IASCA Finals.
The scene from above from the 2022 IASCA Finals in Lebanon.

SPL competition was held in two events, one east coast and one west coast. The East coast event took place at the Farm Bureau Expo in Lebanon, TN and the west coast event at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Albany, OR. Many record scores were set at both events and officiating these competitions included IASCA SPL Judges from across the country, including (judges and support staff):

Scott Sinde

Jeremy Taylor

Ray Pimley

Salvador Vargas

Jose Vargas

Joey Perry

Christle Perry

Tamesha Ledford

Competitors gathered with their trophies at the IASCA Finals in Albany OR.
Competitors capturing action in the Finals’ lanes.

“I would also like to thank all IASCA Sponsors at Finals and throughout the year,” Chin continued to say “Their support reinforces that car audio competition has great value to our industry and we will continue to bring them and our members first class events throughout the 2023 season.”

Sponsors include:

Sundown (https://www.sundownaudio.com)

Karma Mobile Audio (https://www.karmamobileaudio.com/)

Italia HiFi (https://www.italiahifi.com/)

Crystal Audio Solutions (https://crystalaudiosolutions.com/)

Autotech Engineering (https://autotechengineeringusa.com/)

German Maestro (https://www.german-maestro.de/)

TRU Technology (https://www.trutechnology.com/)

Zapco (https://www.zapco.com/)

Arc Audio (https://www.arcaudio.com/)

B2 Audio (https://www.b2audio.com/)

Audio Concepts

Sky High Car Audio (https://skyhighcaraudio.com/)

Surf City Soundoff (https://www.facebook.com/groups/526553134043246/)

Kamilche Dental Center (https://kamilchedentalcenter.com/)

“The work hasn’t stopped since Finals ended though,” Chin stated “We’ve been working on the 2023 rules for both SPL and SQ, 2023 World Finals plans are under way and many major events on the 2023 schedule are being finalized, some of which may be announced prior to this press release, including the Surf City Soundoff, Slamology and the Summer Showcase. We will also be conducting Judges Training seminars in the spring, both nationally and internationally. There’s a lot in store for 2023  and I’m looking forward to yet another successful season of IASCA competition!”

For more information on IASCA Worldwide, visit iasca.com.

The12volt 6-Pack Is Set to Showcase Positive Activities Across The 12volt Industry

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.05.23) – It’s the 12volt 6-Pack. As the 12volt Central Studios works to deliver fresh industry news each day of the week the 12volt 6-Pack is a way for 12volt industry to catch up on news from the day as they enjoying refreshing in the evening.

Utilizing the 12volt STP Tool industry members in the office or on the road can highlight their day’s activities in the 12volt 6-Pack.

The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to txt their positive activities to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844. PRESTO…..your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.

On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are nearly all dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Check out the 12Volt 6-Pack as The 12volt Central Studios will work to make 6 social media posts each business day delivering fresh positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

For more see 12voltnews.com

Motorsports Industry Mourns the Passing of Ken Block

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.04.22) – Prominent rally racer and action sports star Ken Block passed away after a snowmobile accident in Utah on Monday, January 2, according to a statement posted on the Hoonigan website. Ken was 55 years old.

“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed,” said his team, Hoonigan Racing, in a statement.

In addition to his autograph sessions and special appearances, Block was a featured speaker at the 2022 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, where he discussed the making of “Electrikhana” a tire-shredding trip on the Las Vegas Strip through the lens of a bespoke, 800-volt, bi-motor, AWD Audi S1, developed and built by Audi.

Ken Block takes a photo with a fan during an autograph session at the 2022 SEMA Show.

Block also competed in the American Rally Association (ARA) along with his wife Lucy and 16-year-old daughter Lia, one of three children. Block, a co-founder of the skateboarding brand DC Shoes, was also known for his Gymkhana action videos that received a large following on YouTube and related social media outlets.

For more information on Block, visit the Hoonigan Racing website.

Alpine First in Aftermarket to Offer SiriusXM’s Latest Generation 360L Platform

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.04.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) will be the first aftermarket car audio company to offer SiriusXM-Ready head units enhanced with the satellite and streaming capabilities of 360L – SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment platform.SiriusXM with 360L will become available on compatible head units via a free software update from Alpine in February 2023 and requires the SiriusXM SXV300 Tuner and a subscription, which are sold separately. The compatible head units include the Alpine Halo11 iLX-F511, the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509, the iLX-507, and Jeep-specific head units i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK.

A History of “Firsts”

Alpine and SiriusXM have a history of “firsts” throughout their 20-year relationship when it comes to providing audio entertainment in aftermarket head units. In 2011 Alpine was the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready head units in the industry. Now, Alpine introduces the first aftermarket head unit that is SiriusXM-Ready with 360L features and functionality.

“As the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready connectivity on an aftermarket head unit, it seems fitting that Alpine is also the first to feature SiriusXM’s groundbreaking 360L platform on an aftermarket head unit,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “In addition to adding value to our exciting new line-up of High-Resolution head units, SiriusXM with 360L will provide even more audio entertainment content and personalization from SiriusXM.”

SiriusXM with 360L’s Personalized Listening Experience

SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, providing more choice and a more customizable listening experience. SiriusXM with 360L delivers more SiriusXM channels (350+), SiriusXM’s Pandora Stations, “For You” recommendations, recorded on demand content and podcasts, and more. SiriusXM with 360L in Alpine’s head units will also feature individual SiriusXM listener profiles to allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize and maintain their own SiriusXM favorites and personalized recommendations, as well as voice search functionality.*

SiriusXM’s music channels are expertly curated, ad-free, and deliver an exceptionally wide array of audio choices for listeners. Covering every genre across many decades, channels feature popular tracks and deep cuts from popular artists, as well as introduce listeners to new and emerging musicians and bands. Artist-branded channels from Hall of Fame and iconic talent feature original content that can’t be heard anywhere else. SiriusXM’s concept-based channels, such as Road Trip Radio and Yacht Rock Radio, or its many activity and mood-based channels, are designed to deliver a personalized music experience that fits the moment.

SiriusXM offers the most extensive lineup of professional and college sports in audio; news from around the country and the world from many sources and political perspectives; the scoop on the latest from the world of entertainment; hours of stand-up by the funniest comics; and more.

“We are pleased to be expanding the availability of SiriusXM with 360L and its extensive offering of audio entertainment content and enhanced features to many more drivers by making it available in several of Alpine’s state-of-the-art aftermarket head units,” said Hasib Mohammed, Vice President, Dealer and Retail Sales, SiriusXM. “Alpine’s advanced head units are the perfect way to introduce SiriusXM with 360L to the aftermarket industry.”

SiriusXM offers promotions for Alpine head unit owners that purchase and activate the SXV300 Tuner. Visit siriusxm.com/activatenow for offer details.

Subscribers can also listen to SiriusXM outside their vehicles on the SXM App, available on the App Store or Google Play, and on connected devices and speakers in their homes.

The free software update that includes SiriusXM-Ready with 360L will be available in February 2023 and can be found on the Alpine Knowledge Center (https://kb.alpine-usa.com). SiriusXM-Ready with 360L is available on compatible Alpine head units and requires the SXV300 Tuner and subscription (sold separately).

Timmy Fresh Brand Creates Custom Bicycles and Adds the PowerBass BT-200

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CLOVIS, CA (01.03.23) – Tim Garcia has been building custom bicycles for nearly 8 years in his shop in Clovis CA. Garcia spent a number of years in the aftermarket automotive before opening the Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle shop.

Tim Garcia in the showroom of his Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle store in Clovis CA.

Garcia related “I have always enjoyed creating and working on projects. I decided to own my own business and saw an opportunity to open a bicycle shop. The community of people spending time outdoors and riding their bikes covers a wide age range of individuals. Adults see advantages in customizing a wide variety of products. Bicycles are no exceptions when they learn of the possibilities. We build a variety of customs bicycles with different styles, graphic designs and wheel sizes…normally 26” and 29” with various widths. Our Timmy Fresh Brand creations can add riding comfort for riders.”

Tom Garcia pictured with Yankee star Aaron Judge with a Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle at an All Ride Charity Auction.

Continuing “In addition, with Bluetooth products, riders can add listening enjoyment on their rides. Many of our customers have portable bluetooth devices. We added the PowerBass BT-200 Bluetooth portable to our store product selection and now make a custom bracket to secure the BT-200 to the frame of a Timmy Fresh Brand bike. About 20% of our customers add the BT-200 and bracket to their creation. We also sell our bracket to bicycle shops across the country.”

The Metallica Charity bike in the Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle Store.

Offering custom items at charity auctions is a unique venue for a company to know about their brand and products. Early this year Garcia learned of the Metallica All Within My Hands Charity Auction and submitted a proposal that was accepted.

The Metallica Charity Timmy Fresh bike in the PowerBass booth at SEMA 2022.

Garcia and Erik Harbour from PowerBass, had worked together in the past and both are live concert attendees and huge Metallica fans. They had put a program in place to display a Timmy Fresh creation in the PowerBass SEMA Show booth with a BT-200 for all to see. Utilizing the Metallica branded bike was a win/win as many enjoyed seeing the bike in the booth and experiencing the BT-200 rockin’ on the bike.

The Timmy Fresh Brand custom bracket for attaching a PowerBass BT-200 to a bike on the store counter.

“PowerBass was definitely proud to partner with friends at T-FRESH/TIMMY FRESH BRAND custom bicycles and their Metallica Themed Charity Auction Bike. The top auction bid of $6500. was definitely amazing.The bike was a draw in our booth at SEMA and that visibility continued at the Metallica Concert at the Microsoft Theater on December 16th. Having a proactive bike shop owner see the business potential to add portable PowerBass Bluetooth products to their product offerings is a win for all” Harbour related.

Garcia concluded “We are waiting until the information for the winning bid is verified and we receive the information for delivery. We hope the winner is in our area so we can deliver the Metallica Timmy Fresh custom bike in person.”

For more see powerbassusa.com.