R&D Distributing Seeking Sales Rep and Warehouse Manger – Kansas City, MO

Posted on by in Classifieds.

R&D Distributing, a division of Patrick Industries, is a Distributor of home and mobile/automotive electronics representing over 80 top brands. We are seeking to hire motivated people to add to our team at our new location based in Kansas City, MO. Available positions include Sales and Warehouse Management. This is a great opportunity for someone who is motivated and ready to work on a team with some of the best Sales professionals in Audio Visual industry!

SALES REPRESENTATIVE
In the Sales role you will be responsible for the sales of automotive and residential audio/visual equipment and services for a variety of customers in their respective markets. We are looking for an experienced Sales Representative who has experience managing sales while leveraging current and previous relationships, and/or knows Car/Home Audio technology and system design.

Responsibilities:
• Primary responsibility for sales at the property; generates quotes, corresponds with clients and
targets revenue goals
• Works directly with client to determine their meeting needs and perspective, and match to
Progressive Group services and products
• Negotiates directly with clients to secure Progressive Group business and client vision
• Reviews final billing directly with client and obtains approval of all Progressive Group charges
• Negotiates billing if necessary to ensure complete client satisfaction
• Follows up with all clients through thank you letters and post event service evaluations.

Requirements:
• Efficient computer skills including Microsoft Office
• Exhibits excellent communication skills, both oral and written: is clear, concise, sincere and
persuasive
• Demonstrates creativity and initiative in capturing Progressive Group business
• Possesses excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a highvolume team environment
• High degree of ownership and self-initiation skills as well as a positive professional demeanor

WAREHOUSE MANAGER
You will be responsible for system order processing, shipping, receiving and inventory management. We are looking for an individual who is motivated and works well independently with sharp attention to detail.

If you are interested in these opportunities to further develop your career, apply now! Send an email with desired position and include a resume to our human resources department: HR@teamprogressive.com

Patrick Industries is a Billion + Dollar Company that offers competitive wages and a full benefits package including but not limited to, Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, Vacation, 401K, and HSA. Patrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

The dBDRA North American Western Conference Finals Wrapped a Strong 2021

Posted on by in Featured and tagged .

SACRAMENTO, CA (10.20.2021) – The 2021 dBDRA North American Western Conference Finals took place October 16-17, 2021, in Sacramento California. The 2-day event was held at Sacramento Raceway in conjunction with Trimp & Adams Drag Races. Several competitors started arriving at the Raceway on Friday night to claim their camping spots. The event was as much of a weekend tailgate party as it was a competition. The hospitality of the West Coast competitors was top notch with many cooking out and socializing throughout the weekend. On Saturday night, Gary Killian prepared BBQ for all competitors and racers on site.

Saturday was the busiest day of the event with 73 entries in the 2022 Season Kick Off and 68 entries in the Western Finals. Competitors were running through the lanes all day and into the evening. While most of the competitors were from California, Nevada and Idaho, there were some that traveled even farther. Team Subsonic Pressure traveled from Mexico and 7 competitors, and their pit crews traversed the country to attend both the East and West Coast Finals. The competitors that attended both events include: Team Mini (Canada), Team FX Jimbo (Canada), Team Directronix Dan (MN), Robert Kollar (FL), Mel Valadez (TX), Moses Martinez (CA) and Gracie Mullen (TN). These competitors are true die-hard dB Draggers!

Elimination rounds took place on Sunday and the event culminated with a 4-way demo style 5-minute Deathmatch. Competitors auditioned to be entered into Deathmatch with a $500 prize sponsored by Limitless Lithium. The Deathmatch event was one of the most exciting ones we have seen in a long time! Two of the competitors were tied most of the 5-minute run, not knowing who was going to win until the very end when one of the competitors subs gave out. Smoke was coming out of the back of the vehicle and everyone was cheering! The ultimate Deathmatch winner was Ray Maestas.

Competitors that attended both EAST and WEST locations and won FIRST in their respective classes are crowned North American Champions and they include:
Robert Kollar – Super Street 1-2
Team Directronix Dan – Super Street NW
Mel Valadez – Street Stock 1K
Team FX Jimbo – Bass Race 159.9
Team Mini – Psychlone No Wall

Team Phat Boyz

Wayne Harris, president of the dBDRA, presented two competitors with dBDRA Ambassadors of the year awards. These competitors have a great attitude, always willing to assist other competitors and are great ambassadors for the dB Drag Racing Association.
Robert Kollar – Eastern dBDRA Ambassador
Moses Martinez – Western dBDRA Ambassador

dB Drag Racing Western Finals Champions
Street Stock 1K – Mel Valadez
Pro Stock 2K – Steve Willis
Pro Stock 5K – Team DC Angelo
Pro Stock Trunk 5K – Team Subsonic Pressure
Pro Stock Wall 5K – Team Send It Dave
Pro Stock NL – Jeff Vue
Super Street 1-2 – Robert Kollar
Super Street 3-4 – Team SSC Joe
Super Street 5+ – Ray Maestas
Super Street NW – Team Directronix Dan
Super Street X – Team SSC Ron
Extreme 5K – Team SSC Jose

Flex Issues Kris (boy) with his dad Kyle and Ray Maestas

Bass Race Western Finals Champions
Bass Race 129.9 dB – Lord of Bass Manny
Bass Race 139.9 dB – Team DC Joe
Bass Race 149.9 dB – Team DC Angelo
Bass Race 159.9 dB – Team FX Jimbo

Psychlone Western Finals Champions
Psychlone No Wall – Team Mini
Psychlone Wall – Team RF Brent
Psychlone Demo No Wall – Team Phat Boyz Jose
Psychlone Demo Wall – Team Phat Boyz

Top Dog Wester Final Champion
Team DC Jenner

Bagger Beatz Western Final Champion
Bike 1-8 – Chris Cagle
Power Wheels – Flex Issues Kris

Team Send It Dave

Western Points Champions
Team DC Lucky – dB Drag, Bass Race, Top Dog
Flex Issues Kyle – Bagger Beatz
Phat Boyz Jose – Psychlone

Deathmatch Winner
Ray Maestas

dBDRA Western Finals Officiating Team: Wayne Harris, Doug Stockton, Jereme Creamer, Jeffrey Fernandez, Ray Choy and Kimo Kealoha.

Shoutouts:
Gary and Leslie Killian – BBQ Host
Andrew McCain – Event Photos

Competitor Awards:
Best of Show: Team RF Brent
Furthest Traveled: Team FX Jimbo, Team Mini, Moses Martinez
Judges Choice Standout Install: Team DC Josh
Largest Team Participation – Team Send It
Most Top Dog Wins – Team DC Jenner
Loudest of the Weekend (173.0 dB) – Team Directronix Dan
Team and Show Support – Team DC Audio

Thanks to the sponsors that made this event possible:
Car Audio Championship Presenting Sponsor: Deaf Bonce
dB Drag Championship Ring Sponsor: Incriminator Audio
dB Drag Trophy Sponsor: Sundown Audio
Competitor Badge Sponsor: Incriminator Audio
dB Drag West Points Sponsor: B2 Audio
3X Sponsor: DC Audio
Deathmatch Sponsor: Limitless Lithium

For full results and photos:
https://bit.ly/3jgdmI2

MB Quart Reference RA1 Amplifiers Unleash New Sound

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (10.20.2021) – MB Quart adds depth of new sound with the ALL-NEW Reference RA1 amplifier lineup. A perfect companion for Reference speakers and the ALL-NEW Reference RW1 subwoofers, this new line of compact amplifiers comes in a sleek, black finish while delivering top-quality sound.

When installation space is tight, Reference RA1 amplifiers create luxury for hearing more details in audio while remaining compact where you need space most. MB Quart engineers have gone above and beyond in delivering an amplifier line that signifies quality and innovation while bringing out the best sound from any genre of music.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “With this ALL-NEW line of Reference RA1 amplifiers, we are proud to be launching such a superior class of quality in an amplifier line to go along perfectly with the Reference speaker line and our newly launched Reference RW1 subwoofers. Reference RA1 amplifiers deliver higher quality sound in every aspect of performance while bringing out more clarity and detail in any song.”

ABOUT THE REFERENCE RA1 AMPLIFIERS LINE

Every Reference RA1 amplifier projects deeper audio in new dimensions of listening with clear sound and immersive playback. Featuring top-mounted controls with several multi-channel and mono configurations – RA1 amplifiers give ultimate control, higher quality sound, and customization into every playlist jam session.

Reference RA1 amplifiers include Tiffany Style RCA inputs to the PC Board for additional protection and an electronic equalizer that tailors specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers for cleaner details in sound.

FEATURES INCLUDE:
TOP-MOUNTED CONTROLS
Bass controls, crossover functions, gain adjustments, and more are conveniently located on top of every RA1 amplifier.
360° HEAT SINK DESIGN
PC Board is floating and designed with components in a 360° layout as this gives RA1 amplifiers best-in-class thermal stability.
TIFFANY STYLE RCA INPUTS
Tiffany Style RCA inputs to the PC Board add additional protection.
LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Q-Stasis Preamplifier Stage: Maximum low voltage signal from source unit comes into amplifier circuit with minimal distortion for high-quality sound.
LED System Protection Circuitry Diagnostics
Monitor overload and speaker short protection with illuminated indicators on amplifier end panel.

Feel and embrace what music should sound like through Reference RA1 amplifiers. Make sure to contact your sales representative or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.

See complete line details at mbquart.com.

New Double-Sided Adhesive Transfer Tape from Design Engineering

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

AVON LAKE, OH (10.20.2021) – Bring your heat and sound barrier projects together with Adhesive Transfer Tape from Design Engineering, Inc.

DEI’s Adhesive Transfer Tape is a very aggressive, pressure-sensitive, double-sided tape designed to bond substrates while maintaining a high-tack level. Use it to attach heat and sound barrier materials without the need for a spray adhesive.

“Adhesive Transfer Tape is a clean option for installing materials without the mess,” says Mike Buca, Product Manager at DEI. “Accurate placement of the adhesive allows for a clean, professional install.”

Available in single (#50205)- or dual-roll packs (#50207), the tape measures 3″ wide and comes in 32-foot lengths. Providing a high-strength, long-term bond, it can be used for scrim reinforcement, as it resists water, condensation, and aging. It is temperature-resistant from -22 to 248 degrees F.

DEI’s Adhesive Transfer Tape creates a quick and reliable seal for use in many other industries requiring the need for bonding, holding, and joining materials together. The tape can be applied to irregular surfaces.

For more information about Adhesive Transfer Tape and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Oracle Lighting Launches Skid Plate with Integrated LED Emitters for Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT at 2021 SEMA Expo

Posted on by in Featured and tagged .

METAIRIE, LA (10.19.2021) – Oracle Lighting has launched their new Skid Plate with Integrated LED Emitters for the 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler JL and the 2021-2022 Gladiator JT (p/n 5883-001/006) during the 2021 SEMA Show, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from Nov. 2-5 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth #C20547. Now available for pre-order and scheduled to ship in November, the new Integrated LED Emitters has an MSRP of $449.95.

“Offering additional protection for your JL or JT sway bar and steering box, this innovative skid plate also integrates high-powered functional LED lighting,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “This heavy-duty skid plate is formed from a 3/16in. steel plate with a satin black powder coat finish, which provides durable underbody protection.”

The LED Lighting modules feature precision optics for a 30 degree beam width and an option of white or yellow LED light. These LED emitters can be easily replaced individually if there is ever damage to one of the modules.

“This Skid Plate is a simple no drill installation with all necessary hardware included,” added Hartenstein. “Wiring is easy with the included harness, which includes a switch for easy on/off operation or connect to your AUX switches if your Jeep is equipped.”

Additional product specifications and features include:
• 9x High-Output 15W LED Emitters
• Total Wattage: 135W
• Total Lumens: 9000Lm
• Total Power Draw: 6A @12V DC
• Advanced LED Optic Design
• Modules DOT, SAE, & E9 Marked
• IP Rating: IP68 Ingress Protection
• 1-Year Warranty
• Package contains:

  • Skid Plate Lighting System
  • Switched Relay Wiring Harness
  • Mounting Hardware

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

The Audio One Completes Virginia Zoo Train Installation

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

NORFOLK, VA (10.19.2021) – Great to see unique installations by proactive 12volt retailers like The Audio One in Norfolk, VA.

Mike Kreiselman, Shop Foreman at the Norfolk VA The Audio One, recently completed a system in the Goode Family train that runs through the Virginia Zoo train that carries children and guest along a track in the 53 acre zoo that was founded in 1901. The zoo has 700 animals representing 150 species.

The ‘Little Engine’ that could.
The control console was a unique experience.

“I went out to the zoo after they contacted our GM Bob Mickonis. We have done a number of unique projects and he felt I could handle this project. On September 29th I went to the zoo to check out the train to see what would be needed. I went back on October 6th and completed the job in about 6 hours. Basically sent up the installation of the radio, found juice in the engines and ran wires to the speakers on the cars. A zoo staff member had fabricated a bracket to mount the radio,” Kreiselman related.

Another unique learning experience.
Mike Kreiselman’s veteran hands and skill set made it all come together on the train at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk.

There were 2 trains the zoo uses and one needed a radio installed in the engine. Kreiselman put in a REI Radio the zoo supplied which is designed for tour buses that includes a mic input for PA uses. There were already 3 speakers on each of the 4 train cars. The REI Radio had enough power to run the system.

Concluding, Kreiselman offered, “This job was definitely a different and unique experience I had never done before. That said I really like doing this kind of work and can imagine everyone on the train having a very nice and informative ride.”

Visit theaudioone.com for more.

How Exhibitors Can Improve Connections with Future Workforce

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.19.2021) – Changes to this year’s SEMA Show Student Program will give participating exhibitors and students more quality connections and value than ever before.

Through the Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast, Thursday, November 4, from 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m., exhibitors will host a networking table where they will engage in quality, intimate conversations with a limited number of students. Host companies will build connections by sharing their expertise, helping students explore career opportunities and inspiring students in their career paths.

“The focus on the Student Networking Breakfast is on quality connections, rather than quantity connections,” said Byron Bergmann, SEMA project manager, member services. “Whether companies are hiring or not, members have a vast amount of knowledge to share and can be a great resource for students.”

Exhibiting companies are encouraged to participate in the program. Participation, which is free to exhibiting companies, simply requires one-and-a-half hours from one company representative. No setup time or marketing materials are required.  

Register your company.

Written by Ashely Reyes for SEMA.org

Nakamichi Shipping New 2022 Head Units in Advance of SEMA Show

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , .

MIAMI, FL (02.18.2021) – Nakamichi released three new head units this month just weeks ahead of the 2021 SEMA Show. The three models include one Double DIN with CarPlay and Android Auto along with two single DIN units.

Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi car stated the following, “I am pleased to announce that we are shipping 2022 models ahead of schedule.  With all the delays the CE industry has experienced over the last year-plus it is really great to be able to offer 2022 models in October.”

Robin McNeal

The NAM3510-M7 is a 7” TFT mechless Double DIN receiver with wired CarPlay/Android Auto.

Key features Include:

  • 1080P HD video playback
  • Dual USB ports
  • Front panel Micro SD card port
  • Rear Camera RCA input
  • Two RCA video outputs
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • 16-band EQ
  • Time Alignment
  • SWC (Steering Wheel Control) compatible (adapter required)
  • Short chassis with sleeve
  • Includes IR remote control
  • MSRP: $399.95

The NQ821B is a single DIN CD receiver using Nakamichi’ s popular new 2-line 12 bit VA LCD display.

Key features include:

  • Multi-color (custom choice) readout and buttons
  • Built-in Bluetooth for hands free-calls and music streaming
  • Front panel USB and 3.5mm input ports
  • Detachable front panel
  • Three sets RCA outputs (front, rear and sub)
  • Downloadable APP Control for IOS and Android phones
  • 10-band EQ
  • SWC (Steering Wheel Control) compatible (adapter required)
  • Maximum output power is 50W x 4
  • MSRP: $134.95

The NQ921B is the same as the NQ821B except it can play DVD’s as well as CD’s and has an RCA video output. MSRP is $154.95.

These plus other new models will be on display in the Nakamichi booth 12465 North Hall during the SEMA Show November 2-5, 2021.

“We will be showcasing several other new items at SEMA”, commented McNeal, “be sure to stop by our North Hall booth in the LVCC.”

For more information visit www.nakaichicaraudio.com

The Team Nutz Crew Traveled to KnowledgeFest in Indy

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

PITTSBURGH, PA (10.18.2021) – The Team Nutz crew made the 360 mile trip from Pittsburg to Indianapolis late Thursday, October 7th, to attend KFest Indy that ran Friday through Sunday, October 8th-10th.

The Team Nutz SUV and the Vince Murray’s Jeep Gladiator stopped for a break Thursday night between Pittsburgh and Indianapolis.
One last late night stop between Pittsburgh and Indy.

Team Nutz leader Ed Nuttall related, “We looked at this is a great opportunity to attend a number of training sessions by National Trainers, see products from a number major brands on the event floor with their reps and network with other members of the 12volt industry. Staff members from our sales and installation made the trip. Staff members included Ben Bjerke, Brandon Star, Colleen Gregory and Mike Pent.”

Early Saturday morning it was time to check in and get ready for the day.
 The Team Nutz crew at the Race Sport Lighting booth listening to a presentation from Steve Jergensen.

In addition, Vince Murray was with crew. “Vince is a friend and customer plus his Jeep Gladiator Sport S was displayed in the Metra booth. Team Nutz completed the installation on Vince’s Gladiator with an extensive selection of Heise lighting and Metra products” Nuttall stated.

Continuing, “We arrived in Indy after midnight and caught a few hours of sleep before getting all done with event registration Friday morning. After getting our badges we split into groups and attended every training session through the day. As soon as the show floor opened we made the rounds to check out the booths of vendors we work with in our store. Seeing Vince’s demo vehicle in the Metra booth with Jason Anderson was terrific” Nuttall added.

Team Nutz Ed Nuttall (R) and Rusty North-End Result. “It’s great to see the commitment Team Nutz made to attend KFest as a group and to grow their business” North stated.
The Team Nutz crew recapped KF Day 1 and enjoyed group dinner.

Further Nuttall offered “Spending time in the Race Sport Lighting booth to see new products with Steve Jergensen and Ignacio Ayala was time well spent as the lighting category is certainly growing. Rusty North, End Result, is our rep and it was good to make plans for growth with him.”

During a nice dinner Friday night the crew discussed the days activities and then rested up to get ready for Saturday.

Team Nutz believes in getting it done. Nuttall has already applied for and received his first certification, signed by Kris Bulla, from MECP that began during KFest Indy.

On Saturday the crew again split up to attend every training session on the schedule. They spent time in the Sony booth to check out the new demo car and the new head unit that debuted at KFest. In addition they spent time with Kris Bulla in the MECP booth to check out a new program MECP has introduced.

Vince Murray (L) and Jason Alexander in the Metra booth with Vince’s Jeep Gladiator Sport S loaded with Heise Lighting and Metra gear on the KFest floor.

“I was very impressed with the new MECP package and purchased an application for our entire staff of 12 people. As Saturday wound down we made the decision to head back to Pittsburgh since we had already attended all of the trainings that were on the Sunday schedule. Attending KFest Indy was overall a positive experience for Team Nutz as we met our objectives,” Nuttall concluded.

Visit teamnutztechnology.com and knowledgefest.org for more.

Put the 12VoltSTP Tool to Work for Your Company

Posted on by in Industry.

SHREVEPORT, LA (10.15.2021) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios, work to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP is another example of making it easy for industry members to put their company’s brand and activities in front of members of the 12volt industry.

Mel Valadez sent this image from the front seat of his Ford Explorer on the route between Dallas and Sacramento for the Western DBDRA Finals.
Vince Murray (L) sent this image from KFest Indy of his Jeep Gladiator Sport S In the Metra booth with Jason Anderson on the trip with Team Nutz-Pittsburgh.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. Snap..Txt..Presto.. your company’s positive news could be in the news. 318 465 0844 is the number. With the advent of social media Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles for information and news delivery. The fact remains people need still, and look forward to, receiving news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

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

End Result sent this great image as they were traveling with Race Sport Lighting’s Ignacio Ayala from the bay in Auto Sounds Willoughby, OH with Craig Wardell (R)  and a ‘64 Mercedes 230 SL that was white owned by Elizabeth Taylor.
Rich DeSclafani shown in his Palm Beach FL office with new ZZ-2 CarPlay products for select Land Rover and Jaguar products.

To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. It’s the 12volt Central Studios 6 Pack. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news 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 dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Big Daddy’s Morris Hartman jumped into the 12volt Chevy Studio for another ride around the Big Apple.
Kicker Marine Audio is ‘going overboard’ in Lake Havasu City AZ this weekend for the NRG Spark Plug Formula 1 Power Boat Race October 15-17.

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 the 12volt industry.

Visit instagram.com/12voltnews for more.