DS18 Introducing 10-Inch High Excursion Exclusive Subwoofer

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (06.08.2021) – This new DS18 10” Subwoofer is a mid-tier addition that comes with all the features normally associated with much more expensive models.

The GEN-XX10.4DHE is rated at 1000 MAX power and 500 watts RMS at 4+4 ohms. The black aluminum basket design and black aluminum voice coil initially catch eyeballs and soon ears.

This new product, that continues the DS18 mantra “We Like It Loud” is now shipping.

Visit ds18.com for more.

Jeepin’ The Coast 2021 Along The Mississippi Gulf Coast

LONG BEACH, MS (06.07.2021) – Jeepers rolled to the Mississippi Gulf Coast the weekend of June 4th through June 6th for the 2021 Jeepin’ The Coast in Long Beach MS. DS18 Showed all in the crowd “We Like It Loud” with Mr DS18 Rob Ferro on site with the new Jeep Exotica DS18 Demo Jeep. The DS18 Exotica was surrounded by members of the crowd during the Shakin’ The Street Sound Competition event that was sponsored by DS18.

The Shakin’ The Street Sound Competition drew a large evening crowd.
The Shakin’ The Dtreets sound competition was sponsored by DS18 and the company had multiple entries.
The DS18 Exotica Jeep was a Top 10 Winner at the event.
Skyjacker had a major presence and showed a variety of Jeep demos featuring the company’s lift kits.
Live entertainment drew large evening crowds to the stage.

Over the 4-day weekend event hundreds and hundreds of Jeepers enjoyed the Kick Off Party, Light and Sound Competitions, Scavenger Hunts, Beach Crawls, Concerts on The Beach, Poker Runs plus Block Parties capped by a Group Cruise to the Farewell Party Sunday evening June 6th.

The Budweiser Clydesdales led one of the parades to everyone’s delight.

Brands in the Vendor Village included DS18, Oracle Lighting, Skyjacker, Wild Child Customs, 4×4 Jeep Attitude, Kanati Tires and EZ Trunk to name a few.

Visit jeepinthecoast.com for more.

MECA Announces SQL and SPL Finals Dates

GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (06.07.2021) – The SPL Finals Soundfest will be in Muscle Shoals, AL at the N AL Fairgrounds on the weekend of October 8 – 10, and will be a United Finals event with dB Drag Racing and IASCA. This features the Dueling Demos Finals on Saturday evening at 7 PM.

This is the only weekend open at the only venue open for business, and it does shorten the time between the official end of the season and the Finals contest, by 1 week. Some shuffling of events may be necessary, and any changes will be made asap.

Click below to hear a message from Steve Stern

The SQL Finals Soundfest will be in Bentonville, AR at the Fairgrounds on the weekend of October 22 – 24 and will be a United Finals event with EMMA and IASCA.

This will include the Show & Shine championships on Saturday, with Ride The Light Finals Saturday evening.

Co-Sponsors at this time are Ohio Generator, Sundown Audio, and Incriminator Audio. Other Co-Sponsor opportunites are available.

Commissioner Stern said, “We are excited to conclude our season with 2 high quality events for our members and the mobile electronics industry.”

More details on the events TBA at www.mecaevents.com in the Events Schedule. Follow MECA club and contest News at www.mecacaraudio.com.

Temecula Mobile Sound Wins JVC Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 130

SHREVEPORT LA (06.05.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. Temecula Mobile Sound won the JVC XX ETREME Headphone Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, June 4th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Six months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 130th time on Friday morning June 4th. The Wheel landed on the JVC space. The Temecula Mobile Sound slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out and spoke to Bill Hasan in Temecula CA and gave him the good news….which he was surprised and happy to hear the JVC headphones will be headed his 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, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, JBL, DAS/Off Terrain, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a 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 and 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 and AR Custom OC in Orange CA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, June 11th.

SEMA Show Exhibitors Begin to Select Booth Space

DIAMOND BAR, CA (0604.2021) – As exhibitors prepare to choose their exhibit locations for the 2021 SEMA Show, excitement continues to grow for the annual trade show taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Nov. 2-5 in Las Vegas, Nev.

“SEMA is the place to showcase what is new within the industry, which creates excitement and enthusiasm,” said Kristen Damberger, Cometic Gasket director of promotions, advanced. “As an exhibitor, we want to fuel that fire. We want to be a part of that energy.”

More than 1,700 companies will take part in the annual Priority Space Selection process, June 7-23, to choose their exhibit locations for the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Cometic Gasket is one of more than 1,700 companies that will take part in the annual SEMA Show Priority Space Selection process, held June 7-23. Like Cometic, these companies all committed to exhibiting at the 2021 SEMA Show before the May 7 priority deadline, and they are now preparing to showcase their new products and reconnect with buyers in person for the first time in nearly two years.

“Anticipation for this year’s SEMA Show has increased as we get closer to Priority Space Selection and exhibitors begin making plans,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Exhibitors are excited to know where their booth is going to be so they can start to plan what their exhibit is going to look like and how to effectively connect and conduct business with attendees.”

Many exhibitors experienced growth during the nationwide stay-at-home orders and maintained production with new products. Others have hot products from early 2020 that they have not had a chance to debut industry-wide.

“The SEMA Show is a great place to do business, and not being able to connect last year only amplified our enthusiasm to get back to Vegas and get back to business in person,” said Rob Fisher, E3 Spark Plugs vice president of motorsports, marketing, and business development. “We recently launched a new line of ultra-lightweight lithium batteries, and these were originally going to be showcased last year, but we will naturally showcase them at SEMA 2021 so that our customers and the industry can see them first-hand.”

This year’s Show will include exhibit space in all four Las Vegas Convention Center halls, including the newly constructed West Hall, a 1.4-million square feet facility that will be used to enhance the attendee experience. As exhibitors select their space, the floor plan will be updated several times throughout the day at www.semashow.com.

Once the Priority Space Selection process is completed, Show organizers will begin adding meeting rooms for seminars and areas for special displays and interactive attractions throughout the 3.2-million-square-foot Las Vegas Convention Center.

“Our work creating this year’s floorplan to meet the demands of the aftermarket industry has only just begun,” said Gattuso. “The enthusiasm to reconnect in person can be felt throughout the industry, so this year’s SEMA Show will be essential in helping businesses move forward.”

For more information or to register to attend the 2021 SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.

Axxess Shipping New DSP Packages and Integration Solutions

HOLLY HILL, FL (06.04.2021) – Axxess by Metra Electronics is now shipping two new plug-n-play packages for its AXDSP-X, five new packages for its AXDSP-L “Lite” models, and a universal water-resistant AXDSP-L. Additional new integration products include a personalization retention interface designed to fit select Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 models and an LVDS camera interface designed to fit select Chevrolet and GMC models.

Plug-N-Play AXDSP-X Packages

Axxess’s patented 10-channel digital signal processor (AXDSP-X) and a vehicle-specific wiring harness are included in these new packages, designed for convenient plug-n-play installation. The patented AXDSP-X features 6 inputs, 10 individually assignable outputs with a 31-band graphic EQ on each channel and high, low, and bandpass filters. Also included is a bass knob for level control of the subwoofer amplifier. The following new packages are now shipping:

  •       AXDSPX-VW1: Fits Volkswagen 2011-2014 (non-amplified models)
  •       AXDSPX-TY1: Fits Toyota 2010-up*

Plug-N-Play AXDSP-L Packages

Axxess’s patented 6-channel DSP “Lite” (AXDSP-L), a vehicle-specific harness, and a bass knob are included in these new plug-n-play packages. The AXDSP-L features 4 inputs, 6 individually assignable outputs with a 15-band graphic EQ, and independent equalization for front, rear and subwoofer channels. The following new packages are now shipping:

(excluding models equipped with a Fender Premium Audio system)

Universal Water-Resistant AXDSP-L

Just in time for summer, Axxess is now shipping a universal DSP “Lite” (AXDSPL-WR) with a water-resistant enclosure and zip tie mounts. This solution is ideal for motorcycles, powersports vehicles, boats, and other outdoor vehicles that could expose the DSP to water or moisture. This DSP can be used with OE or aftermarket radios and, like all of the Axxess DSP models, has an internal header port for adding a wireless streaming interface module (AXDSPL-BT) if the vehicle does not have a receiver/head unit. 

Personalization Interface for Mazda

Axxess has a new interface that will retain most of the vehicle personalization settings that would otherwise be lost when replacing the factory radio in select Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 models. The AXBT-MZ2 utilizes short-range wireless technology to allow the driver to adjust and control settings from a smartphone app that were previously controlled from the factory screen. Actual personalization options available vary per vehicle and trim level, and installers should refer to the owner’s manual for options available. This is a completely plug-n-play solution with no wiring required. This interface works with app compatible smartphones or tablets and is designed to fit the following Mazda models:

  •       CX-5 2013-2015 (with full-color LCD screen)
  •       CX-9 2007-2012 (with full-color LCD screen)
  •       CX-9 2013-2015 (with full-color LCD screen)
  •       CX-9 2007-2012 (with full-color LCD screen and NAV)


LVDS Camera Interface for GM
Adding multiple cameras to the factory screen is no longer an issue for 2014-2019 Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs. The AXAC-GM1 is an LVDS camera switching interface that is intended for use on 8-inch factory screens to enable a single camera input or add up to four cameras. This interface can be programmed to automatically activate the camera inputs based on turn signal or reverse triggers. The Rear Video Assistant (RVA) option can be used to keep a camera active during the duration of a trip, allowing the driver to monitor a trailer hitch, baby in the backseat, or rear cargo. The reverse signal and turn signal triggers are generated through the vehicle’s CAN Bus communication and this interface is Micro “B” USB updatable. The AXAC-GM1 is designed for the following GM vehicles with 8-inch screens:

Fits Chevrolet:

  •       Colorado 2015-2019
  •       Silverado 2014-2019
  •       Silverado 2500/3500 2019
  •       Suburban 2015-2019
  •       Tahoe 2015-2019

Fits GMC:

  •       Canyon 2015-2018
  •       Sierra 2014-2018
  •       Sierra Limited 2019
  •       Yukon/XL 2015-2019

These solutions are all in stock and shipping now and will be covered in Metra’s manufacturer training session at KnowledgeFest in Orlando.

*See the vehicle application guide at AxxessInterfaces.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.

Design Engineering Releases Honda Pioneer 700 & 700-4 Heat Shield Kit

AVON LAKE, OH (06.04.2021) – Tired of excessive heat radiating up through the seats of your Honda Pioneer 700 & 700-4? Design Engineering, Inc has the solution with a new Heat Control Kit.

Designed specifically for 2014-’21 Pioneer 700 & 700-4 (# 902110) models, the CNC-cut kit snugly fits Honda’s right-sized side-by-side and is easily removable if vehicle service is ever required. Installation is straightforward with CNC-cut pieces and no vehicle modifications required, and the pieces can be removed without damage, if needed.

“Our Honda Pioneer 700 & 700-4 Heat Shield Kit provides a much more comfortable ride by blocking excessive heat from the engine bay and lowering temperatures on the seats,” says Mike Buca of DEI.

Featuring DEI’s Extreme Heat Barrier material, the kits are constructed of 10-mil aluminum bonded to a finely woven layer of high-temperature-resistant glass fiber and an aggressive self-adhesive backing. Measuring just 3/16″ thick, the material can withstand radiant temperatures up to 1,750 degrees.

Click here to visit the product page.

For more information about the Honda Pioneer 700 & 700-4 Heat Shield Kit and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products for powersports applications, visit designengineering.com

SSV Works Shipping JVC’s MR1 Receiver for Kawasaki Teryx KRX Kits

OXNARD, CA (06.03.2021) – SSV Works is making available JVC’s acclaimed MR1 digital media receiver for the Kawasaki Teryx KRX (model years 2020+). The units are now available with an MSRP of $479.99 (p/n KX-R1).

“Last year, we announced a collaboration with JVC in which SSV Works is now the exclusive Powersports distributor for the KD-MR1BTS marine/powersports digital media receiver, and that success has led us to adding this incredible receiver to our KX-R1 kits,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Our customers asked for an easy plug-and-play upgrade, we listened, and now they have it!”

Like most of SSV Works’ kits, KX-R1 dash kit utilizes factory mounting points for ease of installation. It was carefully designed and engineered to match the factory look and feel. You can even add an optional backup camera to work with the full color screen, and easily plug-and-play with SSV Works’ Teryx KRX Kick Panel 6.5-inch Speaker Pods (p/n KX-F65A – sold separately).

The KD-MR1BTS digital media receiver features Bluetooth, USB, a 2.7-inch color display, global tuner with weather band, 7-Band EQ, rear view camera capability, and is SiriusXM-Ready.

The KD-MR1BTS’ waterproof housing withstands jets of water from any direction thanks to IPX6 waterproof compliance. As a result, the receiver can be safely used not only in cars, but also in other types of motor vehicles including marine and motorsports use. A conformal coating safeguards electronic circuits from harsh environments that may contain moisture or chemical contaminants, providing a barrier to airborne contaminants from the operating environment, such as salt-spray, thus preventing corrosion.

“JVC is a legacy in the mobile audio radio market, and we could not be more excited to partner with such a brand and provide our Kawasaki Teryx KRX customers with the best powersports radio and overall audio solution kits in the market,” Kaplan concluded.

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

Mobile Solutions Introduces Oscar, an Innovative Work Surface

TEMPE, AZ, (06.03.2021) – Mobile Solutions announces the release of its newest innovation – OSCAR. This patented, innovative work surface is engineered to be used for cutting, sanding and other fabrication-related tasks while minimizing cleanup and airborne dust. Made from CNC-machined MDF, it’s engineered to fit atop standard 33 gallon garbage cans and is low cost enough to be sacrificial so messy cutting and body work tasks need not ruin laminated or other finished shop work surfaces. It also has precisely positioned holes to create a downdraft vacuum in the open, ducted middle layer and maximize airborne dust collection when paired with the optional cyclone vacuum system or directly with a common shop vac.

“We worked on this design for a long time and optimized it to be a useful part of an efficient fabrication shop, whether a professional shop or in a DIY garage,” stated Mobile Solutions founder and CEO Bryan Schmitt. OSCAR saves space because it fits atop the common shop garbage can, as well as doubling as multiple work surfaces. It can be used for sanding, rough cutting with a jigsaw or any number of other, somewhat messy fabrication tasks.

“Since OSCAR is intended to be sacrificial, you need not feel bad about cuts, paint overspray or other things that would ruin a typical, more permanent work surface. You simply replace OSCAR with another one when it’s time,” added Schmitt. Mobile Solutions will also offer an OSCAR top replacement so that just the top surface can be replaced even more affordably.

How did OSCAR get its name? Schmitt says they’ve used this work surface in a more basic form since the company’s inception and very first training classes in 2004. He came up with the name to ensure his attendees would remember how important it was, so it needed to make an impression. Ultimately OSCAR was chosen because of the Sesame Street character of the same name who, you guessed it, was always in the garbage can. It’s been a staple at Mobile Solutions training sessions ever since. Now it’s just much more engineered in the sense it is thicker (more stable) and has the intricate dust collection capability to make it the ultimate shop garbage can topper. Mobile Solutions was awarded a US patent in 2020 for the design and application of OSCAR.

OSCAR pairs with an optional cyclone vacuum system that is based atop a standard five gallon bucket for dust particle collection and uses suction provided by a standard shop vac. The cyclone reduces 99% of the particles normally pulled into the shop vac and extends its life, as well as making the suction on the OSCAR work surface more efficient. Two vacuum ports on the bottom side of OSCAR are where the standard-sized dust collection hoses connect.

OSCAR Features:
• Measures 31” x 31” x 2.25” (thickness)
• CAD engineered and CNC-machined
• Dust collection that still allows full use of a garbage bin
• Fits standard 33 gallon garbage bins (not included)
• Two – 2.5” vacuum ports for single or double action (dust collection fittings sold separately)
• Made of durable yet sacrificial MDF wood
• Great for pros or hobbyists
• Made in Arizona USA!

OSCAR Work Applications:
• Jigsaw Rough Cutting
• Hand Routing
• Drilling
• Craft Woodworking
• Light Painting
• Fiberglass Work
• Plastic Fabrication
• Bodywork

Visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com for more.

KENWOOD Shipping Value-Priced 6.5” 2-Way Coaxial Marine/Motorsports Speakers

LONG BEACH, CA (06.03.2021) – KENWOOD is now shipping 2 new 6.5” 4 Ohm 2-way coaxial marine/motorsports speakers; the KFC-1613MRW in white (MAP $49.95), and KFC-1613MRB in black (MAP $49.95).

Both speakers feature a waterproof polypropylene cone with rubber surround, a balanced dome tweeter, and UV resistant grilles.  Peak power handling comes in at 100 watts, with 60 watts max and 30 watts RMS. They carry a sensitivity rating of 87db/W at 1/m and have a 60Hz – 20,000Hz frequency response.  A shallow mounting depth of only 2-15/16” ensures ample fitment in a wide variety of applications.

These speakers further complement their already strong line of 6.5” to 8” marine and motorsports coaxial speakers, including their most recent release of the 6.5” LED illuminated speakers, the KFC-1673MRWL in white (MAP $199.95) and KFC-1673MRBL in black (MAP $199.95).  KENWOOD is committed to expanding its marine and motorsports lineup and is excited to announce more product launches in the upcoming months. 

For detailed information on specific features for each product, view their respective product pages at www.kenwood.com/usa/car.

KFC-1613MRW web page:  https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kfc-1613mrw/

KFC-1613MRB web page:  https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kfc-1613mrb/

KFC-1673MRWL web page:  https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kfc-1673mrwl/

KFC-1673MRBL web page:  https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kfc-1673mrbl/