2021 Slamology Is a Wrap for dB Drag Racing

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN (06.18.2021) – 2021 Slamology is a wrap! The dBDRA would like to thank all the competitors, judges, sponsors and Slamology crew for a great weekend. The dB Drag Racing lanes stayed busy all weekend with competitors and spectators. According to Wayne Harris, President of the dBDRA, “We knew the competitors were anxious to get back in the lanes to compete but the turnout was beyond expectations with 115 entries. The dB Drag lanes were non-stop all weekend long!”

The dB Drag Racing competition area and lanes were jammed.
(Photo Credit: Heather Kollar)
Competitors waited in the lanes by their turn at the meter.
(Photo Credit: Heather Kollar)

All formats of dBDRA competition qualified on Saturday prior to 4pm and then elimination rounds of Bass Race proceeded. Bass Race is competition of skill as the goal is to get as close to a 129.9 dB, 139.9 dB or 149.9 dB without an overshot. The competition was a super close race with several ties and competitors winning within 1/10 of a dB!

Team members pushed to eliminate vehicle body flex for competitors. (Photo Credit: Heather Kollar)

It was great to see so many new competitors in the lanes with over 35 first time dB Draggers entering the competition. Many of them entered the Freestyle format, where the competitor can place the sensor (microphone) anywhere in front of the B-Pillar. The competitor is allowed doors open or closed, 2 runs back to back, and the highest of the 2 scores is recorded. A first time dB Drag competitor won the Super Street X Freestyle class as well as the Psychlone DEMO class!

Time for a new windshield for this Team DirectroniX Competitor.
(Photo Credit: Heather Kollar)
Members of the dB Drag Racing judges team gathered for a group shot.
(Photo Credit: Heather Kollar)

On Sunday, the lanes were taken up by dB Drag Racing Elimination rounds where several World Records were also established. The loudest recorded dB Drag score of the weekend (and for the USA) was Extreme NL competitor, Team Soundcheck with a score of 183.1 dB! Several windshields were shattered over the weekend as the SPL and the HEAT was intense! Congrats to everyone on a great show.

For a complete list of dB Drag Racing results visit:
https://bit.ly/3d5JAmj

Segments of Specialty-Equipment Industry Sees Growth During Pandemic

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.18.2021) – The automotive specialty-equipment industry has largely weathered the pandemic, with many companies reporting sales growth over the past year and anticipating continued growth in the coming months, according to new SEMA Market Research.

Findings from the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report indicate that the majority of businesses saw significant sales growth during the pandemic: 66% of manufacturers, 60% of distributors, and 40% of retailers/installers reported increased sales compared to 12 months ago, and nearly three-fourths of all manufacturers and distributors expect sales to increase over the coming year.

Filled with data on how the pandemic has impacted businesses in the automotive specialty-equipment industry, the 63-page market research report helps companies understand how the market is performing. Key findings from the report include:

  • The specialty-equipment industry saw minimal staffing disruption because of the pandemic, with most maintaining or growing staffing levels. Additionally, 83% of manufacturers, 77% of distributors, and 63% of retailers/installers plan on hiring more staff over the coming year.
  • Many companies selling in the pickup, sports car, and classic segments reported double-digit growth in the past 12 months.
  • Manufacturers saw sales increase across many channels, especially direct-to-consumer through their company website and at independent specialty retailers.
  • The industry saw growth across a variety of product categories. Manufacturers and retailers saw significant sales growth in performance categories especially, including intake and suspension products.
  • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, retail sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers hit $139.5 billion—its highest level in U.S. history. Despite the pandemic, consumers continue to work on their cars.
  • According to a survey of Americans conducted by Hertz, over 80% of Americans plan on taking a road trip this summer. This means a lot more driving, and potentially a lot more potential engagement with the specialty-equipment industry.

At a time when most countries, like Japan and the European Zone, are experiencing economic contractions, the U.S. is showing strong growth after the disruption from the pandemic. This strong growth is expected to continue through the rest of 2021, as the services part of the economy fully reopens.

To learn more about the current state of the specialty-equipment industry and outlook for the future, download the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report at www.sema.org/research.

All-New Hifonics Zeus Theta Amplifiers Have Arrived

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.18.2021) – Now shipping, all-new for 2021, Hifonics ZEUS Theta amplifiers utilize compact space with higher sound quality components. Built from a tradition powered by the gods, crafted and designed specifically in remembrance of Mr. Tremendous, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Ted Henricks, ZEUS Theta amplifiers capture the pulse of Hifonics and the inspiration that Ted left on Hifonics as a brand. ZEUS Theta amplifiers carry on Ted’s mission of perfecting customer service to others with incredible sounding audio, bringing out every detail that might be hidden away in any song that demands POWER FROM THE GODS.

Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales, said, “We have created an amplifier line that signifies the heart of what Ted Henricks had brought to Maxxsonics USA every day – going above and beyond in superior quality. The ZEUS Theta lineup exemplifies a comprehensive array of seven models featuring four monoblocks, two four-channels, and one robust five-channel amplifier. Every ZEUS Theta amplifier features a compact footprint to meet market demand while bringing out the best in every song with an aluminum heat sink for heat dissipation for an overall better sound.”

ABOUT THE ZEUS THETA AMPLIFIER LINE

Featuring a small, compact design that brings out clarity and depth from every song, ZEUS Theta amplifiers produce audio in rich details with ultra-levels of undistorted sound in every beat. Bringing out BIGGER bass, maintaining steady mids, and reaching higher trebles, every ZEUS Theta amplifier creates sound in an immersive experience.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

AMPLIFIER CROSSOVER
Variable Electronic 12dB per octave

LOW NOISE PRE-AMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier circuit with minimal distortion

RCA INPUTS
Nickel-plated, high-temperature, impact-resistant RCA inputs feature hex screw terminals that allow for secure connections

ELECTRONIC EQUALIZER
Control of amplifier output with on-board electronic crossover to tailor specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers

OUTPUT DEVICE TECHNOLOGY
PWM MOSFET power supply creates stable power through the PC board with minimal heat generation

HEAT SINK
Aluminum Hifonics heat sink creates superior heat dissipation for better sound

“While remaining cool and efficiently creating stable power through the PC board, every ZEUS Theta amplifier has a compact and sleek design that assures fitment into any vehicle installation. These amplifiers are extremely compact and provide ample space where you will need it most. The result from our incredible Hifonics engineering team is a powerful and compact line of amplifiers that deliver quality sound in a smaller space.” concluded Dattalo.

Continually pushing the boundary for getting things done in an above and beyond manner while inspiring the best in others to do the same, Ted Henricks exemplified superior quality in every aspect of the job. Every ZEUS Theta amplifier is crafted with that parallel precision, attention to detail, and 110% dedication to your audio, as Ted brought to the job, every single day. ZEUS Theta amplifiers are SHIPPING NOW to authorized online retailers ONLY.

Full line details are available on the Hifonics website at hifonics.com

KICKER Returns to American Flat Track in Oklahoma City

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STILLWATER, OK (06.17.2021) – KICKER is excited to be the presenting sponsor of the 2021 OKC Mile, an American Flat Track race at magnificent Remington Park in Oklahoma City on June 18-19.

Each day, KICKER will be supporting AFT riders Cory Texter and sister Shayna Texter-Bauman as they take on the OKC Mile. KICKER will also feature live demonstrations of its motorcycle and powersports audio systems, installed in a custom Harley-Davidson Road King and Polaris RZR. KICKER powersports systems are designed for maximum reliability, sound quality and volume, all without over-burdening the factory charging systems.

“At KICKER, we deliver the kind of products that excite – that make your heart race when you hear your favorite song through our equipment,” said Kevin Campbell, KICKER’s Director of Marketing. “Now approaching our 50th year of developing high-performance audio, our “Livin’ Loud” trademark is a perfect fit for the passion of the athletes and teams of American Flat Track racing.”

AFT racers can exceed 140 miles-per-hour in the straightaways and 90 mph in the corners. The sport remains “perhaps motorsport’s purest test of man and machine” according to americanflattrack.com. With more than 75 competitors racing every night, this thrilling race format brings thousands of spectators to each of 17 races throughout the year.

For more information, consumers can visit www.americanflattrack.com.

Introducing Cicada Audio, a New Company for High-End Motorcycle Audio

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PHOENIX, AZ (06.17.2021) – Larry Frederick, company Founder and President, has assembled a talented team with over 40 years of design, manufacturing, and marketing experience in 12-volt audio to develop a uniquely crafted range of “Plug-n-Play” motorcycle audio amps, speakers, processors, and harnesses exclusively for Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Larry commented, “It is time for a High-End and more FOCUSED approach to motorcycle audio.”  Larry comments “Today’s motorcycle audio is like car audio circa 1990… growing, and needing nurturing, technical knowledge, training, and custom solutions.”  Larry continues “At the same time, Harley Davidson audio is creating a lot of FUN and these guys are Crazy! and I like it!!!”

Larry Frederick showing two new Cicada Audio products in his Phoenix facility.

Cicada Audio was founded on a set of core values:

  • Partner with like-minded professionals who share a passion for engineering, manufacturing, installing and enjoying great motorcycle audio.
  • Dedicate the time needed (and man power) to develop the right product for the end user, done in the right way with an eye on quality and performance.
  • Consider the physics and limitations of the motorcycle; make audio products that are designed to perform and work in that environment.
  • Tool and manufacture our own product using high quality parts and innovative designs, not outsourced or off-the-shelf products in which you have no control of the process.
  • Possess the technical knowledge to help the dealer and consumer get the most out of their Cicada-branded audio system.
  • If it cannot be done well, do not do it, only the BEST will do for a Cicada Audio System!

Cicada is introducing the following products:

Amplifiers with DSP built-in

  • DSP125.4 – 4 X 90 WRMS @ 4 ohm / 4 X 150 WRMS 2 ohm
  • DSP250.2 – 2 X 150 WRMS @ 4 ohm / 2 X 250 @ 2 ohm

Standard Amplifiers

  • CX125.4 – 4 X 90 WRMS @ 4 ohm / 4 X 150 WRMS 2 ohm
  • CX250.2 – 2 X 150 WRMS @ 4 ohm / 2 X 250 @ 2 ohm

CoAx Horns – CH Series

  • 6.5 inch / 6 X 9 Inch / 8 inch NEO Coax Horns – 2 inch VC and 1.4 Inch Ring Radiator
  • 4 ohm and 2 ohm version

Coax Speakers – CX Series

  • Waterproof 6.5 inch and 6 X 9 inch shallow Coax (Aluminum dome tweeter)
  • 4 ohm and 2 ohm version

DSP Processor –  DSP88

  • 8in/8 out DSP processor, small and BT controlled setup

Pro MidBass Drivers – CM Series

  • 6.5 inch / 6 X 9 Inch / 8 inch NEO MidBass – 2 inch VC

Ring Radiators – RR

  • 2 Ring Radiator (horn) tweeters, both shallow with one super shallow with built in grill

Accessories/Harnesses

  • 8 and 4 gauge power kits,
  • TSLink harness for HD,
  • Loaded harness input with Molex
  • Speaker output with Molex. 

All built to interface with HD directly -Plug & Play!. 

“I have been berry berry busy over the last 9 months,” commented Larry. “It is easier to just go to the website and see everything.”

Phone: 1-480-887-8699

Email: larryf@cicadaaudio.com

Website: www.cicadaaudio.com

Lucas Lighting Announces Kevin O’Donnell Has Joined the Company as Technical Support and Training Manager

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ITASCA, IL (06.17.2021) – Lucas Lighting has announced the addition of Kevin O’Donnell to their staff as the new Technical Support and Training Manager. O’Donnell is a 20-year veteran of the mobile electronics industry, having worked for a large chain, regional specialist, adding new skills by graduating from Mobile Dynamics in 2007 and then opening his own retail business in 2009.

“Kevin brings a tremendous amount of knowledge with him to Lucas Lighting. I’ve worked with him in various capacities over the last 18 years, and have always respected his troubleshooting abilities, patience and determination to find solutions.” says Steve Rogers, National Sales Manager.

“I am extremely honored and excited to be a part of the Lucas Lighting family and want everyone to feel confident installing and selling LED lighting. Having embraced the lighting category in my retail operation, I have learned a tremendous amount of information on lighting application on modern vehicles. I am here to share my knowledge and assist in any way I can to help installation go as smoothly as possible!” says O’Donnell.

Kevin can be reached at support@lucas-lighting.com, or Lucas Lighting Facebook and Instagram pages. Visit www.lucas-lighting.com for more info.

EDA Hosts First In-Person Conference in Park City, Utah

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SEATTLE, WA (06.16.2021) – Elite Distributor Alliance hosted the industry’s first face to face meeting in Park City Utah at the Grand Summit resort.  All of EDA’s members and vendors attended the event and everyone was excited to be meeting in person.  

L to R: Jim Warren (EDA), Josh Eatherly (P&E Distributors), Steve Irby (Kicker), Rob Limbaugh (Kicker), Lori Roberts (Kicker).

“After a year and a half of Zoom meetings it was so nice to actually be shaking hands and talking in person,” said Nalaka Adikari of Orca Designs.  Ron Trout with JVC added, “Wow!  EDA hosted an incredible event.  What a group of professionals, and to be able to actually sit at a table and talk was energizing.”

L to R: Josh Eatherly (EDA), Jake Bates (Metra), Jeff Fletcher (Metra

EDA presented two vendor awards at the conference.  Kicker received “Best Vendor in a Storm”.  The award was presented to Steve Irby, Rob Limbaugh, and  Lori Roberts by Josh Eatherly, EDA’s president.  Eatherly noted, “Kicker stood out throughout the pandemic.  Their ability to have product during a very difficult time was not only amazing, it likely saved many of our customers.”   

EDA Members preparing to start the conference

EDA also presented Metra Electronics its Top Gun award.  “Metra was amazing,” said Nate Taliani, President of Davis Distribution. “They pulled out all the stops and consistently delivered at better than expected fill rates. They worked literally around the clock to deliver us product.  Because of this, as a group, we purchased more product from Metra than any one of our EDA vendors,” Taliani added.

L to R: Theresa and Josh Eatherly (P&E Distributors), Steve and Becky Irby (Kicker), Alex Camara (Audio Control), Rob Limbaugh (Kicker

EDA reported record sales for the year and estimates that 23.6% of all 12 volt product sold in the United States will flow through an EDA member in 2021.  With same day or one day shipping to all 48 states customers recognize the benefits of utilizing their local EDA member to allow them to react very quickly in a rapidly shifting marketplace.  Steve Cote from JVC said, “EDA members are increasingly becoming more and more important.  They have reacted faster than most and are building a solid and loyal following.”

Vendors and Members networking around the firepits

On Monday night, June seventh, members and vendors rode the Orange Bubble chairlift to Lookout Cabin for a special joint dinner.  At 8,000 feet the views were incredible in every direction.  The weather was perfect.  After dinner, the group gathered around the firepits for s’mores and more conversation.

Visit www.elitedistributoralliance.com for more.

Firstech Unveils New “KP2” Keyless Touchpad Accessory for Remote Start

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SEATTLE, WA (06.16.2021) – Firstech, the maker of Compustar and DroneMobile connected car solutions, has announced that it will begin shipping the KP2 Keyless Touchpad (FT-KP2) in July 2021. KP2 is a windshield-mounted touchpad that gives drivers the ability to lock, unlock, and share their vehicles without the use of a key, remote, or smartphone.

In daily use, the KP2 Touchpad functions as a convenient replacement for car keys for unlocking and locking the doors. To lock/arm the vehicle’s doors, the driver simply needs to hold the “Lock” button on the KP2. When the driver is ready to hit the road, they can unlock the doors by entering their 4-6 digit PIN code onto the windshield mounted touchpad. The KP2’s upgraded capacitive touch sensors respond quickly for drivers who are on the go.

Click here to view a product video

KP2 now supports two separate PIN codes, one reserved for the vehicle owner (“Master PIN”) and one reserved for shared drivers (“Guest PIN”). The Guest PIN code is time-sensitive and will expire on the time/date appointed by the vehicle owner via the DroneMobile smartphone app. In order to enable Guest PIN codes, the KP2 must be installed with a KL1 KeyLocker, which Firstech released in Spring 2020.

Guest PIN codes make the KP2 an ideal solution for car sharing situations. Whether a vehicle owner is hosting out-of-town guests or using car-sharing services such as Turo or Getaround, he/she could share PIN codes with other drivers without revealing his/her own Master PIN code. The KP2 will eventually be included with every Drone KL1 KeyLocker, giving car sharers an all-in-one vehicle and key management solution.

Installation of the KP2 Keyless Touchpad is simple, requiring only a single connection to a compatible Firstech remote starter, alarm, or KeyLocker. As usual, Firstech offers an array of programming methods via desktop, smartphone, or Firstech’s proprietary “OP-500” option programmer.

KP2 is Firstech’s fourth touchpad release. Previous models include the KP1 and the RPS TOUCH, one of Firstech’s best-selling accessories over the past ten years. In comparison to previous models, the KP2 features a new “OEM”-style interface, unbranded design, and two additional digits for code programming. Internally, the KP2 boasts significant upgrades to its memory and processor, improving the speed, responsiveness and reliability of the touchpad.

As a standalone accessory, KP2 will start at $49.99 MSRP.

KL1 KeyLocker systems bundled with the KP2 will retail at $199.99 MSRP. If you are interested in learning more about the KP2 Keyless Touchpad, visit www.myfirstech.com or email Firstech’s sales team at orders@myfirstech.com.

Magnadyne Intros MA-CAM3 Single Camera to 3 Camera Switching Solution

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COMPTON, CA (06.16.2021) – Magnadyne Corporation, Compton CA is excited to announce the release of the MA-CAM3 single camera to 3 camera switching solution for single camera compatible aftermarket radios. The MA-CAM3 converts any aftermarket radio that supports a backup camera to control left, right and rearview cameras. No need to overpay for this feature as the MA-CAM3 retails for only 59.99.

“The MA-CAM3 is the perfect solution for those wanting to eliminate left and right blind spots when their current radio only supports a rearview camera. It is an easy install and works with any aftermarket brand radio with rearview camera support. It is a perfect solution for utility trucks and RV’s that need to replace the radio and maintain 3 cameras.” Mark Hockett – VP

“I was inspired to create the MA-CAM3 while working with our high end M11 RV radio that supports 3 cameras and decided there must be a way to provided that feature to others” Mark Jones – (Tech & Sales Support)

The MA-CAM3 enables any brand aftermarket radio with rearview camera support to operate 3 cameras. The right and left cameras are triggered by turn signal input and the rear camera is triggered by the reverse light power lead. The installation is very quick and if the current cameras are Magnadyne, then the existing radio camera harness just plugs in. But no problem if the cameras are from another manufacturer, just use the supplied RCA adapters and wire as necessary.

The MA-CAM3 does not support audio as most aftermarket radios do not have this option. With the availability of the MA-CAM3 at only $59.99, numerous solutions have opened up for RV and utility vehicle headunit replacement.

Visit www.magnadyne.com for more.

Slamology 2021 Filled the Lucas Oil Raceway in Indy June 12th and 13th

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN (06.15.2021) – The Slamology automotive and mobile audio-heavy show filled Lucas Oil Raceway June 12th and 13th. The massive grounds were filled with vendor displays, sound-off competition lanes, auto and truck displays and a large main stage area. Slamology also featured RC Racing, a tattoo competition, hydraulic contest, big-rig show and of course a bikini contest on the very hot stage.

The Main Stage was just one of the action centers at Slamology 2021.

In its 18th year, Slamology is billed as a “family friendly, yet edgy” event put on by Donnie Babb, the show organizer and founder. In its third year of sponsorship, KICKER has frequently attended as a corporate brand.

Billed as one of the largest car-stereo competitions in the country, Slamology played host to competition organizations MECA and dB Drag Racing, which had multi-point competitions at the Raceway during the weekend. In the spirit of mobile-sound competition, KICKER was Livin’Loud as the official car-audio contest sponsor for Slamology 2021 and conducted a huge contest in which one lucky show attendee won special KICKER product.

It was 5 lanes of SPL Madness during the MECA competition at Slamology.

Both MECA and dB Drag Racing competitions occupied large areas on parking lots. MECA Commish Steve Stern relayed “Slamology this year was 5 lanes of SPL Madness. In addition we had 25 SQL competitors in the lanes. Slamology this year was definitely a record turn-out in the MECA lanes.”

The dB Drag Racing lanes and area were packed at Slamology. 183dB was a big number on the meter.

Celise Harris related for dB Drag Racing “We knew the competitors were anxious to get back in the lanes to compete but the turnout at Slamology was beyond our expectations. The dB Drag lanes were non-stop all day long and there were a few world records set with one competitor hitting over 183 dB! We thank the competitors and judges for a great day. It was very hot and at least 4 people had to be taken to the hospital Saturday for heat exhaustion.

A number of DS18 rides showed all We Like It Loud!

DS18 was one of the 12volt companies with a booth and demos at the event. Anthony Kimble, Tech Support Staff member, offered “Slamology was a great show for DS18. We had supporters from all over with extreme builds having fun with their vehicles…with several Jeeps. At DS18 ‘We Like It Loud’. This year we were Loud and Hot as there were record setting temperatures.”

Trauma Car Audio with Damian, Paul and Steve (L to R) did a ton of demos for the company’s new Bluetooth Amplifier.

Trauma Car Audio has hit the 12volt scene with a Bluetooth enabled amplifier. Slamology provided a venue for the company to introduce that new product to a large audience of enthusiasts. Damian Reyes, along with Steve Garone and Paul Castellano, were in the booth providing demos for attendees. The booth demo was very unique as people could hear music from their smartphones through a speaker system set up a table in the booth.

“This was a great weekend for Trauma Car Audio. We met tons of cool people and did lots of demos. We sold amps and got quite a few dealers interested in our new Bluetooth amplifiers.We offered a raffle for one of our amplifiers and Pierce Wentworth will be receiving a TCS-M80.4d. Slamology 2021 was definitely a very productive show for Trauma Car Audio.”

Watch for more from Slamology 2021 as there will be more from this very strong event.

Visit slamology.com for more.