Wet Sounds Announces 2020 Sales Awards

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LAS VEGAS, NV (03.26.2021) – Wet Sounds has announced the recipients of their 2020 Independent Rep of the Year and 2020 Direct Rep of the Year awards.

Scott Baughman, Principal of Reliable Product Marketing (RPM), has been selected as the Wet Sounds 2020 Independent Rep of the Year. Baughman, who is based in Stockton, California, has shown true commitment to Wet Sounds that has resonated for over 10 years.

Scott Baughman

“Scott’s attention to detail, product knowledge, and leadership skills have proven to be valuable assets to Wet Sounds and his dealers,” stated Richard Prieto, Wet Sounds Regional Sales Manager.

Baughman persevered through a challenging year to truly excel, especially with the acquisition of the new dealers.

Mike Cullers has been selected as the Wet Sounds 2020 Direct Rep of the Year. Cullers joined Wet Sounds as a Territory Sales Manager in October 2019 and has made an immediate, lasting impact.

Mike Cullers

“Mike is a leader in sales, while focusing on building and nurturing dealer relationships,” commented Ray Woodall, Wet Sounds National Sales Manager..

Cullers has developed a reputation of quality service and technical knowledge regarding application and installation and he is continuing this momentum into 2021 and beyond.

Wet Sounds continues its strong sales growth into 2021 across the United States and multiple international territories.

“Wet Sounds remains focused and dedicated to deliver a clear, loud, and live audio experience for consumers who want the best solutions in the most demanding environments,” stated J.R. Stocks, Wet Sounds CEO. “The recent launch of our Venue Series to the outdoor home market confirms our mission to extend the Wet Sounds experience beyond the marine and powersports markets.”

Visit wetsounds.com for more.

Tint World Partners with Official Jeep Sound Systems Vendor DS18

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BOCA RATON, FL (03.25.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced its partnership with DS18. As part of the collaboration, Tint World will serve as an authorized seller and installer of all DS18 products.

“We’re always excited to be able to offer our customers the top automotive electronic products on the market,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “Partnering with DS18 lets our customer have access to top-end car audio products, and we can’t wait to see how they enjoy them.”

DS18 is the official Jeep sound systems vendor. The Miami-based company specializes in mobile, marine and home electronic equipment. DS18 offers several products including amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, tweeters, component sets and a multitude of other audio accessories.

“We want to be able to reach an audience that enjoys the nuances of a great sound product as we do,” said Sasha Susterman, CEO of DS18. “Joining Tint World’s extensive franchise network will allow us to expand our reach and continue to show why we are an industry leader.”

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more.

Visit ds18.com and tintworld.com for more.

Nakamichi Receives Seven Entries in Annual Car Audio Buyers Guide

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MIAMI, FL (03.25.2021) – The 11th Annual PASMAG Car Audio & Technology issue hit the streets earlier this month. The issue includes individual Buyers Guides for five car electronics categories.

In the coveted head unit category, models were featured from Alpine, Jensen, JVC, Kenwood, Nakamichi, Pioneer and Sony.

“We are very pleased to be included with such good company”, stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager, for Nakamichi. Continuing McNeal commented, “Since Nakamichi’s U.S. relaunch in 2019 the brand has been carefully building a network of traditional 12volt retailers and distributors. One of the cornerstones fueling the successful relaunch is the enforcement of the brand’s MAP program.”

PASMAG is the only major consumer magazine that is focused on both mobile electronics and performance products. The print edition is distributed throughout the USA and Canada and publication can be viewed digitally as well.

For more information visit PASMAG.com or NakamichiCarAudio.com

Nakamichi received 7 entries in the PASMAG 2021 Car Audio & Technology Buyers Guide

  • NA3605-Double DIN CarPlay Receiver
  • NQ721BE-DIN Digital Media Receiver
  • NQ911B-DIN DVD Receiver
  • N60t-Audiophile Six Channel Tube Amplifier
  • NGXA120.4-Four Channel A/B Amplifier
  • NDS6120-Digital Signal Processor
  • NS6Q3-Audiophile Component System

On Newsstands Now

Saddle Tramp Ships New RGB LED Lighting Kit for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

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HOLLY HILL, FL (03.25.2021) – Saddle Tramp by Metra Electronics is now shipping a new plug-n-play RGB lighting kit designed for 1996-up* Harley-Davidson Touring models. The BC-RGB-K1 is a 12-piece kit that can be controlled via the Metra RGB smart device app for 16 million different color options, preset lighting transitions and flash patterns, the ability to flash the lights to music, and more.

Saddle Tramp’s new kit is pre-wired with trigger controls so installers can customize it to light up with the brake and turn signals, providing extra visibility for riders. The easy-to-install kit includes 12 pre-wired LED strips for the headlight trim, front fender, crash bar, gas tank, back engine, saddlebags, and Tour Pak. Metra has engineered the BC-RGB-K1 with water-tight connectors and OE plugs for a fast installation that will withstand the elements of the open road.

A video explaining this product that was first introduced at SEMA360 is also available below:

The 5050 RGB lighting strips have 3M adhesive backing with prep materials included. Metra Electronics provides a 1-year warranty on the LED strips and RGB controller. A video outlining the product features and installation tips is available from the Metra YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/VtmBrj0-feE. A 6-piece version of this lighting kit, the BC-RGB-K2, will be available soon from Saddle Tramp.


Product Specifications

  • Designed for 1996-up* Harley-Davidson Touring models with Tour Pak
  • 12-piece kit is completely plug-n-play with OE style connections
  • Water-tight connectors to withstand the elements
  • 5050 RGB LED strips with black base and 3M adhesive backing
  • RGB controller included
  • Lights controlled via the Metra RGB smart device app for 16 million different color options, preset lighting transitions and flash patterns, the ability to flash the lights to music, and more
  • Ability to turn lights on/off with an optional hard-wired switch, even when the ignition is off
  • Pre-wired trigger controls for brake and turn signal activation to add extra visibility for riders
  • Pre-wired LED strips for headlight trim, front fender, crash bar, gas tank, back engine, saddlebags, and Tour Pak
  • 1-year warranty on LED strips and RGB controller
  • Installation level: Easy
  • Kit Includes:
    • 12 RGB LED strips with adhesive backing
    • RGB controller
    • Plug-n-play rear lighting T-harnesses
    • 1996-2013 Harley-Davidson 8-pin OE plug
    • 2010-2013 Harley-Davidson 6-pin OE plug
    • 2014-up* Harley-Davidson 6-pin OE plug
    • Independent on/off switch that can turn lights on with the ignition off
    • Alcohol prep pads, adhesive promoter, and zip ties

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

KICKER Awards Car Toys as Multi-Location Dealer-of-the-Year

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STILLWATER, OK (03.24.2021) – To give credit to one of the hardest working teams in the 12-volt category, KICKER has honored retailer Car Toys with the Multi-Location Dealer-of-the-Year award. Based in Seattle, the 48-store chain has locations in Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Texas. KICKER recognizes Car Toys to be an outstanding partner through a challenging 2020, and into 2021.

JQ Quesada, Senior Merchandising Manager for Car Toys

“Car Toys did an extraordinary job overcoming the hurdles of 2020,” said Tracy Focht, KICKER’s Western Regional Sales Manager. “Car Toys explored new inventory options last year, allowing [it] to keep up with rigorous demand. [It] has consistently shown a willingness to try new gear that fits customer’s needs.”

A long-standing partner with KICKER, Car Toys expanded its 2020 commitment to the brand by bringing in several sizes of wiring kits and loaded enclosures. Focht received ample feedback from the Car Toys install team, resonating how pleased its customers were with the product.

“Car Toys appreciated the convenience and performance of an enclosure that was made specifically for the subwoofer it is loaded with, and tuned for peak output,” Focht continued. “Their dedication is doing – and getting – the best for their clients. We’re going to continue to grow with them.”

Visit cartoys.com and kicker.com for more.

In other West-Coast dealer news, KICKER sales representative Dana Doyle (Weser Sales, Folsom, Calif.) presented Rick Khan of West Coast Car Stereo (Citrus Heights, Calif.) and Stereo City Pros (Fair Oaks, Calif.) with the Northern California Dealer-of-the-Year award. Michael Topalian (Audio Outlet) and Sarkis Topalian (559 Car Audio and Alarm) won Most Improved Dealer awards, and John Tatro (Sierra Select Distributors) won the Distributor-of-the-Year.

Design Engineering Announces New Universal Upholstery Material

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AVON LAKE, OH (03.24.2021) – DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material (# 50028) is constructed from black, perforated vinyl and laminated on an open-cell, 1/8″ foam backing. Extremely lightweight and flexible for easy installation, the material can be used to reduce heat and noise while providing an attractive finished appearance, making it an ideal solution for any custom interior project.

“This Universal Upholstery Material is perfect for headliners, door panels or package trays,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material has your whole interior covered.”

The Universal Upholstery Material features a high-quality, leather-look pattern texture, a sound-insulating foam backing and an attractive black finish. It comes in a versatile 54″ x 79″ sheet size that reduces the number of seams on larger projects. DEI’s Hi Temp Spray Adhesive (# 010490 or # 10490) is recommended for installation of DEI’s Universal Upholstery Material.

For more information about the new Universal Upholstery Material and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

BB Distribution Earned PowerBass Outstanding Sales Achievement Award

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ONTARIO, CA (03.23.2021) – PowerBass presented BB Distribution with an Outside Sales Achievement Award, for reaching outstanding goals for 2020.

Pictured (L to R) Geoff Theoret, Alvin Dixon, Justin Bond, Dave Berry and Jaren Hjelmeland. Dixon and Berry are the owners of the company.

“We are excited to see how much growth is going on in Canada with our partner BB Distribution, otherwise known as PowerBass Canada. We look forward to a strong 2021 and thank everyone for their support of PowerBass in Canada. Working with the BB Staff is great as the guys get audio and enjoy selling it and talking about it with all of their customers. They put the customer first and go over and above to satisfy their needs on the retail floor. This has enabled BB to grow the brand by leaps and bounds!” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP of Product Development & Global Marketing stated.

BB Distribution participated in the CMA Industry Week, a virtual platform that showcased the PowerBass brand to dealers across Canada.

BB Distribution has locations in Edmonton Alberta and Oak Valley Ontario.

Visit bbdistribution.ca and powerbassusa.com for more.

Zorg North America Releases Plug and Play Automatic Trailer Camera Systems That Display on OEM Screen

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RALEIGH, NC (03.23.2021) – Zorg North America has introduced a complete line of easy-to-install, plug-and-play trailer camera systems that automatically change the camera view from the tailgate to the rear of the trailer when towing.

Chris Luft pictured with a Zorg North America Trailer Connect Kit ready to make the installation.

“The Zorg North America team has designed custom kits for most Pickup trucks from 2015-2021 model years. The kits include a T-Harness that connects to the OEM tailgate camera harness under the truck, an IP69 rated waterproof switcher, a trailer connect kit with all parts required for both the trailer and the tow vehicle. The trailer side comes with either a white or black IR assisted, color, heavy-duty camera, 10-meter extension cable, and trailer side connector and bracket. The system provides all camera power, so no other connection on the trailer is required,” Cris Luft, Zorg NA GM stated.

After installation, the camera will automatically show on the OEM radio monitor anytime the trailer is connected, and the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. The installation does not require any cutting or modifications to the vehicle wiring.  Zorg will be releasing a similar system with a toggle switch for applications where customers have special application needs.

Zorg is now shipping kits for Ford (F-150, Superduty, and Ranger), GM, GMC, Ram, and Toyota Tacoma.

Note the system is not compatible with vehicles that have an OEM 360 view or LVDS type camera.

For more info, email contact@zorg-na.com or visit www.zorg-na.com.

Accele Electronics “Makes It Loud & Clear”

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SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (03.23.2021) –  Accele Electronics has the perfect solution for those noisy vehicle environments where clear communication is critical to job performance and safe operation. The CSA30 is a compact Communications Speaker with a built-in amplifier rated at 30 Watts enabling loud and clear radio communication even under the most challenging conditions. Volume can be easily adjusted with a large gain control conveniently located on top of the speaker.

The amplified speaker’s frequency response is optimized for voice to ensure clear audio when used with Ham Radios, CB Radios, Two Way Radios, Scanners, Navigation Systems etc. The CSA30’s 3.5 mm plug makes it a good solution for Smartphones, Tablets and even Laptops when used in noisy vehicles. Law Enforcement, Construction Vehicles and Ambulances are all potential customers for the CSA30.

The CSA30 includes a 2 foot long power cable and a 2 foot long 3.5 mm mono plug for an easy secure connection. This compact speaker has a swivel bracket for mounting flexibility and is housed in rugged ABS plastic.

“Loud & Clear” is no longer just an expression, it’s a reality.

The CSA30 is available now, MSRP is $59.95, Please contact your Accele Sales Representative. Visit www.accele.com for more.

“We Like It Loud” at ECB Educational K8 Center

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WEST PARK, FL (03.22.2021) – Thieves broke into the ECB Educational K8 Center in Broward County on March 17th and made off with flatscreen TVs, electronics and more that the children used daily. Principal Eboni Burts and the students were devastated. The school is a faith-based Christian school and many of the items stolen were used by the students in the class setting each school.

Principal Eboni Burts is excited to receive the big stack of items from Rob Ferro.

Rob Ferro, MR DS18, saw the news story on Local 10 News. “As soon as I saw the segment on the news I wanted to see how at DS18 we could help. I got in touch with Principal Burts and she gave me all the details about the burglary. I knew we had products like the Zumba Loud and other products and things that would help the school. We got together at the office and made plans to make a delivery to the school and relayed that to Principal Burts” Ferro stated.

Rob Ferro being interviewed by the Local 10 News crew with Janine Stanwood.

The school is not far from the DS18 HQ in Miami Gardens, FL.

“When we arrived with a pickup full of items for the school, that included speakers, games and toys, I was surprised to see the crew from Local 10 News at the school. Principal Burts told the station we were delivering items for the school and they wanted to report that on the news” Ferro continued.

Rob Ferro setting up a Zumba Loud speaker, in the class area, that features a smartphone Bluetooth media source and LED lighting that pulses to the music signal.

Once Ferro arrived Principal Burts came out with the students as Ferro unloaded the DS18 Pickup. Janine Stanwood, reporter with Local 10 News crew, filmed everything. The items were then taken into the classroom area where Ferro setup the Zumba loud speakers and showed all how to operate the speakers that include LED lighting.

Principal Eboni Burts happily shows one of the toys to some of the students.

Concluding Ferro offered “It was so great to see the big smiles on everyones the face. Providing these gifts to the school was also very rewarding for all at DS18. The segment aired a couple times on Local 10 News which was very heartwarming to see. The visibility for DS18 of this good samaritan effort was a real bonus for DS18.”

For more see DS18.com