MIAMI GARDENS, FL (02.10.2021) – Enthusiasts can take complete control of their audio system with DS18’s new line of Digital Sound Processors! Now the user can control every aspect of their audio system with ease with precise filtering settings. The DSP6iA gives users many highways on which they can fine tune their audio… from the company that says “We Like It Loud.”
This DSP comes with a builtin amplifier which yields 70 watts RMS per 6 channels @4ohms. Channels 5/6 can be bridged for a subwoofer that will deliver 240watts RMS@4 ohms bridged.
The DSP6iA can be hooked up directly to a PC (not mac compatible) or laptop for a multitude of tuning options that are just a few mouse clicks away. Also included is an easy to use wired controller that acts as an interface for song switching, volume, and saved presets. This unit has an included BT receiver so users do not even need a head unit. Users can stream directly from their smartphone which makes the versatility of this DSP immeasurable.
The software is downloaded at ds18.tools and does not require a high learning curve to master. Each input can be adjusted and summed. Users can save their options and multiple presets for 6 channels, @6db/octave to 48db/octave, and visualization for their actual and simulated EQ curve.
RINGWOOD, IL (02.10.2021) – Race Sport Lighting is excited to announce the launch of their new all-in-one DRIVE SERIES V2 CANBUS LED Headlight Kits, that has a MAX LUX light output of 2,500lx per bulb, or 5,000lx per kit. Designed for the ultimate professional installation experience for tech bays across North America, the Drive Series V2 kit has all the solutions to interface with today’s vehicle technology.
This high-performance LED kit is yet another product from Race Sport ushering in the latest and greatest vehicle technology in headlight and fog light upgrades. The kit comes with two high-output, OEM sized DRIVE Series V2 LED bulbs and two of their top selling CANBUS decoders packaged together in an attractive, compact retail box.
“We are excited to launch the DRIVE Series V2 CANBUS LED kit and position it as our premium grade product in the marketplace. Dealers have been asking for a premium grade product that has the LUX output and unique niche features of our previous GEN3 and GEN4 custom designed high-power headlights, but is more OEM compact for fitment and includes our CANBUS decoders. As always, we listened to the dealers, and went to work and delivered as promised. It’s going to be an extremely popular series for Race Sport Lighting this year.” – Steve Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting
“I am excited for RSL dealers around North America to start selling and installing this product. It performed at the highest performance levels in our test lab and is passing with flying colors in our on-road testing. My favorite feature of this product is that each bulb base was designed to be sized to the halogen bulbs it replaces, which makes for an easy bulb replacement experience for the installer without the need for fans, large heat sinks, or other older heat dissipation methods hanging off the back of the bulb.” – Mac Garcia, Installation & Tech Support, Race Sport Lighting
DRIVE Series V2 LED CANBUS Conversion kits are in stock and shipping now out of their warehouse. All distributors and dealers are encouraged to get this new technology in stock and experience what the excitement is about.
HOLLY HILL, FL (02.09.2021) – Metra Electronics is now shipping a fully integrated dash kit package that interfaces with a variety of Pioneer’s in-dash receivers. The first product of this new series, the AXPIO-JL1, is designed specifically for 2018-up Jeep Wrangler JL models and works in both single and dual-zone vehicles. This solution features an Axxess AXPIO Series interface, vehicle specific harnessing, a direct OE replacement camera, built-in STOP/START engine override interface, USB/AUX/HDMI replacement panel, radio antenna adaptor, and a dash kit in one complete package. The AXPIO-JL1 is designed specifically for Pioneer’s Double-DIN 6.8-inch in-dash multimedia receivers, the DMH-W4660NEX, DMH-W4600NEX, and the new DMH-WC5700NEX**. This kit will also work with Pioneer 9-inch receivers, the modular solutions DMH-WC6600NEX and the floating type DMH-WT7600NEX, as well as the floating type 10-inch receiver, the DMH-WT8600NEX, with the additional purchase of the Metra 109-UN02 floating mount kit**.
The AXPIO-JL1 will allow Pioneer’s in-dash receivers to fit in the shallow space within the Jeep dashboard while still retaining important vehicle functions. The included Axxess interface with plug-n-play harnessing allows vehicle information and settings that were controlled on the factory screen to be retained, displayed and controlled on the Pioneer touchscreen. This solution will retain and control most of the settings that would otherwise be lost after replacing the head unit, including HVAC controls and gauges, heated/cooled seats, and other driver personalization options.
Since the factory LVDS backup camera will no longer work, Metra has included an IP68 rated iBEAM backup camera as a high-quality, direct OE replacement. A replacement panel for the USB, AUX, and HDMI ports is also included with 3-feet of wiring, along with a radio antenna adaptor for GPS. For even more value, Axxess’s patented STOP/START engine override interface is built-into the interface, which is designed to disengage the STOP/START feature of the vehicle and keep that feature disengaged even after the key has been cycled.
The built-in integration technology from Axxess also retains safety chimes through an offboard speaker, retains audio controls on the steering wheel, retains R.A.P. (Retained Accessory Power), and provides accessory power (12-volt 10-amp) and NAV outputs for parking brake, reverse, and speed sense. As new vehicle technology has evolved, the factory head unit now goes beyond displaying just the car audio settings, presenting a challenge for installers who are replacing the factory radio with an aftermarket receiver. Losing the ability to display vehicle settings on the screen is not only an inconvenience for many drivers but may prevent them from upgrading their audio system altogether. With Metra’s new solution, installers can now offer a fully integrated package that will fit and function like the factory head unit.
“This new integration with Pioneer’s products is a first for Metra Electronics and our Axxess integration line,” says Jason Anderson, VP of Product Research and Development for Metra’s 12volt brands. “As vehicle technology changes each year to make car audio upgrades more challenging, our solutions will evolve to help installers continue to offer OEM-quality upgrades for their customers,” he added.
A video showcasing this new product is available at https://youtu.be/_q6HOzewoR4 (see above) from Metra’s YouTube channel. The AXPIO-JL1 is in stock now and Metra will release additional integration packages from the Axxess AXPIO Series in the near future that will cover even more vehicle applications.
TORONTO, ON (02.09.2021) – The Canadian 12-volt electronics industry has come together to create an innovative, immersive and entertaining solution to help distributors and manufacturers connect with dealers during the traditional spring season. A multi-day showcase slated for March 22nd to April 1st, 2021, CMA Industry Week will be an organized, industry-wide, professionally produced, online LIVE broadcast.
The schedule will feature in-depth interviews, training sessions, keynote speakers, product unveilings and much more. The inaugural CMA Industry Week will provide a bilingual (English & French) platform to centralize key messages and information, delivered in an enhanced “Infotainment” package anchored by the CMA brand experience.
“I think what we have accomplished over the last few months is understanding the pulse of the market and more importantly, captured the attention of our target audience. Our brand of “infotainment” has struck a chord with the 12-volt retailer.” states CMA president, Frank Spezzano. “Our unique platform has allowed us to connect manufacturers, distributors, retailers and audiophile enthusiasts as part of a united community.”
Access to CMA Industry Week will be completely FREE for all retailers and industry professionals. The unique content produced will be available to view “live” on a published schedule, while offering on-demand features up to 2 months after the event has concluded. Expect to see participation from all the major distributors and manufacturers in this inclusive and collaborative effort to help support the Canadian 12-volt retailer network.
Details and a list of confirmed brands and presenters will be unveiled over the coming weeks. Make sure to stay informed by following the CMA social media platforms or by visiting CanadianMobileAudio.com/ IndustryWeek
SEATTLE, WA (02.09.2021) – AudioControl has introduced two new high-power 5-channel amplifiers capable of driving the front, rear and subwoofer channels of a complete premium audio system solution. Having all five channels housed within a single chassis enhances installation efficiency, providing 12-volt specialists with solutions that deliver the features and performance consumers demand.
AudioControl’s new 5-channel amplifiers offer 200 Watts RMS X4 @ 2-Ohm (100 Watts X4-channels RMS @ 4-Ohm) and 500 watts X1-channel at 2-Ohm along with eight speaker level inputs with selectable summing capability. The D-5.1300 delivers onboard DSP control of all amplified outputs and a pair of low-level outputs as well. The DSP interface is managed by the highly intuitive DM Smart App designed for all of AudioControl’s DSP amplifiers. The LC-5.1300 offers the same outstanding specifications and performance without the DSP features. The AudioControl D-5.1300 has a selling price of $1,099. The LC-5.1300 has a selling price of $799.
Matthew Palumbo, National Trainer & Sales Specialist AudioControl commented, “The new AudioControl LC-5.1300 offers fantastic performance and value for both dealers and enthusiasts. With its high-power output, the majority of system designs can be easily accommodated, all from a clean, simple, single-amp solution. The input section of the LC-5.1300 is unique and highly flexible, making this amp ideal for any system—with an OEM or aftermarket head unit as well as with a basic or premium factory sound system. Discerning consumers want an ultimate performance, high power 5-channel amplifier, and we are confident that the AudioControl LC-5.1300 will be the new go-to solution for our dealers.”
“Our new 5-channel amplifiers offer outstanding performance for many system applications, all from a sleek, single-chassis solution,” stated Chris Bennett, Director of Mobile Audio at AudioControl. “The flexible input stage accommodates the growing OEM integration market, and DSP on the D5.1300 enables 12-volt specialists to perfectly tune each system to match the preferences of individual clients. These amplifiers represent an important opportunity for our dealers.”
AudioControl LC Series 5-channel amplifiers are available now
AudioControl D Series 5-channel amplifiers will begin shipping mid-February, 2021
LONG BEACH, CA (02.08.2021) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is announcing the launch of its USA Dealer Support Facebook Group. The group can be found by searching for “JVC Mobile Entertainment USA Dealer Support” on Facebook.
“With the rising demand for interactive product support groups, we have chosen to officially provide that environment via Facebook,” stated Ron Trout, JVC Mobile Entertainment’s Director of Sales. “We want this to be a fun environment with a meaningful purpose, providing a place for dealers to share information and gain valuable insights.”
The group was created with the primary intent of providing a place for members to share valuable information and offer tech support to each other. It is a place that will allow dealers to have contact with both their peers and employees of JVC, creating an open environment of learning and camaraderie.
JVC will also encourage the sharing of ideas for future products and ask for constructive product feedback. New product information, upcoming trainings, tech tips, and more will be provided in the group, which is ultimately an extension of its dealer on-demand resource site JVC DRIVE (jvcdrive.us.jvckenwood.com). JVC DRIVE originally launched in 2019 as a private dealer learning management system and resource site, providing instant access to new product information, trainings, videos, tech papers, marketing assets, and more.
To gain admittance, authorized JVC dealer’s employees must answer specific questions, of which will be reviewed by the admin team. This will help to ensure that the admin team can devote their time in prioritizing help to authorized JVC dealers.
STILLWATER, OK (02.08.2021) – KICKER has begun shipping its CompR Loaded Enclosures, which deliver enhanced reliability and a sleek, blacked-out look housed in a trio of rugged, dual- and single-woofer enclosures. The enclosures are available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live show in October, CompR Loaded Enclosures will retail from $279.95 – $429.95. CompR Loaded Enclosures are also available at www.kicker.com.
48DCWR12 12-inch dual
New-for-2021, the CompR subwoofer housed in the Loaded Enclosure features an innovative “Forced-Air Cooling” system that uses the woofer’s own cone movement to route more air through the CompR’s motor, forcing unwanted heat out of vents built into the backplate and allowing the sub to run 25 percent cooler than previous versions. Users get the bass they love, the sleek look, and the reliability expected.
48DCWR10 10-inch dual
The subwoofer also features the SoloKon cone system, defined by a signature red, double-stitched surround and all-polypropylene woofer cone. The CompR is engineered to maintain a superior level of volume and musical accuracy, while delivering reliable performance everyone can enjoy.
48VCWR12 12-inch single
A single 12-inch enclosure is perfect solution when space limitations exist, while the 10- and 12-inch dual enclosures offer a pair of boisterous CompR woofers in a stout MDF box. The enclosure itself features rounded corners and heavy internal bracing for additional strength, and a front-facing port for the loudest possible bass. All enclosures are covered in plush, black carpeting with an embroidered KICKER logo.
SHREVEPORT LA (02.06.21) WTF…Win This Friday. AngelVIP 2474 won the 12volt $100. prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, February 5th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Two months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 114th time on Friday morning February 5th. The Wheel landed on the 12volt News space. The AngelVIP2474 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 have reached out to the Draper UT retailer.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, the 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, Design Engineering, Power Acoustik, JVC, ZZ-2 and Sketch My Ride. 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 and Sanford Sound in Sanford ME. Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel will be on Friday, February 12th.
LONG BEACH, CA (02.05.2021) – The Industry School announced that AAMP Global, headquartered in Clearwater, FL, will be the first major supplier to host its training and education with The Industry School. AAMP will join The Industry School as a Premier Partner and offer training courses for the mobile electronics industry across six branded training rooms.
AAMP will open four training rooms dedicated to its four major brands: PAC, Stinger, Phoenix Gold and EchoMaster. A fifth training room will focus on different technology solutions, while the sixth is reserved for private retail training. In addition, AAMP will host its Zoom training within The Industry School platform.
“Training has been a cornerstone of our existence since AAMP was founded,” said Jeff Smith, director of training and events for AAMP. “Today we conduct training on multiple levels, from trade shows to product videos, from individual retailers to big-box chains. In researching different LMS (Learning Management System) solutions, we found that The Industry School represents the perfect balance of next-generation learning with a framework built specifically for our industry. We are excited to launch this partnership to showcase our new technology and be an integral part of evolving education in our industry.”
The Industry School is the first industrywide e-learning platform dedicated to the mobile electronics industry. Its objective is to be an always-available training destination for retail, sales and installation professionals. In addition, it will serve as a peer-based educational hub in which users can interact and share information.
“We are excited to welcome AAMP as the first partner in our efforts to create a home for training and education in our industry,” said Solomon Daniels, director of operations for The Industry School. “AAMP’s success is due in no small part to its prioritization of training, and we are committed to expanding on that initiative for AAMP and its retail dealers.”
AAMP plans to open its training rooms in time for The Industry School’s opening date of March 1. The Industry School is currently conducting one-on-one and weekly virtual tours for industry manufacturers via Zoom.
The day you’ve been waiting for is finally here. The 2020 “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special will air on A+E Networks’ History Channel this Sunday, February 7, at 9:00 a.m. (EST). Now in its seventh year, more than 1,000 builders have competed in the annual event.
The one-hour program highlights skilled builders who are vying for the industry’s ultimate accolade—the Battle of the Builders Top Builder Trophy. Beginning with more than 300 entries, the Top 40 vehicles are chosen from four distinct categories—Hot Rod, Import/Sport Compact, Truck/Off-Road, and Young Guns—and go head-to-head in a battle for top build.
But before that, there are still three more past episodes that you can catch this week during the SEMA: Battle of the Builders Marathon. Point your browser to the SEMA Show YouTube channel where you can set a reminder to watch the next SEMA Battle of the Builders competition each night at 6:00 p.m. (PST). Join Adrienne “AJ” Janic as she gives an exclusive look at past competitions. Other special guests will also make an appearance throughout the night. Join in the conversation, learn some interesting facts and maybe you’ll get the opportunity to chat with a SEMA builder.