KENWOOD Introduces 2 Motorcycle / Motorsports Communication Systems

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LONG BEACH, CA (01.27.2021) KENWOOD USA is now shipping two new products; the KCA-HX5M (MAP $329.95), a Motorcycle/Motorsports Bluetooth Communication System, and the KCA-HX7C (MAP $399.95) a Motorcycle/Motorsports 4K Camera & Bluetooth Communication System.

With its increasing presence in the world of motorsports, KENWOOD is now leveraging its Communications and Dash Cam DNA by offering motorsports helmet riders 2 unique experiences; advanced helmet-to-helmet rider communication and 4K camera recording with advanced helmet-to-helmet rider communication. 

The core function of the KCA-HX5M is to enable riders to seamlessly communicate with each other with crystal clear sound. It incorporates Bluetooth 4.1 technology to provide a powerful Mesh Intercom with a range of up to 1.2 miles, supporting up to 4 riders at a time, and can even connect with other popular brands of intercom systems like SENA. Additional intercom modes available include Open Mesh and Group Mesh. In Open Mesh mode, it can connect with a virtually unlimited number of riders, whereas Group Mesh mode allows for a closed group intercom function for up to 24 riders. Its Advanced Noise Control can also be enabled to reduce background noise during your intercom conversation. Bluetooth intercom talk time is rated at 13 hours, with Mesh intercom at 8 hours.

Other unique features include its ability to make and receive phone calls, FM radio and music listening, music sharing via Bluetooth, and voice command functionality. With its Audio Multitasking capability, riders can have an intercom conversation while simultaneously listening to music, FM radio, or hearing GPS turn-by-turn directions.

The KCA-HX5M consists of a water-resistant helmet-mounted main headset and clamp kit. The headset incorporates a Mesh Intercom, Bluetooth Antenna, Status LED, Jog Dial, and buttons for the Mesh Intercom and Phone. The clamp kit adds a Static Boom Microphone, 2 Speakers, MP3 and Earbud Ports, as well as Quick Release and Ambient mode buttons. A wired microphone and wired boom microphone are also included in the package, along with additional installation accessories. Both KENWOOD’s recommended helmet mounting hardware and optional glued surface mounting adapter parts are included for versatility and ease of installation.

The KCA-HX5M provides additional access and control with both a smartphone application and computer-based companion software. The MESH Utility for KENWOOD smartphone application is available on the Google Play Store and the iOS App Store, and provides access to device settings, user guides, and more. The Intercom Device Manager for KENWOOD PC or Apple software allows you to upgrade the firmware and configure its settings directly from your computer. It can be downloaded from http://www.kenwood.com/cs/ce.

The KCA-HX7C helmet-mounted camera system delivers a lightweight, compact, and aerodynamic alternative to action cameras or other bulky camera options.  It expands upon the KCA-HX5M’s primary feature set with the addition of a built-in 4K UHD (Ultra High Definition) camera that records at 30 FPS (Frames Per Second), and other slight feature variances, including 4-way intercom communication up to 1 mile away only, as opposed to the KCA-HX5M’s Mesh system for more than 4 riders. The camera features a 125-degree field of view and the lens can be rotated 30 degrees for optimal rider recording view. Smart Audio Mix is added, which allows recording of everything you hear through your speakers as well as your voice during video recording. Bluetooth intercom talk time is rated at 20 hours and video recording at 1.5 hours.

The KCA-HX7C shares the Intercom Device Manager for KENWOOD PC and Apple software for firmware upgrades and configuration settings, but utilizes two unique smartphone applications; the Intercom Utility for KENWOOD application allows you to configure the headset settings, while the Intercom Camera for KENWOOD application allows you to see a live preview from the camera, manage recorded videos, as well as configure the video settings using the built-in Wireless LAN feature of the camera system. When the camera and app are connected, the camera is synchronized with the smartphone’s date and time.  

“Be it a motorcycle, UTV, or other motorsports riding activity, it’s simply not as much fun to ride alone.” said Mike Roberts, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KENWOOD USA’s car electronics sector. “With these systems, riders can fully enjoy their riding experience together, knowing that they are receiving the ultimate in sound quality and performance.”

KCA-HX5M product page: https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kca-hx5m/

KCA-HX7C product page: https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/marine/kca-hx7c/

Visit www.kenwood.com/usa/car for more.

2021 SEMA Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.27.2021) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame at www.sema.org/hof

Established in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame recognizes people who have contributed a significant body of work to the industry over a long period of time and is the most prestigious award presented to an individual by the association. It is designed to honor the leaders, innovators, creators, and enthusiasts who transformed small, burgeoning businesses into an industry worth more than $46.2 billion annually.

To nominate an individual who epitomizes the essence of ingenuity in action, visit www.sema.org/hof before the deadline on Friday, March 19.

To see the complete list of SEMA Hall of Fame Members, click here.

To learn more about the SEMA Hall of Fame and for a list of inductees, contact Lindsay Bianco at lindsayb@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

Visit sema.org for more.

Cadence Winter Giveaway

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CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA (01.27.2021) – Cadence Sound stays connected with the audio community. The company understands that due to Covid-19, some customers have been affected financially. They decided to do several giveaways so that Cadence aficionados can still enjoy their passions without worry.

Their Winter Giveaway winner is Paul, in Los Angeles, CA. Paul won the biggest Cadence haul yet: A pair of Cadence XT60 Tweeters, a QR80.2 amp, and a pair of PXM6x4 mid range drivers.

“We are excited to see what kind of project Paul uses all of his new Cadence equipment for! The options are endless. To enter our next giveaway, make sure to follow us on Social Media so you can see when the next giveaway happens!”

Visit CadenceSound.com for more.

Alpine Electronics Introduces a New Digital Sound Processor

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.26.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. introduces the newest 12-Channel Advanced Wireless Digital Sound Processor (DSP) to their lineup with the PXE-0850X. This solution replaces the PXE-0850S with the next generation of upgraded technology that allows integration into factory systems.

“As factory systems continue to advance, Alpine provides solutions that will not only integrate into a factory system but help the discerning audio consumer build their ideal sound system,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.

OEM Integration
The PXE-0850X has 6 low and/or high-level inputs that can be mixed to create a full range signal that sends up to 12 independent channels for versatility in OEM and aftermarket system building. Eight of the 12 channels can utilize 25W of powered output to allow even more flexibility.

New and improved software matches the user interface (UI) of the PXE-X09 (introduced in 2020) and provides a cleaner layout that simplifies the mixer and tuning flow.

Tuning Tools
The processor can be tuned with the 31 Band Parametric or Graphic EQ for precise adjustments. Detailed high/low crossovers and expansive time correction can be made to each of the 12 channels. This allows the tuner to overcome acoustical abnormalities in the vehicle and set a proper sound stage for premium sound performance.

Tuning can be done wirelessly via Bluetooth from a smartphone or through a wired USB connection with a PC. By downloading the free PXE-0850X DSP app (available on the App Store or Google Play™), customers can get real-time tuning results and compare them with the “Before” and “After” effect. Tuning files can be saved directly to a smartphone, hard drive, or thumb drive for storage and shared via text message or email.

Music on Command
Access to some of the DSP’s features is presented in the included LCD controller, which can be flush-mounted on the dash for easy access. The rotary knob can quickly adjust volume, preset storage and recall, subwoofer level, and source selection with results displayed on the LED screen.

The PXE-0850X can also be used as a head unit or music source in older vehicles. The PXE-0850X can receive music sent directly from a smartphone with Bluetooth wireless streaming, so customers can listen to their playlists without replacing the factory head unit or adding an aftermarket head unit.

The PXE-0850X will ship in March 2021 at a MAP of $699.95 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.

The New DS18 Component Sets Bring Goosebumps

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MIAMI GARDENS, FL (01.20.2021) – DS18 has introduced an amazing line of component sets that are sure to leave all with goosebumps when they hear the full and rich sound from the DX3N.

The DX3N Gold line has been developed with the greatest care and over engineered to deliver the highest quality sound along with strength that will last ages.

This set comes with the DX3NW which is the 6.5 inch woofer, the DX3NT 1.18″ tweeter, 3.5 inch DX3NM midrange along with a passive three way crossover.

The woofer features a sturdy carbon fiber cone and beautiful machined basket with neo motor that will play clear, low end music 50hz and up to 12khz with a 4 ohm impedance.

To accompany that, the tweeter will fill the gap with crisp and clear highs so listeners have a complete range of frequencies and boost overall sound quality… also at 4 ohms.

To fill in the midrange the 3.5″ DX3NM brings out all the vocals with crystal clarity and force.

The final piece of this HQ SQ component set is the included 3 way passive crossover. This crossover accurately separates wattage and frequencies for the component set and will ensure long lasting and great sounding experiences. The TW ATT options give listeners a selection of 0DB, 2DB, and 4DB loudness options at 12db/oct.

To be sure, for those looking for a high sound quality experience the DS18 DX3N is in their best interest!

Click here to check out the DX3N product page.

Visit ds18.com for more.

Real Performance Marketing Adds John Gray to the Rep Firm Team

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BUFORD, GA (01.26.2021) – “Real Performance Marketing has added John Gray to the RPM team to work the DC, DE, MD, VA, WV, and Southern NJ areas. John brings with him 20 years of Mobile Electronics Industry experience plus a passion for Motorcycles which makes him a great fit for the team,” stated Scott Hochmuth, RPM Firm Principal.

John Gray

With the addition of John Gray and existing reps expanding into LA and KY RPM is now servicing dealers in 14 states with 18 lines in the Mobile Electronics, Powersports, and Marine Industries.

The Real Performance Marketing Rep Group brings over 190 years of combined experience to dealers in the states of AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, NC, SC, TN, VA and WVA representing some of the most prestigious brands in the industries.

RPM is an Atlanta based group of seven independent reps plus an office staff.

Visit www.realperformancemarketing.net for more.

The KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series 2021 Stops in Guthrie, OK

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GUTHRIE, OK (01.25.2021) – The Kicker AMA ArenaCross was Livin’ Loud at The Lazy E Arena on Friday and Saturday evenings January 22nd and 23rd.

A KICKER tent, showcasing the company’s wide selection of products for PowerSports, Marine, Automotive and LifeStyle was set up for enthusiasts to see on the Lazy E Arena floor. A KICKER RZR was positioned next to tent loaded with KICKER PowerSports products.

On Thursday work was underway to set the Lazy E Arena floor.
KICKER’s Monster General build put on a Livin’Loud show during the KICKER AMA ArenaCross opening ceremonies on Friday.

The Lazy E Arena features the world’s largest indoor rodeo arena. The arena floor is over 2 acres that was prepared with a tight track for the racers with areas for the racers to fly through the air.

While the racers showed their skills on the track the KICKER RZR was at the ready to show members of the crowd why KICKER is known around the world for “LivinLoud.”

KICKER’s latest Audio, Powersports, Marine and Lifestyle products-with Bullfrogs too-were displayed underneath the tent with a KICKER RZR set to show all why KICKER is known for Livin’Loud.
This shot from @arenacrossusa shows a rider catching big air in front of a packed house.

Lorin Morrell, maddog_media, was on site as a Brand Ambassador for KICKER. “Both days were filled with a lot of activity. On Saturday there was a really big crowd in the stands. The floor of the arena was set for riders to show their skills against the clock with amateurs running in the day. Top amateurs raced again in the evening followed by the pros. In light of COVID-19 mandates, with masks and social distancing in place, attendees in the stands were enthusiastic as they watched riders on the track fly and heard the bikes rev.”

KICKER, as a leading 12volt brand, participates in multiple national circuits to put their products in front a broad audience of consumers. 

The KICKER AMA ArenaCross continues on February 5th and 6th at the Reno Livestock Event Center in Reno, NV.

Visit kicker.com for more.   

New Dash Kits and Speaker Adapter from Metra Electronics

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HOLLY HILL, FL (01.25.2021) – Metra Electronics has a new speaker adapter for Mitsubishi and four new dash kits in stock and shipping, designed for 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee models, 2017-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage models, and the 2020 Toyota Highlander. In addition to creating dash kits for the standard ISO Single and Double-DIN radios, Metra is the only aftermarket dash kit manufacturer designing installation kits specific to the non-traditional radio sizes that have been hitting the market.

“There are many obstacles to overcome when designing installation kits for radios going into vehicles that have limited space. The new radio designs with less bulk provide Metra’s engineers with more freedom in creating a product to install a sleek looking screen into a dashboard that doesn’t have space for the larger footprint of the typical ISO Double-DIN radio that we’ve been designing for over the past 20 years. The new style radios are a major improvement to our industry and Metra is proud to be at the forefront of this trend with solutions to make installation seamless,” says Colin Ehrhardt of Metra Electronics. These new solutions make radio replacement easier and are designed to match the OEM look and feel of the dashboard.

The 107-CH5 for 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee models is textured to match the factory finish and designed specifically for Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the top of the screen. It is also compatible with Pioneer’s 6.8-inch modular receivers, like the DMH-C2500NEX, DMH-C2550NEX, and the new DMH-WC5700NEX. Installers should refer to the radio manufacturer for the most up to date information. This dash kit could also be used to mount a full-sized standard ISO Double-DIN radio but would require additional cutting and the vents below the radio would be lost.

Toyota Highlander Kits (Click below to play)

The 108-TO7HG fits the 2020 Toyota Highlander without the factory 12.3-inch screen and is painted gloss black. It is designed specifically for Pioneer’s 8-inch modular receivers like the DMH-C5500NEX and installers should refer to the radio manufacturer for the most up to date information.

95/99-7019 Kits (Click below to play)

The 95-7019 and 99-7019 dash kits are designed for 2017-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage and 2018-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 models. The 95-7019 is for a Double-DIN radio provision and the 99-7019 is for a Single-DIN radio with a pocket included. Both kits have high polished processing for a gloss plastic look that matches both the aftermarket radio and factory finish.

Metra has also just released a new speaker mounting adapter plate for 2007-2019 Mitsubishi models. The 82-7000 adapter is sold as a pair and has a versatile break-away tab design that allows for the installation of 6-inch or 6.75-inch aftermarket speakers. The adapter plate is designed for 2008-2017 Lancer, 2010-2014 Lancer Sport, 2014-2015 Mirage, and 2007-2019 Outlander models from Mitsubishi. The 82-7000 is now shipping and features a twist adapter design for installation with tabs for extra support if needed.

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

HKI USA Introduces New Territory Manager

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DANIA BEACH, FL (01.25.2021) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital Amplifiers, Ground Zero Car Audio, and Four Connect Wiring Products, is proud to announce another member to its family.

“Our company has been growing tremendously in the United States, and we are very happy to offer our dealers and partners even more support with the addition of Robert Reilly to the team,” explained Diogo Iannaccone, CEO of HKI USA. Robert will be taking over as the Territory Manager for the Northern California and Pacific Northwest Territories.

Territory Manager for the Northern California and Pacific Northwest Territories

In addition to handling sales and development within those territories, Robert is also brining his retail ownership, install, fabrication, SPL, and SQ+ knowledge to the table to help all of HKI’s dealers capitalize on the amazing lineup of products offered to them.

“I am excited to be a part of the HKI USA team. The wide range of skills and experience that our team now brings to the table has me inspired and looking to our future,” stated Robert Reilly. “The range and quality of products that Ground Zero and SounDigital offer is truly unique in the industry. I am looking forward to meeting with my dealers and doing my part to support them achieve their goals.”

For more information about our brand(s) and our growing family, visit hki-usa.com or e-mail info@hki-usa.com

Poptronics Wins Power Acoustik Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 112

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SHREVEPORT LA (01.23.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. Poptronics won a Power Acoustik prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, January 22nd.

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

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 112th time on Friday, January 22nd. The Wheel landed on the Power Acoustik space. The Poptronics 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 to Poptronics in Baltimore MD with the news. David Reamer was very happy to hear the news. They are a Power Acoustik dealer and are moving a lot of the company’s latest products.

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, 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 and Oscar’s Audio Designs in Corpus Christi TX.Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel will be on Friday, January 29th.