PowerBass Steps Up to Help 12V Retailers and Installers Make a Difference

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ONTARIO, CA (04.29.2020) – PowerBass recently entered the safer at home order as put in place by the California State and local government in an effort to keep our employees safe during this trying time in our world. During this time we began reaching out to our customers and checking in on thing across the country and we began to see many retailers and installers banding together to make shields for the essential healthcare workers to protect themselves on the front line when dealing with sick patients and the general public. This great initiative was started from the lack of supplies seen by this great group of people and began with nothing but an idea, the money in their own pockets, and the strong desire to help our nation. 

PowerBass wanted to do its part to help these great men and women on their journey as we learned of their plans to ramp up to large scale production the need for more materials was very apparent so we decided as a company that is was our duty to in turn step up to help our friends and partners in business achieve their goals. Early on in the progress we reached out to our friend Gary Bell and offered our assistance by means of a donation to help him and others that have joined in the group for producing these much needed face shields, a bit of help to gather the needed materials for production.

Gary Bell of Define Concepts stated “Erik reached out to see how PowerBass could be most effective in helping the 12v community. The timing was perfect as we were sourcing more material to help shops across the country. Many were having trouble sourcing the PETG material need for the face shield lenses. PowerBass’s donation was able to provide the material for over 650 lenses. These lenses covered important front-line faces across the country.”

We are extremely proud of the efforts of all evolved in this valiant project to help those healthcare workers remain safe while protecting our families and friends across the country and we know they have made a positive impact on the world from their efforts. 

Erik Harbour of PowerBass stated “PowerBass wanted to show its support by helping this great group of not only 12V retailers and installers but also people we are happy to call friends. We feel this program is a great thing and has already helped so many medical and other professionals in need during this strange time in our world and we are looking forward to seeing how many more they can help along this journey. The efforts of these great men and women truly show how we can all come together to overcome obstacles that we are all facing together and by supporting and lifting each other up, this is how we as a nation will endure. We wish them and the world all the best and hope everyone around the globe remains safe and healthy during this tough time.”

For more information on how you or your company can contribute please contact Gary Bell at FreeFaceShieldsSoCal@gmail.com

KICKER Now Shipping Auto-Tuning KEY Smart Amplifiers to Dealers

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STILLWATER, OK (04.29.2020) – One year ago KICKER engineers set the audio world on alert with its first auto-tuning, smart amp that literally repairs inferior factory or aftermarket audio.  This year KICKER introduced compact KEY amplifiers that improve both full-range and bass sound.  The KEY200.4 Smart 4-Channel Amp/Processor and the KEY500.1 Smart Mono Amp/Bass Revealer use AI-driven DSP (digital signal processing) to dramatically improve audio, and they are now shipping to Authorized KICKER Dealers nationwide, available for purchase online and in-store.

Built to improve the performance of door speakers and tweeters, the start/stop-compatible KEY200.4 four-channel amplifier comes with a microphone and integrated push-button remote. The remote is designed to start the automatic tuning and calibration process once amplifier installation is complete.

A simple press of the selector (attached to the microphone) sets the KEY’s test tones and proprietary algorithms in motion. The system detects each speakers’ size, applies a 24dB crossover and 40 channels of equalization, applies time alignment, and customizes the gain levels of each channel independently. The true potential of the vehicle’s full-range system is revealed in a matter of seconds, delivering dramatic improvements in realism and soundstage without the need for expensive external processors or professional tuning.

The KEY500.1 is a 500-watt subwoofer amplifier, built in the same compact footprint as its four-channel cousin but focusing on a single bass channel. Using KICKER’s supplied test tones downloadable from the company website, the KEY sub amp automatically analyzes the audio being fed directly into the amplifier. Once analyzed, the KEY500.1 automatically repairs peaks in that signal while revealing the low bass that is typically missing in mediocre systems. In a matter of moments, it reveals a clean, even bass response at all volume levels. The KEY500.1 comes with 24dB sub-sonic and low-pass crossovers, bass boost and gain controls, and matches perfectly with any KICKER subwoofer or loaded sub enclosure that’s 12 inches or smaller.

Both the KEY200.4 and KEY500.1 represent a completely revolutionary approach to achieving greatly improved sound quality in an affordable package that installs nearly anywhere, and works with even the most modern factory or aftermarket audio systems.  KICKER’s exclusive FIT2 (Fail-safe Integration Technology) allows KEY amps to work with nearly any radio.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Accent Mobile Highlights Specialty Vehicles

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SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (04.29.2020) – Accent Mobile, a division of Accele Electronics focused on solutions for Expeditors, Upfitters and Fleet Managers is pleased to introduce their latest products for Van Converters, Coach Builders, Upfitters and Fleet Managers. The lineup includes LED and Incandescent lighting solutions, HVAC system Air Vents and Control Panels to add functionality and complement the interiors of their customers vehicles and projects.

“Upfitters, Expeditors and Restylers now have a stylish option to add efficacy and supplemental functionality to their project vehicles including Limousines, Commercial Vans and RV’s”, stated Bob Goodman, Director of Channel Sales. Accent Mobile. Accent Mobile has solutions for any project requiring additional lighting, HVAC, or Control Panel implementation. LED, Incandescent lighting is available as single or dual Map Lights in various shapes and finishes and provides complete design flexibility.

Accent Mobile’s Custom Universal Air Vents are available in black or chrome and meet industry standard 2” or 2.5” configurations.

Finally, a stylish solution for controlling various functions in Limos, RV’s, Buses and Custom Vans. Our DLS6K is a 6 Button Relay Control Panel with OEM fit & finish. Each Button is backlit with indication of off and on by backlight color. Each Momentary touch button can easily be custom labeled with 20 provided square stickers. Installation is simplified with 3M adhesive and just a 2” hole necessary for passing the control cable.

As with all Accent Mobile products, these interior solutions are backed with a 3 year warranty. They are available for immediate shipment.

Visit accentmobile.net for more.

Advanced Custom Sound Shines in Warren, OH

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WARREN, OH (04.28.2020) – The Advanced Custom Sound makeover in Warren OH is nearly complete.

Following a fall 2019 fire Advanced Custom Sound owner Dan Nezbeth made the decision to find a new location and come back stronger than ever. That decision has become a reality in downtown Warren. The old 2-story Wilt Pontiac dealership building, built in 1940, has been transformed into the new stunning new Advanced Custom Sound store.

The new Advanced Custom Sound Store is in a building built in 1940 for a Pontiac car dealership.

Nezbeth related to 12volt News “I opened Advanced Custom Sound in 2005. Prior to that I had experience working in the 12volt industry. At this point 12volt is in my DNA. After the fire at the old store I made the decision to find a location and open a new store that would be a show place. After months of hard work moving walls, replacing the the floor and ceiling in the 2400 square foot showroom it was time finish to the job. Working with 5 Axis we created a concept to turn the first floor into a stunning showroom for 12volt and aftermarket products.”

The Advanced Custom Sound showroom is truly amazing.

End Result’s Ed Dalesandro has worked with Nezbeth for years representing several key lines to Advanced Custom Sound. Dalesandro stated “When Dan mentioned working to open a stunning new location we talked about his vision and commitment to making that happen. At that point I put him in contact with Jody Culbertson at 5 Axis Innovations that I represent in the territory.”

Product displays line this wall with striking LED displays graphics above.

Culbertson offered “From the beginning the idea of creating a showroom from basically scratch was exciting. Also, the showroom area was not just a basic rectangle. The angled walls provided cool display and merchandising opportunities. Dan sent a diagram of the space and we talked back and forth at length before coming up with the actual floor plan.”

Brand and category displays are featured on the showroom floor.

Working with Culbertson at Milwaukee based 5 Axis a showroom floor layout was finalized utilizing a number of freestanding displays for categories and highlighting brands. A striking sales counter and customer meeting area were key elements. The customer meeting area was actually constructed to hide a support beam. Stunning graphics and lighting were a key part of the showroom layout that brings the large showroom to life. One LED backlit graphic is 2’x46’ and positioned to follow walls just below the ceiling that is painted black.

High tech product displays provide opportunities to make A/B demos for customers.

The displays were fabricated at the 5 Axis facility in Milwaukee and shipped to Warren. Culbertson and Phil Plagge pulled a trailer with counters and more of the displays to Warren for the actual setup. Dalesandro worked along side Culbertson and Plagge for 3 days with Nezbeth and Jeanna Kennedy to set up the display. Family member Cory was also part of the crew.

The building, built for a car dealership has full windows facing the street and a huge garage area that has been sectioned as an installation bay with room for 12 vehicles. There are plans for the second floor to be outfitted as an area where locals and customers could relax and see images detailing the history of the Wilt Pontiac dealership.

The showroom at night grabs attention from the street.

Concluding, Culbertson stated “Everything turned out so well. The displays and signage will really engage customers. As a matter fact the last evening we were there a customer knocked on the door to let us know how great the showroom looked at night from the street.”

The crew doing the installation is pictured at the end of a long day. Jody Culbertson, Phil  Plagge, Ed Dalesandro, Jeanna Kennedy, Dan Nezbeth and Corey Nezbeth (L to R).

“My hats off to Dan. He saw the opportunity and committed to make it happen. He is a great dealer and we look forward to working together into the future.”

“There are still plans to finalize for reopening with all that is happening with the Coronavirus. When we do open the word about our new showroom will quickly to all in Warren and the surrounding area” Nezbeth commented.

Visit acsmotorsports.com and 5axisinnovations.com for more.

KICKER Marine Audio Adds ABYC- and USCG-Compliant Marine Power and Signal Accessories

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STILLWATER, OK (04.28.2020) – KICKER Marine Audio delivers a higher standard to its Marine Power and Signal Accessories, engineered by boat owners, for boat owners. A complete wiring solution, a new family of interconnects, power wire, fusing, power distribution and amplifier kits are all built to the highest standards in the marine industry, meeting or exceeding U.S. Coast Guard and ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) testing standards. They will be available at Authorized KICKER Marine Dealers in-store and online. Complete marine power kits retail from $129.95 to $199.95.

MARINE WIRE (retail range $99.95 [20 ft. 8 AWG] to $549.95 [50 ft. 1/0 AWG])

To ensure maximum power transfer and reliability, KICKER takes pure, full-spec OFC (oxygen-free copper) and tins it to prevent corrosion. Compliant with USCG and ABYC standards, the power cable features soft, flexible jacketing that makes installation easy, even when running cable around corners. The power and ground wire are offered in eight, four and 1/0 AWG. The speaker wire is 16 AWG.  A spool with 150 feet of combo speaker/RGB wire is also available.

MARINE INTERCONNECTS (retail range $19.95 to $49.95)

KICKER Marine interconnects feature split-pin connections and OFC wire for superior bass response and signal clarity. Specific to the marine line, the PVC jacketing is extended to completely cover the ground ring, providing a superior seal between the elements and your amplifier. All marine RCA cables feature an ultra-slim union for snag-free cable routing in tight places. It is offered in one, three, seven and 10-meter lengths, and a male-to-dual-female Y adapter is also available.

MARINE POWER DISTRIBUTION (retail range $19.95 to $79.95)

KICKER is the only 12-volt aftermarket brand to offer a power-distribution system that meets USCG and ABYC standards, therefore safe enough to be used in new boat construction. 

KICKER’s MRBF fuses also meet SAE-J1171 standards for ignition protection and are IP66 rated. Sizes ranging from 40 to 300 amps are available.

The RT series of easy-crimp ring terminals (available in eight, four and 1/0 AWG), KMFMF Master Fuse Holder, KMFDB3 Fused Distribution Block and KMDB3 Ground Distribution Block are all nickel-coated to prevent corrosion, and all meet the same stringent standards of the rest of the new marine accessory line.

The KMFMF is engineered to fit directly on a marine battery, while the power distribution block is designed to conveniently fit an MRBF fuse on each of the three threaded posts, with an RT ring terminal securely fastened to each.

Visit kicker.com/marine-audio for more.

Omega R&D Announces “Power-Training” Webinar Series

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DOUGLASVILLE, GA (04.28.2020) – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. is excited to announce a new live webinar training series on how to leverage Omega’s product line and take advantage today’s safety conscious culture shift. Dealer sales & installation staff will be taught the latest tips & innovations to leave no stone unturned. It’s time to maximize customer experience while maximizing dollars- per-car with high value add-ons and system performance techniques.

The training series will be offered in 30 minute bite-size segments at multiple times during the week to optimize our dealer’s valuable time and learning experience. Our training schedule is convenient for east and west coast dealers. Trainings will cover everything from how to use the latest remote start firmware features to selecting a product line philosophy that’s best for your shop culture and customer base. We’ll also be offering future trainings on telematics, maximizing online branding, vehicle integration, our full line of t-harness solutions, and much more over the coming months.

This is your chance to evolve and utilize culture shift to your advantage and leave your competition in the past. Each training will also have various giveaways for attending dealers! Home Depot/Lowes Digital Gift Cards, Free product, Omega swag, and more.

Check the schedule at www.OmegaRules.com/training to see upcoming topics, giveaways, and register!

KICKER Quietly Makes Community Contributions Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

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STILLWATER, OK (04.27.2020) – Stillwater Designs, the parent company of KICKER Audio, is actively supporting the regional community during the international Coronavirus pandemic.

While KICKER’s management team has sent employees home to work remotely and to care for families and kids, the organization has also flexed its resources and manpower to support regional health-services providers.

Kyle Ambrose assembles the 3-D printed headbands & shield.

KICKER, with support from several component suppliers, recently stepped up to the plate to offer 10,000 facemasks in support of community efforts to fight COVID-19. Believing that “charity begins at home,” 8,300 masks were donated to Stillwater (Okla.) Medical Center to accommodate hospital patients and the staff caring for them. 

Another 1,200 face masks have been sent to Hillcrest Medical Center, a 620-bed hospital in Tulsa, Okla., through a KICKER staff connection.

Another 500 masks were contributed to a group of New York City hospitals through KICKER brand and sports marketing director Roger Demaree, whose nephew is a surgeon currently working at a NYC hospital.

6-year-old Noah demonstrates the protection of the face shield.

Additionally, the company was pleased to offer a supply of clear face shields to area first-responders.

Besides distributing the vendor-supplied face masks, a 15-year KICKER team member and his family have also found a way to make a positive impact in the local community.

Kyle Ambrose, who works in research and development, began experimenting with the company’s 3-D printer, normally used for creating prototype parts. Ambrose consulted with a healthcare professional about local needs and learned that beyond face masks, face shields were in great demand. Ambrose subsequently researched and discovered approved patterns online and created a headband that could be used to secure a clear face shield. He reached out to Stillwater Christian School where his children are enrolled to inquire about the availability of clear safety film used for overhead projectors. He enlisted the school’s participation in donating needed materials and also secured additional film donations from Fenton Office Mart (Stillwater). 

While 3-D printing is a slow process, Ambrose is able to produce three bands simultaneously in under three hours. To date, he has hand-crafted over 100 shields which were initially slated for Stillwater Medical Center and then redirected on the hospital’s recommendation to the area’s senior-assisted living homes that were experiencing shortages. Ambrose personally delivered the shields to each home where they were gratefully received.

“We are pleased to be able to share our resources with our community,” says KICKER founder Steve Irby.  “Stillwater is our home and we appreciate the opportunity to support those who care for us.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Opus Marketing Group Working With All Together

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FALLSTON, MD (04.27.2020) – The Opus Marketing Group manufacturers rep firm is working closely with their dealer base throughout the Mid-Atlantic territory plus the state of Michigan.

Jamie White in the Opus Marketing HQ Office in Fallston, MD.

Opus Marketing Group Principal Jamie White offered “We are in the ‘customer service business,’ from the vendor to rep to dealer to consumer. During the COVID-19 the concept of customer service can and should be emphasized. Communication between all parties, especially during the COVID-19 national emergency, is vital to deliver that customer service.”

There are 7 members on the Opus Marketing Team, five are located in cities in the Mid-Atlantic territory and two in Michigan. Jamie White offices in Fallston MD. Three sales team members work from home offices across the Mid-Atlantic territory with Chuck Otatti in Eastern PA, Bruno Berg in Bear DE and Todd Ess in Forrest Hills MD. Judy Zega, Office Manager, works from Succasunna, NJ.

Geoff Dixon and Katie Carney cover the state of Michigan with Dixon working from Troy and Carney from Commerce Township.

“It goes without saying that this COVID-19 time is unprecedented. There are many local regulations regarding business hours, social distancing and stay at home orders. We all know our dealers want to get back to doing business. It’s great to see stores, like Sonic Sound VA in Arlington, redoing installation bays. In this down time others are remodeling showrooms, revamping displays, working on inventory and attending training seminars. We have heard of other retailers only coming in at night to work on jobs.  Communicating and working together is now more important than ever,” related.

Opus Marketing has an extensive lineup of vendors on the company’s line card including Kicker, Directed, SounDigital, Ground Zero, Focal America, Jensen, Dual, BrandMotion, Atrend, Dynamat, Design Engineering, Polk, Lucas Lighting, Wet Sounds, Waylens, Morel and DD Audio. Brands represented in Michigan include Kicker, Directed, SounDigital, Ground Zero, Focal and DD Audio.

For more visit opusmarketinggroup.com

Webinar from Metra Electronics for Axxess AXSWC

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HOLLY HILL, FL (04.27.2020) – Metra is doing everything they can to keep employees safe but also keep operations going so that they can continue to ship products on time but also continue to develop new products to support dealers. They hosted a live webinar last week (as a test) and had really great engagement, so they will be doing more of these.

The company’s next live webinar is on Tuesday, April 28. See details below:

Axxess AXSWC and AX Series Installation Webinar
Tuesday, April 28 at 3PM EST

https://youtu.be/SGfbP9TmPVI

Gatlin Sandhu from Metra Electronics will unbox the best-selling Steering Wheel Control Interface from Axxess, the AXSWC (formerly known as the ASWC-1), and discuss tips and tricks for installation. Gatlin will discuss this product, show the harness, do a stand-alone installation and a paired installation with the AX Series installation modules. He’ll talk in-depth about programming, updating and troubleshooting for the AXSWC. He’ll also discuss the Axxess AX Series of products that also use this same patented built-in technology for steering wheel control retention. 12volt installers can join the conversation in the live chat on Tuesday, April 28 at 3PM EST.

Here is info about last week’s webinar, which was a popular topic for dealers:

Axxess DSP X and Lite: Live Video Webinar with Q&A
Metra Electronics sales rep. Gatlin Sandhu discusses the Axxess AX-DSP-X and “Lite” Digital Signal Processors and answers questions from installers in a live video webinar, hosted by Metra Electronics. These DSP products featured patented technology with a built-in interface and so much more.

https://youtu.be/BPfCR3G8OPQ

Visit www.metraonline.com for more.

Memphis Audio Partners with Virtual Marketing Consultants to Cover MINK States

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MEMPHIS, TN (04.24.2020) – Memphis Audio is excited to announce big improvements in service for the M.I.N.K States (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas & Southern Illinois). Memphis has partnered with Jon Kluiter from Virtual Marketing Consultants (VMC). Jon is a long time Memphis Audio alumni with ties to the brand dating back over 20 years. Jon was a territory sales representative for Memphis from 1997 – 2006. Jon spent several years as a retail store owner and has been deeply involved in the Powersports and motorcycle industry for decades.

Jon Kluiter, Virtual Marketing Consultants (VMC)

VMC has enhanced its coverage capacity by contracting with Anthony Weinman, a successful Memphis Audio sales rep recently with CPS and EMA to continue to provide exceptional coverage to his territory. Anthony has been a representative of Memphis for several years and has a proven track record of sales growth and exceptional service. 

Anthony Weinman

Memphis has also established a new regional distribution partnership with Santa Fe Distributing to provide fast and efficient just in time inventory for the territory to make doing business with Memphis even easier. This partnership will not impact the margins, profitability and service dealers in the territory expect from Memphis. Santa Fe Distributing will increase the availability of products and service for dealers in the area.

Change always raises nerves, but these changes are Moving Memphis in the right direction. We are servicing this territory with two seasoned Memphis Reps who have proven themselves in the field to provide the best service and expertise possible in the territory. We are expanding our just in time capabilities for dealers who need product right away. We couldn’t be happier with the way things have worked out with these new partnerships and we are confident our dealers will see a tremendous benefit to their business in the immediate future. We are looking forward to retail stores getting the green light to open back up for business and show our dealers the benefits of these recent changes,” said Nick LoMonaco, president of Memphis Audio.

Jon Kluiter from VMC can be reached immediately for any business related questions at Jon Kluiter can be reached at 913-231-1714. Memphis Audio can be reached at 800-489-2300.

Visit www.memphiscaraudio.com and vmcpros.com for more.