Expand Your Polaris RZR Pro XP Ultimate Ride Command Audio System with New Speaker Pods from SSV Works

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OXNARD, CA (10.29.2019) – SSV Works has announced the launch of its new 6.5-inch speaker pods for the new Polaris RZR Pro XP Ultimate Ride Command factory audio system. Shipping Nov. 1, the RZ5-C65ARC comes available loaded with SSV Works powersports speakers (MSRP: $399.99).

“Expand your factory Pro XP audio system for less,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Utilizing the factory amplifier for power, all that’s needed to greatly increase your existing factory system’s output and sound quality are SSV Works’ two cage-mounted 6.5-inch speaker pods. Besides the rugged and weatherproof design, the plug & play kit includes harnessing that works directly with the factory Ride Command audio system. With the RZ5-C65ARC, it couldn’t be easier to get bigger and better sound out of your Polaris RZR Pro XP Ultimate.”

Easy-to-install clamp system allows full 360 degree adjustability, fitting the factory 2-inch roll bar cage.

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com

MESA Member Basin Tint and Sound Scored at Casino Royale Night

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DENVER, CO (10.28.2019) – THE 2019 MESA Summit, September 17th and 18th in Denver, concluded with a Casino Royale themed farewell event. Members attending were encouraged to wear James Bond attire. A highlight of the evening was the drawing for the amazing custom Poker Table created by 5Axis Innovations. Ben King, Basin Tint and Sound, Alamogordo NM was the lucky winner.

The custom Poker Table on the MESA Summit Show floor with RaceSport Lighting’s Ceasar Olaes (L) and Ignacio Ayala.

The Poker Table was prominently displayed on the MESA Summit show floor for all to see during the event. MESA Members were given a show floor map with instructions to visit each booth and have the vendor stamp their booth on the map . Completed maps were turned in for 2 tickets for the raffle drawing during the Casino Royale Farewell event.

Ben King (R) pictured with Jody Culbertson from 5Axis Innovations with the Poker Table… that was soon to be at King’s Basin Tint and Sound Store in Alamogordo NM.

King related to 12volt News “I noticed the Poker Table the minute I entered the show floor and went straight to it. I thought to my self it would be so cool to win this spectacular poker table. The attention to detail and overall construction of the Poker Table was absolutely top shelf. When the ticket was drawn, and my name was called, it was total shock.”

Upon returning to Alamogordo King, who drove to Denver, placed to Poker Table on the show floor at his store as soon as it came off his pickup truck. “The Poker Table has certainly received a lot of positive comments from customers. We recently participated as a store sponsor in a local poker run. When participants stopped in the store and saw the Poker Table they were amazed.”

Ben King on his store’s show floor with the Poker Table he won at the MESA Summit.

Jody Culbertson’s firm, 5Axis Innovations, created the one-off masterpiece. “In speaking with Ryan Gunter about this year’s MESA Summit he mentioned the Casino Royale themed Farewell Night. During our conversation the topic of a really cool prize to cap the evening’s activities came up. We brain stormed and the idea of a poker table popped up and that definitely fit the Casino Royale theme. At 5Axis we definitely have the ability to bring unique projects to life. After a few back and forth conversations we finalized the concept.”

The end product of the Poker Table was superb. The red playing card surface features the company logos of the MESA vendor partners silk screened in white. The armrest railing around the table is seamlessly fitted with vinyl. On the interior side of the armrest RaceSport Lighting LED’s light the playing surface. RaceSport Lighting also glows around the base of the Poker Table.

King drove the 500 miles to the MESA Summit. Once back in the custom shipping crate the Poker Table fit into the bed of King’s pickup for the drive back to Alamogordo from Denver.

Culbertson stated “We created the MESA Summit Poker Table totally from scratch as a one-off project. We work closely with Steve Jergensen at RaceSport Lighting and those LED’s really made the table a centerpiece at the MESA Summit. As fate would have it the winner, Ben King, drove to Denver. During the show floor teardown we took the table apart, put if back in the shipping box we made and loaded it in his pickup truck for the trip back to his store.”

Gunter, MESA Executive Director, stated “The Poker Table certainly grabbed a lot of attention on the show floor during the MESA Summit. The floor map for members to attend each vendors booth was a great incentive as every member was excited about the opportunity to win the Poker Table. Jody created a great prize and Ben King was thrilled to be the winner. As a matter of fact he plans to use it in promo activities at his store.”

Congratulations to Ben King and the very successful 2019 MESA Summit.

Visit mesadealer.com for more.

SSV Works Launching Can-Am Ryker 2-Speaker Audio Kit at SEMA Show

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OXNARD, CA (10.28.2019) – SSV Works will launch the Can-am Ryker two-speaker audio kit during SEMA Show 2019, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth S38011. The RKR-2K is now available with an MSRP of $599.99.

“Our new audio kit adds to the excitement of the Can-am Ryker with a premium yet compact audio system that features two full range, four-inch speakers and Bluetooth integration that mounts on the front fairing stylized to match the bike’s body lines and doubles as a windscreen,” explained Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Plug and play wiring for a 15-minute install, the RKR-2K is manufactured out of multiple weatherproof materials, including ASA plastic, aluminum, and silicone gaskets to help make this product a great all-weather premium upgrade solution for the Can-Am Ryker.”

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

Directed Announces Updated Dealer Agreements to Protect and Empower Brick and Mortar Retailers

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VISTA, CA (10.28.2019) – Directed has announced a new suite of sales policies to protect its valued 12 Volt dealer partners and enable them to compete effectively in today’s changing retail landscape.

“We listen very closely to feedback from our dealer partners, and they have consistently emphasized the importance of protecting our brands and channel, especially as consumer electronics internet sales become an expanding part of the business,” said Bob Struble, Directed CEO. “These comprehensive policies will safeguard brick and mortar retailers from unauthorized online sales and set clear guidelines for them to expand their online businesses. I’m thrilled about how these actions will protect and empower our retailers.”

The actions include a Unilateral Pricing Policy (UPP) and comprehensive Online Selling policies. “These policies will give us the ability to strongly control our products on the internet,” said Al Fontane, Vice President Sales. “Only our authorized dealers will be allowed to sell online. We can then systematically clean up sales that hurt our brand perception. If we find unauthorized products online, we’re going to take them down.”

Directed is also serializing all of its systems. “We can then police the sale of all products, both direct and distributor lines with enhanced teeth. Where our products are sold is vital to consumer satisfaction. The highly skilled professional installers at our brick and mortar 12 Volt partners ensure the best possible consumer experience,” said Fontane.

Additionally, Directed is moving to ISP-based access for the Directechs Technical Support database to prevent unauthorized use. “Directechs is the gold standard for vehicle wiring diagrams,” said Struble. “We spend millions to provide this important benefit to our retailer partners. ISP-based access will allow us to provide the best information, give easy access to our dealers and eliminate unauthorized use. Having protected access to Directechs will again become a competitive advantage for our 12 Volt partners.”

For more info, visit www.directed.com/contact or call 1-800-876-0800.

AudioControl Brings Complete Lineup of High Performance Car Audio Products to SEMA 2019

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SEATTLE, WA (10.25.2019) – AudioControl has announced that they will be showcasing a full lineup of premium aftermarket car audio products at the 2019 SEMA tradeshow in Las Vegas, Booth 11665 North Hall. Highlighted new models include 5-channel amplifiers with 1300 watts of total system power and available DSP. Additionally, AudioControl will introduce several new Load Generating Devices (LGD’s) that enable technicians to add aftermarket audio components to a wide range of OEM entertainment systems from Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati.

“Our newest amplifiers and LDG’s open up significant opportunities for our dealers, and we are very excited to showcase them at the upcoming SEMA show,” stated Chris Bennett, National Sales Director – Mobile at AudioControl. “Additionally, these new products round out the most compelling full line of aftermarket car audio products available from any brand, including premium amplifiers from 1 to 6-channels, our legendary DM-RTA audio analyzer and OEM integration solutions that represent vital opportunities to deliver best sound quality for each customer.”

New 5-Channel Amplifiers: Two new 5-channel amplifiers from AudioControl both offer 125 watts X4-channels RMS at 4-Ohm (200watts RMS X4 at 2-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 specs and performance without the DSP features.

OEM integration with two new Load Generating Devices (LGD)

Most new vehicles use a class D amplifier platform in their factory sound systems. These amplifiers can become unstable when they are connected to aftermarket audio equipment, causing system noise and overall compatibility issues. In order to maximize the upgrade opportunity for 12-volt retailers, AudioControl engineers created the LGD series of solutions, which seamlessly interfaces these newer OEM systems with aftermarket amplifiers. The AudioControl AC-LGD20 was designed specifically for Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati audio systems without an amplifier. The AC-LGD60 provides interface capability for these same vehicles that feature audio systems with an amplifier.

DM-RTA: The AudioControl DM-RTA is a sophisticated yet compact audio analyzer containing powerful analysis software designed to provide installers with the features of a fully functioning Oscilloscope, Voltage Meter, Real Time Audio Analyzer (RTA), SPL Meter and Polarity Checker. Because installers are often on-the-go and in cramped spaces when building a car audio system, the DM-RTA was designed to be light weight, compact and durable. Input/output options are staggering, including balanced XLR inputs, phono and RCA style unbalanced inputs as well as speaker level inputs designed to make OEM audio system interface a snap. Digital audio output options include Optical, COAX and USB. The DM-RTA is powered by a 5-hour rechargeable battery so that it can be effortlessly deployed anywhere.

Visit AudioControl at SEMA 2019, Booth 11665 in the North Hall

See audiocontrol.com for more.

VAIS Technology to Present a New Innovative Solution at SEMA 2019

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ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.25.2019) – VAIS Technology, a Colorado based manufacturer of audio, video, Bluetooth streaming and SiriusXM integration is showing at SEMA 2019, Booth# 31315

EVP, Dennis Hopper comments: SEER is a culmination of several years in design and more details to follow just before the SEMA show. We’ll also be showing all of our integrated solutions including the Harley Davidson solution.

Visit www.vaistech.com to learn more.

Clarissa Zulick Joins Directed as Chief Financial Officer

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VISTA, CA (10.25.2019) – Directed has announce dthat Clarissa Zulick has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer. Reporting to CEO Bob Struble, she will sit on the Executive Staff and oversee all aspects of Directed’s finance and human resources functions.

“Clarissa came to Directed on an interim basis in June and her efforts and performance made it an easy decision to make her a permanent employee,” said Struble. “She was instrumental in our recent effort to spin Directed out of our parent holding company and set us up as a standalone, and has excelled in managing our financial and HR functions.”

Before joining Directed, Zulick served in several executive roles across industries including consumer products goods, computer hardware distribution and medical device manufacturing. She most recently served as CFO at Mamma Chia and COO/CFO at Arbitech. As an operator, Clarissa has driven significant value creation across several businesses. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Math Applied Science at UCLA and her MBA from Yale.

“I’m thrilled to join Directed as CFO,” added Zulick. “In the few months that I’ve been here, it has been exciting to see how Directed is leading innovation in the aftermarket automotive space. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to continue working with Bob and his executive team to further grow the brand and bring value to our channel partners.”

Zulick is based out of Directed’s Vista, California office.

Visit directed.com for more.

KICKER Sponsors Another Competition at the 12th Annual MWSPL Finals

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STILLWATER, OK (10.24.2019) – Fresh off attending and supporting the Unified Car Audio Championships (Louisville, Ky.) and USACi World Finals (Lawton, Okla.), KICKER continues its support of car-stereo competition by sponsoring the MWSPL Finals for the third consecutive year. The finals will be The The held at the Missouri State Fairgrounds October 26-27.

More than 120 competitors have committed to attend, according to the MWSPL Finals Facebook Event page.

After the competition has ended Saturday, a competitor’s party with costume contest will add more fun to the festivities, with prizes donated by KICKER awarded to the best costume. KICKER is providing prizes for many of the functions that night.

MWSPL will also run a silent charity auction during the Finals, with items donated by KICKER and other manufacturers. This year’s goal is to raise at least $4,500, with proceeds earmarked to help an ailing child in Arkansas. Details are available on the MWSPL Facebook page.

This year’s MWSPL Finals will feature a separate “progressive outdoor competition” that builds a competitor’s potential points for the 2020 season. The point value of the competition increases as the attendance of the outdoor event rises. 

“It’s a way to build some excitement,” said MWSPL founder Steve Benton. “The more of (competitor’s) friends they can get to compete, the larger the potential reward.”

Visit midwestspl.com and kicker.com for more.

MTX Audio Returns to the North Hall at SEMA 2019

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PHOENIX, AZ (10.24.2019) – MTX Audio invites you to visit them this year at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show November 5th – November 8th in Las Vegas, NV.

MTX Audio is making its return to the North hall this year and can be found in Booth #11823 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The company will have a second booth located outside of the Performance Pavilion in booth #62150. MTX will be showcasing new model specific audio components, current best sellers, and a variety of products that they manufacture for several OEM partners.

In their North hall booth, MTX will be displaying their custom “Junkyard Cat” Wildcat UTV loaded with an audio system featuring the MTX AWMC3 media controller, compression tower speakers, MUD amplifiers, and custom Subwoofer enclosure as well as an assortment of performance upgrades that make this Arctic Cat something you don’t want to miss. Additionally, they will feature a Polaris RZR S model UTV outfitted with their new vehicle specific, plug and play audio kit that also is compatible with the newer “Velocity” models as well as backwards compatible with older generations of RZR vehicles.

Their outside booth will have two Polaris RZR vehicles in it. One featuring their new Turbo S system powered up and ready for demo as well as theircustom XP model featuring multiple MUD65PL cage speakers, four square S65 model woofers in a custom under-seat enclosure and their all new front pod speakers ready to belt out the tunes.

As an additional treat, they’ll also have not one, but two custom drag cars from the Street Outlaws, No Prep Kings TV series on display. Shawn Wilhoit and his car “The Mistress” along with Brad “B-Rad” Eglian and “Luminasty” will be available to take photos and get autographs from the guys throughout the event. They’ll also be hosting a poster signing on Wednesday from 1-3 p.m.”

Visit mtx.com for more.

Metra Electronics Introduces New Dash Kits for Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Volkswagen

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HOLLY HILL, FL (10.24.2019) – Metra Electronics is excited to showcase 13 new vehicle-specific dash kits at the 2019 SEMA Show. These new kits are engineered to fit either standard ISO Single-DIN or Double-DIN radios in addition to several custom engineered kits for specific “L” shaped Double-DIN radio chassis designs. These new plastic TurboKits will be on display with an additional 20 new kits designed specifically for the Pioneer DMH-C5500NEX 8-inch radio that will be announced next week.

Metra’s plastic dash kits are proudly made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastic using injection molding technology to ensure a superior design and fit. Dash kits will fit select models for Jeep Cherokee, Kia Forte, Mazda 5, Mercedes Sprinter, Nissan Altima and Kicks, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Corolla and Hatchback and the Volkswagen Jetta. Installers can see Metra’s dash kits on display in Metra’s main booth 11639 in the North Hall of the SEMA Show from November 5th – 8th and featured in the 2019 New Product Guide, available for download at MetraOnline.com on the opening day of the show.

Dash Kit Part Numbers, Vehicle Models and Specifications:

95-6554B
Jeep Cherokee 1997-2001
● Permanent dash modifications required
● A new Double-DIN version for an old application
● A complete replacement panel for a factory look

99-7394B
Kia Forte 2019-Up*
● Designed for most Single-DIN radios and a special design for ISO Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black

99-7527S
Mazda 5 2006-2007 (with factory NAV)
● Storage pocket included to replace the factory NAV screen
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket or Double-DIN radio provision
● Painted silver

95-8731
Mercedes Sprinter 2019-Up* (excluding models with the factory touchscreen radio)
● Designed specifically for Double-DIN installations
● Polished gloss black to match the factory finish

99-8731
Mercedes Sprinter 2019-Up* (excluding models with the factory touchscreen radio)
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Polished gloss black to match the factory finish

95-7637
Nissan Altima 2019-Up*
● Designed specifically for an ISO Double-DIN radio with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted gloss black with bright silver trim and a textured back plate to match the factory finish

99-7637
Nissan Altima 2019-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted gloss black with bright silver trim and a textured back plate to match the factory finish

95-7636B
Nissan Kicks 2018-Up*
● Designed specifically for Double-DIN installations
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish

99-7636B
Nissan Kicks 2018-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish

95-8911HG
Subaru Ascent 2019-Up*
● Designed for Double-DIN radio provision
● Painted gloss black

99-8911HG
Subaru Ascent 2019-Up*
● Designed for Single-DIN radio provision with pocket
● Painted gloss black

99-8270HG
Toyota Corolla Hatchback 2019-Up* and Toyota Corolla 2020-Up*
● Designed for most Single-DIN radios and a special design for ISO Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen. Specifically Alpine INE-W967HD, INE-W977HD, iLX-107, and iLX-207 (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Special brackets included for Pioneer modular radios DMH-C2550NEX and DMH-C2500NEX (refer to radio manufacturer for current models)
● Painted high gloss black to match the factory finish

99-9014HG
Volkswagen Jetta
● Specifically designed for an ISO Double-DIN radio with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the top of the screen (or the current Pioneer 6.8″ screen and separate chassis)
● Blank plate included for Single-DIN installations
● Painted a color-matched gloss black to match the factory finish

Visit MetraOnline.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific applications.