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.
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.
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.
NASHVILLE, TN (01.22.2021) – The MECP program, previously owned and operated by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), has been purchased by the Certification Systems Technology Company (CTSC). This new company was founded and is operated by industry veteran Kris Bulla who has more than 25 years’ experience with the MECP program and its operations.
In February 2021, the program will leap forward into an all-digital format. “The new all-digital format will make it far easier to get access to the educational material and take the logistical nightmare out of locating a testing center or trying to create a testing environment at your home or office. You can now learn from anywhere you have Internet access, at any time,” stated Kris Bulla, Certification Systems Technology Company founder, and president.
Learning content from the existing study guides has been transitioned to a new online learning platform that provides access to both the study material and testing from any computer, phone, or tablet with an Internet connection. This digital format removes the need to carry or use a physical study guide and eliminates the need to schedule and travel to a testing center. A new learning progress tracker allows learning at the user’s pace and promotes higher-level certification achievement. Future improvements like a Technician Finder tool, account management, and expanded certification levels and content will provide far more value to those who have become certified.
The new program is subscription-based. If you are currently certified, your current certification is valid through the end of that particular certification, as indicated by the expiration date on your certificate. Your MECP account will reflect your current certification level through its expiration date as well for verification purposes. Once any current certification ends, or if you decide to upgrade to another certification level, you will be required to subscribe to that level within the new platform.
The changes and account access are expected to be available in early February. To learn more about these changes or to access your account, visit www.mecp.com.
For assistance with your certification status or any questions you might have about these changes, email mecp@mecp.com.
SHREVEPORT, LA (01.21.2021) – Saying Goodbye to 2020 was easy… very easy.
As the sun rose on Friday, January 1st 2021, we all began a New Year. Even though that marked a New Year the world, and the 12volt industry, continued to face major COVID-19 challenges and more carried over from 2020. Each individual and company must move forward in light of their respective resources at hand. The 12volt News has charted a course of continuing to deliver positive news to the 12volt industry. With no in-person CES, and the traditional spring distributor show circuit in limbo, we are moving forward with The 12volt News Show. A presence in The 12volt News Show will provide a venue for vendors to showcase their products to members of the 12volt industry. The 12volt News Show will also be a vehicle for distributors put their products and activities in front of dealers in their respective territories.
The 12volt News Show is an extension of the 12volt Central Studios activities in Shreveport, LA.
The recent All-Digital CES2021 certainly provided an enormous amount of Consumer Electronics content to virtual attendees reached around the world. Participation from 12volt ‘exhibitors’ was minimal at best. Members of the 12volt industry for the most part did not pony up the $150. to register for the All Digital CES 2021.
The 12volt News Show, like 12volt Central Studios, will utilize image-based presentations to showcase new products. Products and activities will be posted on 12voltnews.com and @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook. Company supplied press releases will be posted on 12voltnews.com which has been the norm for now 27 years.
With a personal 12volt history, dating back to the early 1970’s, I know how important it is to be informed about what’s happening across the 12volt industry. That history includes the retail sales floor, VP of Marketing for a multiple outlet retailer, distributor principal, rep, manufacturer and publishing. That history is also marked by attending nearly 50 CES shows beginning in the 70’s with summer and winter events at McCormick Place in Chicago.
The in-personal CES, along with in-person SEMA, are historically terrific industry events. Not only to see, touch and experience new products but to connect with fellow 12volt and automotive enthusiasts. We all long for the days when safe and productive in-person events will return.
The 12voltSTP Tool was utilized to make this post.
12volt Vendors can put their product(s) in The 12volt News Show with an email or by utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool. With a smartphone Snap and Txt of an image to 318-465-0844. Presto, your company’s products and activities could be in The 12volt News Show.
The 12voltBeat Newsletter, celebrating 9 years, is emailed twice weekly to over 5000 industry members with fresh industry news… including news from The 12Volt News Show.
Much more to come as business moves forward in 2021.
NEW YORK, NY (01.20.2021) – The 2021 SiriusXM Promo Kit has started to ship to dealers and distributors across the US.
The in-store marketing kit includes several items that 12volt retailers can utilize in their stores. The high quality face mask, with SiriusXM Logo, will certainly put the brand in front of consumers while floor staff members made sales presentations throughout the store. The bottle of hand sanitizer on the counter will be another indication this 12volt retailer is serious about keeping all safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Elements of the SiriusXM 2021 in-store Promo Kit including face mask, hand sanitizer, counter card, window cling, product display dangles and fliers.
A window cling and counter card, along with SiriusXM danglers for the head unit display, will also highlight the brand on the sales floor.
A Thank You card from Hasib Mohammed greets those opening the 2021 SiriusXM Promo Kit.
Fliers highlighting ways to save on SiriusXM subscriptions and information about the SiriusXM E Learning program offers, that include opportunities to win monthly and quarterly prizes, are also part of the 2021 Promo Kit.
A Thank You card from Hasib Mohammed, SiriusXM Vice President Dealer and Retail Sales, is on top of the items in the Promo Kit box.
Paul Trueman, SiriusXM Sr. Director Retail Sales, related, “Dealers that receive SiriusXM POP items will automatically receive the 2021 Promo Kit. Dealers buying through distributors are encouraged to request a 2021 Promo Kit when they place their orders with the authorized SiriusXM distributor in their area. The 2021 SiriusXM Promo Kit is filled with items SiriusXM retailers can use to drive sales day in and day out in their stores.”
Monthly and quarterly prizes are offered for dealers attending E Learning sessions.
Continuing Trueman offered, “I would also recommend that everyone visit our training site to get the latest updates by SiriusXM by visiting learnsiriusxm.com. Everyone that takes the course will get 90 days of free steaming service and the chance to win some brilliant SiriusXM stuff. There will be 20 monthly winners for SiriusXM gear. There will also be quarterly winners. Four lucky quarter winning dealers will win Amazon Echos and 2 lucky quarter winners will enjoy Sonos One Smart Speakers. So there is still time to win prizes in January plus Q1.”
AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.19. 2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has introduced the newest addition to the Alpine Halo Display lineup: the iLX-F409 Alpine Halo9 Multimedia Receiver with a 9-inch, customizable touchscreen display.
“After releasing the iLX-F309, we listened to our customers and crafted a solution that adds the features needed for an exciting drive,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.
Beyond Factory Technology
The Alpine Halo display platform is known for its oversized, “floating” screen and versatile installation into virtually any vehicle. The sleek tapered edges, outlined in silver trim, along with smartphone integration capability, modernizes the technology in any dash that can house a single-DIN receiver.
The launch of the iLX-F409 and the iLX-F411 signals a new generation of the Alpine Halo models that are a culmination of all the fan-favorite features, including customizable home screens, media expandability with HDMI connectivity, and iDatalink Maestro Module compatibility.
Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Bluetooth hands-free calling with audio streaming allows access to music, messages, phone calls, and maps on a smartphone via USB. These features are controlled through touch or voice commands with the included external microphone. SiriusXM Radio is available with an optional tuner and paid subscription for even more music and entertainment during the drive.
System Compatibility
Upgrading dash technology can often result in a loss of factory functionality such as steering wheel controls and access to engine codes. However, the iLX-F409 is compatible with the iDatalink Maestro Module (sold separately) allowing select OEM features to be retained and vehicle information displayed on the 9-inch screen.
An RCA input is included so you can add a rearview camera (sold separately) that overlays guidelines onto the screen for ease when moving in reverse. Additional cameras can be added with the KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector (sold separately).
While the iLX-F409 is mech-less (no CD/DVD player) an HDMI input and output is included so you can connect a CD, DVD player, or even your smartphone for an all-digital audio and video connection through a single cable.
The iLX-F409 will ship in January 2021 at a MAP of $699.95 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailersand at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
LEVELLAND, TX (01.18.2021) – The Kicker AMA ArenaCross was Livin’Loud at Mallet Event Center and Event Arena in Levelland TX on Friday and Saturday evenings January 15th and 16th.
The arena was set on Friday at the Mallet Center for the KICKER AMA ArenaCross in Levelland TX.
Jimmy Davis (L) and Bobby Crawford from retailer JD Glassworks by the KICKER RZR under the tent displaying KICKER products.
A KICKER tent, showcasing the company’s wide selection of products for PowerSports, Marine, Automotive and LifeStyle, was set up in the lobby for enthusiasts to see as they entered and exited the arena both days. A KICKER RZR was positioned next to tent. Local retailer JD Glassworks was on site with a customized ’83 C-10 Silverado and adjacent to the KICKER tent. The custom KICKER system in the decked pickup gave members of the crowd an opportunity to hear, and feel, their favorite artists like never before.
The super custom JD Glassworks ‘83 Chevy drew a lot of attention from attendees.
Jimmy Davis, JD Glassworks owner, related “Having a presence at the Kicker ArenaCross event was a terrific experience. People were very impressed with the demos in RZR and our ’83 Chevy C-10. Bobby Crawford, from the store, and I spent time with members of the crowd and passed out a big stack of business cards. In addition, we had one of our customized shop ‘Pit Boxes’ that we use as a demo and mobile desk at car events. It also rocks with KICKER gear. We would definitely look forward to having a presence at future KICKER AMA ArenaCross events. Our store has been a KICKER dealer over 10 years and are looking forward to a strong year with KICKER’s new products.”
Riders were flying high on the track.
Riders start young and these two show their winning hardware in the 50cc in the 7-8 class.
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 nice 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.”
JD Glassworks also makes custom Pit Boxes with chests from Harbor Freight. KICKER Audio is featured and the Pit Boxes are used as demos and desks at car events.
KICKER, as a leading 12volt brand, participates in multiple national circuits to put their products in front a broad audience of consumers.
SHREVEPORT LA (01.16.21) WTF…Win This Friday. Oscars Audio Designs won the CES Backpack prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, January 15th.
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.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 111th time on Friday, January 15th. The Wheel landed on the CES Backpack space. The Oscars Audio Designs 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 the dealer in Corpus Christi but there was no answer at the store. We will continue reaching out to let them know the news that the CES Backpack will be headed their way.
The CES Backpack is new and had been in the closet at the 12volt News office in Shreveport for a few years. As fate would have, it the all-digital CES 2021 ended on January 14th. As an all-digital event there was certainly no need for a backpack. Maybe next year it in-person events are possible once again.
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 and King Car Audio in Norwalk CT. Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel will be on Friday, January 22nd.
ARLINGTON, VA (01.15.2021) – The first-ever, all-digital CES 2021 made history as the largest digital tech event. Almost 2000 companies unveiled next-gen innovation for a better future. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the all-digital CES 2021 featured product launches from startups to tech giants, keynotes from global industry leaders, live entertainment from Hollywood and more than 100 hours of conference programming.
“The all-digital CES 2021 engaged the global tech community to experience innovation, make connections and conduct business,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “CES showed how the pandemic accelerated the arc of innovation and illustrated the resilience and innovative spirit of our industry. From the latest innovations for the home and entertainment, and advances in 5G, vehicle technology, AI and digital health, the technologies at CES 2021 will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.”
CES 2021 kicked off Jan. 11 with Media Day, featuring 19 press conferences with companies including Bosch, Canon, Caterpillar, Hisense, Intel, LG Electronics, Mercedes-Benz, Panasonic, Samsung Electronics and Sony breaking news and launching products. Trends from Media Day focused on “the home” with innovation that personalizes work, health and entertainment at home, as well as advancements in transportation and mobility.
Almost 2000 companies launched products during the all-digital CES 2021, including almost 700 startups from 37 countries. Exhibiting companies included tech giants, such as Intel, LG Electronics, Panasonic, Samsung Electronics and Sony, as well as non-traditional tech companies, from AARP to Bridgestone, Caterpillar, Indy Autonomous Challenge, John Deere, L’Oréal, Moen and Procter & Gamble. New companies exhibiting at CES 2021 included ASUS, BioIntelliSense, Bose, Sono Motors and Volvo Penta.
“The industry came together digitally at CES 2021. This was a medium for companies to make announcements, launch products and connect with their audiences,” said Karen Chupka, executive vice president, CES. “The all-digital format brought new voices to the tech conversation.”
Keynote Announcements Industry leaders took to the all-digital CES keynote stage to make major announcements, including:
Verizon: Hans Vestberg, chairman and CEO of Verizon, demonstrated the immersive 5G experience across sports, education, connected communities and live music, and announced partnerships with the NFL, UPS, Live Nation Clubs and Theaters, The Met and the Smithsonian.
General Motors: Mary Barra, chairman and CEO of General Motors (GM), launched new product lines from GM, including the Cadillac eVTOL, a concept air taxi; and a new business unit devoted to electrifying the goods delivery market.
AMD: Dr. Lisa Su, president and CEO of AMD, revealed the new Ryzen 5000 series mobile processors with two categories – the H-series, for laptops intended for gaming and content creation and the U-series, for ultraportable notebooks.
Best Buy: Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy, shared how the company shifted during the pandemic and put the customer in control of buying, whether from home, curbside or in person.
Future Reimagined: Michael Miebach, CEO of Mastercard, and Julie Sweet, CEO of Accenture, predicted tech trends they expect to see over the next decade.
Walmart: Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart, discussed ways 5G, AI and robotics will change the business; how Walmart pivoted to keep employees healthy and customers satisfied; and the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Microsoft: Brad Smith, president of Microsoft, gave his vision on ensuring cyber security and customer privacy protection, and discussed the tech industry’s responsibility to exercise our conscience.
Entertainment Transformed: Michael Kassan, chairman and CEO of MediaLink, and Ann Sarnoff, chair and CEO of WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group, described the ever-evolving entertainment industry and what the industry will look like in a post-pandemic world. Maverick Carter, CEO of The Springhill Co.; Adrienne Lofton, VP, North America Marketing, NIKE; and Deborah Wahl, Global CMO of General Motors, discussed how marketers and brands are adjusting and creating in today’s landscape.
Key Themes at CES 2021
The all-digital CES 2021 featured groundbreaking innovation that will improve our world, from health to safety, sustainability and accessibility.
Tech Innovation Accelerated by COVID-19
Tech companies innovated during the pandemic, with companies at CES 2021 featuring smart masks, disinfecting robots, body sensors that detect COVID-19 symptoms and smart air filtration systems.
Consumer Privacy and Trust
The heads of privacy at Amazon, Google and Twitter discussed new privacy regulations and the need to increase consumer trust, stating that tech companies must give users more control over their data.
Global Tech Challenge
The Global Tech Challenge, launched at CES 2020, in partnership with the World Bank and CTA, rewards tech solutions in three areas: digital health in East Africa, resilience in India and gender equalityaround the world. The selected winners were announced this week from more than 1000 applications, with three winners selected for gender equality, 10 for resilience and 17 for digital health.
Space Tech
NASA was joined by leaders from Lockheed Martin and Space Tango to discuss technology’s role in accelerating space research and breakthroughs that will benefit all of humanity.
CES Anchor Desk
The CES Live Anchor Desk was a true broadcast experience, bringing the latest CES news and highlights with anchors including:
Rich DeMuro – Tech reporter for KTLA-TV Channel 5 in Los Angeles @richontech
Naomi Kyle – Host and Producer @NaomiKyle
Brian Tong – Tech Host & Content Creator @briantong
The Anchor Desk featured interviews with top industry leaders and visionariesincluding entrepreneur Mark Cuban; musician and tech entrepreneur will.i.am; HRH Constantijn van Oranje, The Netherlands; Shelley Zalis, The Female Quotient and CES Official Equality Partner; and leaders from AT&T, Audi, Bosch, FIFA, Humana, Hyperion, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Material Impact, OMRON Healthcare, Philips, P&G, Samsung Electronics and United Talent Agency.
Conference Program and Special Events The CES conference program showcased more than 100 hours of programming. Sessions covered pressing topics including privacy, the future of AI and health care, autonomous transportation, trends in retail and tech policy.
The future of entertainment was reimagined at CES 2021, with a special event featuring Ryan Seacrest and music superstars Billie Eilish and Dua Lipa, as they discussed how tech has enabled the creation of a new immersive fan experience.
Diversity Commitment CTA continued its commitment to driving diversity in tech with its latest investment, announcing an investment in VC fund Plum Alley. This is part of its $10 million commitment to venture firms and funds that invest in women, people of color and other underrepresented entrepreneurs. Plum Alley invests in founding teams of women, and women and men and has an impressive representation of women founders from many backgrounds and ethnic groups in the STEM fields including Dr. Jennifer Doudna, who recently won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. CTA announced its $10 million funding commitment on stage at CES 2019.
Government Leaders at CES 2021 Government leaders and policymakers from the U.S. and around the globe participated in the all-digital CES 2021, sharing their insight into the future of innovation. Policymakers included Director-Designate of the U.S. National Economic Council for the incoming Biden administration Brian Dreese; French Minister of State for Digital Transition and Electronic Communications Cédric O; State Secretary for Economic Affairs and Climate Policy for The Netherlands Mona Keijzer; and UK Minister of Transport Rachel McLean.
Global Reach of CES 2021 CES 2021 was truly a global event, with attendees joining from over 150 countries and over 1300 exhibitors coming from outside the United States, including more than 530 international startups. Country Group Organizers brought large delegations of exhibitors included Canada, France, Israel, Italy, Japan and South Korea. CES 2021 featured startups from Nigeria and Russia for the first time.
Content can be accessed on demand through Feb. 15, 2021. CES 2022 will take place in person in Las Vegas, and digitally, Jan. 5-8, 2022.
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (01.14.2021) – I’d like to take a couple of minutes to praise and publicly thank all the good people who have participated in our Sound Quality League contests these past 22 years. This includes the Competitors, Teams, Judges, R&E Members, Retail Members, Manufacturer Members, and Fans. What we do with our vehicles and equipment is extraordinary, I believe, as we pursue the purest, most realistic music re-creations, enjoyed as we roll down the road. When people hear the amazing systems we create, they are impressed – blown away. if they had access and could sit in the vehicles to experience what we experience…for some it would be a life-changing experience (much the same as it was for us).
I’d like to provide some info and insight into where we are today, 22 years into the program. There is a significant amount of misinformation, rumors, untruths, slander, and libel and we try to counter this bad mojo with reason, transparency, and the truth.
MECA Commish Steve Stern has been hands on since the earliest days. Shown here, very focused, judging a club member’s car over a decade ago.
The objective for SQL contestants is to participate and learn during the season to get ready for Finals – The Big Show – at the end of the season to determine our World Champions. The many local and regional shows before Finals are part of the indoctrination, education and socialization, needed to compete at the highest level. Tonality and Staging/Imaging are the main criteria for determining the most realistic and accurate systems.
MECA SQL focuses on 7 Sound Quality classes based on complexity of design. That’s it, other than Master which is “Manufacturer” class, and an elective class for those who want the challenge of sound quality competition at the highest level. It is a time-proven, logical, refined, installation-based way of fairly grouping vehicles with similar builds. Other people and organizations conceptualize and practice other classification methods. Some do attempt to separate Professional and Consumer Competitors, and that is the source of much discussion because of gray areas and questionable class assignments. MECA does not separate Pros and Consumers. We have done it in the past, and moved on when we determined that performance in the lanes was equally successful for all, at the highest levels, no matter their employment or equipment sourcing contacts. This is our way and it is a fair contest format.
There are some in the car audio community who do not understand or appreciate what we do. There are some who do not like our methods for scoring and determining the Champions. There are some who express that we do not do a good job, or at least, not good enough for them. There are some that make it more personal and do not like individuals that participate in the program. We can’t please everyone although we really do try, and we realize we will always have detractors and apostates. MECA is not perfect and does not claim to be perfect in any manner. But, we, Judges and R&E Members, genuinely care about doing a good job and bringing a sense of value and respect to the Competitors and Contests.
There are genuine superstars in our Sound Quality League, repeat Champions, Champions, and those who have not achieved Champion status, yet, who know and understand what the Judges are listening for. Every sport has stand-outs – winners – who excel at what they do, and they set the bar for others, and demonstrate what can be done. In the past people like Alma Gates, Mark Eldrige, David Hogan, Steve Cook, Kirk Proffitt, and Rick Washabaugh, for examples, were Champions who were admired and advanced the sport. They dominated their classes for years, and moved on to the Hall of Fame. New people have come in and taken up the gauntlet and advanced our sport. We have incredible people like that in our club right now, members who are very serious about enjoying and sharing music at the most competitive level. You need to meet them and hear their systems before they retire.
If you consider yourself part of the car audio community, then these are your Champions, no matter what brand, team, or other alliance you hold dear. These are your Champions and should be celebrated by the Mobile Electronics Industry and all who value what sound quality contests are all about. You should want to meet these people and take advantage of the knowledge and listening sessions they can provide.
As we begin a new year with sincere hopes for better times, please, when it comes to our SQL, participate if your heart is into it. You will get a lot of support and you will have a better sounding system at the end of the season. For all who profess a love of car audio, please take time to sit and listen to the best sounding vehicles available at our events. Almost all of our competitors will have no problem sharing their systems with you, after the Judge has completed his/her job, and you need to hear what our best scoring and sounding systems really sound like.
MECA was created in 1999 to bring the car audio community together. We want to do positive things for all car audio enthusiasts and professionals. We invite those who have not competed in a while to give this another chance. We are proactively working to bring new blood into the SQL contests, especially reaching out to younger people through our Retail Member network. With industry support, specifically the Manufacturers, we can continue to engage and encourage music lovers to enhance their vehicles with high-performance car audio gear.
We’re moving forward and want to unify the SQL community. Sincere thanks to those who have contributed and support our Sound Quality League.
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