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AudioControl Announces Celebrity Booth Appearance at CES 2020

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SEATTLE, WA (01.05.2020) – AudioControl has announced that Rick Harrison from the World-Famous Gold and Silver Pawn and reality TV fame will be showing off his 1947 Dodge Power Wagon, with a new sound system featuring AudioControl amplifiers, at AudioControl’s CES Booth, 3921. Harrison will be in the booth to meet with show attendees and sign autographs on Wednesday, January 8th at 1PM. The Power Wagon audio system features the 6-channel AudioControl D-6.1200 DSP-enabled amplifier powering an active 3-way front speaker system. AudioControl’s DM Smart DSP was utilized to fine-tune the full stage and attain the highest levels of clarity and detail. The subwoofer is driven by AudioControl’s mighty 1500 Watt LC-1.1500 mono amplifier.

Rick Harrison from the World-Famous Gold and Silver Pawn

Many New AudioControl Products at CES
The AudioControl CES booth will feature many new products that deliver performance for car audio enthusiasts and create unique opportunities for 12-volt specialists. Show attendees will see two new 5-channel amplifiers from AudioControl that both offer 200 Watts RMS X4 @ 2-Ohm (125 Watts X4-channels RMS @ 4-Ohm) and 500 Watts X1-channel @ 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. Additionally, AudioControl will proudly unveil the company’s first ever marine/motorsports amplifiers, designed to deliver outstanding audio performance with the rugged durability required for high-humidity applications. AudioControl will also be showing many new OEM interface solutions to enhance their LC and LGD series solutions that offer unparalleled performance, are more flexible and easier to use. All new products on display at CES Booth 3921.

DM-RTA
Also on display in booth 3921 will be the groundbreaking DM-RTA, a one-of-a-kind 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 AudioControl 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 AUTOMOTIVE AUDIO SOLUTIONS AT CES 2020, BOOTH 3921 NORTH HALL

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

Nakamichi Car Audio Readies for CES 2020 in the North Hall

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LAS VEGAS, NV (01.02.2019) – Nakamichi Car Audio is in full show mode as it readies for CES 2020 in Las Vegas next week. The numerous CES booth crates have arrived and booth construction is already under way!

Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager, pictured with crates in the North Hall booth as setup is under way.

Kiyokazu Igarashi, President of Nakamichi Japan and Sheamson Yeo, World Wide Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio, are flying in to attend the show and the Nakamichi National Sales meeting taking place on Monday, January 6. The meeting will focus on the new products that Nakamichi will bring to market in 2020.

Nakamichi will be unveiling a host of new products January 7-10 in the North Hall during CES. Among them is a single DIN DSP USB receiver with built-in 25-band EQ that features Nakamichi’s wireless APP Control that allows the radio to be controlled by your smartphone via Bluetooth. APP Control is compatible with Apple and Android phones. Some of the other new products include single DIN 9-inch and 10.1-inch floating screen media receivers. Both models work with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

For CES Nakamichi has partnered with Moke America to provide a couple of unique demo vehicles. The Moke’s are a 21st century green-friendly electric vehicle based on the British classic originally manufactured in the 1960’s.

Be sure to visit the Nakamichi booth #3621 LVCC North Hall for full details and to see all the exciting new products.

Visit www.nakamichicaraudio.com for more.

APEX and Aurigin Part Ways, Conclude Zapco Distribution Agreement in the USA

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ATLANTA, GA (12.31.2019) – Effective December 31, Aurigin Inc., the master distributor for Hybrid Audio Technologies in the USA, will step down as the domestic distributor of the Zapco brand of car audio products. ARPA (formerly ARPA of America), established in California in 1993, has previously held responsibility for the distribution of Zapco products and will bear that torch once again.

As the two companies go their separate ways, ARPA will be focusing on the Zapco brand and its dealers, and Aurigin will, according to Scott Buwalda, Founder and CEO, “focus on its core competency building exceptional speaker systems from entry-level to reference-level, while expanding its dealer sales network.”

Any currently authorized Zapco reseller will continue as a Zapco dealer with ARPA, and ARPA will immediately assume all responsibilities of sales, warranty, technical support, and other services. Enzo Biasella of ARPA stated “first we would like to thank the Aurigin team for supporting the US market while carrying the Zapco brand, and at the same time we would like to announce our distribution of Zapco and ESB brands in the domestic market by ARPA starting January 1, 2020. ARPA will intend to sell only high-end products to highly qualified retailers tailored for a demanding public.” Biasella continues “please join us and be a part of a new era; our most exciting days are ahead of us.”

Likewise, in the coming weeks, all former and current Hybrid Audio dealers will be contacted personally to discuss exciting new products for 2020, and aggressive sales programs.

ARPA will be hosting a meet-and-greet and product demonstration at Kingpin University on January 8-9, 2020, coinciding with the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) the same week. For more information about the ARPA event to be held at Kingpin University, contact John Borges (john@zapco.com), or Elad Ben Shlush (elad@zapco.com).

Scott Buwalda of Aurigin / Hybrid Audio Technologies will be present at Kingpin University as well, and will be greeting Hybrid Audio Technologies dealers, domestic sales representatives, and international distributors, and those interested in becoming the same. To RSVP a spot to speak one-on-one with Scott Buwalda, RSVP to sbuwalda@hybrid-audio.com. To learn more about Hybrid Audio Technologies, now celebrating its fifteenth full year of operation, contact 1.833.AURIGIN or info@aurigin.us.

Jackie Cooper Electronics’ 12 Days of Christmas Campaign Connected

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (12.30.2019) – Jackie Cooper Electronics utilized a 12 Days of Christmas social media campaign to connect with consumers during the last half of December.

Beginning on Monday, December 9th, a new 12 Days of Christmas graphic was created and posted each day that highlighted a new product offer. A gift certificate was featured for gift giving. A $100 gift certificate was actually worth $125 to the recipient.

A image with examples of the daily 12 Days of Christmas posts.

Jill Splitt, who handles the JCE social media posts, created and posted a new 12 Days of Christmas post each day of the campaign. Splitt stated “Our goal was to create visibility for the wide range of products we offer. The idea of the gift certificate was that the person receiving the gift certificate could choose their own gift. A $300 gift certificate was actually worth $375 to the recipient.”

Examples of 12 Days of Christmas posts.

Products featured in the posts included window tint, Alpine and Kenwood receivers, Viper alarm, JL Audio Stealth enclosure, Wet Sounds Tower Speakers, Backup Camera, Hood paint protection and Escort Radar Detector.

Posts like this grab followers’ attention while creating branding for JCE.

In a phone call to Jackie Cooper Electronics on Thursday, following Christmas, Jill stated “We have been so busy. December has been a very strong month. We feel the social media campaign, with the daily offers, did a lot to put our company’s name in front of consumers and create store traffic.”

Members of the JCE Team had some fun posting this image for Halloween.

Donnie Chaffin runs the day-to-day operations at JCE. The company, that offers a wide range of mobile electronics products plus commercial window tint, has been a leading 12volt retailer in the OKC area for over 5 decades. Jill Splitt is Donnie’s sister and a member of the very talented Team at JCE.

Visit jce.com and instagram.com/jackiecooperelectronics for more.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Set to Roll Into 2020

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SHREVEPORT, LA (12.27.2019) – The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Just over a month ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Spinning out a new winner each Friday a 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

James Halter, Stereo & Video Center in Tyler TX, shown with the CRUX gear he won when the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the first time in October 2018.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, Quantum, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Hypnotic Audio, PPI, db Drive, JBL and Image Dynamics. SpellBrite, a manufacturer of in-store signage, also has a space. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolls each Friday morning at 10AM in the 12volt Central Studios video suite.

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 and Badlands Customs. Congratulations to all.

Pete Muller, with a happy smile on his face, holds the Cadence subs in front of the display board in his Tint World Orlando Store.

Today let’s have some fun. The next spin of the 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel is today, December 27th.

Want to enter for future spins? It’s easy – when making an Instagram post include the hashtag #12voltspin. A slip for your company will be added to the slips in the jar.

This collage shows happy 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winners with their prizes from SONY, db Drive, Directed and the 12volt News.
This collage shows winners with their products including Kicker, db Drive, SiriusXM, and Wet Sounds.

With 18 chances to WIN, the 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is ready to shower a lucky weekly winner with one of the cool prizes.

A big 12volt News ’Thank You’ to our manufacturer partners participating in the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel each week.

WTF…Win This Friday. THAT’S TODAY December 27th! The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolls each Friday morning at 10 AM. When making your store’s posts to Instagram make sure to #12voltspin to make sure your store has a slip in the jar.

Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!

Memphis Audio Takes CES to the Hardrock Hotel for Offsite Suite

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MEMPHIS, TN (12.26.2019) – Memphis Audio will be bringing CES to the Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas in 2020. For the first time in decades Memphis will be moving off the show floor to a VIP Suite in the Hard Rock hotel to host their own event for 12 Volt industry members. The suite will be open to visitors Monday January 6th, the day before CES permitting early visitors to lock in early bird discounts from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. The suite will remain open for business from Tuesday, January 7th – Thursday, January 9th from 8:00 am – 7:30 pm.

Take a break for the hustle and bustle of the show and relax at the Memphis VIP suite while learning about all the new product offerings from Memphis. On display will be an assortment of new items and proven winners guaranteed to be hits in 2020. Learn more about Memphis Audio’s complete line of direct fit OEM solutions for side-by-sides, Harley Davidson motorcycles and Toyota vehicles. Memphis will be demonstrating several products including the innovative MXAMCAPP hideaway media center which has been creating a buzz and opening up a world of possibilities for the powersports, marine and classic car industries. Memphis will also be detailing the technology behind their new game changing VIV SixFive Series subwoofer featuring a massive 7.5” voice coil. Get a first look at the new M-Series MB dual impedance subwoofer line which features selectable impedance technology. This new innovative feature allows the subwoofer to operate as either a true 2Ω or 4Ω impedance subwoofer allowing dealers to stock only a single SKU significantly lowering inventory costs and allowing for easy future upgrades and expansion of any audio system.

A new in-store PowerSports Audio display will be unveiled along with a display program. Check it out at the Hard Rock Hotel.

Meals & Deals will be provided meaning anyone who visits the suite will be treated like a VIP with food and drink while they discuss the deep discounts available exclusively at the event. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner time snacks & cocktails. There will be a VIP bar open all day so stop in for Bloody Marys before the show (hey, it’s Vegas) or cocktails in the evening. The bar will be open all day for anyone needing a space to unwind and take a break from a busy day at the show. Don’t miss this opportunity to save big, these are serious savings available only at this event so stop by and stock-up. Along with deals and discounts, all attendees will be given a door prize just for attending while supplies last.

 “We love seeing all the industry partners at CES every year, but our focus in recent years has been to grow the SEMA show into our primary trade show. CES has evolved away from the 12 volt industry but Memphis hasn’t. Instead of spending money on show space in the North Hall, we wanted to invest the money into our current and prospective dealers and give them a destination where they can be treated like VIP’s. We want everyone to enjoy themselves while talking shop and learning about the innovative product offerings and services Memphis provides to dealers and discuss how we can all make big money together in 2020. We look forward to seeing everyone in Vegas!” said Nick LoMonaco, president of Memphis Audio.

The new VIV Six Five Series Subwoofer (L) will be on display in the Hard Rock Hotel Memphis Audio Suite along with new PowerSports Kits (C) and SXS Roof Audio Systems (R).

Walk-in visitors are welcome, but appointments are recommended to lock in your free door prize and enter to win the grand prize giveaway of over $1000 in prizes.  Contact your Memphis rep today or call 800-489-2300 to make your appointment and guarantee yourself a door prize and a chance to win.

Memphis suite attendees will need to visit the Casino Tower at the Hard Rock Hotel. Memphis is in the Celebrity Suite. Access to the suite can be found by going to the elevator near the Dunkin’ Donuts in the Hard Rock Hotel. Tell the Security guard at the elevator that you are there to see Memphis Audio and you will be on your way to a good deals, good food and good times with Memphis.

Location: Hardrock Hotel Celebrity Suite in the Casino Tower.

Elevator Access: Near Dunkin’ Donuts in the Hard Rock

Scheduled Suite Hours:

Monday January 6th: 10:00am-6:00pm (One day before show hall opens)

Tuesday January 7th – Thursday January 9th: 8:00am-7:30pm (Open Late after the show ends)

Contact: 800-489-2300 to schedule appointment or with any questions

Visit memphiscaraudio.com for more.

MECA Ends 2019 on a High Note

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GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (12.24.2019) – MECA Car Audio wrapped up the 2019 competition season with an emphasis on events geared to giving back to the community.

Steve Stern, MECA Commish, stated, “One of the best things about MECA’s club and contests is that we are involved with local, regional, and sometimes national charities. MECA was affiliated with 21 events in 2019 that donated money, time, and toys to benefit various local communities. Our Event Directors and Judges donate their time, too, which benefits the overall outcome of the events. As we conclude the year, and get ready for the “winter break,” the MECA club has been involved with 8 Toy Drives, most associated with the Marines Toys For Tots program.”

Dottie Buck shows some of the toys donated for Roy’s Kids during the Audio Anarchy MECA event in Shreveport LA on Saturday December 21st.

The Audio Anarchy ‘Santa’s Sleigh Shaking Toy Drive’ event brightened Christmas for children and dogs. Brandon Buck, company owner, offered, “Our event on Saturday, December 21st, gave MECA members an opportunity to show off and crank up their systems in the SPL Smackdown. Donations of Christmas toys for children, along with food donations for a big dog rescue organization, all came together for a great event.”

Dottie Buck commented “The children’s toys will be delivered to Roy’s Kids for Christmas giving. Over 100 pounds of dog food, toys and dog beds will be delivered to Saved by Grace Animal Rescue. The organization focuses on taking care of and finding homes for large dogs.”

Steve Stern (L) pictured after a Crusin’ For Breast Cancer Cure event benefitting the Susan G Komen initiative.

“Thanks to our dedicated Members who support, participate, and more often than not, initiate our charity events. The car audio community consistently demonstrates MECA’s involvement in worthwhile projects and events. These events highlight our sport and the people who take the time to contribute to the common good. Our Manufacturer Members often donate products and swag for fund-raisers that elevate our participation. Our Retail Members are the backbone of our program, acting as hosts and sponsors for these events,” Stern related.

Concluding, Stern offered, “As our organization begins it’s 22nd season, and continues to grow, we renew our dedication to community service. We invite all those who would like to bring MECA contests to their area. We can fortify the image and impact of the car audio community. The more the merrier, especially during the holiday season.”

Visit mecacaraudio.com for more.

Memphis Audio Celebrates 2019 Successes and Showcases New Product at National Sales Meeting in San Diego

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SAN DIEGO, CA (12.23.2019) – Memphis Audio treated their sales force to a trip to sunny San Diego California for a two-day national sales meeting and new product kickoff event. Members of the Memphis home office staff made the trip out west to play host to the event and conduct a day worth of informative trainings and new product showcases at the Hard Rock hotel in San Diego.

Nick LoMonaco President addresses the sales force.

Arthur Fulmer III, owner of Memphis Audio kicked off the ceremony with positive notes about the bright future of the 55-year-old audio brand and encouraged everyone to focus on all the ways Memphis can help their dealers succeed in 2020.

Left to right: Thom Lerch Memphis Sales Leader Of The Year, Nick LoMonaco President, Arthur Fulmer III Owner.

The sales team delved deep into the new product offerings from Memphis, most of which will debut at CES 2020 live at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. There was a strong emphasis on direct fit OEM offerings and solution-based products which were well received and created a buzz amongst the Memphis sales staff.

LEFT: VIV Six Five Series Subwoofer on display. CENTER: New Powersports kits on display. RIGHT: New Memphis Audio Side By Side Roof Audio Systems.

Memphis introduced Larry Williamson and Jeremy Slaven from Lucky 7 Customs who have partnered with Memphis to fabricate the best roof audio solutions for side-by-sides in the business. The duo detailed the build process for the roofs and pointed out the significant improvements and upgrades to the build quality that they are implementing. They noted the enhancements in the quality and consistency of the wiring as well the their new shipping quality standards they are implementing to ensure the items will be delivered without damage to a dealers doorstep. Memphis went on to introduce their new powersports direct fit OEM side-by-side kits which offer dealers a plug and play solution for the most popular machines in the powersports industry. The sales team left the meeting with an impressive array of new powersports offerings which will allow their dealers to have an extremely successful new year.

A new display program introduced at the meeting.

After the meetings concluded, the group was treated to a fun-filled outing to Tavern & Bowl for a private event with stand-up comedy, dinner, drinks and good times. President of Memphis Audio, Nick LoMonaco presented the Memphis Audio annual sales leader championship belt to seasoned sales rep Thom Lerch in front of a room full of his peers.

Custom subwoofer and amplifier cakes served as dessert.

“This is one of my favorite times of the year. Our sales reps are spread across the country and work so hard every day to deliver unmatched service to our dealers. It is great to have the team together and recognize everyone’s accomplishments and strategize about how we can all have a successful 2020 and beyond,” said LoMonaco.

Visit memphiscaraudio.com for more.

JVC Ships Double Din Audio Receiver with Alexa Built-In

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LONG BEACH, CA (12.20.2019) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is excited to introduce three new premium products that will provide enhanced convenience for tech savvy and health conscious users. The new KW-X840BTS (MSRP $139.95) is 2-Din Digital Media Receiver that is now offering Alexa Built-In, while the new KS-GA100 (MSRP $99.95) and the KS-GA10F (MSRP $29.95) will now allow users the option of in-car air purification right from their vehicle’s cupholder.

The KW-X840BTS is the 9th receiver from JVC to include Amazon Alexa. With Alexa built-in, it’s never been easier to enjoy your favorite music and content from streaming services like the SiriusXM and Pandora mobile apps, play audiobooks and podcasts, receive driving directions, and more – all while keeping your focus on the road ahead. Users with Alexa-compatible smart home devices can also easily control devices right from the car, including thermostats or porch lights. Simply download the Amazon Alexa companion app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to set up Alexa on your JVC Receiver.

The KW-X840BTS that recently began shipping, will be replacing the previous year’s model KW-X830BTS and builds upon the features it offered to increase driver safety and convenience. In addition to its new Alexa integration, the new KW-X840BTS will also feature a shallow chassis for ease of installation. It will maintain several key features like, JVC Streaming DJ, K2 Technology with a 13 Band EQ and Digital Time Alignment, and a 1.5 Line LCD display with 2-Zone Variable Color Illumination.

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit us.jvc.com/car

Dynamic Control and Celsus UK Celebrate 10 Years

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HAMILTON, OH (12.19.2019) – Dynamic Control and Celsus UK are celebrating a 10-year partnership. Celsus UK distributes Dynamat products across Europe.

Dynamat’s Scott Whitaker stated “Dynamic Control is very fortunate to have partners like Celsus who is our sales force, marketing arm and distribution point in Europe. No one could ask for a more knowledgeable, capable and enthusiastic group as a partner in business.”

Mark Baker, commenting for Celsus UK, “Good business is built on solid relationships, people buy from people. We think this is equally important in the digital age as it ever has been in our industry. Celsus UK is proud to have been representing Dynamat, the Ohio-based noise and heat control brand, for 10 years in Europe. Celsus UK’s enthusiasm for the Dynamat product line, and people behind it, has meant we have steadily grown the brand across different sectors. Working together we have developed a passionate and knowledgeable network of distributors, retailers and installers across many countries this side of the pond.”

Celsus UK’s Bela Vargo, Warehouse Supervisor, is shown helping on a Dynamat installation.

Continuing Baker added “2019 saw the 10 year anniversary of Celsus representing Dynamat and we are very fortunate to have the best product in the industry as part of our range. Scott, Beth and their team are fantastic people to work with and the product’s reputation and performance is second to none. As a distributor you certainly can not ask for much more.”

In recent years, Celsus UK has seen great growth in the classic car and marine segments. In the European marketplace Dynamat continues to be the go to solution for audio specialists.

Whitaker added “Celsus UK services the auto, home and marine audio segments as well as the OE and industrial markets. They do everything in their territory that we do here in the US minus manufacture of the product. We couldn’t be more proud and happy with Paul, Mark, Mike and their team.”

Visit dynamat.com celsusice.co.uk for more.