DANIA BEACH, FL (01.22.2020) – HKI SounDigital USA, the US importer and distributor for SounDigital Amplifiers and Ground Zero Car Audio, is pleased to announce a new member to their team. “Dorian Thomas will be a great asset for our company, to help us develop our growing Powersports division” stated Diogo Iannaccone, CEO of HKI SounDigital USA. “We are very excited to have him on board!”
Dorian Thomas in the SounDigital booth at SEMA 2019.
“I’m very happy with the opportunity to be a part of two of the finest 12-volt manufacturers in the industry,” commented Dorian Thomas, “I’ve been working closely with SD and GZ for the last two years with great success in the powersports industry and I’m excited with all the new products that are going to be released in the very near future!” With a passion specializing in custom Harley Davidson audio systems and fabrication, along with ground up bike builds, Dorian has built relationships with custom and specialty parts manufacturers across this part of the industry.
Utilizing his knowledge of the powersports market and his friendships across the industry, he will be helping with the design and sales of new products for both SD and GZ specifically tailored to custom powersports audio.
TEMPE, AZ (01.21.2020) – Mobile Solutions is hosting a special one-day Accelerated Hot Rod Interior Fabrication 2.0 training session in Southern California on Thursday February 6th, just before the official kick off of MEA KnowledgeFest in Long Beach, CA. Bryan Schmitt, president of Mobile Solutions leads the class, along with the all-star builders who’ve been part of other popular Mobile Solutions training classes including: Juan “JT” Torres, Tom Miller, Chris Pate and Gary Bell. The training session is scheduled for 1 pm – 7 pm and is hosted at Automotive Entertainment in Huntington Beach, CA.
Bryan Schmitt from Mobile Solutions comments “We had such a successful training event last year at Automotive Entertainment that we’ve stepped up the curriculum and added even more instructors so that it’ll be guaranteed to be an incredible event for those in attendance.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the most talented designers and fabrication minds in the business. Here’s a summary of what is presented in this can’t miss training:
• How to conceptualize an interior design and convert it to something you can build • Detailed router work examples for greater safety, precision and efficiency • Using aluminum in multiple ways for serviceable panel construction and cosmetic interest • How to seam multiple materials together (vinyl, suede & carpet) and create interest • New and refined vinyl embossing techniques to personalize hot rod interior design • New and refined diamond pattern panel technique to emulate upscale vehicle interiors • Technical leather and vinyl wrapping examples with time-saving tools and preparation • Where to find premium OEM-grade leather, vinyl, fabric, glue and supplies
“In our automotive builder-centric community of Southern California, we appreciate the opportunity to present advanced interior fabrication techniques to 12 volt technicians and hot rod builders alike” says JT Torres of Automotive Entertainment who is hosting the event. Torres, Chris Pate and Tom Miller were all former ME-Mag Installer of the Year recipients in addition to each being accomplished business owners. Gary Bell, another guest instructor and business owner at Define Concepts, builds demo vehicles regularly for leading 12 volt manufacturers.
Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be served throughout the training day. Attendees are treated to a world-class Santa Maria-style BBQ dinner with all the trimmings at the close of the training session put on by Armando “Mandezze” Rolon of Atlas Custom Sound. Orca Manufacturing is co-sponsoring the dinner.
This is an incredible opportunity for professionals in interior design and custom fabrication to learn in a real shop environment, enjoy great food, meet and collaborate with like-minded industry professionals and get in gear for the KnowledgeFest event in Long Beach, CA that follows on Feb 7-9, 2020.
Though the training session is presented in English, Spanish speakers will have access to JT Torres and other Spanish-speaking fabricators to help translate questions on the content specifics during class breaks.
Find additional information and to register for the one-day So. Cal Accelerated Hot Rod Fab 2.0 training, visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.
Tuition is $199 and includes the incredible Santa Maria-style BBQ dinner after the event. Registration closes Monday February 3, 2020.
STILLWATER, OK (01.20.2020) – Stillwater Designs was proud to recognize Daniel Hernandez of Trent Partners and Associates (Rockville Centre, N.Y.) as the 2019 KICKER Manufacturers Representative-of-the-Year, and Marketing Pros (Conroe, Texas) as Manufacturers Representative Firm-of-the-Year during its annual meetings at CES in Las Vegas.
Covering Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas, Marketing Pros were chosen for their attentiveness to dealers, their communication skills and ability to grow new business in their territories. The Marketing Pros team consists of Pete Daley (principal), Kevin Knox, Jim Wehling, Mike Penny, George Reed and Kristin Daley.
Marketing Pros – pictured left to right are Kevin Knox, Kristin Daley, Pete Daley and Brad Ganz
“Ultimately, the reps are an extension of us,” said Brad Ganz, KICKER’s Regional Sales Manager for the Central U.S. “If they’re doing a good job, dealers are happy. If there is a problem, we want the reps to be able to handle the issue quickly and effectively. It’s a well-oiled machine that keeps moving forward.”
Daniel Hernandez (left) with Matt Matheson
The KICKER Rep-of-the-Year criteria is similar to that of the companies for which they work. Individual service and communication skills are evaluated in conjunction with fiscal criteria.
“Daniel has impressed me with his work ethic,” said Matt Matheson, KICKER’s Northeast Regional Sales Manager. “He works very well with everyone internally. His product knowledge and extensive technical background in the car-stereo industry have all contributed to dealers in his territory valuing his input.”
KICKER places a premium on servicing its dealers. Every year, KICKER celebrates the representative firm and individual reps that consistently exceed expectations, measured by financial growth, providing outstanding service to customers and maintaining clear, reliable communication with members of the KICKER corporate team.
BOCA RATON, FL (01.17.2020) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers recently ranked in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Placement in the Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry making it one of the company’s most competitive rankings ever. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500 ranks Tint World as 279 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.
“The 500 companies on this list all have something in common: They understand what consumers want now,” says Entrepreneur editor-in-chief Jason Feifer. “They may be an upstart in a brand-new category, or they may be a brand like Dunkin’ that’s ranked highly on our list for decades. But either way, making our list means they’re forward-thinking, nimble, and closely in touch with their customers’ needs—because in an ever-changing business environment, that’s what a franchise must do to thrive.”
An excited Charles Bonfiglio at a Tint World store in the Middle East.
The key factors that go into the evaluation include costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.
“Appearing in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 for the sixth consecutive year proves the dedication and work ethic of the Tint World team,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World. “The Tint World staff and franchise owners are committed to maintaining the company’s position among the elite automotive styling franchises. We’re all extremely grateful this recognition, but it also inspires us to achieve even more in 2020.”
Over its 41 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.
Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto and marine accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.
To view Tint World in the full ranking, visit entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2020 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 14.
Members of the Cadence, OnCore and Logic Team gathered for a group photo along with the hot bike and SXS in the company’s booth at CES.
CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA (01.16.2020) – Cadence exhibited at CES 2020 earlier this month with an exciting presence in the LVCC North Hall. OnCore and Logic brands also showed off new products to attendees and business partners.
In 2020, Cadence is delivering an even more refined product line that incorporates today’s needs in a very competitive atmosphere. These products meet real market demands. As an example, at CES Cadence displayed the new CSB 2014 SoundBar and horn-loaded SWB 60TWS wake tower/UTV speaker that features truly wireless sound. Enthusiasts can now enjoy quality Bluetooth stereo sound in marine and off-road settings.
Raffle winners for the booth drawings are pictured with Cadence Woofer prizes.
In the Cadence North Hall Booth a raffle was held everyday during CES for giveaway prizes that included Xlerator and US12″ subwoofers to 4 lucky winners! Retailers winning the raffle prizes included Car Audio City, Heat Wave, Andre’s Electronic Experts and Thibert.
The Cadence booth was well laid out to showcase new products, activities and demo vehicles.
The OnCore line was also featured in the booth. OnCore is designed exclusively for the skilled brick and mortar independent. New OnCore models are now shipping.
“A big thank you to all who came to visit Cadence at CES! We are excited for what 2020 will bring. See our new website at www.CadenceSound.com. It’s going to be a big year!” The Cadence Team offered.
STILLWATER, OK (01.15.2020) – KICKER has developed and perfected three new, ultra-thin, down-firing loaded enclosures, dubbed the TRTP-Series, and all are currently shipping to Authorized Dealers and Consumers across the U.S. All enclosures come with a single 2-Ohm terminal, and are available in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch models. The enclosures are available for purchase by consumers in-store and online.
Included in each enclosure is the popular KICKER CompRT thin subwoofer, alongside a resurgent reFLEX passive radiator for a significant upgrade in bass without increasing overall depth. Barely five inches high, TRTP Enclosures are built to fit anywhere from behind the seat of a pickup to the back cargo area of a hatchback. The down-firing design allows it to fit in tight spaces, yet still deliver peak performance. The rugged enclosures design has the added benefit of allowing items to be stacked on top of it for max cargo space. TRTP Enclosures are carpeted and custom embroidered with the KICKER logo.
Thanks to innovative engineering, the shallow-mount CompRT subwoofer handles an exceptional amount of power without sacrificing depth. The ribbed Santoprene surround sports signature red KICKER stitching, while the thick polypropylene cone pumps out smooth, clean bass. The sub’s perimeter venting and UniPlate back plate and solid pole piece provide excellent thermal management for the sub at any volume level.
KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc., are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers.
CHICAGO, IL (01.14.2020) – Alden Stiefel, President and CEO of Maxxsonics USA, announced the promotion of Sam Dattalo to Vice President of Sales. In his new role, Dattalo will be managing the sales strategy of the organization’s distributor and aftermarket audio businesses.
Alden Stiefel, President and CEO of Maxxsonics said, “Sammy and I have worked together for decades. His extensive knowledge of consumer electronics, specifically the mobile audio business, is an essential part of Maxxsonics future. In 2020, I look for Sam to kick our efforts into high gear and continue the buildout of a top-notch sales organization.”
Alden Stiefel (L), President and CEO of Maxxsonics USA, pictured with new VP of Sales Sam Dattalo in front of the company’s HQ in Chicago.
Sam joined Maxxsonics in 2013 after a career path through consumer electronics as a Retail Salesperson and Manager at Music Car (located in Elmwood Park, IL) before joining Alden at Clifford Electronics, where he was a Central Regional Manager in the auto alarm business.
Dattalo stated, “I pride myself as a great communicator and I’m looking forward to continuing the synergies that have started with our ISO processes in our manufacturing and engineering teams. My goal is to have everyone, from finance to the warehouse, focused on a single path with the tools they need to win.”
Sam Dattalo, VP of Sales Maxxsonics USA, pictured with the RPM sales team in the WestGate Hotel Suite during CES. Dattalo, Eddie Ramirez, David Lopez and Maria Perez (L to R).
In 2000, Sam left Clifford to start his manufactures representative firm, Spectrum Sales, where he covered Central US and Chicagoland areas. Over the last 6 years, Dattalo has served as Maxxsonics’ National Sales Manager.
Dattalo continued, “I feel that Maxxsonics had a hugely successful CES in our Suite at the Westgate. We had solid appoints with key partners. We showed new products from each brand. The new Crunch Ground Pounder Series really grabbed the eyeballs of all in the Maxxsonics Suite.”
The appointment of Dattalo to Maxxsonics senior management follows other recent announcements of Luis Larralde as Latin America Sales Director, Brian Sherman to Vice President of Product & Marketing, as well as Sherri Sawyer to Vice President: Finance & CFO.
Stiefel concludes, “With more demands on his time, Sam has agreed to give up his adult baseball career. Good news for my team.”
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.13.2020) – In the shadows of the new Las Vegas Raiders football stadium, Nakamichi held a National Sales Meeting on Monday afternoon, January 6 at the Marriott Courtyard Las Vegas South.
The meeting was opened with introductions provided by Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio. A keynote speech was given by current Nakamichi Japan President and former Pioneer USA President Kiyokazu Igarashi. Igarashi-san joined the company in May of last year and said he was humbled to head such a storied brand. He urged the reps to give their input and let him know what type of products were needed to ensure the brand’s success.
David Bradman (in the foreground) Diplomat Trading President, addressing the reps during the national sales meeting.
David Bradman, President of Diplomat Trading—the exclusive agent for Nakamichi Car Audio in the U.S. welcomed all the reps and thanked them for making the trip to Las Vegas. David shared some of his company’s past 40+ year history and his enthusiasm for the Nakamichi brand. From there a new product presentation was hosted by Sheamson Yeo, World Wide Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio.
Sheamson Yeo, World Wide Nakamichi Car Audio Sales Manager, during his presentation to the representatives at the national sales meeting.
Other topics discussed were commission structures, MAP enforcement and product show specials.
McNeal and Bradman would like to recognize the rep groups that were able to make the trip to CES along with the huge investment of time and money required attend the show. Rep firms attending the meeting included
Gemini Advantage Marketing (NY/NJ) M.C. Marketing (Southeast) Encore (Mid Atlantic) Cardoza and Company (No Calif and No NV) Sound Sales and Marketing (So Calif) Arrowhead Marketing (Dakotas and MN) Advanced Marketing (Pac NW) Discovery On-Mark (Rocky Mtn and AZ/NM) Mielenz Sales (Illinois) Foresight Marketing (Hawaii)
During Day 1 of the show Nakamichi had its 2021 CES booth selection and is pleased to announce that the company will return to Vegas next January to exhibit in the new West Hall which is currently under construction.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.10.2020) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has added a third model to its popular Halo category. The new iLX-F411 mech-less (no CD/DVD) Audio/Video receiver features the same “hovering” screen platform as its predecessors while boasting a larger, 11-inch touchscreen – 49 percent more surface area than the 9-inch.
“The impact that Alpine’s Halo9 has had in the industry cannot be understated,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The introduction of the new 11-inch display solidifies Alpine as an industry leader with the biggest display on the market.”
The iLX-F411 debuted today during the 2020 International CES, taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7-10.
Customizable User Interface The iLX-F411 has the same features as its predecessor, the iLX-F259, including a customizable user interface, with three home screens and 22 available widgets that can be customized through swipe and drag-and-drop motions. Users can personalize the backgrounds using their own photos or several pre-loaded patterns.
Through extensive industry research, the iLX-F411 includes all the features needed to command an exciting drive and is an ideal upgrade for the active weekender or everyday commuter. The increased screen size allows for safe navigation and easy control of music, text messages and phone calls through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Features and System Expansion The large, 11-inch screen has a WVGA display, Capacitive Touch, and Swipe Graphical User Interface (GUI) that’s optimized for in-vehicle smartphone use so drivers can access Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with the Google Assistant for music, messages, or maps while keeping their eyes on the road. It features built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming and is SiriusXM-Ready (requires a SiriusXM tuner and subscription, sold separately).
External sources can be connected via the USB port, AUX input or HDMI input. One universal rear camera input or additional cameras can be added when used with the KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Selector (cameras and selector sold separately). Drivers can retain select factory features like vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles with the iDatalink Maestro module (sold separately).*
iDatalink connectivity available via software update Fall 2020
Installation Fitment The iLX-F411 follows the same flexible installation fitment as its 9-inch predecessor with an adjustable mount and four screen angle adjustments, five screen height adjustments and two screen depth adjustments for optimized viewing.
The 1-DIN chassis and adjustable installation options make it easy to add the iLX-F411 to a variety of applications without blocking factory buttons or features on the dash and avoiding the need for custom installation.
The iLX-F411 will ship in March for $1,200 SRI and will be for sale at Alpine Authorized retailers or online at http://www.alpine-usa.com through Crutchfield. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
The Halo Display Category includes:
NEW iLX-F411 11-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER • 11-inch WVGA display with capacitive touchscreen • Floating style display with adjustable height, depth and angle mounting bracket • Customizable user interface (three pages with 22 available widgets) • Customizable wallpaper (user photos) • Works with Apple CarPlay • The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto • SiriusXM-Ready • Bluetooth built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming • 1 HDMI input and 1 HDMI output • iDatalink connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles* • FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV music playback • AVI/MP4/MPG/MOV/WMV video playback via USB • JPG/PNG/BMP USB photo viewer • 5-band graphic EQ • 45W x 4 Amp • 3 Preouts (4V) • 6-channel time correction • 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display • Available in March SRI: $1,200
iDatalink connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles *Available via software update Fall 2020
iLX-F309 HALO 9-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER • 9-inch WVGA display with capacitive touchscreen and swipe graphical user interface • Floating style display with adjustable height, depth and angle mounting bracket • Works with Pandora Music for iPhone and Android • Built-in HD Radio • My Favorites Function • MediaXpander HD • Works with Apple CarPlay • The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto • SiriusXM-Ready • Bluetooth built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming • iDatalink connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles • FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/HE-AAC music playback • AVI/MPEG4 video playback via USB • Alpine TuneIt App for iPhone and Android • Bass Engine SQ • 9-band graphic EQ • 50W x 4 High Power Amp • KAC-001 Accessory Controller Ready • KXC250MC Multi-Camera Switcher Ready • 1 HDMI input • 3 Preouts (4V) • 6-channel time correction • 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display • Available now SRI: $1,200
iLX-F259 HALO 9-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER • 9-inchWVGA display with capacitive touchscreen • Floating style display with adjustable height, depth and angle mounting bracket • Customizable User Interface (three pages with 22 available widgets) • Customizable wallpaper (user photos) • Works with Apple CarPlay • The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto • SiriusXM-Ready • Bluetooth built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming • FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV music playback • AVI/MP4/MPG/MOV/WMV video playback via USB • JPG/PNG/BMP USB photo viewer • 5-band graphic EQ • 45W x 4 Amp • 3 Preouts (4V) • 6-channel time correction • 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display • Available now SRI: $800
VISTA, CA (01.09.2019) – Directed has announced a new connected dash camera, Viper SmartView, capable of pairing with Directed’s line of DS4 systems. SmartView builds on Directed’s long history of innovation in the aftermarket automotive industry and offers consumers a new level of vehicle security.
Viper SmartView provides monitoring solutions for consumers. It integrates several advanced technologies into a single product, including a 4G LTE-based, always-connected system; dual video cameras; telematics-capturing OBDII; WiFi and Bluetooth; GPS; displays; security system and motion sensors; and shareable video and media.
The revolutionary Viper SmartView is showcased in the Directed meeting space at the Hard Rock Hotel during CES 2020.
“SmartView sets the bar for in-vehicle dash cameras by adding smart features and DS4 connectivity to a fully-featured HD camera,” according to James Turner, SVP & GM, Remote Start and Security at Directed. “It’s another great addition to our growing DS4 infrastructure, but can also be used as standalone. However, the real power of SmartView is unleashed when connected to a DS4 security system. Consumers can immediately check out the interior and surroundings of their vehicle when they receive a security notification. It’s vehicle security for 2020 and beyond. Viper SmartView is perfect for both individuals and families.”
The Directed space at the Hard Rock Hotel showcases the Company’s complete product offerings including Alcohol Detection Systems.
Viper SmartView not only records while the vehicle is in motion, but when paired with a DS4 system, will record when activated by a warn-away or full-trigger security event. This allows consumers to have peace of mind even when they aren’t near their vehicles. With Live Look, vehicle owners can take a look inside their vehicle at any time.
With built-in cellular connectivity, SmartView is capable of controlling DS4 systems as well as provides a built-in WiFi hotspot. SmartView also provides OBDII diagnosis and fault code reporting.
“The Viper SmartView provides next-generation features and connectivity, and we expect it to be a big hit with both our dealers as well as consumers,” said Bob Struble, CEO of Directed. “This solution builds on Directed’s legacy of innovation in the aftermarket.”
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