Memphis Audio Takes CES to the Hardrock Hotel for Offsite Suite

Posted on December 25, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Memphis Audio.

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 6^th, 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 7^th – Thursday, January 9^th 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 6^th: 10:00am-6:00pm (One day before show hall opens)

Tuesday January 7^th– Thursday January 9^th: 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

Posted on December 23, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

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

Posted on December 22, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Memphis Audio.

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

Posted on December 19, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged JVC.

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

Posted on December 18, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

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.

Canadian Mobile Audio Expo to Educate Specialist Retailers in April 2020

Posted on December 17, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

TORONTO, CANADA (12.18.2019) – A date and venue have been announced for the inaugural 2020 Canadian Mobile Audio Expo. Car Audio and 12-Volt accessory manufacturers, distributors and retailers from across Canada are invited to congregate in Toronto at the Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre on April 5, 6, and 7, 2020.

The event will serve three key functions for the 12V industry. First, retailers will get hands-on experience and training on the latest products and solutions for the 2020 season. Second, we have arranged educational seminars featuring many of the top fabricators and trainers in the industry to teach new installation, sales and management skills. Finally, and most importantly, the Canadian Mobile Audio Expo is an opportunity for retailers to network with their peers from around the country.

“It’s been inspiring to watch how manufacturers and distributors from coast to coast have rallied to make this event a reality. A project of this magnitude is only possible because every 12V distributor agrees that proper education and training for specialty retailers is essential to growing and improving the Canadian mobile enhancement market,” said CMA Expo Event Director, Frank Spezzano.

Dave MacKinnon, Education Director, went on to add, “Manufacturers and distributors exhibiting at the event have demonstrated a vested interest in supporting specialist retailers across the country. As automotive enhancement services have become exponentially more complicated, training and manufacturer support are mandatory not only to succeed; but to survive in this industry. I’m in awe of the support we’ve seen, and am looking forward to working with some of the most talented experts in the industry to raise the bar for the Canadian market. We plan to kick the event off with a keynote presentation on how the digital world has evolved retail sales and the customer experience.” Details of the manufacturer and education seminars will be posted on the event website as the final schedule is confirmed.

Registration for the event will be available on the website starting on December 27th, 2019.

For more information on the Canadian Mobile Audio Expo, please visit www.cmaexpo.ca. For information about exhibiting at the show, contact Frank Spezzano at frank@cmaexpo.ca.

Visit facebook.com/MobileAudioExpo for more.

SEMA Creates State Sales Tax Webpage to Answer Questions and Provide Resources

Posted on December 16, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.17.2019) – Many SEMA-member manufacturers, distributors and retailers have been impacted by the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court Wayfair decision that allows states to require sales tax collections based solely on the volume of sales into that state (economic nexus).

The Court overturned its 1992 Quill decision, which previously required a company to have a physical presence before it could be compelled to collect sales tax.

SEMA has compiled resources to help companies understand whether Wayfair impacts their business and provide additional information to help them respond if necessary.

Many SEMA-member manufacturers, distributors and retailers have been impacted by the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court Wayfair decision.

Cash-strapped states have quickly implemented their new authority to require tax collection. Nearly all 45 states that collect sales tax have updated their regulations accordingly. There is no one national standard. Rather, each state is setting minimum dollar thresholds that trigger collection. In some states, that threshold may also be tied to the number of sales transactions—for example, $100,000 in sales or 200 transactions annually into that state.

Visit sema.org for more.

Exotic Sounds Instagram Post Tells a Story

Posted on December 15, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (12.16.2019) – The lead graphic on the Exotic Sounds’ 3-panel Friday the 13th Instagram post was an attention grabber. The shiny Porsche 911 front quarter panel, highlighting the extra clean wheel, invited a look from the company’s followers. In the background was the company’s signage on the building reading “Car Stereo & Custom Automotive by Exotic Sounds & Wheel Company. A follower would certainly associate Exotic Sounds as a top quality shop for Car Stereo and Custom Automotive products along with Wheels.

Panel 2 of the 3-panel Instagram post spotlighted a Pioneer In-Dash receiver the company installed in the extra clean Porsche ’06 convertible. On the screen of the Pioneer AVN-2500NEX was the image from the backup camera. German Mastrodomenico, Exotic Sounds owner, stated “Our customer knew what we wanted to upgrade his prize ride…top quality sound with a backup camera. The Pioneer AVN-2500NEX fit the bill perfectly with the large screen, impressive audio specs, Bluetooth connectivity and input for a backup camera. We added a Rydeen backup camera system”.

Panel 3 of the 3-panel Instagram post showed the small Rydeen camera mounted just above the rear license plate. The camera delivered a high quality image, with trajectory lines, to the Pioneer receiver screen.

Exotic Sounds Instagram followers could easily see the company is a quality automotive shop. The Pioneer in-dash receiver highlighted car stereo for followers. The backup camera panel let followers know about the option to add a backup camera for safety.

This Exotic Sounds post is really a very understated ad for the company’s products. No PRICE, PRICE, PRICE… but a strong visibility statement.

Great job German…Keep up the great work you started at Exotic Sounds in 2006.

Exotic Sounds was the winner of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Number 3 almost a year ago. German is enjoying his Kicker CushBT Headphones he won when the wheel landed on the Kicker space. “I listen to cool tunes on the Kicker CushBT headphones around the shop and office all the time. They rock” German told 12volt News.

Multiple posts can be made on Instagram. Followers will see a graphic in the upper right corner and blue dots below the post image.

Visit instagram.com/exoticsounds and instagram.com/12voltnews for more.

Alpine Connected with Jeepers at Holiday Bazaar in Atlantic City

Posted on December 12, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Alpine, Jeep.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (12.13.19) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. attended the 2019 Jeepers Holiday Bazaar at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ on Saturday, December 7th and Sunday, December 8th. This new, Holiday-themed Jeep event featured a large selection of vendors, kid-friendly activities and a Holiday-themed Jeep decorating contest that got all attendees into the Holiday spirit.

Alpine sponsored the 2019 “Photos with Santa” station. Event attendees could snap a free kid’s photo with Santa that was located next to Alpine’s Booth on the Showboat Hotel event floor. Alpine offered free giveaways in their booth after a photo with Santa.

The Alpine Jeep was an attention grabber for all who attended the Holiday Bazaar.

The Alpine booth was stocked with the latest vehicle-specific Audio and Video technology, as well as premium sound system upgrades with easy Plug-and-Play installations built to directly fit select Jeep models.

Alpine dealers Proline Car Stereo and Brooklyn Car Audio, from the Metro New York City market, were on site with members of their sales teams. The stock in the booth area was inventory from the dealer’s stock. Will Sullivan, for Proline Car Stereo and Brooklyn Car Audio, stated “This was a terrific event for us. We were able to show the latest Alpine products to a large number of Jeep owners and enthusiasts. The Jeep is such a hot vehicle and Alpine has done such a great job of developing the latest in-vehicle technology designed to be Jeep specific. Jeepers travel and we saw quite a number from the New York City area.”

This Alpine area was set up with a display to demo products.

Making its first Jeep event debut was Alpine’s solution for the new 2018 – Up Jeep Wrangler and 2019 – Up Jeep Gladiator: The 9-inch Weather-Resistant X409-WRA-JL Navigation System with Off-Road Mode. This solution, built for easy, Plug-and-Play installation, enhances the lifestyle of any Jeep driver, from the adventurous Off-Roader to the day-to-day commuter.

The new 9-inch Weather-Resistant X409-WRA-JK Navigation System with Off-Road Mode for the 2011 – 2018 Jeep Wrangler was also on display, where visitors could witness faster screen performance and a new interface that’s designed to deliver an entertaining in-vehicle experience in any driving condition.

Members of the Alpine Team in the Alpine store with Santa. (R to L) Colette Beaudoin, Roy Meyer, Santa, Allie Argenio, & Colin Vargo. Beaudoin is a Sales Rep in the NE. Meyer is the NE Regional Sales Manager. Allie is a Brand Ambassador for Alpine in the Jeep world. Vargo is an Alpine Brand Specialist for New York and New Jersey. Santa is visiting from the North Pole.

All Alpine booth products were showcased in a store-front display that allowed visitors to demo products with an on-site Alpine staff member and find the perfect solution for their Jeep. All products were available for purchase with special, event-only pricing available throughout the duration of the event – perfect for fulfilling a Holiday wish list.

Alpine’s Jeep Wrangler was on-site, loaded with the new X409-WRA-JL, a PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System Upgrade, an HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Mount Rear-View Camera, and an HCE-C2600FD4 Front View Camera.

Roy Meyer, Alpine Northeast Regional Sales Manager, stated “We interacted with customers and showcased the new Jeep JL platform radio. It was two days of Christmas music and Santa.”

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

Kicker Marine Audio Went Overboard at the 43rd MRAA

Posted on December 11, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

TAMPA, FL (12.12.2019) – Kicker Marine Audio had a major presence at the Marine Retailers Association of America Dealer Week at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa FL December 8th-11th. The MRAA Dealer week is 4 days of education, networking, business solutions and celebration for marine industry professionals. The MRAA is in its 43rd year of producing dealer-focused educational programming.

The Kicker Marine Audio Team set for the day early Wednesday morning, December 11. Jeremy Bale, Colin Wilson and Lori Boyer (L to R).

Jeremy Bale-Marine Audio Brand Manager, Lori Boyer and Colin Wilson traveled from Kicker World HQ in Stillwater OK to work with marine dealers from across the US. Kicker Marine Audio displayed the latest products in the lineup on the show floor and sponsored the evening industry celebration on Tuesday evening along with the band. Over 600 dealers and staff members benefitted from checking out the latest products, taking advantage of the educational platform and enjoyed an entertainment event on Tuesday evening.

At the Tuesday evening festivities, Kicker held a Text Promo. Attendees sent a text to win a set of Kicker earbuds. There were over 200 texts sent.

The Tuesday evening festivities included a band on stage that sponsored by Kicker Marine Audio.

During the Kicker sponsored Tuesday evening activities Kicker offered a free text-based earbud promotion. Over 200 members of the audience participated and will soon be “Livin Loud” with Kicker earbuds.