Featured

SEER, Smart Entry Exit Recognition, Offers Hands-Free Liftgate, Automatic Locking, Unlocking and More

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , .

ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.31.2019) – VAIS Technology presents a high-tech, innovative product for aftermarket and OEM companies at the 2019 SEMA Show. SEER (Smart Entry Exit Recognition) product line combines automated door locking at driver’s departure, automated unlocking when driver is approaching, Hands Free Liftgate opening, illuminated entry, and 4 auxiliary  inputs and outputs that are fully customizable to trigger any electronic accessory in the vehicle – all based on driver proximity.

VAIS Technology uses LF and RF communication to determine the driver’s proximity to the vehicle and to authenticate the user. Proprietary software analyzes the driver’s behavior around the car. Communication to the vehicle is done over CAN bus to execute factory door locking, unlocking, turn headlights, dome, puddle, and sentry lights ON or OFF. SEER recognizes a pre-programmed pattern by the power liftgate to activate factory opening or closing without pressing any buttons.

Click below to enlarge

Click here to enlarge the image above.

The product requires a driver to carry a small tag on the key chain for authentication purposes. Installation includes placing RF antennas and a sensor behind the front and rear bumpers, then connecting it to the VAIS ECU module placed behind a trim panel.

In addition to pre-programmed functions, SEER has 4 AUX inputs and outputs to allow electronic accessories customization based on driver proximity. Popular features include motorized steps, sliding side door, electronically locking compartments & tool boxes, and much more!

SEER can work on brand new vehicles as well as vehicles dating back decades with installed electronic accessories.

“SEER is an automotive grade device designed by our in-house engineering team and manufactured at an automotive certified facility. We plan to ship the product Q1 of 2020 starting at $319.99 for a version without Hands Free Liftgate option and at $449.99 with Hands Free Liftgate option” says Dennis Hopper, EVP at VAIS Technology.

Visit www.vaistech.com for more.

SounDigital USA Will Exhibit SounDigital and Ground Zero at SEMA 2019

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , , .

DANIA BEACH, FL (10.30.2019) – SounDigital USA will be exhibiting new products from both SounDigital and Ground Zero during the upcoming SEMA Show on November 5th thru the 8th in North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth 12031.

“SEMA is going to be a massive event for us,” said Michael Ventura National Sales Manager. “We will be using this event as a spring board into 2020. The announcement of an entire new line up for SounDigital is going to be huge.”

The Blaze Performance Cycles – Clayton NC Harley-Davidson Road Glide will be featured in the booth.

This new line under the EVOX banner has been in development for the past several years and is currently patent pending. “The power to size ratio is incredible. Never has the market seen such small foot print making the power these new amplifiers will,” said Ventura. SounDigital and Ground Zero have partnered with Blaze Performance Cycles from Clayton, North Carolina to feature their fully customized Harley Davidson Road Glide.

The 1957 Chevy C10 truck built by Mobile Toys Inc. will be showcased in the booth.

“This bike has over of 12,800 watts of clean SounDigital power and it all fits in a tour pack! Rounded out for sound by 25 Ground Zero competition speakers including some top secret black baskets will make it one of the loudest demo vehicles on the show floor.”

The SounDigital booth will also feature a 1957 Chevy C10 truck built by Mobile Toys Inc. from College Station, Texas. This vehicle will feature Ground Zero Plutonium SQ series speakers and SQ amplifiers, as well as its Titanium high quality flat sub woofers. “This truck is going to showcase Ground Zero award winning capability,” said Ventura. “Ground Zero is a major player in the European and Asian markets and we will intent to show the US dealer why.”

SounDigital Dealers who RSVP’d, will be treated to appreciation night hosted at the Hard Rock Cafe on the Las Vegas Strip on Tuesday night. “We are looking forward to provide an amazing night to our US and International dealers,” stated CEO Diogo Iannaccone.

Visit soundigitalusa.com and ground-zero-audio.com for more.

2019 SEMA Show Mobile App Now Available

Posted on by in Featured and tagged .

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.29.2019) – The official 2019 SEMA Show Mobile App is now available for download at semashow.com/app. The free app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the exclusive trade show, held Nov. 5-8 in Las Vegas, NV.

“The SEMA Show Mobile App enables Showgoers to leverage all the Show has to offer,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President-Events. “The app has been updated and new features have been added, making it the ideal tool to stay informed on everything happening at the 2019 SEMA Show.”

The free SEMA Show mobile app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the Show.

New this year is an interactive feature that gives users detailed information on featured vehicles displayed throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. By simply scanning a vehicle’s QR code, located on a Feature Vehicle sticker attached to the vehicle during check-in, the app will display the vehicle’s year, make and model; information on the exhibitor displaying the vehicle; and a list of products used on the vehicle. The app also allows users to access a list of exhibitors from 2018 and any saved product information.

Other features of the 2019 SEMA Show mobile app include:

  • Turn-By-Turn Directions: Find the quickest route from one place to another without the need of a GPS or data service. Simply enter an exhibitor name or room nearest to you and where you want to go, and the app will provide directions.
  • My Schedule: Create a schedule to keep track of the events you wish to attend.
  • New Products Showcase: View all of the products entered into the New Products Showcase, complete with detailed information and photos, exactly where within the Showcase the product is displayed, and directions to the exhibitor’s booth on the Show floor.
  • Product Scanner: Use your smartphone as a scanner at the New Products Showcase to create a list and map of the scanned products.
  • Maps: View floorplans of all SEMA Show halls and how/where they connect to make passage from hall to hall as easy as possible.
  • Exhibitors: Look up all 2019 SEMA Show exhibitors by name, Show section or product category.
  • Events, Celebrity Appearances and Speakers: See lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location.
  • Social Media: Keep up with the feeds of the official SEMA Show social media accounts, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
  • Ground Transportation: Find the best way to arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Obtain information on the Las Vegas Monorail, rideshare and hotel shuttles, including pickup locations.
  • eNews: Stay up to date with the latest news before, during and after the Show.

“A lot of planning has gone into making the app a valuable resource for Showgoers and will make navigating the Show and staying informed easy,” said Gattuso. “Attendees should use it in their Show preparation, while experiencing the event onsite and after they return home form the Show.”

The 2019 SEMA Show mobile app can be downloaded at no cost from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or semashow.com/app

MESA Member Basin Tint and Sound Scored at Casino Royale Night

Posted on by in Featured and tagged .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit mesadealer.com for more.

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

Posted on by in Featured.

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

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

New 5-Channel Amplifiers: Two new 5-channel amplifiers from AudioControl both offer 125 watts X4-channels RMS at 4-Ohm (200watts RMS X4 at 2-Ohm) and 500 watts X1-channel at 2-Ohm along with eight speaker level inputs with selectable summing capability. The D-5.1300 delivers onboard DSP control of all amplified outputs and a pair of low-level outputs as well. The DSP interface is managed by the highly intuitive DM Smart App designed for all of AudioControl’s DSP amplifiers. The LC-5.1300 offers the same outstanding specs and performance without the DSP features.

OEM integration with two new Load Generating Devices (LGD)

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

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

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

See audiocontrol.com for more.

KICKER Sponsors Another Competition at the 12th Annual MWSPL Finals

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit midwestspl.com and kicker.com for more.

IASCA INAC 2019 and Unified Car Audio Championship, including IASCA, MECA and dB Drag, a Huge Success in Louisville

Posted on by in Featured.

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (10.23.2019) – The 2019 IASCA North American Championship (INAC), concluded on Sunday, October 13th, 2019 with over 100 competitors from the U.S., Canada and Mexico vying for championship titles in sound quality, installation quality, IdBL and Bass Boxing SPL competitions.

“It was a proud moment to see all of our competitors ready to battle for another championship.” said Moe Sabourin, Director of Operations for IASCA Worldwide, “There were also a lot of new faces in both the SPL and SQ lanes, which was exciting. It’s also great to see old friends that I only get to see once a year here in Louisville. It reminds me of all the awesome times we’ve had together at this event over the years.”

The inaugural IASCA Motosounds Competitors at INAC. This was the first to have a Finals Competition for Motorcycle and PowerSports formats. Terry Floyd (C)made it happen and is pictured with Competition in the formats.

Awards this year featured a custom cnc machined base with dye sublimated plaques for INAC and the 3X event, sponsored by Arc Audio, along with the traditional 3 foot cup for Triple Crown and the much desired boxing belts in IASCA Bass Boxing.

Notable Champions include Brian Mitchell, successfully defending his Triple Crown 2 seat Championship for 2 years in a row now, winning his third this past weekend. Brian was also the weekend’s entertainment with crazy costumes each day, keeping everyone smiling.

Robert Corwin successfully defended his Triple Crown 1 seat Championship, and newcomer Anthony Rodriguez was awarded the Champion spot in the Novice SQ Class. And, this year’s INAC saw the return of Scott Buwalda’s infamous “Black Betty”, which took top honors in all formats of the Extreme Open SQ class.

The awards table held all of the IASCA Awards for INAC and the 3X event, including the Triple Crown Trophies and Bass Boxing Belts.

The Unified Car Audio Championship and IASCA were also supported by many industry members as well, such as Arc Audio (SQ Hall sponsor and Trophy Sponsor), JL Audio, Hybrid Audio Technologies, Kicker, US Acoustics, Focal, Pioneer and many more.

“Special thanks go out to our entire Judging Team, support staff and supporters” Sabourin continued to say; “These great people worked their butts off and delivered a first class event. Without their hard work and dedication to IASCA competition, we would not be here today.”

The Sound Quality (SQC) Judging Team consisted of Travis Chin (Head Judge), Keith Turner, Tim Goudy, John Sketoe, Steve Head, IASCA Caribbean Director Shazad Rahaman, Jeff Smith and after a brief absence from the judging lanes, Gord Stansell returned to judge install (IQC).

Top Competitor Brian Mitchell lit up the Competition lanes. The white jacket, with LED’s, drew attention to the “bling” around his neck and on his fingers. An ARC Audio amplifier medallion, with the brand CNC’ed, hangs from a necklace.

The SPL Judging team consisted of Head Judge Aaron Dunkle, Scott Sinde, Brandon Rosser, Matt Miller from the West Coast, and Joey and Chrystle Perry.

INAC also saw its first ever “Motosounds” motorcycle Championship with LA Audio shop owner Larry Adams taking the top spot in his class. Head Judge Terry Floyd worked hard all season long to build the motorcycle competition format and had a great time with the Motosounds competitors.

Amazing custom installations were featured in Competitors vehicles in Louisville.

Support Staff include Kim Sabourin, Terry Floyd and Kim Cook.

The Rules and Ethics Committees have already begun drafting the new rules for 2020, which are set to be released in January.

Winners of the IASCA INAC and the 3X competitions will be posted on the IASCA website in the coming days. You can view the results at www.iasca.com/events.

For more information, contact IASCA at (386) 322-1551 or email memberservices@iasca.com.

The MECA Finals Really is the BIG SHOW

Posted on by in Featured.

LOUISVILLE, KY (10.22.2019) – MECA’s 21st season ended in high style at the Car Audio Championship event at the Kentucky Fair & Expo Center in Louisville on October 13th. 40 World Champions were determined in SQL, SPL, Show & Shine, and Ride The Light contests. 186 vehicles participated in the event, which included lots of new people in the 2020 Kick-off Party.

The MECA Finals Trophies set to be awarded to winners.
Ken Reed, Best of Best of Show Winner, pictured with the trophies he won in Louisville. The tallest trophy is 7’ tall. Reed is a Team Audio X member from Florence, AL.

Sponsors TRU Technology as SQL Title Sponsor, and SPL Co-Sponsors Ohio Generator, Sundown Audio, and XS Power helped to present the largest number of MECA Finals awards in the history of the club.

Alek Wiser’s MECA Kids, 10 Years, Show-Stopper. Alek’s father Derex Wiser is a Team Imperial member.

For a complete list of MECA Finals results, see:
mecaevents.com/results/2574

Chris Gregory (R), a Charter MECA Member and Modified 2 World Champion, is pictured in Louisville with MECA Commish Steve Stern.

Notable Mobile Electronics Industry awards were presented at the show: XS Power – Manufacturer of the Year, Arc Audio – 12-Volt Industry Award, SoundCheck – Retail Member from Lafayette, IN repeats, O.S.C. from Cleveland, TN – Team of The Year, Alma Gates Lifetime Achievement Award – Steve Cook from Audio X in Florence, AL, Venue of the Year – Slamology, Best Press Coverage – 12voltnews.com.

Dave Clews, 12volt Dave’s in Pottsville PA, displayed his stunning “Because the Music Matters” entry.
MECA Show and Shine Winners with their trophies on Sunday afternoon, October 13th.

MECA provided 176 shows internationally, with 150+ in the USA in 2019. New Event Directors are being trained, along with new judges, for the 2020 season. Demand for sound-off events is growing, especially in when partnering with car/truck/motorcycle shows, cruise-ins, and charity events.

State Champion Certificates are being prepared and mailed. Over 280 certificates… with a few show here on Commish Stern’s desk.

280 State Champion certificates were issued by the club for 2019.

“Thanks to our dedicated R&E Committee, the Event Directors, Judges, and Competitors who make our club fair and fun, all based on music and community.”

-MECA

For a complete list of MECA Finals results, see:
mecaevents.com/results/2574

All awards may be viewed in the Archives at www.mecacaraudio.com, including World Champions, Club Awards, and individual State Champions. Congratulations to all the winners!

Woofer Electronics Joins EDA

Posted on by in Featured and tagged , .

SEATTLE, WA (10.21.2019) – Elite Distributor Alliance has announced the addition of Woofer Electronics to the premier 12 Volt focused member owned buying group. Chicago based Woofer Electronics services the upper Midwest states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Founded in 1980, Sam Yoo had this to say about joining EDA: “The EDA has brought together an amazing group of distributors who share an immense passion for this industry. The EDA’s strategy and vision are incredibly exciting and we could not be happier to be a part of it. We look forward to working closely with the member and vendor partners to help continue the group’s growth and success.”

Woofer provides same day or next day service to nearly all the dealers served. Jim Warren, EDA’s Executive Director said, “Sam and his team have built a very exciting company in America’s heartland – the alignment of brands and vision is powerful, and we look forward to working closely with Sam and his leadership team.”

EDA, which consists of a dozen members servicing almost all corners of the lower 48 states is experiencing double digit growth. Josh Eatherly, EDA’s president added, “2020 will be a pivotal year for our buying group with several significant initiatives that will be announced in coming months. We are committed to adding value in very significant ways and Woofer Electronics is positioned well to partner with our members. We are really pleased to have Sam join the group as we continue our path to $200,000,000 in wholesale buying power.”

Visit elitedistributoralliance.com and wooferelectronics.com for more.

JL Audio Signs 2019 Supra PWT Champion Nic Rapa as Brand Ambassador

Posted on by in Featured.

MIRAMAR FL (10.18.2019) – JL Audio has signed a sponsorship deal with professional wakeboarder and 2019 Supra Boats PWT champion, Nic Rapa. Headed into the 2020 season, Rapa will be representing the JL Audio brand as he strives for more pro championship wins.

“Participating in the PWT for the last several years has given us the opportunity to develop relationships with all the amazing athletes that compete – specifically Nic Rapa,” said Bryatt Fischer, Marketing Director, JL Audio. “His professional approach to his craft and loyal fan base speaks volumes for who Nic is, and we are excited to align the JL Audio brand with him going into the 2020 season.”

Nic Rapa is all smiles to be aboard as a JL Audio Brand Ambassador.

Since turning pro and joining the Supra Boats Team in 2016, native Australian Nic Rapa has quickly made a name for himself in wakeboarding. After winning the Supra Boats PWT Rookie of The Year title and placing in the top three rankings at the WWA Wakeboard World Championships his first year competing as a professional, Nic won second place at the 2017 and 2018 Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tours. This year, Nic earned the Champion title at the 2019 Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour, as well as at the 2019 Nautique WWA National Champion, solidifying his status as a marquee rider in watersports.

“I have been immersed in watersports since I was three years old and couldn’t imagine being on the water without music,” said Nic Rapa. “JL Audio is an incredibly influential audio brand and I look forward to working with them to grow as a professional athlete and further expand their impressive influence in the watersports space and marine industry.”

JL Audio has been working indirectly with Rapa since 2016 when he first joined the Supra Boats Team. As the exclusive audio supplier for Supra Boats, Rapa has first-hand experience with JL Audio products. JL Audio has been entrenched in the professional wakeboarding circuit with their sponsorship of the Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour since 2014. The PWT has served as the stage for JL Audio to connect directly with watersports and boating enthusiasts alike to demonstrating the latest and greatest in marine audio technology. The partnership with Nic allows JL Audio to continue to support and inspire the next generation of watersport athletes.

Visit www.jlaudio.com for more.