Kingpin University Uses KnowledgeFest to Kick Off 4th-Quarter Training

Posted on September 13, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Kingpin University.

LAS VEGAS, NV (09.14.22) – Kingpin University celebrated a high-value show presence at the latest KnowledgeFest exhibition and conference for the mobile electronics industry, held August 26-28, 2022 in Dallas. In addition to showcasing new product and hosting a series of training sessions on technical expertise and business growth, the company announced its fourth-quarter schedule for in-person, hands-on training at its Las Vegas campus.

Students attending the upcoming Next-Level Fabrication course on September 21 will have the unique experience of building a car destined for the show floor. Kingpin University’s award-winning Rat Rod, a 1928 Hudson Essex Super 6, will be featured in the Diamond Audio booth at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, November 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. Students will assist with system design, panel architecture, enclosure fabrication and wiring. In addition, participating attendees will receive credit with their names on the builder board during the show.

Sales professionals and store personnel who want to better understand the sales process will benefit from the DNA of a Sales Pro class session, October 15-16. The class studies the traits and habits of successful sellers in different industries and applies them to the customer-focused duties of the mobile electronics professional. Instruction includes customer outreach through phone, email and social media, proven listening and qualifying tactics, selling high-margin accessories, online-to-in-store transition and more.

The Mastering the Motorcycle Market course is designed for stores that see the viability of specialty transportation as a profit center. The two-day session, October 29-30, spans the gamut of the category, from understanding the culture of the rider, specifics and limitations of motorcycle integration and popular enhancements, all the way to system design and fabrication.

Automated fabrication is becoming a larger component of the car audio facility workday, and the Master Laser Class – Hands-On with Robots, November 11-13, is intended to teach shops to use laser-cutting technology to its fullest effect. The session covers the components of a laser cutter, use of drawing software to create the cutting patterns, materials selection, safety measures, system maintenance and upgrades, and most important, the timesaving and style-enhancing benefits of laser precision.

“From talking with retailers and installers at KnowledgeFest, we’re seeing shops transition from the COVID / post-COVID boom to the normal market forces that impact retail seasonally,” said Jason Kranitz, principal instructor at Kingpin University. “Stores can maximize their time during the pre-holiday period with professional training specifically designed to add revenue-generating capability to every in-store professional. The four classes we’ve selected provide instruction on category opportunities, skills enhancement and improved efficiency. Like our KnowledgeFest experience, we are excited to share our insights with our peers and look forward to each teaching opportunity.”

For more information on class schedules, accommodations and pricing, please visit kingpinuniversity.com

DOW Technologies Announces 12Volt Business Expansion

Posted on September 12, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged DOW Technologies, JVC, Kicker.

TAMPA, FL (09.13.22) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned technology distributor, announced the expansion of their 12Volt business today. DOW has brought on two new vendor partners, Kicker and JVC, and expanded the territory serviced for two existing vendor partners, Sony and Alpine.

As of September 1st, DOW has signed agreements with Kicker and JVC to begin distributing products to independent dealers. DOW will be distributing JVC products in eleven states across the South, including Florida, the Southeast and TOLA territories. The agreement covers all of JVC’s products including exclusive distribution of the KW-M778BH model within the territory. DOW’s agreement with Kicker covers distribution of the full line of products in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee.

DOW expanded its partnership with Alpine beginning August 1st. DOW is now the fulfillment partner for Alpine in the seven states of the Southeast, in addition to their prior service of Arizona, southern California and Florida. Authorized dealers can order from DOW’s local warehouses to get product quickly and efficiently.

Also beginning September 1st, DOW deepened their ties with Sony’s mobile audio segment, expanding coverage to include Arizona. DOW will stock and distribute the full Sony and Sony Mobile ES lines across the full territory. DOW has been a partner with Sony’s 12Volt business since the early 1980s.

“We’ve had a great opportunity to expand our 12Volt offerings and create new partnerships in the industry over the past month” stated DOW’s senior vice president, sales and product management, Dave Elkin. “We continue to look at ways DOW can provide more value to dealers and vendors in the industry, and having industry leading partners like these makes it easier for dealers to find what they need from a source that offers great support.”

“This expansion is a result of our team’s dedication to provide the best value and support to our customers, recognizing how SMBs want partners that understand their needs,” added DOW’s director of sales, Drew Fischer. “We believe that vendors are seeing the value of the investments we’ve made in our staff, along with the unique programs we offer that benefit SMBs.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

All-New HiFonics Zeus Delta Digital Class Amplifiers Have Arrived

Posted on September 12, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged HiFonics.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (09.13.22) – ALL-NEW for 2022, Hifonics ZEUS DELTA amplifiers create compact space with higher quality sound fused into innovative components. An evolution from the ZEUS amplifier line, ALL-NEW ZEUS DELTA amplifiers create immersive playback that feeds audio with clean and undistorted levels of listening in every beat and note. Get ready for more layers of audio discovery, rich details, and cleaner playback within every genre of music.

Transforming audio into a vibrant soundscape of more layers of listening and playback, Hifonics ZEUS DELTA amplifiers make the most out of tighter areas when installation space is critical in vehicles with a smaller footprint.

Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales, said, “We have created this amplifier line as the next evolution of ZEUS sound. Bringing out more from your audio in every aspect while adding the flexibility of more install space into your vehicle or machine, ZEUS DELTA amplifiers signify a needed upgrade to every Hifonics car audio system. I am very excited to see the potential of car audio installations that the ALL-NEW ZEUS DELTA amplifier line will showcase.”

ABOUT THE ZEUS DELTA AMPLIFIER LINE
Bringing clean levels of undistorted clarity in every genre of music, ALL-NEW for 2022 ZEUS DELTA (ZD) amplifiers signify the ultimate audio system companion that adds more details to songs while delivering a fresh listening experience during any jam session that demands more POWER FROM THE GODS.

The entire Hifonics ZEUS DELTA amplifier line consists of one 5-channel, two 4-channels, one 2-channel, and four monoblocks. With a MASSIVE line to choose from, ZEUS DELTA promises to elevate your POWER FROM THE GODS listening experience with more immersion, deeper listening, and adding incredible details into every song.

*ZEUS DELTA ZD-3350.1D mono amplifier input and output end panels*

Featuring a murdered look that keeps installations and vehicle setups clean and sleek, every ZEUS DELTA amplifier is showcased within an all-black finish that blends in with any car audio system. With logo illumination featured on the top of the heat sink, ZEUS DELTA amplifiers continue the legendary look and performance of Hifonics amplifiers within a smaller footprint that add flexibility to installation space.

FEATURES INCLUDE:
• ULTRA COMPACT DIGITAL CLASS DESIGN
A full Digital Class amplifier line allows for a 30% smaller footprint compared to previous ZEUS amplifier lines – but still retains classic ZEUS power output
• AMPLIFIER CROSSOVER
Variable Electronic 12dB per octave
• LOW NOISE PRE-AMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier circuit with minimal distortion
• RCA INPUTS
Nickel-plated, high-temperature, impact-resistant RCA inputs feature hex screw terminals that allow for secure connections
• ELECTRONIC EQUALIZER
Control of amplifier output with on-board electronic crossover to tailor specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers
• OUTPUT DEVICE TECHNOLOGY
PWM MOSFET power supply creates stable power through the PC board with minimal heat generation
• HEAT SINK
Aluminum Hifonics heat sink creates superior heat dissipation for better sound

“While remaining cool and creating stable power through the PC board, every ZEUS DELTA amplifier has a compact and sleek design that assures fitment into any vehicle installation. These amplifiers are extremely compact and provide ample space where you will need it most. The incredible result from our Hifonics engineering team is the next evolution of ZEUS amplifiers that brings out the best performance from your audio while delivering sound in a much smaller space,” concluded Dattalo.

Take your amplifier installation to smaller spaces with the ALL-NEW 2022 Hifonics ZEUS DELTA (ZD) amplifier line. It’s time to transform your inner ZEUS with powerful performance that meets innovative design.

ZEUS DELTA has arrived. Full line details are available on the Hifonics website at hifonics.com.

Oracle Lighting Launches Oculus Bi-LED Projector Headlights for 2021+ Ford Bronco at 2022 SEMA Show

Posted on September 11, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

METAIRIE, LA (09.12.22) – Oracle Lighting has announced the launch of the new Oculus Bi-LED Projector Headlights for 2021+ Ford Bronco during the 2022 SEMA Show, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from Nov. 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth # 20137. The new headlight system is scheduled to ship Nov. 2022 with a projected MSRP of $689.95.

“Featuring a unique modular design, easy plug-and-play installation, and advanced LED projection with 5,200 Lumens of high-quality illumination for enhanced driver visibility in all weather conditions, the Oculus headlight is compatible with both the standard and signature Bronco lighting models,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “Oculus utilizes precision LED lighting projector for optimum light distribution and beam angle, installs using original mounting hardware, and headlight wiring is plug & play into the factory connector without additional relays or harnesses. Halo is available in white or amber LED and features more than 200 bright LEDs for a vivid lighting impact.”

These all-new headlamps provide enhanced driver visibility with increased and focused LED light output, featuring a high-precision sharp cut-off line which reduces glare and prevents blinding oncoming traffic even when installed on lifted Broncos. Package includes a tool for easy beam angle adjustability.

“The new modular design allows separate components (turn signal, marker lights, and mounting tabs) to be installed independently,” Hartenstein continued. “This modular design provides smaller packaging size for lower shipping costs for the end user and prevents possible damage from shipping on these components. The modular design also allows for these individual components to be replaced or upgraded down the road when future options are available.”

It is undeniably important to implement proper thermal management tools for high-performance LEDs to operate with reliability in various environments. Oculus utilizes both active and passive cooling methods to sustain low LED temperatures. Remote mounted heat sinks and an internal cooling fan work in conjunction to insure proper temperature control and longevity of the LEDs.

“Light focus is very important for not only driver safety but others on the road who can potentially have their vision obstructed by glare,” Hartenstein concluded. “This is especially significant on lifted vehicles where the light source is raised and, in a position, to interfere with the field of vision of other drivers. These new Oculus headlights feature a very sharp cut-off line and focus light with precision specifically to avoid such issues. “

Oculus product specifications include:

Headlight wattage: 36W each
Total lumens: 5200LM
Headlight color temp: 5500K (pure white)
Halo color: optional white or amber LED
Certification: DOT SAE 5839-504 HL VOR 19
Patented design: USPTO Patent D 877,404
Designed and developed in the USA
Warranty: 2 years

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

MTX Audio Welcomes Synergy Marketing Agency

Posted on September 11, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged MTX, Synergy Marketing.

PHOENIX, AZ (09.12.22) – MTX Audio is proud to announce the addition of Synergy Marketing Agency to its 12-volt sales rep force. Started in 2018, Synergy’s mission is to provide profitable, best in class products for the highly skilled independent specialists.

*David Toliver in his Synergy Marketing Agency Houston office holding a new MTX catalog.*

Principal David Toliver is a 20-year industry veteran who brings a background of hands-on knowledge in both sales and installation as well as being recognized as a motivated leader who is known throughout the Consumer Electronics industry for delivering and sustaining sales within the highly competitive U.S. retail markets.

“We are very selective in what product lines we carry as we are advocates for our dealers and retailer network.”, says David. “We are constantly looking for best in class solutions for our dealer base and we provide results plain and simple.” Synergy will be representing the MTX Audio brand in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas.

For more see synergyagency.net

Synergy Marketing at K’Fest in Big D

Posted on September 1, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged KnowledgeFest, Synergy Marketing.

HOUSTON, TX (09.02.22) – Houston-based Synergy Marketing Agency, with David Toliver literally behind the wheel, was on the K’Fest event floor with his company’s Avalanche demo vehicle. The custom vehicle build was a collaboration with retailer Ultimate Innovations in Kemah, TX.

*David Toliver pictured on the K’Fest show floor in Big D highlighting the Morel brand that is featured in the Synergy Marketing Avalanche demo truck.*

“Dallas K’Fest was a huge success for Synergy Marketing and our vendor partners…Morel, Lucas, Dynamat, Rydeen, Musway, MTX and Audiomobile. Dealers who attended were very engaged and actively looking for unique high end performance lines and solutions that are exclusive and unique. Everyone was blown away with the Ultimate Innovations install and even more impressed after hearing it” Toliver related.

*The custom installation completed by Ultimate Innovations in the Avalanche truly a work of art.*

Eli Kunzat offered “Seeing our Ultimate Innovations work on the floor being appreciated by fellow retailers at K’Fest was terrific. Their positive comments were greatly appreciated.

*Audiomobile speakers featured in the Avalanche displayed in the booth.*

The Car Audio Shop in Austin TX was one of the first early August dealer stops for Toliver in his demo vehicle loaded with brands on his rep firm’s line card. Store owner David Gabriel related “It was super when David rolled up in the Avalanche. We are a Morel dealer and the system in the truck sounds great. Also, the workmanship on the system is terrific and will give other retailers ideas for their installations.”

Look for the Synergy Marketing Avalanche in the states of TX, OK, AR, MS and LA. The brands on the Synergy Marketing Agency line card include Audiomobile, Dynamat, Gemini Acoustics, Lucas Lighting, Morel, MTX Audio, Musway, Polk, Rhino BOX, Rydeen, Reikken, Energie SQL Audio and TRU Technologies,

Visit synergyagency.net for more.

Audio Authority Promotes Delilah Durrum to Operations Manager

Posted on September 1, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Audio Authority.

LEXINGTON, KY (09.02.22) – Audio Authority is pleased to announce the promotion of Delilah Durrum to Operations Manager at their Lexington, Kentucky headquarters.

*Delilah Durrum, Audio Authority Operations Manager*

A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Delilah moved to Lexington, Kentucky as a child. Her professional background includes 25 years of electronics manufacturing experience. Beginning as a production associate, she has been promoted throughout her career to roles of increasing responsibility including Product Engineer, Project Manager, and Program Manager. Delilah has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (with Marketing) from Sullivan University, and joined Audio Authority in 2018.

Delilah is married and has one son. She enjoys the outdoors, boating, gardening, traveling and spending time with her family.

Visit audioauthority.com for more.

Register Now for the 2022 SEMA Show

Posted on August 31, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SEMA Show.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.01.22) – Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show, the premier gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Taking place November 1–4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2022 SEMA Show will build upon the positive momentum following last year’s event, which successfully connected the $47.8 billion industry in person in what was the largest automotive trade show in North America since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020.

“The SEMA Show is where industry professionals go to grow existing relationships, create new ones and push their businesses forward,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Exhibitors are eager to showcase their products and services to the tens of thousands of qualified professionals in attendance.”

Anticipation for this year’s SEMA Show ramped up in recent weeks as exhibitors selected their booth locations during Priority Space Selection, a weeks-long process that took place May 2–18.

“Enthusiasm for the 2022 Show continues to exceed last year’s, with more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibitor space already committed for the 2022 SEMA Show and confirmed spaces running 25% above last year,” said Warren Kosikov, SEMA vice president of sales.

Attendees at the 2022 SEMA Show will learn about the latest products, trends and technology in the industry from manufacturers exhibiting throughout the entire Las Vegas Convention Center, including the surrounding parking lots. Educational seminars led by industry experts and networking events that bring market niches together will also be available during the four-day trade event.

“Our industry continues to thrive despite current challenges in the marketplace, and last year’s event proved that the value of conducting business and networking face-to-face can never be replaced,” said Gattuso. “Our mission is to help continue that momentum by providing an unparalleled experience that builds meaningful business relationships.”

Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show is offered in three categories—attendee, exhibitor and media—and everyone must qualify to attend. Attendees are encouraged to register early at www.semashow.com/register so they can secure their credentials and receive updates on breaking news from the 2022 SEMA Show.

Attendees are encouraged to check the floorplan to see where the companies they need to interact with will be located at the 2022 SEMA Show.

For more information about qualifying documents and the 2022 SEMA Show, log on to www.semashow.com.

Echo Sales and Distribution Welcomes Adrian Manrique

Posted on August 31, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Echo Sales.

Adrian Manrique pictured entering the office in Grayslake, IL.

GRAYSLAKE, IL (09.01.22) – Adrian Manrique has joined the Echo Sales and Distribution Team as the firm’s inside sales rep. Adrian brings over 18 years of installation experience and vast product knowledge of Alpine, Aquatic AV, Hertz, VOXX, Metra and everything in between.

“I’m looking forward to supporting ECHO dealers, getting out into the field and maintaining strength in the territory plus growing relationships with our dealers,” Manrique related.

*The new ECHO Sales and Distribution location in Grayslake, IL.*

“Adrian’s dedication to bringing dealers the newest and best technology in the field earned him ‘Top 20 Sales Professional in 2018,’” Rob Osheaski related.

ECHO Sales represents number of top brands for a wide variety of car audio, marine audio, powersports, automotive audio/video integration, car alarms, remote car starters plus installation tools. In addition ECHO Sales offers cold weather outerwear for powersports and motorcycles along with helmets.

ECHO Sales covers the states of IL, WI, IN, KY, MN, ND and SD.

For more see echosales.net.

DEI to Sponsors DSM / EVO / GTR Showdown in Ohio

Posted on August 30, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Design Engineering.

AVON LAKE, OH (08.31.22) – Design Engineering, Inc. will serve as a primary and class sponsor of the 29th annual IDRC Shootout presented by Buschur’s, LLC this fall.

Billed as the “World’s Greatest DSM/EVO Event,” the Shootout will feature drag racing, autocross and Max Effort combination competitions, plus a pre-event Poker Run. Now in its 29th year, the event is set for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.

“We’re looking forward to some great action at this year’s ENEOS 2022 IDRC Shootout Presented by Buschur’s,” said Will Farkas, Social Media & Sponsorship Coordinator of DEI. “A later starting date this year should mean cooler temperatures and faster times throughout the weekend.”

DEI’s performance heat and sound control products offer drag racers a competitive edge through cooler operating temperatures and thermal containment—particularly in tight engine compartments and under the body of sport compacts and other smaller competition vehicles.