Massive Audio Adds John Velez to the Team

COMMERCE, CA (8.23.22) – Massive Audio has added industry Veteran John Velez to the Massive Audio team as its’ new Sales Manager. He will be working closely with company VP Hernando Mares JR. Hernando stated, “I have worked with John in the past and he has a deep passion for customers and will be a great addition to the growing Massive Audio team.”

John Velez, Sales Manager

John is pictured at California Upholstery, in Bell Gardens, next to Canelo Alvarez Shelby Boss Mustang that was just finished. John was dropping off more Massive Audio product for two new builds.

John Velez is responsible for conceiving and executing sales strategies plus tactics that drive growth. In addition, he will help with overall dealer development in the marketplace as well as execute sales campaigns. Massive Audio is working to expand sales and marketing efforts and provide a stronger presence across the United States. Going forward, all will see several changes in the Massive Audio brand, social media, and eventually the website.

Special shout out to Joe and Joseph for their support shown for Massive Audio.

For dealer inquires please contact Jvelez@Massiveaudio.com (Hablamos español)

Remembering Ken Johnson and His 12Volt Industry Career

OXNARD, CA (08.21.22) – It is with great sadness all at BOSS Audio learned of Ken’s Johnson’s passing on August 18th, 2022. Ken was the company’s Senior Product Manager and had been here with BOSS for the past year and a half and previously for 5 years working mostly in the BOSS Audio China headquarters.

“Ken was not only a great colleague to work with but truly a great and kind friend to everyone. He always had a positive attitude and it showed through his personality and behavior. His knowledge and experience made us at BOSS a better company. He will be missed. Our hearts and sincere condolences go out to Ken’s family and friends for their loss,” Douglas Kern, Vice President Sales BOSS International Group, stated.

Ken Johnson

“It is with deep sorrow that we learned of Ken Johnson’s passing. Kenny was a former Dual Electronics Director of Product Management. Colleagues, suppliers and customers will all remember Kenny for his industry knowledge, professionalism, and creativity. Those of us that worked closely with him will remember and miss his humor, dedication, and friendship. Kenny was never too busy to help a friend or colleague and he will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to his Family for their loss,” Matt Vinson, Senior Vice President Dual Electronics Corp, related.

“The loss of Kenny is a hard hit to all that knew him whether within or outside of our industry. As a former Voxx team member rolling in from our acquisition of Jensen many moons ago, Kenny brought his deep technical and practical product knowledge to our group and was an essential part of our product development team. He was not only a colleague to many of us in our professional lives, he was also a great friend who will be dearly missed. His passing reopens several wounds of a near and dear industry veteran who passed way too early. Our deepest condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time,” Joe Caltabiano, Vice President Vehicle Entertainment VOXX Electronics Corporation relayed.

Please remember Ken Johnson and his contributions to the 12volt industry.

JVC Ships Step-Up Apple CarPlay / Android Auto Receiver

LONG BEACH, CA (08.22.22) – JVC Mobile Entertainment announced that it is now shipping a new “step-up”  Apple CarPlay / Android Auto-ready multimedia receiver, the KW-M780BT with a MAP of $449.95.

“As we’ve come into a new normalization of product availability, there has still been a drought of mid-level CarPlay ready receivers in the marketplace,” said Ron Trout, JVC Mobile Entertainment Director of Sales. “Our dealer base has seen a surge in consumer demand for a moderately priced receiver with step-up features like iDatalink Maestro RR compatibility, and with this in mind, we decided to expedite the availability of this type of product by air-freighting in the first round of our new KW-M780BT.” 

Newly highlighted features for the KW-M780BT include a completely redesigned 6.8” capacitive touchscreen, iDatalink Maestro RR compatibility with an updated GUI (Graphic User Interface), and a new-for-JVC type-D HDMI input. It touts 3 sets of 4-volt RCA pre-outs, 3 camera inputs, and is SiriusXM ready. Continued unique highlights from JVC include gesture touch control (enabling the ability to change things like the volume or track with the swipe of a finger), user shortcut key customization, sound lift and space enhancement (virtual sound improvements), and more. Its digital (mech-less) design also ensures fitment in a greater variety of applications, as it has a very shallow installation mounting depth of just under 3 inches.

“Learning of JVC air-freighting in the KW-M780BT was a pleasant surprise,” said Brad Scott of Brad’s Car Tunes in Oregon.  “With an influx of entry-level CarPlay ready receivers in the market, many of our customers are wanting and willing to upgrade to the next level to be able to retain OEM functionality (such as retaining their front and rear cameras, or even add additional cameras), of which they are unable to do with basic CarPlay receivers without iDatalink Maestro compatibility. This new KW-M780BT is exactly what we need to satisfy this demand and provide our customers with a better solution at a price that most are willing to pay to achieve a better experience.”  

KW-M780BT web page:  https://www.jvc.com/usa/car-entertainment/multimedia-receivers/kw-m780bt/

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

Audiomobile Ships “Next-Gen” Elite Series Subwoofer

LAS VEGAS, NV (08.19.22) – Audiomobile has announced the initial deliveries of their latest ‘Advanced Technology’ car audio subwoofers – the Elite 3210. Over 5-years in development, the new Elite series builds upon the original Elite series, but adds substantial improvements, developed over the past several years, which were introduced on the highly regarded Evo and GTS series of drivers.

The Elite series features an array of advanced, unique performance technologies, including premium Copper Clad Aluminum wire (CCAW), ‘3 ohm’ voice coil, driven by a large, dual-stacked magnet and fully CNC machined top-plate, to provide for longer magnetic field and more precision magnetic-gap.

Featuring an unprecedented performance-envelope, in a ‘low-profile’ driver, the new Elite 3210 delivers a remarkable 21.5 mm linear Xmax, Klippel verified and will handle over 750 watts RMS. 

Additional features include the proprietary, patent-pending “ICAR” Intercooler as well as the unique, Aluminum “FMD” (Flux Modulation Device), which together serve to significantly lower inductance, reduces Intermodulation distortion and virtually eliminate power-compression.  This all translates to greater output and higher power-handling.

  • Class-leading power-handling and linear-excursion envelope
  • No axial motor-vent provides for minimal enclosure depth
  • Premium “CLS” Kevlar Composite Laminated Sandwich cone
  • Unique, Nickel-plated CNC machined, forged steel T-yoke motor

This rare combination of features allows the performance, but works optimally in enclosures under .65 cubic foot, as well as in ported boxes, and is ideally suited for use with the Audiomobile MCAR pre-tuned Passive Radiator. When used together, this creates a 13-inch ‘Reflex’ subwoofer system, tuned to 35 Hz, in a very compact .65 cf enclosure. The Elite 3210 is also performs extremely well in ‘Infinite Baffle’ type applications, which the prior Elite series was famous for.

In addition, the high-performance suspension features a heavy-duty 25 mm premium SBR rubber surround, 8” flat-spider, with ‘in-line’ lead wires, to allow over 2-inches of peak to peak excursion provided by the unique motor.   

This performance is packaged in a very compact 5.3” mounting-depth, making the Elite 3210 the longest excursion, low-profile subwoofer on the market, at any cost. The MSRP on the Elite 3210 is $599.00 and is shipping now.

Visit audiomobile.net for more.

Tint World Appears for 7th Time on Inc. 5000 Annual List

NEW YORK, NY (08.19.22) – Inc. has announced that Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is No. 4,848on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment — its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. Tint World also ranks 11th in the automotive industry, 389th in the state of Florida, and 169th in the city of Miami!

“Tint World delivers unprecedented value for franchisees and customers, as shown by our repeated rankings in this exclusive list of America’s top-performing businesses,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The foundations of our proven growth strategy have always been providing premium automotive products and services and empowering franchise owners with predictable processes that ensure their success. As Tint World continues to support the success of local franchisees and also expands into exciting new markets, we look forward to future appearances in the Inc. 5000.”

The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23.

“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” said Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today.”

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto 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.

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Real Performance Marketing to Represent the MUSWAY Product Line

RPM Principal Scott Hochmuth pictured with an exciting new Musway product and store banner in the firm’s Buford GA office.

MURRIETA, CA (08.18.22) – Global Audio Marketing has appointed Real Performance Marketing to represent the Musway product line in the Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, Virginia, Southern New Jersey and Delaware territories.

National Sales Manager John Franks commented, “We are very excited to welcome the award-winning Real Performance Marketing team to the growing Musway family. RPM is a seven-person team consisting of Rep Principal Scott Hochmuth, Jay McLaurin, John Gray, Jason Upchurch, Todd Newell, Marta Coplen and Rebecca McLaurin. The RPM team brings over 150 years of combined industry experience to this territory. I am very familiar with everyone at Real Performance Marketing and we appreciate the knowledge, experience and hard work that they bring to the table.”

“Welcome to the Musway Team Real Performance Marketing!”

To learn more about the MUSWAY Product Line, visit www.muswayusa.com

PowerBass Releases New Digital Bass Restoration Processor

ONTARIO, CA (08.18.22) – Every great recording sounds amazing in the studio and live on stage but when it is broken down and mastered for the car or todays bluetooth devices some of the information is lost in translation. With the PB-DBR1 take control of how you FEEL your sound by Digitally Restoring Low Frequency information to your favorite tracks!

The feeling of heart pounding bass or the smooth vibrations of the low frequency passing through while you are in control is the best way to enjoy your listening experience. Ideal for smaller size subwoofers, but works on all sizes of subwoofers and enclosure types.

The PB-DBR1 makes them come alive by allowing the signals frequency range to be expanded based on the range you select. and puts you in control on just how much of that low frequency restoration you want to experience giving you a fuller, live concert feeling right there in your car.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

DS18 Debuts on Inc. 5000 Ranking

NEW YORK, NY (08.17.22) – Inc. has revealed that DS18 is No. 2001 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“On a particular day I remember that my father came up to me with such security and confidence and said: ‘You will see! One day we are going to be a national brand.’ I think back to this day often as it grounds me when I see what our goals were to what we have achieved. Today, we are not just a national brand, but an international brand that sells a vast array of Audio and Electronics products to more than 40 different countries. I am humbled and grateful for all the opportunities that have come and continue to come our way. The sky’s the limit! Let’s go for more!” stated Sasha Susterman, General Manager/Biz. Development of DS18.

The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23.

“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” commented Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today.”

“I am beyond proud of the journey we have traveled together as a company, that has become a family. Our team works day in and day out as a unit, all striving for the same purpose. We are a STRONG unit because our teamwork allows us to set a target and achieve it, no matter what obstacles and uncertainties we face. I am very excited about the projection and new goals we have set forth for DS18. The recognition from the prestigious INC. 5000 list undoubtedly motivates us and gives us an extra boost to continue improving and growing,” stated Sasha Susterman, General Manager/Biz. Development of DS18.

DS18 started as a small team of 3 employees, cold calling to sell its new unknown product line. Constantly looking to improve, by listening to consumer feedback and looking ahead to the future for new and different designs and technology, DS18 has now grown to more than 70 employees and a product line of over 1,000 Unique SKUs that fly off the shelves in over 40 different countries. We strive to bring in team members with a vast array of talents to showcase our products in creative ways that shake the industry to its core. Always thinking ahead, DS18 saw a need for Jeep and Off-road products and is now the go-to brand in that category. DS18 has proven to be a major force and it is recognized as a large part of why the Car audio industry is thriving once again.

Visit DS18.com and inc.com for more.

Alpine Welcomes Jason Hannon as New Regional Sales Manager for Western Regions

AUBURN HILLS, MI (08.17.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) welcomed Jason Hannon as the new Regional Sales Manager for the Western United States. Hannon will oversee the sales and marketing activities for the Alpine brand in the following territories: Washington, Oregon, California, northern and western areas of Idaho, Nevada, and Arizona.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason Hannon to the Alpine Aftermarket Brand Division and believe his extensive experience in the industry, as well as his strong sales and marketing skills, will bring value to our Western dealers and positive growth to the company,” said Mike Anderson, Alps Alpine North America Brand BU Executive Director.

Jason Hannon

Hannon brings over 20 years of sales and marketing experience as well as experience coordinating and attending industry events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), Mobile Electronics KnowledgeFest, and more.

With experience at notable audio companies like Triton, where he supported brands like Triton Audio and Alliance Audio as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and AVA Enterprises, managing brands like BOSS Powersports, BOSS Elite, and Planet as the National Sales Manager, Hannon has a strong history of creating and executing effective sales and marketing strategies that have increased growth and brand awareness.

“As the industry continues to evolve, it is more important than ever that retailers are able to partner with a brand that understands innovation and partnership, and Alps Alpine delivers just that,” said Hannon. “I am very excited to join the Alps Alpine team and look forward to growing the Alpine Experience in the Western Region.” 

Hannon will be posted in Orange County, CA.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

Alpine to Attend the Annual Ocean City Jeep Week in Maryland

AUBURN HILLS, MI (08.16.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. will attend the Ocean City Jeep Week in Ocean City, Maryland from Thursday, August 25 to Saturday, August 27 where they will have exciting new vehicle-specific products designed uniquely for the Jeep driver.

Exciting Upgrades Designed for Jeep
Featuring the latest in Jeep-specific dash and sound system offerings from Alpine, a 2018 Jeep Wrangler will be on-site for product demonstrations so attendees can experience the new High-Resolution i509-WRA-JL with a High-Definition, Weather-Resistant 9-inch screen and wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The i509-WRA-JL was intentionally designed with the Jeep driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep interior and retain the features Jeep drivers use the most. High-Resolution Audio Playback (96kHz/24Bit) can stream music from popular Hi-Res streaming platforms or directly from a smartphone for incredible music detail and high-precision music reproduction.

To demonstrate the head unit integration capabilities, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler will also feature a premium night vision DVR-C320R Dash Camera with built-in drive assist and impact recording. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.

Alpine’s 2015 Jeep Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep-specific solutions designed for older Jeep Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.

“Switchback,” Alpine’s 2020 Jeep Gladiator, will also be on-site with a custom truck bed build that features 40 motorized Bluetooth speakers that articulate for optimal sound positioning, and a tailgate designed to look like an early Alpine stereo, complete with a large, functional volume knob and six classic “Alpine green” buttons on the faceplate to control the automation.

The Alpine Event Truck and Trailer will be open to visitors who want to chat with Alpine event staff and experience the latest vehicle-specific technology, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned lounge area located in the trailer.

All Alpine products are available for purchase during the event with special, event-only pricing and free giveaways. Alpine Authorized Retailer Proline Car Stereo will be on-site to give vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep.

Alpine will also provide three Turn1 AD-SPK1 Portable Bluetooth Speakers for the Ocean City Jeep Week raffle. Each Ocean City Jeep Week event participant will receive two raffle tickets in their registration packet, with winners announced Thursday and Friday after the Show & Shine event and mid-day Saturday from the main event stage.

Visit alpine-usa.com and oceancityjeepweek.com for more.