DANIA BEACH, FL & EGMATING, GERMANY (02.22.22) – Ground Zero Car Audio and HKI USA are proud to announce the newest item in the Hydrogen line of subwoofers, that will surely bring some excitement to the truck, powersports, and stealth installs we all love to see.
The new GZHW 10SPL-D2 Flat is going to have a huge effect on the industry when it comes to obtaining amazing output, musicality, and install versatility. With its shallow mounting depth of just over 4”, its power handling of 600 WRMS, and its love of smaller enclosures, this subwoofer is going to allow for installs to be a little more fun to listen to. From vented or sealed truck boxes, spare tire enclosures, and even some OEM sized saddle bags and side by side enclosures, these woofers bring something else to the table that we have truly been waiting for.
“With the Pre-Orders opening today, I am looking forward to be able to offer our dealers and their clients an item to maximize their bass output without having to sacrifice tons of space. I have been having to bottle up my excitement for months keeping this a secret and can not wait to see our dealers go to town with these in all types of builds!” States Tommy Spears of HKI USA.
For more information or to become an authorized HKI USA retailer, contact your local sales representative or email HKI USA at info@hki-usa.com
TEMPE, AZ (02.21.22) – Mobile Solutions announced that its first annual MasterTech Expo has reached capacity for both exhibitors and attendees. The four-day exhibit and education conference scheduled March 6-9 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., sold out with just under two weeks remaining until its opening day. The Tempe, Ariz.-based fabrication tools and training provider also announced that the second MasterTech Expo event will take place March 5-8, 2023 at the Mesa Convention Center.
MasterTech Expo was originally limited to the interior exhibit hall and adjacent breakout rooms but expanded to include the outdoor pavilion due to additional exhibitor interest. The final exhibit space tops 50,000 square feet and will include more than 30 show vehicles and over 25 exhibitor booths. Attendees will also complete 10 to 12 hours of quality education workshops and have access to additional training from exhibiting partners.
The event kicks off with a welcome party featuring singer and musician Justin Hopkins, fan favorite from The Voice television show and music competition. Attendees will then be prepped for training with a “swag bag” containing gifts, tools and training materials, and a daily complimentary buffet lunch.
Education for MasterTech Expo features highly qualified trainers teaching relevant courses that address the changing needs of today’s professional fabricators. Courses are grouped into tracks to provide a logical and progressive learning arc. Attendees select two tracks and must complete all courses within each track to earn an achievement award. Attendance for each course is limited to the number of seats in the room to ensure everyone has complete access to all educational content. Exhibiting partners will also hold exclusive training workshops to present new product and feature training to attendees.
Special events for MasterTech Expo start with a behind-the-scenes design session with TV personality and renowned vehicle designer Dave Kindig. Throughout the show, two teams will compete on fabrication craftsmanship in the MasterTech Expo Build-Off sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. The final day culminates with a special keynote presentation by fabrication legend Mark Fukuda, and state-of-the-industry presentation by Rockford Corporation CEO Bill Jackson.
“I’m thrilled that, through the support of the automotive aftermarket industry and the belief and trust placed in us by our exhibiting partners, we have exceeded our targets on both fronts,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder and president of Mobile Solutions. “We anticipate a high-impact, high-value show that will elevate our retail professionals.”
Registration for the 2023 MasterTech Expo will open in April.
DANIA BEACH, FL & EGMATING, GERMANY (02.21.22) – HKI USA and Ground Zero Car Audio are proud to announce a new item to the popular coaxial competition audio line of products.
The long awaited GZCF 165NEO-PRO (Red Basket Coax) is now available for pre-order and the excitement is already in place. These are not just two pre-existing drivers attached to each other. Ground Zero developed an entirely new 6.5” midrange driver, and incorporated the new fan favorite GZCT 20N-Pro compression driver. Adding in weather resilient materials and engineering tricks, this driver is suited for all applications where high end sound and high quality pro audio output is needed.
“The best part about working with Ground Zero is that when it comes to a product such as this, we get to cover all of the bases. From a true audio perspective, with Car AND Pro Audio DNA combined, the effort to make an amazing item reflects in all applications that these products get utilized in” says Jacob Brown, the Director of Operation, HKI-USA.
For more information or to become an authorized HKI USA retailer, contact your local sales representative or email HKI USA at info@hki-usa.com.
LONG BEACH, CALIF., Feb. 18th, 2022 – KENWOOD USA will be debuting 12 new products to expo and training attendees at the KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas, Feb. 18th-20th. 3 multimedia receivers with 2 supporting accessories along with 7 marine/motorsports products will be unveiled at the event.
After a short hiatus of new multimedia receiver product releases, KENWOOD will be shipping 3 new multimedia receivers in the upcoming months at pricing to be announced at that time. The KENWOOD DMX9708S and eXcelon DMX908S both feature a 6.95” capacitive touch panel display with wireless and wired support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless Android screen mirroring, HD Radio, Advanced iDatalink Maestro RR support (with newly designed GUI’s), SiriusXM ready compatibility, 4 camera inputs including the ability to connect the DRV-N520 integrated dashboard camera, and support for Hi-Res Audio.
The eXcelon DMX908S steps up from the DMX9708S’ 3 sets of 4-volt RCA pre-outs to 5-volt, includes tuned audiophile-grade components, and a 2-year warranty. The eXcelon Reference DMX958XR adds in a 6.8” 1280×720 HD capacitive touch panel display, rear HD camera input, and wireless Hi-Res Audio support. Marking a first for this wireless-enabled digital platform, each receiver will also have a 3-3/8” short chassis mounting depth for ease of installation, a USB Type-C input for up to 3 amps of charging, and an HDMI Type-D (mini) input for added video input flexibility. New accessories available for these receivers include the KCA-HD200 HDMI Type-A to Type-D cable and the KCA-RCDV340 wireless remote control.
KENWOOD is also introducing the first of its entirely new line of products branded as “eXcelon Motorsports” at the event. “With a further emphasis on providing solutions for more types of on and off-road vehicle applications, expanding our marine and motorsports lineup to also include a top-tier of products branded as eXcelon Motorsports was necessary to meet this demand from the market,” said Mike Roberts, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KENWOOD USA’s car electronics sector. “As our focus on eXcelon has always been sound quality with peak performance, we recognized the need for this level of performance in the outdoor environment and are excited to soon be expanding this line to provide even more premium solutions.”
Kicking off the list of new eXcelon motorsports products are 3 amplifiers to include the XM502-1 Class D mono (500W RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms), XM302-4 Class D 4-channel (75W RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms), and XM802-5 Class D 5-channel (500W RMS x 1 + 75W RMS x 4 @ 2 Ohm). The inclusion of conformal coated circuit boards, protective terminal covers, and stainless-steel mounting screws ensures these amplifiers are ready for the elements. Pricing will be announced at launch.
For the “ULTIMATE” in outdoor protection, 3 IPX-Rated waterproof amplifiers will also be displayed, to include the KAC-M5014 compact 4-channel amplifier (75W RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms, now shipping), the KAC-M5024BT compact 4-channel Bluetooth amplifier with included wired multi-function remote to control music from a smartphone or other Bluetooth-equipped source (75W RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms, shipping soon), and the KAC-M5001 compact mono amplifier with an included remote level control knob (300W RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms, shipping soon).
These new “EXTREME” durability amplifiers boast not only IP-certified protection from water and dust, but also ASTM B117 salt corrosion resistance and shock protection, making them the perfect companion for your boat, side-by-side, motorcycle, and more. There “ULTIMATE Performance” is delivered through a combination of strategic sound quality components, including high-quality polymer multi-layer capacitors, magnetic shields for the output coils, metal stud power connections, all resulting in enhanced overall sound quality. This trio of waterproof compact amplifiers enables both ala-carte and full off-road system building solutions, making for the perfect accompaniment to its new KMR-D382BT marine/motorsports single-DIN CD player, which will also be shipping soon.
Training to cover these new products will be conducted by the KENWOOD training team on both Friday and Saturday. Additional KENWOOD team members will be on-site at the KENWOOD booth. For detailed information on specific features for each product, please view their respective product pages as they become available at http://www.kenwood.com/usa/car.
SEATTLE, WA (02.18.22) – Firstech, maker of Compustar, Momento, and DroneMobile products, has announced the scheduled opening of its new distribution and training facility in Flower Mound, Texas. The company plans to commence operations at its new Texas facility in April 2022.
At launch, Firstech’s move to Texas will establish another distribution center in the South-Central U.S. where the company can improve its shipping turnaround times for dealer and distribution partners. Approximately half of Firstech’s logistics team will permanently relocate to Texas to make the expansion as seamless as possible.
In the near future, the Texas facility will also provide an additional meeting hub for installers, salespeople, and partners to receive hands-on training from Firstech’s award-winning technical support team. The new location is conveniently located within six miles of Dallas Fort-Worth Airport (DFW).
Firstech’s primary headquarters will remain near Seattle, Washington where it has been since the company relocated from Anchorage, Alaska in 2003.
“We couldn’t be more excited to open a new branch to better serve Firstech’s growing customer base,” shares managing director, Jason Kaminski. “In addition to expanding our warehouse space and improving our just-in-time inventory, the Texas location will also open up additional port options for ocean-going cargo to combat congestion.”
If you would like to learn more about Firstech, visit the company’s website at www.firstechllc.com.
HOLLY HILL, FL (02.18.22) – Metra PowerSports by Metra Electronics is now shipping new aftermarket speaker enclosures designed to fit Polaris RZR side-by-sides. These unloaded solutions allow installers to customize and upgrade the sound system with aftermarket speakers and subwoofers using a durable enclosure constructed with high-quality, UV-protected ABS plastic. Also available now are new universal RGB LED cup holder light rings, designed for powersports, marine, or general automotive use.
Rear Deck Speaker Pods The MPS-RZPRO-RP is a pair of speaker pods for the rear deck, custom-molded and designed specifically to fit 2020-up* Polaris RZR Pro XP side-by-side models. It uses the OE mounting bolts and fits 6.5” aftermarket speakers.
Rear Door Speaker Pods The MPS-RZRDP2 uses the available space in the rear doors to add 6.5” aftermarket speakers and includes an optional tweeter mounting location. It is custom-molded and designed specifically to fit 2014-2021 Polaris RZR XP 4 1000 and Turbo side-by-side models.
RGB Cup Holder Lights Metra PowerSport’s new cup holder light rings, the RGB2-C70M, feature RGB LEDs that add a unique glow and fit most factory cup holders with a 2.75” (or larger) diameter. These lights are sold in pairs, rated IP66, and come with 3M double-sided tape for easy yet secure mounting. These RGB lights require the RGB-CB2 controller for operation, sold separately, and are compatible with Metra PowerSports RGB rock lights and RGB dome lights. All of these new solutions are available now.
MIAMI, FL (02.17.22) – JL Audio, manufacturer of high -performance marine audio systems, today unveils its M6 Luxe line of ultra-high -performance marine speakers and subwoofers. M6 Luxe loudspeakers are specifically designed to match the clean aesthetic of modern yachts and other luxury craft.“
Our M6 line of premium marine speakers has become a favorite of boat builders seeking to offer their customers the best listening experience on the water,” said Andy Oxenhorn, president of JL Audio, Inc. “The new M6 Luxe takes the world-class audio performance of M6 undercover, with a refined look that integrates seamlessly into luxury yacht designs.”
As with all JL Audio M6 marine speakers and subwoofers, the new Luxe grille versions are manufactured using JL Audio’s advanced design and manufacturing processes in their Miramar, Florida factory. Additionally, M6 Luxe loudspeakers are engineered using stringently tested, marine-grade materials that have a proven ability to withstand UV and saltwater exposure, exceeding ASTM International test standards.
Complete line of M6 Luxe Speakers and Subwoofers
M6 Luxe loudspeakers will be available for 6.5-, 7.7 – and 8.8-inch coaxial M6 speakers, as well as for 8- and 10-inch M6 subwoofers. All models deliver a sleek, flush-mount appearance that disappears into the elegant design of today’s modern yachts.
M6 Luxe speakers and subwoofers will be available at authorized JL Audio retailers starting Q2 2022.
SEATTLE, WA (02.17.22) – AudioControl (audiocontrol.com) has introduced the ACR-U universal volume control, the ultimate premium performance, highly-durable level control that will improve the performance and user experience for OEM audio upgrades, classic car entertainment systems, marine audio installations and more.
Introducing The ACR-U Universal Volume Control The innovative ACR-U universal volume control offers the superb performance and ease of installation that installers have come to expect from AudioControl. The ACR-U is a passive control (requires no power) and takes RCA audio inputs into a compact receiver that connects to the volume control via standard Ethernet cable for wire runs up to four hundred feet with zero loss—ideal for luxury yachts and other large-scale projects.
An ideal solution for a great many applications, the ACR-U delivers flat response even in the bass region, not suffering from extraneous noise, voltage drop or premature roll-off that plague lower quality solutions. Users will appreciate that the ACR-U is a linear control, offering a smooth, even increase/decrease in output with the rotation of the knob. The ACR-U has been conformal coated for durability against the elements and comes complete with a standard-length Ethernet cable. An optional extended-length Ethernet cable is available. The AudioControl ACR-U is available now and shipping to dealers.
Key Solutions for 12V Dealer and Installers AudioControl offers class-leading audio products engineered for car, marine and mobile sports applications, plus ultimate-performance OEM interface solutions that enable 12-volt dealers to upgrade sound systems while keeping the factory in-dash systems in place. These products are vital for automobiles featuring integrated multi-media systems that cannot easily be replaced. For 45 years, AudioControl has established the benchmark for performance and reliability, delivering the 12-volt audio products and support services dealers and installers must have to be successful.
SEATTLE, WA (02.16.22) – AudioControl will be hosting training seminars in both English and Spanish for attendees at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, being held at the South Point Convention Center February 18-20, 2022. The prominent AudioControl booth will also feature new products displays as well as two demo vehicles.
Much to See and Hear in Booth 801 Featuring AudioControl’s largest exhibition booth ever at KnowledgeFest, there will be two cars onsite with demo systems: A BMW 6-Series featuring AudioControl amplifiers, DSP, and the new Epicenter Micro. A Dodge Charger Hellcat will also be on display, showcasing AudioControl signal processing and amplification.
Training Seminars The AudioControl team will be hosting one training seminar per day for English-speaking attendees, covering how to maximize system performance with AudioControl’s all-in-one amplifier solutions (Friday), how to achieve success with any vehicle using OEM interface solutions and how to deliver best sound quality using DSP (Saturday), and the many benefits of utilizing the AudioControl DM-RTA—the ultimate test tool (Sunday).
On Saturday evening, AudioControl has assembled stars of the Spanish-speaking car audio community to offer “After Hours with AudioControl en Español,” a hands-on training event done exclusively in Spanish. Numerous subjects will be covered; however, the primary focus will be on DSP training, demystifying this powerful technology to bring best performance to each system.
“With everything we have planned for this KnowledgeFest, it is certainly an event you won’t want to miss,” stated Matthew Palumbo, Mobile Audio Sales Manager at AudioControl. “The educational tracks, newly unveiled products, and demo vehicles create a valuable experience for our dealer partners, enabling both sales and installation teams to design and deliver best-performing systems to their customers. We are very grateful to draw from our talented and diverse community to offer critical programs in both English and Spanish.”
Saturday, February 19th 6:45pm Room Sonoma C After Hours with AudioControl en Español DSP training in Spanish with three honored guests: Ricardo Rangel – Monster by Rangel, Mexico City, Mexico Fernando Lopez – 5 Star Car Stereo, Clearwater, Florida Roberto Estrada – AudioControl rep for Mexico
Visit AudioControl at the 2022 KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, February 18-20 in Booth 801
STILLWATER, OK (02.16.22) – KICKER Marine Audio, a leading designer and producer of top-quality marine audio, is pleased to support the new partnership recently announced between the United Marine Manufacturer’s Association, Inc. and KICKER’s long-time electronics representative, CPS Distributors. CPS has sold KICKER Marine Audio to OEM boat builders since KICKER started its marine division nearly 20 years ago.
Brandon Lang, VP of CPS Distributors, Phil White, KICKER Director of Marine Audio Systems and Sandy Moore, KICKER Events and Promotions Coordinator at a previous Miami International Boat Show.
“We look forward to working closely with CPS as they help serve UMMA’s membership of independent boat builders with their marine electronic needs,” said Phil White, KICKER’s Director of Marine Audio Systems. “We are confident KICKER Marine Audio can offer these boat manufacturers the quality and durability they require and hope to expand our OEM profile within the organization,” he adds.
“UMMA is pleased to partner with CPS Sales & Manufacturing (dba CPS Distributing) to provide audio options for our members,” says Jodi Sanders, UMMA Director of Operations. “We feel the KICKER and CPS brands are the perfect addition to our supplier base. We are excited to see what the future holds for audio and are excited to develop our new relationship,” she added.
The UMMA is an organization of independent boat-builders, which, while operating autonomously, have joined together to enhance their collective competitiveness and to address important industry issues which affect their survival and continued prosperity.
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