TAMPA, FL (03.09.22) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned electronics and technology services distributor, was recently awarded Distributor of the Year at the Mobile Electronics Association Industry Awards. DOW also received the award in 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020.
The Mobile Electronics association presents the awards annually to recognize and honor those in the mobile electronics industry. The Industry Awards are voted on by the retailers and vendors working in the 12Volt industry nationwide.
This award marks DOW’s sixth win in eight years.
“I am really proud of the effort our team gives every day,” stated Mike Hurwitz, 12volt strategic sales manager. “We are focused on providing our customers the best customer service and this award recognizes the work we’ve put in over the last year.”
“This award recognizes the dedication of our entire company to support our 12Volt customers,” stated senior vice president Dave Elkin. “The sales team provides great service, building meaningful relationships with the customers. Our purchasing team works with our vendor partners to work through inventory and supply chain issues to help customers. And the warehouse teams ensure rapid order processing, getting products shipped out quickly. All of our employees can take pride in being honored by the industry.”
LAS VEGAS, NV (03.09.22) – Kingpin University showed two new kits featuring Habanero Cordless Heating Tools at the recent KnowledgeFest event in Las Vegas, a result of the new distribution agreement with the Mount Pleasant, Wisc.-based tool manufacturer. In addition, Kingpin University announced three new training classes that culminate in a multi-session group build of the company’s iconic “Rat Rod” show vehicle.
Kingpin University is marketing the Habanero Plastic Repair Kit in addition to its own custom kit. The Plastic Repair Kit (MSRP $129.99) features the USB-charging Habanero tool body in a convenient hard case. It ships with a hot staple tip, plastic welding tip and plastic filler tip, as well as charging cable, wire brush, three types of plastic filler rods and two types of staples.
The Ultimate Soldering Kit (MSRP $199.99) created by Kingpin University includes the Habanero tool body and charging cable, fine soldering tip, heat-resistant tool lid and solder roll in a transportable storage base to allow easy access in the vehicle or on a workbench.
“Habanero soldering kits are quickly becoming a favorite of installers and fabricators because of their versatility and portability,” said Jason Kranitz, lead instructor at Kingpin University. “The ability to quickly change tips to accomplish various fastening and repair jobs saves businesses time and money. We are thrilled to offer Habanero products to our students and fellow industry professionals.”
Kingpin University also added three upcoming classes to its website at kingpinuniversity.com. Fundamentals of Car Audio Online is a two-hour virtual course that will take attendees through all of the features of a professional-grade oscilloscope and show them how to use the tool to deliver maximum power and performance from an audio system. The second “Step One” virtual course for Laser / CNC work shows attendees how to use CAD software to create precise, intricate drawings that can be cut on a CNC machine.
The third course is the first of an in-session series in which attendees will design and build different sections of Kingpin University’s award-winning show car. The work will be featured at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.
For more information on Kingpin University, available training courses, Habanero tools or Kingpin Fab Products, visit kingpinuniversity.com.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.08.22) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the next-generation Alpine Halo R-Series Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The enclosures come preloaded with Alpine’s new 10” and 12” R-Series subwoofers that feature an all-new design to offer a cleaner, more controlled bass response.
Deeper Bass Output Design improvements to the R-Series subwoofers include larger double-stacked magnets, which play deeper bass with more authority. A new ceramic composite dust cap provides incredible internal damping (vibration absorption) to smooth out the frequency response and reproduce tight bass. Featuring Alpine’s High Amplitude Multi-Roll (HAMR) Surround Technology, the subwoofer cone efficiently moves air while staying cool, which also contributes to increased output from the subwoofers.
The new design and enhanced performance of the next-generation R-Series subwoofers result in a cleaner, more controlled bass response from the Alpine Halo R-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The ported enclosures feature a vent and rounded internal port edges that maximize the output performance of the subwoofer, for deeper, reliable bass. Each enclosure is also wired for optimized performance with Alpine’s R-Series R-A75M Mono Power Amplifier.
Unique ProLink Technology Alpine’s unique ProLink technology was designed with the sound system builder in mind. ProLink allows more flexibility in both power and price to start with a single subwoofer enclosure and add an additional subwoofer using a Linking Kit (sold separately) to join two enclosures together to create a dual system when more bass is desired.
Groundbreaking Alpine Halo Design The Alpine Halo R-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink share the premium, unmistakable design of the Alpine Halo Family. The enclosures pull design cues from the Alpine Halo Display with unique, curved edges outlined by a silver trim and a front baffle for a matching system aesthetic. Built with sturdy, 3/4” MDF construction and covered in a premium black carpet, these enclosures give the impression of a custom look, without the custom work.
The R2-SB12V and R2-SB10V are now shipping at a MAP of $499.95 and $449.95 respectively and are available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
NEW YORK, NY (03.08.22) – 12volt retailers now have the most up to date training information at their fingertips.
This one-page announcement has all the details. 12volt retailer staff members simply scan the QR code and sign up for the training. Once the training has been completed the user will be sent a 90 day free streaming code and also be entered in for a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card.
Click above to view full PDF
There will be 10 monthly $50 Amazon gift card winners and 1 quarterly $250 Amazon gift card winner.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.07.22) – Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. a leading manufacturer of electronic components and automotive infotainment systems, and its domestic marketing division Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., introduces the High-Resolution Alpine Status System with High-Spec High-Resolution Audio Playback (192kHz/24Bit).
“Our constant pursuit to create and implement the best components and technology into sound systems like AlpineF#1Status trickle down into platforms like Alpine Status and push each product to achieve the highest in audio performance,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.
High-Resolution Sound Made Accessible
Using the same engineering and design concepts drawn from the third generation, Ultra High-Resolution AlpineF#1Status system, Alpine created Alpine Status to achieve High-Resolution Sound at a more approachable and accessible price point.
Alpine Status achieves 192kHz/24Bit playback, which is 6.5 times the amount of digital audio data in a standard CD or digital streaming service and exceeds the standard High-Resolution Spec of 96kHz/24Bit found in most aftermarket sound solutions. This allows Alpine Status to capture and accurately reproduce details like the breath of the artist or a musician’s subtle interaction with an instrument. This capability not only reproduces music to the artist’s original intention but emulates the experience of a studio recording in the vehicle.
High-Resolution System Components
Alpine Status features eight components that are optimized in both power and performance as a complete system to play at their intended high-resolution spec. However, each component can be purchased independently for custom system building.
The HDS-990 Head Unit achieves 192kHz/24Bit playback via wired USB DAC connection or wireless Bluetooth connection. This ensures that any High-Resolution music files stored on a USB or smartphone will be reproduced at the intended spec. The Head Unit includes a compact controller with buttons for basic music controls, a High-Resolution color screen that displays playback data and album cover artwork, a volume knob for quick sound controls, and a separate black box for flexible installation in the vehicle. High-Resolution 25Wx4 amplifier output, high-performance RCA outputs, and an optical TOSLINK port allow for flexible system building with the HDP-D90 Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Amplifier.
The HDP-D90 DSP Amplifier has a 192kHz/64Bit internal sampling rate and an ultra-wide audio bandwidth of 10Hz-110kHz to reproduce sound at its intended High-Resolution spec. Intentional designs, like a copper-plated chassis, bring the signal-to-noise ratio up to >110dB and minimize noise and distortion during playback. Drawing inspiration from the internal Master Clock Management System in the AlpineF#1Status DSP, the HDP-D90 contains a Crystal Oscillator Clock Generator at the core of the unit that tracks and aligns digital information to eliminate jitter (timing errors) and accurately reproduce sound.
The DSP has multiple input options for flexible system building. For vehicles that are unable to replace the factory head unit, the DSP has 12 channels of high-level input that allow the factory head unit to be retained. For those who wish to upgrade their factory head unit, the DSP has optical inputs that can add the Alpine Status HDS-990 Head Unit or analog inputs for another aftermarket head unit. The DSP also functions as a standalone music source and can receive music sent directly from a smartphone with Bluetooth wireless streaming.
While the HDP-D90 has 12-channels of amplification (50W x 8 + 80W x 4) and can be used to power an entire system, 10-channels of RCA output can be used to add Alpine Status amplifiers for more power or system building: the HDA-F60 4-Channel Amplifier, HDA-V90 5-Cannel Amplifier, or HDA-M80 Mono Power Amplifier.
For the audiophile that’s looking to build their ideal sound system, Alpine Status offers a dynamic 3-Way Speaker Set (HDZ-653) with a High-Resolution bandwidth of 55Hz – 60kHz that includes a 6.5-inch Mid-Bass, 3-inch Mid-Range, and 2” Ring-Radiator Tweeter. A traditional, 2-Way Speaker Set (HDZ-65C) is also available and includes a 6.5-inch Mid-Bass and 2” Ring-Radiator Tweeter.
To ensure that each speaker achieves High-Resolution playback, each component is made from the same Carbon Composite material to create a unified timbre identity during playback. For added installation flexibility, the Alpine Status Speakers are also available in an OEM-fitment option for the tweeters in a 3-way (HDZ-653S), 2-Way (HDZ-65CS), or Coaxial (HDZ-65) Speaker Set option.
The massive, 11-inch HDZ-110 Alpine Status subwoofer houses a neodymium magnet to ensure efficient power delivery and reproduce an impressive 400W RMS/800W Peak Power Handling. A hybrid carbon cone with double-gathered surround minimizes distortion to reproduce clean, accurate bass even at loud volumes.
The Alpine Status system will ship in Summer 2022 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
AVON LAKE, OH (03.07.22) – Design Engineering, Inc. is supporting the 2022 Tire Rack One Lap of America presented by Grassroots Motorsports Magazine, a unique weeklong drive-and-race event that covers 3,500 miles.
Piloting some of the world’s most advanced street cars, One Lap participants begin and end the event in South Bend, Indiana, following a circuitous route including stops in South Carolina, Alabama and Kansas.
“We’ve had a great relationship with DEI for 20 plus years and we’re looking forward to another great year with them as a sponsor,” stated event founder Brock Yates.
Over the seven days of competition, drivers will test their overall skills in a variety of challenges including skid pad, autocross, drag strip, racetrack and highway transit. Teams are self-managed, have no support crews, and must start and finish on the same set of tires.
“We are excited to be a part of this annual historic event,” said Will Farkas, Social Media and Sponsorship Coordinator at DEI. “It really is a true test of endurance and vehicle preparation, and we’ll be offering a discount on our products for all 2022 One Lap of America race teams.”
The event begins April 30 with driver registration and concludes May 8. Enthusiasts can follow along on Facebook and/or through available livestreams.
HOLLY HILL, FL (02.26.22) – Metra Electronics is heading to the 2022 MasterTech Expo in Mesa, AZ, from March 6th to 9th and will present a training session about aftermarket lighting. The training, “New Vehicle Lighting Trends with Heise,” will cover a wide range of lighting solutions that 12volt installers can sell to meet the latest trends in automotive lighting.
Attendees will learn about the new and improved Heise lightbars and cube lights, projector series LED bulbs, new wheel lights, RGB and RGBW underglow kits, and the popular third brake light designed for the new 2021 Ford Bronco. It includes valuable tips for selling and installing these new LED lighting solutions from Heise.
This training session is hosted on Tuesday, March 8th, from 7:00 PM until 8:30 PM in the Delta Hotel Ballroom C conference room. This hotel is directly adjacent to Building B at the Mesa Convention Center. On the exhibitor show floor in the Mesa Convention Center, Metra Electronics will showcase all of its 12volt brands at booth 107 during the three-day event.
Additional information about the event is available at MasterTechExpo.com.
COMPTON, CA (02.28.22) – Magnadyne is pleased to announce the addition of Daniel Hernandez to its Tech Support and Product Development Team. Daniel is an accomplished Master MECP certified Tech, and Sales Professional.
Over Hernandez’s twenty year career in the automotive aftermarket sector, he has earned several Awards for his roles and contributions in both Sales and Technical Support positions he held with both VOXX International and Trent Partners & Associates.
Daniel Hernandez, pictured with Magnadyne products in his Prius, in between meeting with dealers.
In his new role at Magnadyne, Hernandez will lead efforts across a wide spectrum of key initiatives centric to the company’s Tech Support activities, Product Development, and Installer centric Programs; with key emphasis on further strengthening of the Carbine and Silencer Security and Remote Start Product launch and product road map. Hernandez will also contribute to key initiatives within the core RV and Trucking Segment OE solutions and expansion.
“I am excited to have Daniel join the team. Daniel possesses a rare skill set in our industry… one that blends both Technical and Sales Theologies that are the foundation to our industry. I look forward to his contributions and partnership over the years” stated Armando Parra, Brand & Solutions Ambassador, at Magnadyne Corp.
COMMERCE, CA (02.25.22) – Massive Audio is pleased to announce the addition of Hernando (JR) Mares as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. With over thirty years of experience in ODM/OEM and branded sales at ACTC/ Hollywood Sound Labs, SJA/Atomic, US AMPS/ RE audio and Deccon/H&N Brothers, JR Mares is an ideal candidate to improve Massive Audio’s positioning to meet increasing demand. He will be instrumental in leading Massive Audio’s development activities, and marketing while ensuring distributors, representatives and retailers have access to actionable new insights.
JR Mares in the well-stocked Massive Audio warehouse in Commerce, CA.
“I am thrilled to be part of the ‘Massive Audio Revolution’, lead business efforts and extend the team to better serve our representatives, distributors, and customers.” I had previously served customers and competed against Massive Audio for many years. I noticed the product do very well in the competition lanes. Their designs had noteworthy features, although like many OEM/ODM companies, they were focused on manufacturing instead of marketing and lacked emphasize on product intricacies or properly explaining innovative characteristics. After having heard many good things about the products, people and that the company was embracing change, I was delighted to join the team.
Corey Hyler shows a selection of new Massive Audio products.
Massive Audio has many new and exciting changes happening starting in March. Serial number tracking, new call to action ads, and the hiring of Map Cops to better control and enforce pricing on the web which will ensure our brick-and-mortar customers are profitable with the Massive Audio line. We will also launch Free giveaway programs each month to increase brand awareness and allow us to gather and send leads to our retailers. Also, by promoting the additional 9-Month Pro Install warranty and 30-day over the counter exchange that dealers can offer to customers, we will show our dedication to being all-in on driving business to our brick and mortar partners.
“Shipments are arriving regularly; we are almost at capacity so now more than ever is a great time to Get Massive!”
CORONA, CA (02.25.22) – Greg Delgado and Khody Carter of GCH Automotive recently attended KnowledgeFest 2022 in Las Vegas and were greeted with open arms… LITERALLY!
Greg Delgado (L)-GCH and George Smith, Mobileworks owner, in an aisle at KFest in Vegas. Smith smiles and holds the $100. he signed for Delgado to Give to Santiago Serrano for doing such a great job at GCH.
“Not only was the show a fantastic experience with a collection of 12 volt specialists focused on knowledge expansion and getting to experience the latest and greatest in technology for cars, but it was a perfect forum to step out into the open with our new line of products core focused on the specialist in mind,” Greg Delgado related.
Santiago Serrano (L) is a happy camper as he receives the $100. that George Smith signed. Greg Delgado, disguised as George Smith, handing over the $100 in the GCH Corona, CA office.
Delgado continued, “As we began the first day, we were greeted immediately by George Smith, Owner of Mobileworks Santa Maria. Mobileworks has been a valued GCH dealer for years. He was elated to see us and proceeded to tell me of his TOP LINE experience with Santiago Serrano, who is head of technical support for GCH and Lead Project Manager. In fact, his satisfaction was so strong that he proceeded to reach into his wallet and pull out a CRISP $100 dollar bill. He then signed it and asked me to make sure Santiago received it as a small token of appreciation for all of the hard work and commitment to his products and serving dealers like George Smith at Mobileworks.”
“It’s really great to do something special for a dedicated employee of a valued vendor partner. GCH is on top of their game and Santiago Serrano goes the extra mile to deliver TOP LINE service” George Smith related outside his Mobileworks location in Santa Maria, CA.
Concluding, Delgado stated, “The above is proof positive that good things happen in our industry all the time and an occasional thank you goes a long way. But when it is topped with a SWEET HUNDO, well that is a very special thanks I’m sure any one of us would like to receive! An extra big Thanks George!!
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