DALLAS, TX (09.17.2021) – Nemesis Audio, maker of competition speakers and amplifiers since 2014, is shipping two new Models of Midrange Speakers available in sizes 10″ and 12″. With the growing Demand for Larger Pro Audio Speakers, Nemesis releases SPL Models: NA-PRO10 & NA-PRO12.
Nemesis Carefully designed and developed these for custom installations for bigger projects. This Pro-Audio speaker was specially designed for high SPL in the midrange frequencies and is assembled with the top of the line components for long lasting play during intense use.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (09.16.2021) – Founded in 2001 by a handful of consumer/mobile electronics veterans, Maxxsonics USA has grown into a flourishing culture, following, and lifestyle featuring car enthusiast individuals inspired by audio that crave installations in every machine and vehicle with superior sound. Now with a fully dedicated team who live and breathe that same passion for audio in all the products they design, Maxxsonics USA continues to pave the way in possibilities for what audio can sound like when pushed to the limit in any machine or vehicle, no matter the installation size.
Starting as a “mobile-only” business and expanding horizons into Marine, then UTV and Off-road, there are now many different product offerings for many selections of machines or vehicles. From MB Quart Nautic speakers for every on-the-water boat adventure to Hifonics ALPHA amplifiers that are so compact in size that fit in nearly any vehicle space, Maxxsonics USA has created products that offer possibilities in any scenario, wherever the adventure may lead.
On the 20-year company journey, Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “From starting as a “mobile-only” business and expanding into explosive growth in the Powersports industry with MB Quart and Hifonics being OEM for Polaris and Kawasaki, I am honored and excited to see the Maxxsonics USA story and trajectory unfold in such a short period. From the expansive product offerings across the entire family of audio brands to the ever-growing company size including, the opening of an entirely new facility in Arizona – Maxxsonics USA is a testament of audio dedication, brand loyalty, and expanding horizons into what the future may hold.”
With product offerings growing throughout the decades in nearly every aspect of travel and lifestyle, so has the staff and company size. Over the last two decades, Maxxsonics USA has grown from a small, single-digit employee-size company to a larger middle-size company that has now expanded into Arizona.
In 2001, Maxxsonics USA started as a small office building in Lake Zurich, IL, and then moved to a larger building while remaining in the same northwest suburb Chicago. A few years ago, Maxxsonics USA moved to an even larger office building with an expansive warehouse facility in Libertyville, IL. This past year Maxxsonics USA even opened its doors to an ALL-NEW Arizona facility to focus and improve R&D, model-making, and environmental testing capabilities.
A growing product selection and ongoing presence at events and trade shows have increased visibility and popularity across the entire family of audio brands, which now include MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek. From Jeep Beach to Sand Sports Super Show, SEMA, to Overland Expo, Maxxsonics USA continues to expand awareness and exposure of the newest products and offerings where the industry and lifestyle demands.
Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product & Marketing, also commented, “I have been with Maxxsonics for almost 75% of the company’s existence, and I am extremely proud of all that we have been able to accomplish. Under Alden’s leadership, we have steadily grown into a leading supplier in a very competitive market. 20, greatly successful years is the result of our team’s efforts to push the envelope and improve on what we all do every day. It is that dedication from our team that gives me an immense sense of pride to work at Maxxsonics.”
A crucial milestone has been the growing partnership and collaboration with OEM suppliers that include Polaris, Kawasaki, and CFMOTO. With these well-known and high-tier brands, Maxxsonics USA has developed, collaborated, and brought to fruition audio kits for multiple vehicle lineups that include the Polaris Ranger, Polaris RZR, Honda Talon, and Kawasaki KRX. With these ongoing partnerships and room for more in the future, Maxxsonics USA continues to push horizons in every corner of machine and vehicle.
Adding to the rapid growth of Maxxsonics USA and a reflection of the last 20 years, Sherri Sawyer, Vice President of Finance & CFO, known as Employee #1, who helped start and build the company up for what it has grown into today,mentioned, “To be a part of this family company from the first day and to see what it’s grown into is truly special. From the rapid growth of variety in product selections to the simultaneous increase in employee size, Maxxsonics has turned into an audio beacon for car enthusiasts, music lovers, and everything in between. I’m so happy to continue to be a part of the rich history and evolving Maxxsonics story.”
Over the last two decades, Maxxsonics USA has continued to define the standard in audio and push the possibility of innovation with products for any occasion and need. In 2021, Hifonics launched the ALL-NEW ZEUS Theta amplifier line that was crafted and designed specifically in remembrance of Mr. Tremendous, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Ted Henricks. These special amplifiers capture the pulse of Hifonics and the inspiration that Ted left on Hifonics as a brand and Maxxsonics as a company. ZEUS Theta amplifiers carried on Ted’s mission of perfecting customer service towards others with 110% high-quality audio, as Ted brought to his job at Maxxsonics every single day.
For every off-road adventure that turns into a canyon of darkness, there are Autotek LED Round Lights to shine brightness upon the unknown, and for any narrow forest mountain trail that demands concert levels of sound, there are MB Quart Universal Overhead Systems that will project music that will be heard from miles away. From milestone innovations like affordable Class-D to illumination on speakers and amplifiers and the newly announced Jeep Tuned Audio Kits for Jeep Wrangler (JL)/Gladiator (JT) vehicles – across the entire family of audio brands, Maxxsonics USA keeps pushing the boundaries for creation and innovation with products and solutions for every adventure and calling.
Here’s to an incredible 20th anniversary while it’s time to turn the page toward the horizons of the future on what tomorrow will bring.
For more details on Maxxsonics USA or the entire family of audio brands, visit the website at maxxsonics.com.
HOLLY HILL, FL (09.16.2021) – Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronics announced on Wednesday that they will be teaming up with Deland, Florida’s Daniel Dye and GMS Racing for this week’s running of the ARCA Menards Series’ Bush’s Beans 200 at the legendary Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee.
Daniel Dye’s racecars have featured Heise’s parent company, Metra Electronics, since 2018 at numerous short-track venues. This will be the first time Heise LED Lighting Systems will be featured on the quarter panels on the #21 Chevrolet SS. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to work with Daniel and have Heise front and center for this race at Bristol,” said Jake Bates of Metra Electronics. “Daniel’s Race to Stop Suicide program has been a great cause for our community and we are proud to help support his mission. This week’s race is also a great opportunity to expose viewers to Heise and the wide range of aftermarket vehicle lighting upgrades that we offer.”
“It’s pretty special to me to have Heise LED on our racecar for one of the biggest races of the season. Everyone from Metra and their team have been huge supporters of ours for years, and to represent Heise LED Lighting Systems at the Bristol highbanks, on national television and radio, is truly a dream come true. I can’t thank them enough for the continued support and hope to park that beautiful American themed No. 21 Chevy in victory lane,” added Daniel Dye.
The Bush’s Baked Beans 200 marks the last race of the ARCA Menards East Series and the third to last race of the ARCA Menards National Series. Dye is poised to make his run for the ARCA East Championship title with only 24 points separating him from the leader and will attempt to repeat history with the same team that won last year with another GMS Racing driver.
Daniel Dye will take the green flag at the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile” this Thursday, September 16th. The race will be televised live on FS1 starting at 6:30 pm EST and on MRN/SiriusXM radio, followed by the Camping World Truck Series’ UNOH 200 Presented by Ohio Logistics for a racing doubleheader.
Paul DiComo, longtime Polk Audio and Definitive Technology sales and marketing manager, lost his battle with cancer and died peacefully with his wife Susan Putnam by his side on Friday, September 10, 2021.
Paul was born on January 24, 1951, to Charles and Lillian DiComo in Newark, New Jersey. After college at Rutgers, Newark, he moved to Boston, cutting his audio and sales chops first at Waltham Camera and Stereo, then at Tweeter Etc, managing both the Chestnut Hill and Harvard Square locations.
In 1981, Paul joined the fledgling electronics group NAD as National Sales Manager. Two years later, he accepted the role of National Sales Manager at Polk, and in 1995 used his writing and industry relations skills as Marketing and Public Relations Manager. In both of these roles Paul was an important figure in the growth of Polk Audio from a small regional company to one of the largest of its type in the global market. Paul was recruited to Definitive Technology in 2007 as Senior Vice President of Marketing and New Product Development, a role he held until late 2013.
From January 2014 on, Paul, with partner Al Ballard, founded CE-Marketing Pros, LLC., a marketing agency helping established and start-up Consumer Electronics brands build market share and consumer awareness.
Paul was well known throughout the consumer electronics industry for his keen intellect, his passion for his work, but most of all for his larger-than-life personality and love of life. His laughter was infectious and his outgoing personality made him a natural fit for his many roles in the industry. As he travelled the US and the world, Paul gained the respect of many, and would freely share his love and passion for music and fine audio products.
He is survived by his beloved wife and life partner, Susan Putnam, and their sons Michael and Gregory as well as two grandchildren.
A memorial in Paul’s honor will be held at the Candle Light funeral home in Catonsville, Maryland on Saturday, September 25th.
(In lieu of flowers, contributions to MMRF (Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation) would be appreciated. https://www.themmrf.org)
STILLWATER, OK (09.15.2021) – Citing reasons that relate to the current pandemic, KICKER is announcing its choice to cancel plans to exhibit live at November’s annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
KICKER had planned a booth showcasing product, demo vehicles and celebrity appearances for attendees prior to this week’s decision. The mobile-audio company has also decided to suspend all corporate travel and events through December.
“Management continues to make the health and well-being of our employees and customers the top priority,” said Kevin Campbell, Director of Global Marketing. “This is a tough decision, but one we feel must be made.”
Before this decision, KICKER Corporate had plans to attend the Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, Calif., and MERA KnowledgeFest in Dallas, along with the SEMA Show. In August, KICKER had canceled its appearance at Dallas KnowledgeFest, just prior to the event itself postponing until December.
No further details are available at present time. If more information should become available, KICKER will provide it as warranted.
CLEARWATER, FL (09.14.2021) – PAC has launched a full series of high-voltage line output converters under the brand name LOCPRO AVANCED, enabling installers to add aftermarket amplifiers to OEM head units, which is particularly important in today’s market. The line showcases PAC’s legacy of advanced technology, by featuring incredible input power capabilities, enhanced output controls and noise isolation countermeasures.
The line includes a 1-series (LPA-1.2 and LPA-1.4) which handles up to 20V input and a 2-series (LPA-2.2 and LPA-2.4) and E-series (LPA-E.4) that handle up to 40V.
The benefits of LOCPRO ADVANCED’s line output converters include:
On-board load resistors selection
High input power
Auto turn-on with wide range DC offset
Durable housing
Single stereo gain control
Up to 9.5V of output voltage
Turn-on mode (remote and DC)
Selectable ground isolation
Additional features for the 2-series:
40V input power
Low pass filter
Bass boost
Removable quick connectors with screw type terminal
Optional Remote level controller (LPA-REM)
Additional features for the E-series:
Aluminum housing to increase thermal dissipation efficiency
2 or 4 Input channel selection
Retains fader 4-ch in/out
Selectable turn on mode
Includes the remote level controller (LPA-REM)
For more information contact your local PAC sales representative or visit www.pac-integrate.com. If you are interested in becoming an authorized PAC dealer, contact the Global Headquarters, AAMP Global.
HOLLY HILL, FL (09.14.2021) – Metra Marine by Metra Electronics is launching new amplifier wiring kits, individual accent lights, and accent lighting kits for boats at the 2021 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX). Drawing on Metra’s expertise in high-performance automotive audio and lighting accessories, the Metra Marine line delivers four new amplifier wiring kits, six new accent lights, and two new accent lighting kits designed for the demands of boating.
Metra Marine’s new amplifier wiring kits feature fully tinned oxygen-free wire in a BC5W2 marine compliant jacket. Benefits to using tinned copper wire versus bare copper wire are that it won’t corrode, oxidize and turn green, and it’s easy to solder. Metra uses 100% virgin oxygen-free copper, which ensures that the tin doesn’t flake off from the copper, commonly seen when using recycled copper. While it is also common to tin just the tips of the wire for cost savings, this practice does not actually provide any benefits. Metra’s amp kits use fully tinned copper wire from top to bottom to ensure a reliable connection that can withstand a harsh marine environment and salty air. The ignition-protected circuit breaker is IP67 rated with stainless steel connection points for corrosion resistance. Included in the kits are: ● A four or eight gauge tinned oxygen-free copper siamese red power and yellow ground wire (10 or 20 feet) ● 18-gauge tinned oxygen-free copper blue remote turn-on wire (18 feet) ● Connectors, ring terminals, and wire ties ● Ignition protected circuit breaker (50-amp or 100-amp)
The amplifier kits will be available soon and come in two different gauge and length options as follows: ML-AK8-10: 8 AWG Amp Kit (10 feet) ML-AK8-20: 8 AWG Amp Kit (20 feet) ML-AK4-10: 4 AWG Amp Kit (10 feet) ML-AK4-20: 4 AWG Amp Kit (20 feet)
For boat lighting, Metra Marine’s new accent lights are designed to illuminate the livewell, deck, storage section, and other areas of a boat. The IP67 rated lights have durable weather-resistant enclosures to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion. The low current draw of the LEDs reduces strain on the battery and the kits feature corrosion-resistant tinned wires and include installation hardware. Two new kits include six mini stainless steel cover accent lights and three larger utility lights with high-impact plastic in blue or white LED colors. The lights are also available individually in blue or white LEDs, with either a chrome plastic bezel enclosure, clear plastic bezel enclosure, or stainless steel bezel enclosure.
All of the Metra Marine accent lights are in stock now: ML-ALCK9-W: White LED Accent Lighting Kit (9 Lights) ML-ALCK9-B: Blue LED Accent Lighting Kit (9 Lights) ML-AL2SS-W: White 2-LED Accent Light – Stainless Steel Bezel ML-AL2SS-B: Blue 2-LED Accent Light – Stainless Steel Bezel ML-AL2CL-W: White 2-LED Accent Light – Clear Plastic Bezel ML-AL2CL-B: Blue 2-LED Accent Light – Clear Plastic Bezel ML-AL4CL-W: White 4-LED Accent Light – Chrome Plastic Bezel ML-AL4CL-B: Blue 4-LED Accent Light – Chrome Plastic Bezel
Metra will be at booth #3-1918 at IBEX, a trade-only show for the marine industry, held September 28-30 at the Tampa Convention Center. Additional marine products from their line can be seen at MetraMarine.com.
DES MOINES, IA (09.13.2021) – “I am pleased to announce we have hired a new Territory Manager for the Mountain States area. Craig comes to us from the Omaha area with extensive retail background in 12-Volt. He has owned his own business, managed retail locations and installation bays for several reputable 12-Volt stores. I look forward to personally introducing him in the territory in the very near future!” – Tom Kolar, Vice President of Sales and Marketing – 12-Volt Division.
Craig McGinnis
Craig has been in the 12-Volt industry for over 22 years; he’s worked in the bay and has been managing shops for 9 years. He’s done everything from SPL cars to full-blown SEMA and CES builds. For the past 5 years, Craig has shifted his focus to integration aspect of the business including building some amazing sound quality vehicles using advanced tuning utilizing DSP processing. He is looking forward to getting out of the bay and helping others with his many years of experience.
When Craig isn’t working on remote starts and building cars, he’s binge-watching shows with his fiancé and dogs. They enjoy going to the Caribbean and sipping on fine tequilas and good Caribbean rum.
“I’m looking forward to checking out all your stores and meeting with all of you.” – Craig McGinnis – Territory Sales Manager – Omaha, Nebraska.
For inquiries regarding Mid-State Distributing-12-Volt Division, please contact Tom Kolar at t.kolar@m-state.com or 800-798-5965 x 661 at the Omaha Branch.
DANIA BEACH, FL (09.10.2021) – HKI USA INC the exclusive U.S. distributor of Ground Zero, SounDigital and Four Connect audio products is proud to add another industry veteran to its growing team.
Marty Deane will be leading a new technology division of HKI USA.
“Deane brings over 30 years of mobile electronics experience to our company. His retail and installation knowledge will be a huge advantage as we grow into our second phase of our US operations.” said Diogo Ianaconi, CEO of HKI USA.
This addition will provide HKI USA a path into new exciting markets.
SHREVEPORT, LA (09.10.2021) – The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Nine months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel. Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
This JBL MT6HLB Tower X Marine System, with a $799. MSRP, is a big Prize on the wheel for a lucky retailer.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
Joey Knapp, Pinnacle Autosound, with his JBL Smartphone remote control.
It’s great to see the faces of winners with their prize. Joey Knapp, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City, FL is pictured with the JBL Smartphone remote he won on the Spin-To-Win Wheel 140 on August 23rd.
Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands, CA was the 12volt News Prize winner on Friday, September 3rd and the check to store owner Mike Kardous is in the mail.
Let’s add your store to the growing list of winners. Remember to #12voltspin when making your company’s posts to Instagram to make sure your store has a slip in the jar.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX and Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO and Anthony’s Car Stereo in North Highlands CA. Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, September 10th.
12VoltNews.com 