KICKER Marine Audio Is “Going Overboard” at Lake Havasu Formula 1 Race, October 15-17

STILLWATER, OK (10.14.2021) – KICKER Marine Audio is again joining its local dealers and fans in Lake Havasu City, AZ, for the NGK Spark Plugs Formula 1 Powerboat Series, October 15-17, which features high-horsepower racing excitement in 3 classes over 2 days, featuring international powerboat racing stars.

On Oct. 15, the Friday Night Beach Party from 4-8 pm at the London Bridge Beach is sponsored by KICKER Marine Audio. Fans get to mingle with the drivers and crews to learn more about them and their racing equipment. Amid great music–broadcast through the KICKER Marine Audio system–a vintage boat display, kids’ activity zone, museum exhibits, food, Beer Garden, vendors, and a Reunion Social for past racers, families and racers crew members will enjoy the festivities. This special event will be free and open to the public.

The race is part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the city’s founder, Robert P. McCulloch, Jr. who was the first to initiate the outboard championships at Lake Havasu in 1964. The race became a Lake Havasu tradition, drawing competitors from every corner of the globe for high stakes cash and prizes.

As the owner of McCulloch Motors, McCulloch later purchased the then-sinking London Bridge in 1968 and shipped the pieces to the USA where he resurrected the granite blocks in the exact same order over the man-made Bridgewater Channel, a feat that was completed 50 years ago. The London Bridge has since been a tourist attraction in the heart of the Arizona desert.

KICKER Marine Audio, and its local dealers (Wired 4 Sound and Ron’s In Your Ear Audio), and vendors have long been active in Lake Havasu through the performance boating Annual Desert Storm Poker Run and rally. This NGK Spark Plugs Formula 1 Powerboat event gives KICKER Marine Audio and music fans the opportunity to mix high-speed racing with high-octane sound.

Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc. KICKER Marine Audio’s long-time Manufacturers Rep Group, that sets up distributors and dealers in the Southwest Region, is teaming up with Lake Havasu’s custom installer Wired 4 Sound’s Jeff Cuvelier at the event. Murphy and partner Frank Zepeda’s “Boom Toon,” a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge, complete with a slide and party poles, will be at the docks. The Boom Toon will join Jeff’s Rinker Flotilla Deck boat. Both are decked with top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio speakers, subwoofers, amps and more, and both boats emphasize the company’s tag line of “Livin’ Loud!”

Ron Voegele, of Gatorwraps, installer of large-scale vessel and vehicle wraps said of Cuvelier’s boat, “When he pulls into a cove, everyone else shuts off their stereos because his sounds like a live concert! We get those comments all the time when we play our KICKER sound systems—the sound is that clear!”

MurfCo and local dealers have had long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who was a pioneer in the 12-Volt, mobile audio world.

“KICKER Marine Audio finds kindred spirits in the performance boating community,” says Jeremy Bale, brand manager, “This group of racers and fans may be introduced to KICKER through this event and some may certainly know the company from its decades as a mobile audio leader, no doubt used in their tow vehicles. Lake Havasu has been a good location for us with long-time dealers, distributors and installers and we enjoy getting together and engaging with our customers and friends at these events–and to make new friends. We’re happy to support the Seebold family in this race!”

All KICKER Marine Audio’s can enclosures are tough, UV-treated and come in black and white to complement a boat’s color scheme, complete with LED light complements. Horn-Loaded Tower Systems, speakers, subwoofers, amps and media centers are only part of the line, so when you want to “Kick” up your sound system, rely on the brand that delivers the finest quality acoustics and marine-grade components—KICKER Marine Audio.

Visit www.kicker.com/marine-audio for more.

2021 MECA SPL World Champions

MUSCLE SHOALS, AL (10.13.2021) – MECA is proud to announce the clubs 2021 Sound Pressure League World Champions. MECA presented 31 World Champion trophies at the Finals event held in Muscle Shoals, AL on October 8th and 9th.

 Chris and Lori Caudill-AudioDreamLand Ky- With their SPL Loud Spouses plaque.

“A huge thank you to our Title Sponsor Sundown Audio, and co-sponsors Ohio Generator, Incriminator Audio, TRU Technology, Arc Audio and all who contributed to the success of the 2021 event” MECA Commish Steve Stern related.

Chris IKSRTFO Eigensee-Team 614 OH with his SPL Best of Show plaque.
Mike and Rachel Jones Phat Farm-KY, Phat Farm-Venue of the Year, pictured with their plaque and MECA Commish Steve Stern.

Stern continued with “Thank you also to ring sponsors Sundown Audio and SoundCheck. All Champions will receive the traditional MECA ‘super bling’ Champion’s Ring.”

Nearly 50 National Point Champs plaques are displayed on the table at the event.
MECA competitors and friends work to unload all of the trophies out of the MECA truck.

Visit mecacaraudio.com for more.

MB Quart Grows Partnership with CFMOTO

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (10.12.2021) – MB Quart strengthens partnership with CFMOTO as the UFORCE600 launches with the MB Quart U6 audio system. Previously, MB Quart has worked with CFMOTO with the Universal Overhead System, and this ALL-NEW U6 audio system cements the growing relationship.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “This growing partnership with CFMOTO represents a magnitude of future opportunities for more vehicle-specific kits. We are extremely proud and satisfied with the release of the ALL-NEW UFORCE600 showcasing audio that’s loud with the included 6.5-inch coaxial speakers and a high contrast 160-watt LCD source unit. Bringing audio with adventure on every outdoor journey is what sets Music. Defined. apart from the rest. With LIFE SHIELD/IPX-rated, you’ll be able to take on any element that the condition brings.”

Purposely engineered for the UFORCE600 (U6), this MB Quart U6 audio system fits MY21/22 U600 vehicles and includes a high contrast 160-watt LCD source unit, 6.5-inch coaxial speakers, high-impact HDPE composite enclosure, and LIFE SHIELD/IPX-rated.

Rest assured that for any adventure that demands rough conditions faced along the way, your audio will remain durable while lasting against the elements.

Bring Music. Defined. audio on every adventure with the ALL-NEW UFORCE600 and get ready to tackle any element along the way with audio that’s high quality and produces undistorted levels of listening in any song.

See complete line and vehicle details on the CFMOTO USA website at cfmotousa.com/accessories

Visit mbquart.com for more.

Kawasaki Unveils New 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 Special Edition with Hifonics Audio

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (10.12.2021) – The all-new for 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION chases down adventure with undistorted and untamed levels of POWER FROM THE GODS. Hifonics continues its growing partnership with Kawasaki vehicles in this explosive and vibrant audio package that brings out ultimate adventure-seeking adrenaline. Creating a concert sphere of immersion right in your 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION, audio transcends with levels of detail and clarity in every beat.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “Continuing this crucial partnership with Kawasaki has been such an important relationship and value to Hifonics. We love bringing high-quality sound that’s detailed and loud that makes every outdoor adventure worth embarking on. I know how critical it is to hear every small detail from my favorite songs and playlists through any condition and element that the outdoor adventure may bring.”

The 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION comes complete with 6.5-inch door speakers, a 12-inch subwoofer, a high-grade Hifonics Bluetooth/AM/FM source unit, and a 600-watt, 5-channel amplifier. Giving the dash an interior centerpiece to the vehicle, the high-contrast color LED screen of the source unit is built into the center console. Apple Control enables compatible Apple devices controlled by the stereo through the integrated USB plug in the top dash compartment.

A pair of 6.5-inch coaxial 2-way speakers are built into the doors as their composite midrange cones create deep and accurate mid-bass, all while being paired with 0.75-inch titanium dome tweeters for a crystal-clear high-frequency performance. The 12-inch subwoofer was specially designed for the 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION and mounts directly behind the seats.

Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “This continued partnership between Kawasaki and Hifonics has continued to grow as newer vehicles become announced. We are extremely proud of bringing POWER FROM THE GODS audio into the 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION. Not only will audio expectation be met with superior performance, but also being protected against the elements provides a safe measure of durability and longevity.”

When untamed adventure calls, bring undistorted levels of playback into every quest for adrenaline this fall season with the Hifonics audio package. From booming bass that creates immersive dimension to every song, from speakers that transcend quality with undistorted quality of listening into every genre of music – your music will come alive on every outdoor adventure.

POWER FROM THE GODS meets the pursuit and demand for a louder listening experience in the ALL-NEW Kawasaki 2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION.

Click here to see the complete vehicle and audio details available on the Kawasaki website

Visit hifonics.com for more.

MTX Audio Expands Sales Force Team with Two New Regional Managers

Phoenix, AZ, October 11,2021 – MTX Audio, of the MiTek Electronics and Communications Group, is
announcing that they have expanded their sales team with two new additions, Steven Abdelahad as a
power sports regional sales manager and Ceasar Olaes as a 12-volt regional sales manager.

Steven comes from a rich history in the 12-volt and power sports industry and brings with him a wealth
of knowledge. Having started with the Good Guys in 1999 in retail sales, he’s gone on to own his own
business and most recently was with Tucker Power Sports. “I’m truly passionate about building
relationships and challenging myself with technical projects.”, says Steven. “Having focused on business
management in college before running my own business has allowed me to fine-tune my sales skills in
the off-road industry for the last five years.” Steven will be focusing on developing areas in the
Southwest, upper Midwest, and east coast territories power sports growth along with managing our rep
firms in those states.

Ceasar brings a strong aftermarket background with over 30+ years’ experience in the industry having
worked for companies like SPAL Automotive, Vision Tech America, Race Sport Lighting and Epsilon
Electronics. “It’s great to be working for a brand that I have long admired and followed and I’m looking
forward to traveling into the territories, getting to know all of the great dealers that we have in the 12-
volt market as well as expanding our dealer base.”, said Ceasar. Ceasar’s focus will be on the southern
states from California to Florida as well as working with our rep firms in those areas to continue
expanding the brand.

“We’re really excited to have Steven and Ceasar joining our team and are looking forward to their
dedicated efforts in supporting our reps and dealers.”, said Director of Sales and Marketing, Jason
Fickas. “Their diverse history and unique skill sets will make an immediate and positive impact and also
aligns well with our long-term strategy.”

Staying Cool in Your RZR

DEI’s newest heat control kit snugly fits Polaris two-seaters.

AVON LAKE, OHIO (10-11-2021) – Keep your hot new Polaris RZR from getting too hot with a Heat Control Kit from Design Engineering, Inc.

Designed to snugly fit the contours of ’19-’21 Polaris RZR XP 1000 & XP Turbo (including S model), the kit keeps the center console area and seats cool thanks to DEI’s heat-blocking blend of materials.

“Using Extreme Heat Barrier to shield heat in the center console and our Black Extreme Heat Barrier to insulate behind the seats blocking engine heat, this new Heat Control Kit provides a comfortable ride on any excursion,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “Plus, detailed instructions, along with our DEI support team, makes installation a breeze.”

DEI’s Extreme Heat Barrier withstands temperatures up 1,750 degrees F to keep the driver and passenger areas protected. The materials are non water absorbent, self adhesive, and have superior insulating properties. The Heat Control Kits are available in Behind-the-Seats and Center-Console options, as well as a Combination kit that covers it all.

For more information about DEI’s Heat Control Kits for Polaris RZR XP 1000 & XP Turbo (including S model) applications and the company’s full line of thermal and sound control products, visit http://www.designengineering.com

MasterTech Expo to Feature Bitchin’ Rides’ Dave Kindig

World-famous vehicle customizer to talk with attendees and conduct live design session.

TEMPE, ARIZ., October 8, 2021 – Mobile Solutions announced that Dave Kindig, renowned vehicle designer and star of Motortrend TV’s Bitchin’ Rides, will join the first annual MasterTech Expo, scheduled March 6-9 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Kindig will sign autographs for automotive aftermarket attendees, but more importantly, he will conduct a live design session and share his creative process with attendees.

Dave Kindig is the co-founder and designer of Kindig It Design, a custom car fabrication shop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Kindig It Design reimagines vehicles with full body transformative capability that starts with pencil and paper under Kindig’s hand. The shop is also the subject of the Motortrend TV show Bitchin’ Rides, which chronicles the design, build and delivery of some of the world’s most creative cars and trucks. With Co-founder Charity Kindig, Shop Foreman Kevin Schiele and a hyper-creative team of automotive professionals, the Kindig It Design brand enjoys worldwide popularity among automotive enthusiasts.

At MasterTech Expo, Kindig will provide attendees a unique and immersive look into his methodology. As part of his presentation, one of his shop’s most recent builds will be on display at the show. Kindig will take the audience through the intricacies of the design elements, providing thought processes, tips and techniques that are typically valued as a designer’s trade secrets.

In addition, Kindig will take the stage on the exhibit floor and talk the audience through a series of live designs, with cameras displaying his work on overhead screens. The session is scheduled separate from class and exhibit times and therefore open to all attendees and exhibitors.

“With MasterTech Expo, we are committed to embracing the entire automotive aftermarket community,” said Bryan Schmitt, show founder and owner of parent company Mobile Solutions. “Our objective is to bring tremendous value to our attendees with brands, classes, tools and products from every segment of the industry. In talking with Dave, we were thrilled to find that he is aligned with our vision and is excited to join us at MasterTech Expo and share his knowledge with other professionals.”

For more information, or to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit mastertechexpo.com.

Metra Ships New Dash Panel Kits Designed for Older Model Ford, Lincoln, and Dodge Ram Trucks

Holly Hill, Fla. 10/08/2021 – Metra Electronics, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, is now shipping two new dashboard panel kits designed to upgrade older model SUVs and trucks with a larger Double-DIN radio. These new solutions give installers an easier way to fit a larger aftermarket radio into the dashboard without labor-intensive custom fabrication, bringing modern technology to older vehicles.

DP-5859 for Ford and Lincoln

Metra’s DP-5859 replacement dashboard panel is custom textured and includes multiple trim panels and brackets to cover different vehicle options and trim levels. It is designed to fit 1997 to 2004 Ford and Lincoln SUVs and trucks. Metra suggests that installers paint the factory vents black to match the new panel. An installation video is available at https://youtu.be/1PJpgXl86tE.

DP-5859 Specifications

●     Replacement dash panel for Double-DIN radio

●     Designed to fit:

○     Ford Expedition 1997-2002

○     Ford F-150 1997-2003

○     Ford F-150 Heritage 2004

○     Ford F-250 1998

○     Lincoln Blackwood 2002

○     Lincoln Navigator 1997-2002

DP-6551 for Dodge Ram

The DP-6551 replacement dashboard panel is custom textured and designed to fit select 1998 to 2002 Dodge Ram trucks. Is it not designed for 1998 models with a single knob headlamp switch or 12volt power in the upper right corner of the dashboard*. A product video is available at https://youtu.be/2Yq3fasSS98.

DP-6551 Specifications

●     Replacement dash panel for Double-DIN radio

●     Designed to fit*:

○     Dodge Ram 1500 1998-2001

○     Dodge Ram 2500 1998-2002

○     Dodge Ram 3500 1998-2002

These two new dashboard panel kits are in stock and available now.
*See MetraOnline.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information and additional fitment details.

SSV Works Offers Industry’s Only In-Stock Polaris RZR Pro XP Audio Solutions

OXNARD, CA (10.07.2021) – SSV Works (www.ssvworks.com), the market leader in powersports and off-road audio systems, is proud to announce that it currently offers the industry’s only in-stock weatherproof Polaris RZR Pro XP full aftermarket audio solutions for both Ride Command and non-Ride Command equipped vehicles.

“With full kits available as well as front and rear-door 6.5-inch speaker pods and a 10-inch subwoofer sold individually specifically for Ride Command-equipped Polaris Pro XPs, SSV Works offers the ideal add-on solutions for dealers improving factory-equipped systems,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO.

SSV Works’ easy-to-install, plug-&-play weatherproof Polaris RZR Pro XP full aftermarket audio solutions for both Ride Command and non-Ride Command equipped vehicles include 2-, 4-, 5-, and 7-speaker kits.

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

2021 SEMA Award Finalists Announced

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.07.2021) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a member-organization dedicated to advancing the automotive and automotive aftermarket industries, announced finalists for the 2021 SEMA Award, a recognition presented to new vehicle models that provide the aftermarket with the best platforms for customization. Voted on by SEMA Show exhibitors, winners will be announced at the annual trade-only event on November 2-5, in Las Vegas, Nev.

This year’s award program includes a new category for mid-size trucks. Other categories include car, full-size truck, 4×4/SUV, and sport compact. Exhibitors identified the top three finalists in each category that best showcase their products and accessories.

The top three finalists in each category are (in alphabetical order):

SEMA Car of the Year
• Chevrolet Corvette
• Ford Mustang
• Nissan GT-R

SEMA Mid-Size Truck of the Year
• Ford Ranger
• Stellantis Jeep Gladiator
• Toyota Tacoma

SEMA Full-Size Truck of the Year
• Chevrolet Silverado
• Ford F Series
• Stellantis Ram

SEMA 4×4/SUV of the Year
• Chevrolet Tahoe
• Ford Bronco
• Stellantis Jeep Wrangler

SEMA Sport Compact of the Year
• Honda Civic
• Nissan Sentra
• Toyota Supra

These vehicles represent today’s most popular models based on their potential for customization. Aftermarket manufacturers are investing in the vehicles for their ability to have upgraded performance, styling, comfort, convenience, and safety. The program creates awareness for aftermarket products and highlights the ongoing collaboration between SEMA, automakers, and aftermarket manufacturers to bring quality products to market. SEMA also helps aftermarket manufacturers with product development through the SEMA Garage, measuring sessions, 3-D printing, technology transfer, and more.

For additional information about the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.