2021 SEMA Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.27.2021) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame at www.sema.org/hof

Established in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame recognizes people who have contributed a significant body of work to the industry over a long period of time and is the most prestigious award presented to an individual by the association. It is designed to honor the leaders, innovators, creators, and enthusiasts who transformed small, burgeoning businesses into an industry worth more than $46.2 billion annually.

To nominate an individual who epitomizes the essence of ingenuity in action, visit www.sema.org/hof before the deadline on Friday, March 19.

To see the complete list of SEMA Hall of Fame Members, click here.

To learn more about the SEMA Hall of Fame and for a list of inductees, contact Lindsay Bianco at lindsayb@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

Visit sema.org for more.

Cadence Winter Giveaway

CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA (01.27.2021) – Cadence Sound stays connected with the audio community. The company understands that due to Covid-19, some customers have been affected financially. They decided to do several giveaways so that Cadence aficionados can still enjoy their passions without worry.

Their Winter Giveaway winner is Paul, in Los Angeles, CA. Paul won the biggest Cadence haul yet: A pair of Cadence XT60 Tweeters, a QR80.2 amp, and a pair of PXM6x4 mid range drivers.

“We are excited to see what kind of project Paul uses all of his new Cadence equipment for! The options are endless. To enter our next giveaway, make sure to follow us on Social Media so you can see when the next giveaway happens!”

Visit CadenceSound.com for more.

The New DS18 Component Sets Bring Goosebumps

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (01.20.2021) – DS18 has introduced an amazing line of component sets that are sure to leave all with goosebumps when they hear the full and rich sound from the DX3N.

The DX3N Gold line has been developed with the greatest care and over engineered to deliver the highest quality sound along with strength that will last ages.

This set comes with the DX3NW which is the 6.5 inch woofer, the DX3NT 1.18″ tweeter, 3.5 inch DX3NM midrange along with a passive three way crossover.

The woofer features a sturdy carbon fiber cone and beautiful machined basket with neo motor that will play clear, low end music 50hz and up to 12khz with a 4 ohm impedance.

To accompany that, the tweeter will fill the gap with crisp and clear highs so listeners have a complete range of frequencies and boost overall sound quality… also at 4 ohms.

To fill in the midrange the 3.5″ DX3NM brings out all the vocals with crystal clarity and force.

The final piece of this HQ SQ component set is the included 3 way passive crossover. This crossover accurately separates wattage and frequencies for the component set and will ensure long lasting and great sounding experiences. The TW ATT options give listeners a selection of 0DB, 2DB, and 4DB loudness options at 12db/oct.

To be sure, for those looking for a high sound quality experience the DS18 DX3N is in their best interest!

Click here to check out the DX3N product page.

Visit ds18.com for more.

Real Performance Marketing Adds John Gray to the Rep Firm Team

BUFORD, GA (01.26.2021) – “Real Performance Marketing has added John Gray to the RPM team to work the DC, DE, MD, VA, WV, and Southern NJ areas. John brings with him 20 years of Mobile Electronics Industry experience plus a passion for Motorcycles which makes him a great fit for the team,” stated Scott Hochmuth, RPM Firm Principal.

John Gray

With the addition of John Gray and existing reps expanding into LA and KY RPM is now servicing dealers in 14 states with 18 lines in the Mobile Electronics, Powersports, and Marine Industries.

The Real Performance Marketing Rep Group brings over 190 years of combined experience to dealers in the states of AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, NC, SC, TN, VA and WVA representing some of the most prestigious brands in the industries.

RPM is an Atlanta based group of seven independent reps plus an office staff.

Visit www.realperformancemarketing.net for more.

New Dash Kits and Speaker Adapter from Metra Electronics

HOLLY HILL, FL (01.25.2021) – Metra Electronics has a new speaker adapter for Mitsubishi and four new dash kits in stock and shipping, designed for 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee models, 2017-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage models, and the 2020 Toyota Highlander. In addition to creating dash kits for the standard ISO Single and Double-DIN radios, Metra is the only aftermarket dash kit manufacturer designing installation kits specific to the non-traditional radio sizes that have been hitting the market.

“There are many obstacles to overcome when designing installation kits for radios going into vehicles that have limited space. The new radio designs with less bulk provide Metra’s engineers with more freedom in creating a product to install a sleek looking screen into a dashboard that doesn’t have space for the larger footprint of the typical ISO Double-DIN radio that we’ve been designing for over the past 20 years. The new style radios are a major improvement to our industry and Metra is proud to be at the forefront of this trend with solutions to make installation seamless,” says Colin Ehrhardt of Metra Electronics. These new solutions make radio replacement easier and are designed to match the OEM look and feel of the dashboard.

The 107-CH5 for 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee models is textured to match the factory finish and designed specifically for Double-DIN radios with an “L” shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the top of the screen. It is also compatible with Pioneer’s 6.8-inch modular receivers, like the DMH-C2500NEX, DMH-C2550NEX, and the new DMH-WC5700NEX. Installers should refer to the radio manufacturer for the most up to date information. This dash kit could also be used to mount a full-sized standard ISO Double-DIN radio but would require additional cutting and the vents below the radio would be lost.

Toyota Highlander Kits (Click below to play)

The 108-TO7HG fits the 2020 Toyota Highlander without the factory 12.3-inch screen and is painted gloss black. It is designed specifically for Pioneer’s 8-inch modular receivers like the DMH-C5500NEX and installers should refer to the radio manufacturer for the most up to date information.

95/99-7019 Kits (Click below to play)

The 95-7019 and 99-7019 dash kits are designed for 2017-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage and 2018-2020 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 models. The 95-7019 is for a Double-DIN radio provision and the 99-7019 is for a Single-DIN radio with a pocket included. Both kits have high polished processing for a gloss plastic look that matches both the aftermarket radio and factory finish.

Metra has also just released a new speaker mounting adapter plate for 2007-2019 Mitsubishi models. The 82-7000 adapter is sold as a pair and has a versatile break-away tab design that allows for the installation of 6-inch or 6.75-inch aftermarket speakers. The adapter plate is designed for 2008-2017 Lancer, 2010-2014 Lancer Sport, 2014-2015 Mirage, and 2007-2019 Outlander models from Mitsubishi. The 82-7000 is now shipping and features a twist adapter design for installation with tabs for extra support if needed.

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

HKI USA Introduces New Territory Manager

DANIA BEACH, FL (01.25.2021) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital Amplifiers, Ground Zero Car Audio, and Four Connect Wiring Products, is proud to announce another member to its family.

“Our company has been growing tremendously in the United States, and we are very happy to offer our dealers and partners even more support with the addition of Robert Reilly to the team,” explained Diogo Iannaccone, CEO of HKI USA. Robert will be taking over as the Territory Manager for the Northern California and Pacific Northwest Territories.

Territory Manager for the Northern California and Pacific Northwest Territories

In addition to handling sales and development within those territories, Robert is also brining his retail ownership, install, fabrication, SPL, and SQ+ knowledge to the table to help all of HKI’s dealers capitalize on the amazing lineup of products offered to them.

“I am excited to be a part of the HKI USA team. The wide range of skills and experience that our team now brings to the table has me inspired and looking to our future,” stated Robert Reilly. “The range and quality of products that Ground Zero and SounDigital offer is truly unique in the industry. I am looking forward to meeting with my dealers and doing my part to support them achieve their goals.”

For more information about our brand(s) and our growing family, visit hki-usa.com or e-mail info@hki-usa.com

AudioControl Introduces the ACX-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter

SEATTLE, WA (01.22.2021) – AudioControl has introduced the ACX-BT1, an ultra-simple, high-performance Bluetooth adapter, providing Bluetooth connectivity to any sound system with RCA or AUX audio inputs. The ACX-BT1 is also ideal for all-weather applications, making it perfect for marine and motorsports entertainment systems.

The AudioControl ACX-BT1 is the ultimate solution for giving customers what they want—Bluetooth connectivity. Like all solutions from AudioControl, performance was paramount to the design of this product. The ACX-BT1 features the latest Bluetooth 4.1 and aptX HD support, delivering 24-bit clarity, lower noise, faster initial connection and more reliable streaming from a greater distance. The ACX-BT1 is IPX5 rated for marine and motorsports applications, so it will withstand the rigors of all-weather conditions, including as a standalone (no head unit) solution common to side-by-sides, jet skis and more. Installers will appreciate the unique remote turn-on output circuit that triggers downstream amplifier(s) only when audio is being played over the Bluetooth connection.

“The challenges with all-weather product designs include quality, durability and ease of use,” explained Chris Bennett, AudioControl’s Director of Mobile Audio. “Mobile audio dealers can pair the ACX-BT1 with AudioControl’s new ACX Amplifiers, creating a simple system design that can stand up to the rigors and demands of any off-road or all-weather installation. The ACX-BT1 features traditional RCA outputs, functioning as the ultimate universal Bluetooth solution for interfacing with all mobile audio amplifiers.”

AudioControl ACX Series Amplifiers are loaded with features and deliver superb sound quality for any system design, while featuring an amazingly compact overall footprint to ensure the easiest possible integration into confined spaces. Thanks to state of the art conformal coatings, insulated gaskets and loose-mating waterproof connectors, the AudioControl ACX lineup delivers breathtaking audio performance and superior build quality for marine and motorsports applications. ACX amps are available in 4-channel and 1-channel (mono) configurations.

The AudioControl ACX-BT1 is available now with a MAP price of $69.99.

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping the Turn1 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.22.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the Turn1 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker. The Turn1 is tuned for open-air adventures outside the vehicle.

Tuned for Adventure
Adventure doesn’t stop at the drive, and that’s why Alpine introduces a new portable music experience with the Turn1.

With two midrange speakers, two tweeters, and two external passive radiators, the Turn1 provides a stereo sound performance that can produce up to 40-watts of powerful sound. The speaker is waterproof and tuned to be played outside, so even in open-air, with wind or other noise, the music still comes through clear.

Music on Demand
The Turn1 has a 33-foot working distance and over 12 hours of playtime to keep up with any adventure. The multi-unit pairing function connects up to two Turn1 speakers when more sound is desired. A built-in mic offers hand-free calling functionality.

When it comes time to charge the Turn1, a micro-USB to USB charge is available for convenient and quick charging (between 4 – 6 hours) from a vehicle or home. The auto power-off feature ensures efficient use of the battery.

On-the-Go
Transporting the Turn1 speaker is easy with the included 3-foot carry strap. A separate package is available that includes a Turn1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a universal mounting bracket designed to attach to the inside bars of select Jeep Wranglers and Side x Side Solutions.

The cast metal bracket is designed with a foam backing to ensure protection from scratches on the vehicle when in use. Easily remove the speaker from the quick-release straps on the brackets and throw the carry strap over your shoulder for on-the-go listening.

The Turn1 and the Turn1 mounting bracket package are now shipping at a MAP of $199.95 and $249.95, respectively, and will be available to purchase directly on http://www.alpine-usa.com or at Alpine Authorized retailers.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

Experience Breathtaking Sound with Phoenix Gold’s New GX Line

Clearwater, FL (January 20, 2021) – Phoenix Gold has launched its new line of GX amplifiers and subwoofers, equipped with the advanced features and power you can expect from the PG brand. 

GX subwoofers feature MLB collar technology enabling micro-level bonding for increased strength between the cone and spider. They also possess CFL3 technologies making them three times more structurally rigid, thus prolonging the voice coil’s life. GX subwoofers are available in 10-inch (GX10D4, GX10D2), and 12-inch (GX12D4, GX12D2) sizes with 8-inch coming soon. 

GX amplifiers are designed to cover a multitude of installation needs. Included in the line, are our proprietary PG quick connects for high current capability and reliability while enabling clean and quick installations. The chassis has been optimized by utilizing BFD (Balanced Flow Dissipation) to keep the amplifier running cool when the music is hot. GX amplifiers are available in 1200-watt, 6-channel (GX1200.6), 1200-watt, 1-channel (GX1200.1) and 800-watt, 4-channel (GX800.4).

GX subwoofer key features include: 

  • Dual Cone Design – to strengthen the rigidity of the woofer’s cone body to minimize the distortion while increasing the handling of high pressure produced in the subwoofer enclosure
  • Magnetic FEA High-Efficiency Motor – provides the highest possible, efficient motor design
  • Thermal Efficient Design via Vented Motor provides better thermal efficiency, reduces motor compression, and extends low-frequency response
  • Double Looped and Sleeved Lead Wires for High Excursion – reduces wire roping and allows high excursion, increased flexibility, and long life
  • Special Push Type Terminals with Short Prevention
  • Bent Edge Enhanced Frame (BEEF’ed Up) – minimizes overall resonance and provides accurate sound with less distortion
  • Linear Surround Technology – for high excursion
  • Black Anodized Voice Coil Former – heat dissipation
  • Linear Long Throw Spider Suspension – for increased output and power handling
  • Large 2.5” Voice Coil for GX12D4, GX12D2, GX10D4, GX10D2
  • Removable Gasket for Adding Grills – G112 (GX12D4 / GX12D2), G110 (GX10D4 / GX10D2)

GX amplifier key features include:

  • Proprietary PG Quick Connects
  • Flush Mountable Bass Knob
  • Full Radiation Heat Sink
  • Single-Sided Control Panel
  • Onboard Short/Therm/Imped Protection
  • Audiophile Grade Full Range Class D (GX800.4/GX1200.6)
  • High Pass and Low Pass Crossovers (GX800.4/1GX200.6)
  • High-Level Input Capable – for Easy OEM Integration
  • Selectable Balanced / Unbalanced Inputs
  • Surface-Mount Component Technology
  • Multi-Input Selector
  • Low Pass and Subsonic Crossovers (GX1200.1)
  • 0-1800 degree Variable Phase Shift (GX1200.1)

 For more information, contact your local PG sales representative or visit www.phoenixgold.com.

Design Engineering Releases Stainless Steel Insulated Pipe Shields

AVON LAKE, OH (01.21.2021) – Increase driver and passenger comfort while protecting vital components from heat damage with new Stainless Steel Pipe Heat Shields from Design Engineering, Inc.
 
Designed to prevent burns while protecting drivers and passengers from uncomfortable heat, the lightweight shields can be utilized in a wide variety of applications, including turbo down pipes, headers or any component of the exhaust system.

“Stainless Steel Pipe Heat Shields feature two layers of 304 stainless that encapsulate a high-temperature insulation material for the ultimate in heat control,” stated Mike Buca of DEI. “Pre-formed with a curved shape to fit most any size pipe, they block heat and protect components better than factory shields.”

Offering up to a 2000°F direct-temperature rating, the shields include 1/2″ standoffs with clamps that provide an air gap to the pipe and two stainless steel mounting clamps. Available in two sizes, 4.5″ x 8″ (#10254) and 6″ x 12″ (#10255), each features a stainless steel heat barrier material on the outside surfaces and an insulating inner layer, plus welded seams for strength and durability.

For more information about Stainless Steel Pipe Heat Shields and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com and www.DEIPowersports.com.