Alpine Electronics Introduces a New PowerStack Receiver

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.18.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has introduced the new iLX-407 Shallow Chassis 7-inch Multimedia Receiver with PowerStack capabilities.

“Following the success of the tremendously popular iLX-W650, we sought to create a solution that captured everything the customer loved about the iLX-W650, with even more features,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The features, along with the price point, will solidify the iLX-407 as one of the most impactful audio upgrades on the market.”

New Technology
The iLX-407 is the next evolution of the customer-favorite iLX-W650 Shallow Chassis Multimedia Receiver, with added features like HD Radio, three customizable home screens, media expandability with HDMI connectivity, and iDatalink Maestro Module compatibility.

Other features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Bluetooth hands-free calling with audio streaming allows access to music, messages, phone calls, and maps on a smartphone via USB or smartphone connection. These features are controlled through touch or voice commands with the included external microphone. SiriusXM Radio is available with an optional tuner and paid subscription for even more music and entertainment during the drive.

System Compatibility
Upgrading dash technology can often result in a loss of factory functionality such as steering wheel controls and access to engine codes. However, the iLX-407 is compatible with the iDatalink Maestro Module (sold separately) allowing select OEM features to be retained and vehicle information displayed on the 7-inch screen.

Two RCA inputs are included for rear, side, or front cameras (sold separately). When in use, the rear camera overlays guidelines onto the screen for ease when moving in reverse. Additional cameras can be added with the KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector (sold separately).

While the iLX-407 is mech-less (no CD/DVD player) an HDMI input is included so you can connect a CD, DVD player, or even your smartphone for an all-digital audio and video connection through a single cable.

Simple System Building
The iLX-407 is PowerStack capable and designed to be a simple, sound system builder for those who may be new to aftermarket car audio. The iLX-407, paired with the KTA-200M Mono Power Pack Amplifier, provides an easy way to add amplification for a subwoofer, like the S-SB10V 10-inch Alpine Halo S-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosure.

With a required power range of 250W – 600W RMS, the S-SB10V can produce clean, powerful bass when driven from the iLX-407 and a 200W KTA-200M PowerStack Amplifier, thanks to the KTA-200M’s Dynamic Peak Power, which effectively produces 400W during power-hungry music passages.

The iLX-407 will ship in May 2021 at a MAP of $399.95 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

Product information is based upon current information at the time of press but cannot be guaranteed. All designs, features, specifications, and delivery dates are subject to change without notice.

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.

Pioneer’s Latest Modular Solutions NEX In-Dash Receiver

LOS ANGELES, CA (01.15.2021)  – At the CES 2021 all-digital experience, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. debuted the DMH-WC5700NEX, the latest Pioneer modular solutions in-dash receiver that expands its lineup of products designed to provide vehicles with limited or restricted dash space an in-dash upgrade solution.  

The DMH-WC5700NEX includes Alexa Built-in, Android Auto (wired/wireless), Apple CarPlay (wired/wireless), plus a variety of multimedia entertainment capabilities.  The 6.8-inch touchscreen DMH-C5700NEX is similar in design and features to the 9-inch DMH-WC6600NEX introduced in 2020, but with the ability to fit a wider variety of vehicles including traditional 2DIN applications. 

Since the introduction of the first Pioneer modular solutions in-dash receivers in 2019, Metra Electronics has introduced several dash kits and fully integrated dash kit packages designed to integrate the modular solutions products, including the DMH-WC5700NEX, into specific vehicles.  

Due to the modular form factor and availability of two different optional extension cables2, the DMH-WC5700NEX is also suitable for fully custom installation by an installation specialist, further expanding its application to an even wider range of vehicles when compared to traditional in-dash receivers.

“With the DMH-WC5700NEX, Pioneer provides an automotive upgrade solution for many different vehicles that typically have been extremely restrictive or even impossible with regard to the installation of an aftermarket in-dash receiver, including several popular late model Chevrolet vehicles such as the Silverado and Camaro,” said Ted Cardenas, vice president of marketing for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “With this solution, owners of these vehicles now have an option for adding Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and more to enhance and upgrade their driving experience.”

The DMH-WC5700NEX also features Hi-Res Audio playback capability, FLAC file playback, 13-band graphic equalizer, time alignment, 4V RCA preamplifier outputs (front/rear/subwoofer), Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free communication, built-in HD Radio capability, SiriusXM Ready (requires SiriusXM tuner and subscription, sold separately), RGB illumination, rear camera input, HDMI video input for rear seat entertainment and more. 

The Pioneer DMH-WC5700NEX is planned for summer 2021 availability.

Visit pioneerelectronics.com for more.

CelsusUK Connects Across the Continent with Social Media

POOLE, ENGLAND (01.15.2021) – As the UK and European distributor for some of the industry’s leading brands Celsus UK believes that social media a key tool for engaging with both dealers and consumers in today’s 12volt world.

The best marketing tool a company can have is now on the smartphone in your pocket and CelsusUK is focused on helping both our manufacturers and retail customer reach new audiences.

Josh Baker, Celsus Marketing assistant, manages Facebook and Instagram the JL Audio UK, Dynamat Europe, Kicker UK and the company’s own Celsus UK channels. “Social media is a great way to interact with enthusiasts and customers of ours in the UK and across the world. Being able to share product information, as well as install pictures and get instant feedback on what the fans of our brands like, is pretty cool” Baker related.

“CelsusUK loves to share the awesome work their dealers create on a weekly basis and also use the platforms to help educate the consumer on why buying premium products and having them installed correctly is the way to go when you want a great experience. As we all navigate difficult times it’s even more important that we can help share content and create a positive environment for car and marine audio enthusiast online” Mark Baker added.

Visit celsusice.co.uk for more.

Alpine Electronics to Offer Online Product and Sales Training for Authorized Dealers

AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.14.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. will offer four, hour-long online training webinars for their U.S. Authorized Dealers. These webinars will focus on newly released and upcoming Alpine products. As most states are still observing local and state-level “Stay at Home” orders, Alpine continues to find unique ways of reaching their dealers.

“As we continue to navigate this unique environment, we’re committed to providing the same level of marketing and sales support our dealers have come to expect from Alpine,” said Ed Moriarty, Assistant Vice President of Sales and Technology, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “In the coming months, we will continue to find new opportunities to increase brand value for our dealers.”

This is the first series of webinars Alpine will host in 2021. In 2020, Alpine hosted 11 webinars that highlighted various topics, from new product introductions, marketing promotions, and detailed product training.

Led by Alpine National Trainer, Chris Teguh, the theme for the 2021 webinar training is “Sound Check,” a play-on of preparedness and performance that focuses on applicable selling and marketing techniques for new and upcoming Alpine products. The training will be fully accessible online, with time for questions at the end.

Registrants can choose from the following days to attend:

Wednesday, January 20, 11 a.m. EST
Thursday, January 21, 10 a.m. EST
Monday, January 25, 7 p.m. EST
Tuesday, January 26, 3 p.m. EST

All Alpine Authorized Dealers are encouraged to register for this free webinar by contacting their Alpine Rep.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

SSV Works Offers Industry’s Only Aftermarket RZR Pro XP Kits

OXNARD, CA (01.14.2021) – SSV Works is offering the industry’s only weatherproof Polaris RZR Pro XP full aftermarket audio solution.

“Our new 3- and 5-speaker kits with JVC backup-camera-ready radio for Polaris RZR Pro XP (2020) are now shipping and we are also offering, for a limited time, the added value of a backup camera with these new systems,” explained Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Not only do our kits offer the only aftermarket solutions available, but they are affordable and come with everything you need for an easy Plug-&-Play install. These complete kits are the loudest and best sounding systems available on the market for your RZR Pro XP.”

SSV Works customers can also add more bass to their RZR Pro XP with an easy Plug-&-Play subwoofer system, or improve the sound of their factory Ride Command system with an easy upgrade with SSV Works’ new RZ5-UD10 under dash 10-inch subwoofer enclosure.

“Installing the RZ5-UD10 is a simple process with less disassembly than our competitors,” Kaplan continued. “The enclosure is designed to maximize output without taking up usable space under the passenger side dash. It’s a perfect upgrade to your RZR Pro XP.”

The Polaris RZR Pro XP 5-speaker kit includes:
• Direct-Fit dash kit with JVC MR1 Media Receiver or SSV Works MRB3 and Backup Camera
• Front door panel speaker pods with SSV Works 6.5-inch speakers
• Direct-Fit amp mounting system with 4-channel amplifier
• Plug-&-Play harness, wiring, and cables
• 8-inch and/or 6.5-inch cage mount pods
• 3-speaker kits are the same minus the cage pods
• MSRP (3-speaker kit): RZ5-3A1 is $2,049.99
• MSRP (5-speaker kit): RZ5-5A1 is $2,399.99

Additional features of the RZ5-UD10 include:
• Available loaded with a 10-inch SSV Works Powersports subwoofer (RZ5-UD10), Kicker 10-inch subwoofer (RZ5-UD10K), or unloaded (RZ5-UD10U)
• 100 percent fiberglass for the best sound quality and bass response
• Finished in a black texture coat to match the factory interior
• Includes stainless mounting hardware and step-by-step installation instructions
• Pre-installed weatherproof subwoofer wiring harness

JVC’s IPX6-rated KD-MR1BTS digital media receiver features Bluetooth, USB, a 2.7-inch color display, global tuner with weather band, 7-Band EQ, rear view camera capability, and is SiriusXM-Ready.

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

Orca to Host Virtual 2021 Showcase January 14 – 15

CAMARILLO, CA (01.13.2021) – Orca Design and Manufacturing will present its 2021 product line via two days of virtual gatherings with retailers, sales representatives and company personnel. The ORCA 2021 Showcase will give industry professionals an in-depth introduction to new amplifiers, digital signal processors, wireless technology and premium connectivity solutions.

To accommodate attendees nationwide, ORCA will host Zoom meetings twice per day on January 14 and 15 at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. PST. Each meeting will feature identical content, presented by ORCA Trainer Nick Wingate, Audio Engineer Alan Huslebus, and National Sales Director Nalaka Adikari.

“Even with show cancellations, our industry moves on,” said Kimon Bellas, president of ORCA. “Our objective is always to present cutting-edge audio product to meet the changing technology advances in vehicles as well as the evolving needs of the people who own, drive and enjoy them. The ORCA 2021 Showcase is intended to educate and excite our current and prospective dealers and give them more ways to create fulfillment with their customers.”

ORCA will distribute invitations to meetings via Direct2Market industrywide email as well as through its sales representatives. Attendees must RSVP for each meeting. For more information, contact your ORCA sales representative.

Visit orcadesign.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Debuts Nissan GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lightning Bolt” RGB+W Headlight DRL Upgrade

METAIRIE, LA (01.13.2021) – Oracle Lighting has announced the launch of the new GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lightning Bolt” RGB+W headlight DRL upgrade for the Nissan GT-R (model years 2015-2021). Now available, the new kit has an MSRP of $199.95.

“Give your ride an attitude adjustment and stand out from the crowd with our Nissan GT-R ColorSHIFT RGB+W headlight DRL upgrade,” Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “Featuring our new high-performance RGB+W chips, this new kit allows you to utilize the existing DRL feature on your Nissan GT-R LED headlights and easily convert it to color-changing DRLs while maintaining a true white DRL.”

Click here to visit the GT-R ColorSHIFT product page.

These replacement boards feature Oracle Lighting’s traditional RGB ColorSHIFT technology along with an extra “True White LED” which makes pure white tones, giving the user a crisp white DRL and the ability to instantly switch over for 100 percent legal road driving. Unlike other lighting options, this gives you color-changing capabilities without giving up any of the original factory features.

“These DRL boards can make hundreds of different colors and dozens of patterns, giving you control of the brightness and even the speed of the patterns as well,” added Hartenstein. “This technology on the eye-catching ‘lightning bolt’-style headlight makes for a head-turning front-end on your Nissan GT-R…perfect for standing out in a crowd.”

Click here to visit the GT-R ColorSHIFT product page.

This add-on DRL kit is designed to be paired with one of Oracle Lighting’s many ColorSHIFT controller options. These options include LED controllers such as the popular BC1 which allows the user to control all the features conveniently through their Apple or Android smartphone with their free App.

The kit includes:

  • ColorSHIFT RGB+W DRL PCBs for driver and passenger side headlights
  • Constant current LED driver hubs with DRL trigger wires
  • Heavy-duty IP67 wiring adapters

For more info, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com

KICKER Solo X Earns CES 2021 Innovation Award

STILLWATER, OK (01.12.2021) – Stillwater Designs today announced that it has been named a CES 2021 Innovation Awards honoree for the new KICKER Solo X L7X subwoofer. The announcement was made ahead of the first-ever, all-digital CES 2021, happening Jan. 11-14, 2021.

The CES Innovation Awards program is an annual competition honoring outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology products across 28 product categories. An elite panel of industry judges, including members of the media, designers and engineers reviewed submissions based on innovation, engineering and functionality, aesthetic and design.

“We’re very happy to win the Innovations award,” said Steve Irby, KICKER’s Founder and President. “This is a radically improved version of the original Solo X, and to be recognized for the amount of work and creativity we’ve put into making it a reality feels really good.”

A ground-up reimagining of the legendary Solo X, the 2021 iteration was designed to set high standards in a subwoofer’s mechanical excursion, musicality, thermal management and reliability. Offered in 10-, 12-, and 15-inch versions, each Solo X will share a 2,000-watt RMS power rating. KICKER’s SoloX has not yet been assigned an MSRP, and will begin shipping later this spring.

For the past four years, KICKER has researched and experimented with concepts surrounding an extreme subwoofer, while re-introducing the brand to the competition circuit by sponsoring major competitions like the Unified Finals, USACi Finals and Midwest SPL Finals.

“The concept of the new Solo X is to take it to the next level,” Irby said. “It is designed with very tight tolerances. It has more power, more stroke, more Xmax, and still has a field-replaceable cone. The new design allows the Solo X to be extremely loud, but also be extremely musical.”

The no-glue reconing system uses a unique surround compression system and bolt-on spider landing, and is designed specifically to make speaker repair possible in only a few minutes time.

The CES 2021 Innovation Awards honorees, including product descriptions and photos, can be found at CES.tech/innovation. Additional honorees will be revealed during CES 2021.

Visit kicker.com for more.

AudioControl Welcomes Ashley Kay as Director of Customer and Technical Services

SEATTLE, WA (01.12.2021) – AudioControl has appointed Ashley Kay as Director of Customer and Technical Services. Ashley brings a wealth of experience in support services management from the professional A/V market, and will leverage that skillset to accommodate the continued growth of the AudioControl brand that includes critical new product introductions slated for 2021.

Ashley Kay, Director of Customer and Technical Services

Ashley joins an award-winning customer service culture at AudioControl, recognized for providing dealers with the tools they need to succeed quickly and efficiently. Service and support has been a top priority at AudioControl for over four decades. Using superior components and maintaining tight control over in-house engineering, manufacturing and testing practices, AudioControl has established a reputation for the highest levels of product reliability as well as best-in-class service and support for both dealers and end users.

“I am excited to welcome Ashley to the AudioControl team and look forward to leveraging her experience and leadership skills as part of our customer service and technical support initiatives going forward,” explained AudioControl CEO Alex Camara. “It is imperative that we continue to set the standard for unparalleled service and support as we unveil key new products this year and beyond.”

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

DroneMobile Makes Car Sharing Easier with Contactless Key Handoff

SEATTLE, WA (01.11.2021) – While travel and vacation were halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, car sharing has remained relevant with commuters seeking alternatives to public transportation. However, car sharing users, both vehicle owners and renters, continue to face hurdles that prevent a smooth and safe rental experience.

First and foremost, there’s the issue of the vehicle’s key. Currently, vehicle owners’ only two methods of key handoff are to meet renters in-person or to stow away the key somewhere on the outside of the vehicle. The former presents social distancing concerns and the latter subjects the vehicle to threats of theft and key tampering. Additionally, “smash-and-grab” break-ins continue to plague vehicles parked in public places for extended periods of time awaiting rental pickup. Vehicle owners that monetize their vehicles are faced with the dilemma of choosing between convenience and safety.

Firstech, the Seattle-based maker of the DroneMobile remote car starter app, has announced that its April 2021 app update will offer vehicle owners and renters both safety and convenience with new car sharing and key management capabilities.

The upcoming DroneMobile app update will enable the use of the company’s patented KL1 KeyLocker hardware. KeyLocker is an LTE-enabled key management and storage system that makes key handoff as easy as sending an invite to a renter’s email. Upon acceptance of the invitation, renters can instantly see the vehicle’s parking spot and start their trip using only their smartphone. Meanwhile, vehicle owners receive alerts notifying them of successful pickup and drop-off. (During the rental, vehicle owners cannot track or control the vehicle without ending the renter’s access.)

KeyLocker fits into most vehicle compartments and has a sliding door mechanism for safely storing any type of vehicle key. While a vehicle’s key is stored in a KeyLocker, the system activates anti-tampering security sensors around KeyLocker and the outside of the vehicle. These sensors can only be disarmed using the DroneMobile app, which works over LTE from unlimited range. If a vehicle utilizes a “smart” key with push-to-start capabilities, KeyLocker can enable and disable the detection of that key so that it does not need to be removed throughout the duration of the rental. In this case, drivers would use their smartphone as the key for driving the vehicle.

Firstech’s KeyLocker also includes a windshield-mounted touchpad as backup in the event of poor cellular coverage or dead smartphone battery.

Firstech describes the DroneMobile app update as “enabling safer and easier car sharing for everyone.” While the DroneMobile app won’t offer a marketplace to reserve car shares, the company hopes to fill a void for vehicle owners that scale their car sharing operations on other platforms.

In order to enjoy DroneMobile car sharing, vehicle owners should visit an Authorized DroneMobile dealer to have their KeyLocker and LTE hardware installed. Parts and pricing may vary by vehicle. To find a dealer near you, visit www.dronemobile.com/find-a-dealer. All car sharing and key management features will be included for all DroneMobile Premium subscribers, with plans as low as $5.99/month.