Remembering Linda Ferguson, Female Industry Trailblazer

CARLSBAD, CA (11.19.2020) – Linda Ferguson, 73, of Carlsbad California, passed away on October 23, 2020 after a long illness.

Linda was the co-founder with her husband and industry legend, Doug Ferguson of Western Sales and Marketing located in Newport Beach, California. Western Sales and Marketing was one of the most successful rep firms and distributors in the country carrying lines like Rockford Fosgate, Eclipse, McIntosh, Proton, Monster Cable, Bello, Lynnbrook, NHT, Russound and Dynamat.

Linda Ferguson

Linda started in the consumer electronics business at a time where there were very few women in leadership positions. Linda broke through all those stereotypes and became one of the most successful women in the history of the Consumer Electronics business.

After graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, Doug and they moved to San Diego California in 1966.

After retiring in 2005, Linda spent her time with her beloved daughter, Melissa.

In Lieu of flowers, Linda would like donations sent to St Paul Lutheran Church, 612 Jennings St, Sioux City, Iowa 51101.

Story provided by Rob Wempe.

DS18 Introduces a Marine Headunit That Does It All… the MRX1

MIAMI GARDEN,S FL (11.19.2020) The new DS18 is a marine headunit that can do it all! Compact, powerful, beautiful and will stand up to the rigorous punishment that all marine and off-road headunits go through. This powerful receiver features all the functions an enthusiast needs including Bluetooth, RCA outputs including subwoofer, USB linking and charging while remaining waterproof. The new DS18 MRX1 is the key to enjoying loud music with the highest quality for enjoyment on boat, in the UTV or any vehicle that may see the water frequently.

Check out the features of the new DS18 MRX1 all-in-one marine headunit that does it all.

  • V4.2 Bluetooth pairing functions so enthusiasts can play music directly from their phone or any Bluetooth source.

-It comes with precise sound settings options that lets enthusiasts control the bass, treble, balance, fade, EQ, loudness, and Subwoofer crossover with ease.

DS18 engineers have Included preset EQ options that give enthusiasts a better sound for their selected music preference that include FLAT, POP, ROCK, CLASSICAL and EQ which can be turned off all together.

  • There is an easy to read LCD display with RGB keys so enthusiasts can use the color that’s easiest to read, to set the mood of the day, or color scheme.

-Also provided is CT sync that allows for settings like time be adjusted by over the air radio frequencies.

  • The USB can transfer music along with charging the chosen device at the rate of 2a.
  • The MRX1’s sound output can’t be matched because DS18 made this unit to use 4v preamp outputs so enthusiasts can expect the highest quality sound with the voltage to push it.
  • The MRX1 has 3 outputs to accommodate fully applied systems easily with front, rear, and sub high quality outputs.

-The IP65 waterproof rating will help enthusiasts stay confident while using the headunit in harsh and wet terrain without failure.

  • This radio has an amazing power output. With a 4 ohm load enthusiasts will get 4×15 watts RMS and 2 ohm load will get 4×20 watts RMS which is enough to push most entry level speakers. (Amps will be required to install tower speakers and subs).
  • Enjoy all favorite AM/FM stations with the MRX1’s wideband AM/FM receiver that is also selectable under source controls.

As always with the new MRX1 DS18 proves ‘We Like It Loud!’

Visit ds18.com for more.

iBEAM Shipping New ADAS Products and Cameras

HOLLY HILL, FL (11.18.2020) – iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems by Metra Electronics launched new aftermarket automotive safety products at SEMA360 that provide reliable OE-quality upgrades with easy to install options. Now shipping are two new ADAS products; a universal parking sensor system that requires no drilling, along with a two-way blind spot and lane change alert system that can be installed without removing the bumper. iBEAM is also now shipping a new wide-angle camera, a 1080p dash camera, and third brake light cargo cameras for Chevrolet/GMC and Ford trucks.

Two-Way Rear Blind Spot and Lane Change Alert System
iBEAM’s new rear two-way blind spot detection kit brings high-tech safety without the lengthy installation. The TE-BSM2 is mounted entirely inside the vehicle with one sensor mounted on the rear windshield, providing a clean and easy installation that eliminates the need for bumper removal. Unlike other systems, everything is built into a single sensor for an easy DIY installation, with no additional control modules or parts needed. This system provides both audible and visual alerts for rear blind spot detection within a 65.5ft field. An LED visual-only alert is shown if there is a vehicle in the blind spot and then the visual and audible alert is triggered if the blinker is on and a vehicle is in the blind spot, alerting the driver immediately.

No Drill Two-Sensor Parking System

Without drilling into the bumper, iBEAM’s new two-sensor parking solution, the TE-2PSK, provides enhanced accuracy and easy installation. Its reliable technology uses a higher frequency than current sensors on the market to allow for a more precise 3-foot sensing field with fewer false triggers. The TE-2PSK has everything built into the sensors with no additional control modules or parts needed, resulting in an easy to install kit that doesn’t require drilling into the bumper – simply mount the sensors and run wires. A three-zone setup for audible alerts helps drivers navigate difficult parking situations with ease. Designed for rear plastic bumpers.

Wide Angle Camera

iBEAM’s TE-190 is a 190-degree wide-angle camera that provides more visibility due to its larger field of view. This camera lens is adjustable, it is rated IP69, and has selectable parking lines. The resolution is 600 TV lines, it has a minimum illumination of 0.01 lux and can be mounted in the front, rear, or side of the vehicle.

1080p Dash Camera

The TE-DVR1080 is a new suction-cup mounted dash camera that is powered by a cigarette adapter, allowing for an easy to install solution. It has 1080p resolution at 30 fps and a 150-degree wide-angle lens. The 2-inch LCD screen shows menu options to allow the user to take video, photos, or playback media on the screen, with motion detection and parking mode features available. The G-sensor will lock video recordings if a crash is detected to avoid overwriting video footage in the event of an accident.

Third Brake Light Cargo Camera Frames

Two new third brake light cargo camera frames are now available from iBEAM. The TE-3BLCFD is designed for 2015-2020 Ford F-150, 2019-2020 Ford Ranger, and 2017-2020 Ford Superduty trucks. The TE-3BLCGM is designed for 2014-2020 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014-2020 GMC Sierra trucks. These frames add a blind spot/cargo camera to the third brake light of the vehicle with 480 TV lines resolution, selectable parking lines, and a 136-degree horizontal field of view. Both of these cameras are rated IP69 and improve rear visibility, allowing the driver to keep an eye on their cargo and rear blindspot areas.

All of these new products are now shipping with additional details available at iBEAMusa.com.

New DEI Safety Products Provide Protection for Pit Crew Eyes, Ears & Arms

AVON LAKE, OH (11.18.2020) – Things can happen in an instant in the pits, meaning your pit crew can never be too safe. Keep their eyes, ears and arms protected with safety items from Design Engineering, Inc.

DEI’s Pit Crew Safety Kit includes vision, hearing and arm protection for professional mechanics, pit crew members and do-it-yourselfers. Kits include protective eyewear, ear plugs and Kevlar sleeving, all in one package and at an affordable price.

“Safety is the most important thing, which is why DEI is proud to offer professional-grade safety protection for mechanics, pit crew members and anyone working around vehicles,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “These items allow you to protect yourself at all times while working on any project.”

Kits include:
DEI Safety Glasses – The glasses are black-framed, impact-resistant, wraparound-style protective eyewear that meets ANSI Z87 general-purpose UV requirements. They provide 100% UV protection, are scratch-resistant and are available with clear, smoke or yellow lenses for flawless vision in any environment.

DEI Ear Plugs – The plugs feature triple flanges for a comfortable, one-size-fits-all design. They are re-useable and offer a Noise Reduction Rating (NPR) of 25 decibels, with a breakaway cord included.

DEI Kevlar Safety Sleeves – The sleeves provide superior resistance to cuts, slashes and heat in environments where workers’ arms are exposed. Strong without being bulky, they withstand temperatures up to 900º F, extend past the wrist and include a thumb hole for added protection of the palm area.

In addition to the complete Pit Crew Safety Kit, DEI Safety Glasses (#070513), Ear Plugs (#070530) and Kevlar Safety Sleeves (#070520) are available for individual purchase.
 
Visit www.designengineering.com for more.

Maxxsonics USA Saddened by the Passing of Lukas Louw

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (11.17.2020) – “At Maxxsonics USA, we are deeply saddened to announce the sudden loss of a colleague and dear friend of the company, Lukas Louw. Lukas was a design consultant and one of the original engineers who worked with Hifonics founder Helmut Stieglitz. Lukas remained the Hifonics Chief Engineer until his passing. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Lukas’s family.”

On his passing, Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “Last week Maxxsonics lost a very integral part of its family. Lukas Lowe was not only our Chief Engineer he was a very dear friend of mine and he will be sorely missed. Lukas’s contribution to the mobile audio industry will go unmatched.”

Visit maxxsonics.com for more.

BOYO Launches Feature-Packed Touch Screen Dash Cam

FULLERTON, CA (11.17.2020) – Vision Tech America, Inc. has launched VTR419GW, a dual, front, 4K UHD, and rear, 2K FHD camera dash cam with a full touch screen.  It is the most advanced and user friendly with safety in mind.

VTR419GW, with a high-definition front camera, will record vibrant color pictures during the day,  and with the rear wide dynamic range camera, will be able to read the license plate number of a  vehicle following with headlights during the night driving. With a wide viewing angle, a rear camera with a reverse trigger wire can be used as a backup camera.

Out of box, full features also include
• High definition 4K UHD front camera and 2K FHD WDR camera with a backup trigger line,
• Gesture sensitive, 3.0” full touch screen
• motion detection, impact sensitive parking mode and continuous loop recording,
• GPS for Speed and Geotagging for playback,
• Wi-Fi connectivity for a mobile app for viewing and playback,
• USB Video Class (UVC) connectivity for direct memory access, USB camera, and Charging, and
• H.264 and H.265 recoding for maximum compression with minimum clarity loss for efficient storage usage.

In this regard, “Our new VTR419GW incorporates the latest technology to provide the best safety and security that a driver can expect. It will provide a driver with excellent supporting evidence for defending himself or herself in case of a car accident. It will help anyone to drive and park safely with confidence. We are very excited to offer VTR419GW to all drivers whether they are new drivers, commuters, or professional drivers.” said Richard Hong, VP Sales.

For more information, visit www.visiontechamerica.com/VTR419GW

Hifonics HFEQ-2 Processor Utilizes Higher Sound Quality

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (11.16.2020) – NEW HFEQ-2 processor from Hifonics utilizes higher sound quality with upgraded components. With 1⁄2 DIN ISO mount included; this perfect system upgrade can be installed right in the dash of your vehicle. At your fingertips, you’ll receive a 9-volt line driver offering a 4-band equalizer with a +18dB variable plus master volume, subwoofer volume control, and front to rear dual-amp fader.

Jim White, Quality Assurance Specialist, said, “With the HFEQ-2 processor, you’ll gain smoother sound and an all-around better listening experience. Obtaining full control of your music in every aspect is what we set out to achieve and the result is our most powerful and efficient processor that Hifonics has to offer.”

ABOUT THE HFEQ-2 PROCESSOR

With higher efficiency, drawing less power, the HFEQ-2 processor delivers a sound to your audio that creates a more dynamic experience letting you customize your music more than ever. High-pass filters allow complete control of every high, while low-pass filters allow for deeper low bass.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

  • 1⁄2 DIN, 4-band, pre-amp EQ with front/rear active crossover
  • Audio input selector for switching between the head unit and another source
  • Input level controls for both car radio and any media device to ensure identical volume levels
  • Master volume control of the SPL-level for both sound sources
  • Front to rear dual-amp fader
  • 2 audio inputs with level matching
  • 45Hz sub-bass control
  • 120Hz mid-bass control

The HFEQ-2 processor offers more control for you and higher sound quality for your audio. Obtain total control of your sound and hear every song in a new light.

Contact your sales representative, or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.

Visit hifonics.com for more.

Matt Michielin Joins Eleven Engineering Marketing Team

EDMONTON, ALBERTA (11.16.2020) – Eleven Engineering, Inc. has announced that Matt Michielin has joined the company as marketing team leader.

“As Eleven Engineering has continued to grow, we needed to add to our marketing and customer service team in order to keep up with worldwide demand of our SKAA technologies and products offerings,” said Rex Whitehead, Eleven Engineering executive vice president, sales & marketing. “Matt has stepped in and immediately taken the reins on some very important projects while keeping everything running smoothly. Besides his marketing and customer service skills, he is a heck of an accomplished musician, as well.”

Matt Michielin

Michielin, a trumpet player, has a MA (Jazz Studies) from San Jose State University, and has played with the likes of Tom Politzer (Tower of Power), Tommy Banks, PJ Perry, and the Super Soul Brothers, to name a few. His responsibilities at Eleven Engineering include maintaining the SKAAstore and the creation of the new SKAAstore website, customer service, office operations, database management, and social media and communications assistance. 

Prior to joining Eleven Engineering, Michielin worked with Clean Harbors Environmental Services, The Government of Alberta, and Special Olympics Alberta.

“Eleven Engineering provides a great atmosphere to work in, which allows me to apply my formal music education,” Michielin said. “The team really works well together and supports one another to accomplish each and every project. I’m excited to be a part of the team.” 

SKAA wireless lets the integrator easily create a dedicated multi-room home audio superhighway with a long range up to 150 feet with a robust, interference-free low-latency signal eliminating lip-sync issues with TV and gaming. SKAA-enabled products can stream music between them, up to four sets simultaneously – one transmitter to four devices. In environments laden with heavy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth traffic, SKAA navigates through these hostile environments with best-in-class reliability. SKAA also allows for uninterrupted audio signals that are delivered with the highest sound quality to all speakers without the latency that is inherent in other wireless solutions.

SKAA is available as a built-in technology not requiring an external transmitter in purpose-designed partner products. SKAA transmitters work with iOS & Android mobile devices, Mac & Windows computers, televisions, and just about any product with a line output or a headphone jack.

Eleven Engineering breaks down the Seven Deadly Sins of WiFi Audio on its YouTube channel. See above of visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tw2iSCuT0x8

For more on SKAA and the Seven Deadly Sins of WiFi Audio, subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/user/SKAAwireless and visit SKAA.com.

ZZ-2 Launches Wireless Carplay for Infiniti Vehicles

 (11.13.2020) – ZZ-2 has released the IT-INF-Q-W for select Infiniti vehicles.

Rich DeSclafani stated “These interfaces provide a complete all in one solution for supported vehicles. They offer wireless connectivity, safety, and convenience. They are exactly what is needed to add the latest technology to these Infiniti vehicles. The interfaces use the factory touchscreen or jog wheel come with a 3 year warranty.”

FEATURES:

  • Wireless CarPlay
  • Android Auto
  • Backup Camera Input (w/Dynamic Moving Lines)
  • Front Camera Input (w/ Parking Mode)
  • Smartphone Mirroring/Mirror Link
  • USB A/V Playback
  • Touchscreen Control

COMPATIBILITY:
2014 and UP – Q50/Q50L
2016 and UP – Q60
2018 and UP – QX50

Visit www.zz-2.com for more.

New Heise Switch Panel Flush Mount Case Now Shipping

HOLLY HILL, FL (11.13.2020) – Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronics, a leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive lighting, is now shipping a flush mount case for its existing 8 Gang Switch Panel System (HE-SWP8), introduced last week at SEMA360.

Heise first introduced the compact 8 Gang Switch Panel System, the HE-SWP8, at the 2019 SEMA Show. This product features a rugged design that works in all types of vehicles, including UTVs, Jeeps, and other outdoor applications. The HE-SWP8 can integrate lighting control into any vehicle and fit into the dash panel, center console, vehicle pillar or even the overhead sunglass holder.

This gang switch panel system controls up to 8 different auxiliary LED lights or electrical devices and has 50 different switch stickers included for customization. Blue LED backlighting illuminates the switches and it can handle all types of 12V DC accessories. The compact control panel measures 2.6 by 4.6 inches while the under-hood mounted control box has a 4.2 by 7.5 inch footprint.

Now, a flush mount case with a snap-on trim plate, the HE-SWP8C, is available to make installation clean and even easier. The switch panel screws securely to the case box and the cut template and hardware are included for added convenience.

A detailed video showing installation tips can be watched below:

Visit HeiseLED.com for more.