Industry

Tesla Rolls Out Next-Gen Model S with Nod to the Past

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The following article was written by Michael Strong for TheDetroitBureau.com

DETROIT, MI (01.29.2021) – Much the “new” coming from Tesla Inc. has come from additional vehicles, such as the Model 3 and Model Y, but the EV maker has finally offered an updated Model S for the 2021 model year with a unique new styling quirk.

No, it’s not the $10K price jump for the new model.

The new Model S is a bit more angular on the outside and the interior gets a big makeover, including a touchscreen that is now horizontal, like the Model 3 and Model Y and a new steering wheel. Not sure if CEO Elon Musk drew his inspiration for the new “wheel” from a plane or the Knight Industries Two Thousand, but it looks more like you’re a pilot than a driver when in the driver’s seat.

For those unfamiliar with top ‘80s television programs, the Knight Industries Two Thousand is better known as K.I.T.T. and helped David Hasselhoff, as Michael Knight, fight crime while capturing the imagination of young children (and some adults) across the U.S. on the TV show, “Knight Rider.”

The 2021 Tesla Model S gets an all-new interior, including a yoke-style steering wheel.

It also didn’t hurt sales of the Pontiac Firebird, which is what K.I.T.T. in all black was: a 1982 Firebird with a funny red light mounted in the grille. It’s unclear if the Musk has programmed any Knight Rider-esque fun into the new model, but the look is spot on.

Although it was also popular in the ‘80s to say “It is better to look good than to feel good,” it’s uncertain how good the new yoke-style steering wheel is going to work. Having your hands perpetually at nine and three is ideal for racing, but for making sharp turns or parking, it’s not any fun and, in fact, can be dangerous.

Click here to view the full article on TheDetroitBureau.com

Saddle Tramp Shipping New Plug and Play Audio Harnesses for Harley-Davidson

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HOLLY HILL, FL – January 27, 2021 – Saddle Tramp by  Metra Electronics is now shipping ten new audio harnesses designed for Harley-Davidson Batwing Fairing (FLH) and Shark Nose Fairing (FLT) motorcycles with or without the Tour Pak. These harnesses provide plug and play connections for adding aftermarket speakers, bypassing the amplifier, converting the radio connectors, or pre-wiring for adding an amplifier or the Axxess AXDSPX-WR or AXDSPX-HD1 kit. Saddle Tramp’s new audio solutions are designed to save installers time in the bay when upgrading the motorcycle sound system by reducing the need for wire termination.

Harnesses for Adding Amplifiers or DSPs and Radio Conversion

The new BC-9716 is designed for adding an amplifier or the Axxess AXDSPX-WR to 1998-2013 Harley-Davidson FLH and FLT models that have the factory fairing and radio, and the BC-9715 is for 2014-up* models. Both harnesses are wired with pre-terminated input and output harnesses for a fast installation of the Axxess AXDSPX-WR, which is a water-resistant 10-channel DSP. An RCA output harness is included, along with a pre-wired rear speaker plug, used with the BC-9720 backbone harness. Installation of the DSP is optional, as these harnesses also work universally with all amplifiers on the market and wiring has been covered in protective cloth tape for extra durability.

The BC-9713 radio conversion harness will help installers save even more time, as it converts the radio connectors on 1996-1997 models to the 1998-2013 radio harness. This allows for a fast installation with existing Metra products, including the Axxess AXDSPX-HD1 kit, along with Metra’s 99-9600, 99-9800, or 99-9613WR radio replacement kits.

Speaker and Amplifier Bypass Harnesses

To add speaker pods in the front, the BC-9714 is a pair of OE style front speaker pod harnesses for 2014-up* Harley-Davidson FLH and FLT models. It also features an over-molded grommet and OE connectors with 18 gauge oxygen-free copper wire. For adding lower fairing speaker pods on these same models, the BC-9722 is a lower fairing “Y” harness with plug and play OE connectors. The wiring is covered in Techflex for added durability and the harness is sold in pairs. The BC-9726 is an OE amplifier bypass harness for 2014-2020 models and the BC-9725 is a CVO amplifier bypass harness for 2011-2013 models.

Speaker Harnesses for Harley-Davidson Tour-Pak

For adding rear aftermarket speakers to 1998-2020 Harley-Davidson Tour-Pak motorcycles, the BC-9727 is a rear speaker harness that plugs into the OE backbone harness found in the 2014-up* models. If the OE harnesses are unavailable, Saddle Tramps’s BC-9720 is a 4-pin backbone rear speaker extension harness designed for adding rear speakers to 1998-2020 Harley-Davidson FLH and FLT models. It features 18 gauge oxygen-free copper wire that fits the OE connectors and works with Saddle Tramp’s BC-9721 rear 3-way speaker harness splitter. The BC-9727 has an over-molded grommet for a water-tight seal with 18 gauge oxygen-free copper wires and EIA colors. This harness is for use with Saddle Tramp’s BC-TP699713 or BC-TP6914U Tour-Pak lids with speaker adapters. All of these new Saddle Tramp products by Metra Electronics are available now.

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

Essential SEMA Show Dates Set for 2021 Exhibitors

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The following important exhibitor deadlines and key dates have been set in preparation for the in-person 2021 SEMA Show. Last week, SEMA Show management announced the launch of the 2021 Exhibitor Space Rental Agreement, which is due May 7. Companies that reserve space by the deadline are eligible for the year’s Early Space Selection, where exhibitors select their booth location at the Show.

With dates set, exhibitors can make preparations to invest in the SEMA Show with confidence and reconnect with the industry in November.

Here are essential deadlines for the 2021 SEMA Show:

  • Exhibit Space Reservation Application Deadline: Friday, May 7
  • Early Space Selection: Monday, June 7–Wednesday, June 23
  • Full Refund Cancellation Deadline: Wednesday, September 1
  • Show Dates: Tuesday, November 2–Friday, November 5

For additional information about exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor.

2021 SEMA Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.