SEATTLE, WA (09.22.2020) – Firstech is announcing the addition of two new remote kits to its Compustar PRO Series line of remote car starters: the PRO T13 (RFX-P2WT13-SF) and PRO R5 (RFP2WR5-SF). Both remote kits include 2-way, USB rechargeable remotes with super-long range and proximity unlocking capabilities.
The Compustar PRO T13 will be Firstech’s flagship model heading into the 2020 remote start and holiday seasons. The PRO T13 remote will be capable of up to 3 miles of 2-way range for remote start, security, and keyless entry commands. All remote commands are confirmed on the remote’s vibrant, color LCD. The PRO T13 also features a water-resistant case design and USB charging port. On a full charge, the maximum battery life is 45 days.
For convenient vehicle access, the Compustar PRO T13 and R5 remote kits will offer new proximity unlocking capabilities. This feature, which is built into the RF antenna, automatically unlocks and disarms the vehicle when the remote is within 3-6 feet. Proximity unlocking makes getting into the vehicle easier for users carrying shopping bags or equipment into their cars.
Joining the PRO T13 in the Compustar PRO Series lineup will be the PRO R5. The R5 remote is a compact, one button solution that uses LEDs to provide 2-way remote start and keyless entry confirmation. Two special characteristics of the PRO R5 is that it will be USB rechargeable and capable of receiving 2-way alarm alerts.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to release the next-generation of Compustar remotes in time for the 2020/21 remote start season,” shares Jason Kaminski, Firstech’s Managing Director. “Both the T13 and R5 are packed with the best Compustar has to offer, including improved durability, extended battery life, elegant case design, and enhanced user experience – just to name a few.”
The Compustar PRO T13 and PRO R5 will include two 2-way remotes in each kit along with the Drone X1 LTE telematics module for connecting the system to the DroneMobile app. Upon installation, customers can activate a 30-day free Premium trial to DroneMobile for smartphone control, GPS tracking, and family sharing.
Firstech will begin shipping limited quantities of the PRO T13 and R5 in mid-October 2020, with a full release scheduled for early December. These remotes kits will be available exclusively to authorized Compustar Pro retailers.
GoFast Solutions has announced the appointment of Jon Clement as Sales Manager for the Upstate New York Territory for all 12 Volt related Brands. Dave Prinz, CEO of GoFast Solutions stated “Jon is a welcome addition to our team. As we continue to invest and grow as a Company by providing the best solutions to our customers, Jon’s knowledge and over 15 years of experience in the category and the area make him a perfect fit for the Upstate New York market.”
Jon Clement – Sales Manager for the Upstate New York Territory
Jon Clement said “I’m really excited to join the team at GoFast! I’ve resided in Upstate NY my entire life and I am looking forward to using that experience as an opportunity to serve the Dealer Base.
LONG BEACH, CA (09.21.2020) – KENWOOD USA is now shipping three 10.1” ULTIMATE display floating panel receivers: KENWOOD eXcelon Reference DNR1007XR Digital Multimedia Receiver with Built-in Garmin Navigation ($1,599.95 MAP), KENWOOD eXcelon Reference DMX1057XR Digital Multimedia Receiver ($1,199.95 MAP), and the KENWOOD DMX1037S Digital Multimedia Receiver ($1,199.95 MAP).
These flagship receivers come equipped with an abundance of new (and many exclusive) technologies! A “Bonded Optical Display” is adopted to further enhance their high definition 1280 x 720 (720P) capacitive touch panels, providing vivid colors and high contrast. Optical Clear Adhesive is added between the touch screen and the LCD to eliminate the air layer and suppress light reflection and glare. This revolutionary feature enhances the contrast and brightness, maintaining the very best of display visibility in various vehicle environments.
The floating panel design consists of a 3-way adjustable display: 2 positions Forward/Backward (fixed by screws), 4 positions Up/Down (fixed by screws), and user adjustable tilt by hand of -10° to +45°. The newly designed home screen is now comprised of a Source Control and Driving Widget. The Driving Widget allows selection of a clock, compass, or equalizer setting, etc., while the background allows selection of album art, audio visualizer, or photo. Photos and wallpaper can easily be customized over a connected phone’s Bluetooth connection, thanks to the addition of the KENWOOD Portal App.
The KENWOOD eXcelon Reference receivers exclusively deliver the best in sound quality and performance, incorporating tuned audiophile grade components, an X-cover anti-resonance chassis design, 3 sets of 5 volt pre-outs, a Parametric EQ, 3-way crossover, LDAC to stream Hi-Res Audio via Bluetooth with select Android phones, and a 2 year warranty. The DNR1007XR also adds an SD card source input and industry-leading Garmin navigation built-in, now including 3 years of FREE map updates and 5 years of FREE traffic and weather information with the KENWOOD Traffic Powered by INRIX App.
Driver safety and vehicle integration have been further enhanced on all 3 receivers, thanks to the Automotive Data Solutions iDatalink Maestro RR2. In addition to providing the seamless factory integration experience you have become accustomed to with the RR, these models feature expanded support when connected to the RR2, including an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Widget, Customizable Accessory Controls, and compatibility with not only K40, but also with specific ESCORT radar detector systems (sold separately). The ADAS driving widget will display OEM lane departure and front/rear collision avoidance alerts (available features vary by vehicle), while the Customizable Accessory Controls give users the ability to add up to three 12 volt triggered accessories, eliminating the need for physical ON/OFF switches. JVCKENWOOD corporation is currently the only company offering the ADAS widget and accessory controls with the RR2.
To further complement vehicle integration and add-on accessory options, the receivers have 4 camera inputs, enabling connection of a variety of camera configurations, including on-screen touch control with the CMOS-320, the ability to mirror the front and 3rd camera image, as well as a connection for the DRV-N520 touchscreen-controlled integrated dashboard camera. They also feature compatibility with KENWOOD’s HD Camera, the CMOS-740HD, which displays the front and/or rear camera image in high definition 1280 x 720 (720P) and utilizes high dynamic range (HDR) technology to overcome the negative effects of dark or very bright conditions, making it one of the best and safest vehicle camera options.
All three receivers are compatible with Apple CarPlay wirelessly and wired, and Android Auto wirelessly and wired. Phone display options include screen mirroring with touch control over a wireless connection for compatible Android devices, as well as an HDMI input. Other notable features include Built-in HD Radio, SiriusXM Ready, and Hi-Res Audio support over a USB connection.
Slated as “Bigger is Better,” as is the trend with OEM receivers, there is an increasing request for larger aftermarket in-dash receivers. By increasing the display size to 10.1”, these receivers have over 2x the actual viewing area of a typical 7” display. “In a world where the race to zero seems to be never ending, we couldn’t be happier then to bring the ultimate trio of receivers to the most demanding of users, providing our dealers with truly the best in sound quality and performance,” said Mike Roberts, VP of Sales and Marketing for KENWOOD. “By further enhancing the integration and installation options available with these receivers, our dealers can offer their customers a truly revolutionary in-vehicle experience”.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (09.21.2020) – Top Car Stereo Store and Top Tinting Store were 2020 Oklahoman Readers Choice Awards Jackie Cooper Electronics added to their collection of awards from the local daily Oklahoma City newspaper. Over 300,000 votes were cast by Oklahoman readers during the 2020 newspaper’s Reader’s Choice campaign. These awards celebrate and recognize the very best our community has to offer is a theme of the Reader’s Choice Awards campaign.
Donnie Chaffin gives a big thumbs up in this image with Jill Splitt and Tristan Osborn by a collection of the Oklahoman Reader’s Choice Awards in the showroom.
“Every day we all work very hard to deliver the very best customer experience. Receiving these 2 awards this year lets us know we are delivering on our goal of providing our customers with a solid experience” Donnie Chaffin, who heads activities of the 53-year old firm, related to 12volt News.
Commercial window tinting is a growing area of business for the company.
Jackie Cooper Electronics offers a wide selection of 12volt audio, remote start, convenience, safety products, cellular, marine and tinting in the company’s state of the art showroom and installation facility in Northwest Oklahoma City. In addition the company has a separate division that offers residential and commercial window tinting services. Mobile installation teams provide tinting for large commercial and school projects.
Social media posts feature attention-grabbing vehicles in front of the store.
To drive visibility in the marketplace Jackie Cooper Electronics, underJill Splitt’s guidance, is very active on social media platforms.
A collection of Oklahoman Reader’s Choice Awards presented to Jackie Cooper Electronics.
Jackie Cooper Electronics has garnered over a dozen Oklahoman Reader’s Choice Awards.
Congratulations to the Jackie Cooper Electronics Team.
DES MOINES, IA (9.18.2020) – “We are extremely excited to promote Sean Davis to the next level in his career by promoting him to Operations Manager at the Mid-State Chicago Branch. He has over 25 years in the 12-Volt Industry and will be an extreme asset as we continue to grow the Mid-State Distributing Chicago Branch (formally AM Distributors).” – Tom Kolar, Vice President of Sales and Marketing – 12-Volt Division.
Sean has been around cars his whole life; his father owned an automotive repair shop. He found his passion in installing car audio in his own cars as a teenager and to this day, he loves working on cars – whether it is automotive repairs, adding sound systems or remote start. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends at his “Happy Place”, Vero Beach, Florida.
Sean has experience in all aspects of the business, from installation to sales, store management and more recently, distribution inventory management. He will play a significant role in developing the core of the branch by creating a cohesive team and continue to grow our dealer and vendor base with his positive attitude. Sean will be focused on improving performance within the branch by making the branch more efficient in all areas (Sales Team, Warehouse & Delivery) and strategizing ways Mid-State Distributing can grow the business from the inside out.
Sean Davis
“Through the years, I’ve been privileged to receive additional training from various manufacturers which enhanced my installation skills. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with many people who are still in the industry today!” – Sean Davis, Operations Manager – Chicago, Illinois.
For more information about the Mid-State Distributing Chicago Branch, contact Sean at s.davis@m-state.com or 888-345-1300 x 246.
For inquiries regarding Mid-State Distributing-12-Volt Division, contact Tom Kolar at t.kolar@m-state.com or 800-798-5965 x 661 at the Omaha Branch.
Massive Audio, of SoCal USA, a leader in the 12 Volt Audio industry for 21 years, is happy to announce the release of the new SUMMO64XL and SUMMO84XL Subwoofers for 2020.
Chuck Kenney, Massive Audio National Sales Manager, pictured in the Company’s Commerce CA warehouse with a wall of orders pulled to ship on Thursday, September 17th.
The Massive Audio SUMMO64XL is a powerful 6.5-inch Subwoofer that produces high SPL while allowing you to save as much space possible in your vehicle. High quality materials like its Kevlar fiber non pressed paper cone stitched to an EROM foam surround are utilized and bolted to a durable cast basket and 48oz double stacked high energy magnet. The SUMMO84XL weighs in with a 90oz magnet assembly and 2 inch 4-Layer High Temp Voice Coil.
Both SUMMO Subwoofers may be small in stature but will definitely impress even hard-core audio SPL enthusiasts. As with all SUMMOXL Series subwoofers, we deign them all to play so low and with such a deep center of force that the competition cannot help but to bow out gracefully.
Let there be no doubt that with Massive Audio you will be the “King of the Ring.”
FEATURES INCLUDE:
Die Cast Basket with Black Textured Finish
Kevlar Fiber Enhanced Non-Pressed Paper Cone with Textured Paint Finish
EROM Foam Surround with Red Stitching
1.5” & 2.0″ 4-Layer Hi-Temp Voice Coil
Fiberglass Woven Dust Cap
Double Stacked 48oz & 90oz High Energy Magnets
Enhanced Cooling T-yoke Design with Black Anodized Finish
Customized Rubber Gasket and Magnet Boot
16 Gauge Pure Oxygen Silver Tined Power Cables with Direct Lead Connection
Triple Black Poly Cotton Spiders with Mirror Image Layout
For B2B sales inquiries our national sales manager Chuck Kenny can be reached at: 214-587-7603 chuckk@massiveaudio.com
For general information, contact Massive Audio at 323-262-2262 or visit our Website: http://www.massiveaudio.com
OXNARD, CA (09.17.2020) – SCOSCHE Industries proudly presents their range of accessories, that are in stock and shipping now, to charge, organize, listen to and generally complement the newly announced Apple devices.
The customizable BaseLynx Modular Charging System* lets you configure your own system to organize, display, store and charge all your Apple devices including iPhones, iPads, AirPod charging cases and Apple Watch. The Watch module features an Apple MFi-certified magnetic charger to charge all series of Apple Watches.
BaseLynx Modular Charging System
BaseLynx modules are available with Qi certified wireless charging, 18W USB-C Power Delivery and USB-A 12W charging. With the modules connected, the whole system uses one power cable plugged into one power outlet, so there are no tangled wires. You can use the modules individually or connected. When you get a new device, just add a module. BaseLynx is the perfect solution for home, office, dorm, RV, or wherever there are people and their portable devices.
Scosche’s 18W, USB-C Power Delivery (PD) PowerVolt mini fast charger and PowerVolt 36W USB-C PD (with dual 18W ports) charger for home and office, and 36W USB-C PD (with dual 18W ports) PowerVolt in-vehicle fast charger will charge your new iPad at home or on the road. They will also charge your iPhone 3X faster than with a standard charger. With their smart circuitry they are backwards compatible to charge older devices, as well as new ones, at their safest and fastest rate.
PowerVolt 18W Mini Fast Charger for home/office (above left) and PowerVolt 36W dual-port in-vehicle charger (above right).
For your new iPad or iPad Air, our StrikeLine premium USB-certified USB-C to USB-C charge and sync cables support high speed charging and data transfer (10 Gbps) speeds, as well omni-flow (two-way) charging.
Scosche StrikeLine premium MFi-certified USB-C to Lightning Power Delivery compatible charge and sync cables come in multiple convenient lengths ranging from 1ft. to 8ft.
You can charge your new Series 6 (and Series 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5)) Apple Watches at your home, office or even in your vehicle, with Scosche’s Watch Charger , which features an easy to use StickGrip suction-cup base and works with an Apple magnetic charging cord (not included).
Following Apple’s sustainability initiative, if you have USB-A cables you’d like to continue to use with your new devices, Scosche has you covered with compact USB-A to USB-C Adapters .
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.17.2020) – The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has acquired PartsHub, a comprehensive catalog management solution that will enhance a participating manufacturer’s ability to create and update industry standardized product information, regardless of their product data knowledge or expertise.
The SDC is the leading product data service in the specialty equipment aftermarket. Using PartsHub’s expanded product information management (PIM) software, SDC manufacturers will be able to easily organize their data, reach more resellers, and sell more products.
“SDC manufacturers typically are not data experts, and they have requested a simple, easy-to-use product information management system,” said Gigi Ho, SDC vice president of operations. “We’re excited to incorporate the PartsHub platform into SDC’s system. Users will now have a simplified way to access, visualize, and manage their product data, giving them even more control over their information.”
Integrating PartsHub’s interface with the SDC product information management system makes it easy for manufacturers to organize and update their data for industry resellers. The updated interface also allows possible datasets that can easily be exported in formats that meet reseller needs.
Additional features include:
Cloud-based, all-in-one solution for PIES/ACES/Digital Assets
In-line edits and real-time validations
Built-in workflows with view only and edit permissions
Import and export to Excel or bulk edit in-app
Receiver-specific scorecards and readiness reports
One-click exports to resellers (XML, XLS, etc.)
Commenting system for seamless collaboration
A well-regarded DIY PIM system with customers scoring PartsHub at 9 out of 10 across criteria of ease-of-use, responsiveness, features and functionality
PartsHub’s integration with the SDC PIM system will make the transition for current PartsHub customers seamless. They will continue to manage their product data within PartsHub without any rate changes. One-on-one orientation for the additional services provided by the SDC will be conducted for current PartsHub users, who will now be included into SDC’s robust and active reseller network, have access to SDC’s data experts for questions and guidance, and participate in SDC’s Data Excellence Award program.
Additional transitions will be rolled out over the next 30-60 days as the SDC team gears up with training and data management for SDC’s current members. Inquiries can be directed to info@semadatacoop.org and additional information about the SEMA Data Co-op can be found at www.semadatacoop.org.
LAS VEGAS, NV (09.16.2020) – Eton Car Audio of Germany, has announced that their new Stealth 7.1 DSP amplifier system, has been awarded the very prestigious European International Sound Association award for ‘Best Product’ in the competitive Amplifier DSP category. This follows on the heels of last year’s EISA award for ‘Best High-End Product’ for their highly acclaimed, super premium ’CORE S3 Component 3-way system.
The Stealth 7.1 DSP is a truly unique design, and represents 100% Eton in-house project, from the proprietary software interface and DSP, to the Class D multi-channel amplifier. Designed as a full, system ‘solution’ product, it features a very compact footprint, measuring very modest 10 x 6 x 2 inches tall.
The Stealth features 7 discrete channels and full OEM Interface capability, along with unique, high-quality WiFi capability, to work with their cell phone app, allowing tuning from the cockpit, without need for employing a laptop.
Eton is now shipping products from three (3), strategically located, US regional warehouses, to provide upscale 12V Retailers ideal ‘JIT’ delivery to majority of domestic major markets.
Retailers who will be attending KnowlegeFest in Dallas and or who are interested in setting up a meeting, or simply learning more about this exciting opportunity to offer this world-class brand, are invited to contact AMG at Matto@Audiomobile.net for additional information.
NEW YORK, NY (09.16.2020) – SiriusXM has announced that Chief Executive Officer, James E. Meyer, intends to retire on December 31, 2020. Upon Mr. Meyer’s retirement, Jennifer C. Witz, President, Sales, Marketing and Operations, will become the Company’s new Chief Executive Officer.
Gregory B. Maffei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sirius XM Holdings Inc. stated, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Jim for his outstanding service, helping to create the leader in audio entertainment in North America. During his tenure as CEO, SiriusXM has grown to become a diversified audio entertainment provider that is poised to reach more than 150 million people, the largest addressable digital audio audience in North America. We are a better company for his stewardship. We look forward to continuing to work with him on the Board and to build on SiriusXM’s strong momentum.”
Mr. Maffei continued, “Our Board of Directors is thrilled to unanimously appoint Jennifer as the next CEO. With nearly two decades of success at the Company, no one is better suited for this position. Jennifer brings the thorough understanding of our business from every angle. She has played a key role in significantly growing SiriusXM’s subscriber base. Jennifer will lead the Company’s strong executive team as it continues building out its platforms and executes on its growth strategies.”
“It has been a privilege to lead SiriusXM, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together over the last eight years,” said Mr. Meyer. “This Company has never been in a better position. We have transformed our business, growing SiriusXM and its offerings, welcoming the team from Pandora through our game changing combination and increasing our scale in podcasting with Simplecast and the pending acquisition of Stitcher. Today, we deliver the best content with a consumer reach that is unmatched in audio entertainment in North America. My decision to retire has long been in the works, and now is the right time to begin this transition. I could not be handing the reins over to a stronger leader than Jennifer. I know firsthand how talented and innovative she is, and I believe she will drive SiriusXM to new heights. This is a key time for SiriusXM, and I look forward to working with Jennifer to ensure a smooth transition as we execute on our near-term priorities.”
Ms. Witz commented, “I am honored to take on the role of CEO and lead SiriusXM at this exciting time. We have the best audio content available anywhere and incredible growth platforms. At SiriusXM, we are rolling out new programming, introducing new technology and expanding our OEM relationships, while pursuing new avenues of growth at Pandora and strengthening our position in the podcasting space. It has been an extraordinary privilege working with Jim and learning from him over the years. SiriusXM has tremendous opportunities ahead. I look forward to working closely with Scott Greenstein, Sean Sullivan and the rest of our talented management team and our incredible employees to capture those opportunities, drive growth and enhance stockholder value.”