Brutus is Back with More Power Than Ever

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.21.2020) – BRUTUS Gamma (BG) amplifiers provide audio with undistorted clarity while producing big power. Incorporating Super D Class and Super A/B Class technology that features Ultra-Fi MOSFET outputs, selected for both balance and output power, BRUTUS Gamma amplifiers set the standard for RMS.

The true power of an amplifier is the heart of the RMS rating and BRUTUS Gamma amplifiers continue to set the precedent of power in Hifonics amplifiers. RMS ( a terminology that means the average/running speed of the amplifier, not the most or least power it can do, but it’s the cruising and continuous power it can maintain), is where the amplifier is the most efficient at by pushing out true power to audio installations.

Alden Stiefel, President/CEO of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “We are really excited about this line of amplifiers, especially the technology that is in it. We have pushed the boundary of what is possible while setting a measure of expectation at Hifonics for years to come.”

For the BRUTUS Gamma lineup of amplifiers, RMS signifies the customer’s expectation of power to be delivered to their speakers and subwoofers. The all-new and upcoming BG-4000.1D BRUTUS Gamma amplifier unleashes strapping abilities to link with another amplifier to use 2 amplifiers for one output while maintaining huge power. 

To view full product line details, click here.

Features of the BRUTUS Gamma (BG) amplifier line include:
• LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT
Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier circuit with minimal distortion
• RCA INPUTS
Nickel-plated RCA jacks create the most efficient High/Low-level audio connection and resist corrosion
• HEAT SINK
Classic aluminum Hifonics design to minimize heat build-up on the Ultra-Fi output devices
• LED SYSTEM PROTECTION CIRCUITRY DIAGNOSTICS
Monitor overload and speaker short protection with illuminated indicators on the amplifier end panel
• BASS REMOTE INCLUDED
The wired bass remote allows adjustments to bass frequencies from the control which can be mounted anywhere in the vehicle

Visit hifonics.com for more.

CRUX Releases Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention

CHATSWORTH, CA (05.21.2020) – CRUX has released a Brand New Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for JBL Amplified Systems for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up.

The CRUX SWRTY-61P Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for JBL Amplified Systems for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up. It facilitates the integration of an after-market radio to enable retention of certain factory features when replacing a factory-installed radio.

Compatible models include:
TOYOTA
2020 – Up 4Runner
2019 – Up Avalon
2018 – Up Camry
2019 – Up CH-R
2018 – Up Corolla
2020 – Up Highlander
2019 – Up Rav4
2020 – Up Sequioa
2018 – Up Sienna
2020 – Up Tacoma
2020 – Up Tundra
2016 – Up Mirai

To visit the SWRTY-61P product page, click here.

Note for vehicles that do not have JBL Amplified System please purchase SWRTY-61C  Radio Replacement Interface with Steering Wheel Control Retention for Select Toyota Vehicles 2018-Up. 

To visit the SWRTY-61C product page, click here.

Key Features:

  • Retains factory features in select Toyota vehicles while functioning with an aftermarket radio.
  • Pre-programmed to retain factory Steering Wheel Controls.
  • Retains factory JBL amplifier
  • Retains factory back-up camera and sensors
  • Retains factory birds eye view feature (if equipped).
  • Retains factory Auxiliary Audio Input.
  • Includes factory USB retention adapter cable.
  • Includes antenna adapter.

Visit cruxinterfacing.com for more.

SCOSCHE Industries Announces Availability of Award-Winning MagicGrip Advanced Wireless Charging Mounts

OXNARD, CA (05.20.2020) – SCOSCHE Industries has announced the arrival of their new MagicGrip advanced wireless charging phone mounts.

The MagicGrip mounts, which debuted at the International CES, are now in stock and available for purchase at Scosche.com and at select retailers. The innovative design and advanced technology of the MagicGrip has already garnered three awards: the iPhone Life Best of CES 2019 Award, a 2019 SEMA Global Media Award and a 2020 TWICE Picks Award.

Click here to visit the MagicGrip product page.

When a Qi-enabled phone is placed against the charging head, MagicGrip senses the Qi coil and automatically closes its motorized arms to securely grip and wirelessly charge the phone. This Auto-Grip technology ensures the best positioning for optimum charging.

Qi-certified by the Wireless Power Consortium, the MagicGrip wirelessly charges at up to 10W and is Fast Charge compatible with Apple, Samsung, and Google Qi-enabled phones. MagicGrip comes with an 18W USB-C PD car adapter and charging cable. For home or office use, we recommend using our ReVolt QC charger with Qualcomm 3.0 Quick Charge, for your fastest charging experience.

Designed with a thermal management channel between the charging head and your phone allows heat to escape for cooler, safer, more efficient charging. An ambient light sensing LED light ring indicates charging and the head rotates 360˚, so your phone is viewable in landscape, portrait, or any angle in between.

MagicGrip is currently available in a choice of three base options:

The MagicGrip Window/Dash mount (pictured above) has a StickGrip suction-cup base that allows you to mount it on any flat surface at home, in the office, or in-vehicle.

The MagicGrip Dash mount uses automotive grade adhesive to provide a strong hold to a dash, table, desk, counter, or other flat surface.

The FreeFlow Vent mount with its articulating swing-arm lets you move your phone away from your vehicle’s vent. The vent mount is available at Apple.com.

MagicGrip mounts, priced at $69.95 each, are available now at Scosche.com and at select retailers.

Scosche will be releasing three additional base mount options for the MagicGrip soon: the Window/Dash Double-Pivot, the Window/Dash telescoping Extendo, and the Swing-Arm Dash.

Click here to visit the MagicGrip product page.

Visit scosche.com for more.

SEMA Inducts Four Industry Icons into Hall of Fame

DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.20.2020) – Rich Barsamian, Jack Chisenhall, John Gaines, and Joe St.Lawrence will receive the specialty-equipment industry’s highest honor as the newest members of the SEMA Hall of Fame. The four are the latest representatives of an esteemed group of industry icons who have influenced and inspired the $44.6 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Rich Barsamian has been actively volunteering and helping to improve our industry since he joined the Young Executives Network (YEN) in 1995. He has helped bring many educational programs to SEMA members and worked tirelessly as an ambassador to help other SEMA members. Over the years he has earned numerous recognitions for his continued work in our industry, including SEMA Person of the Year in 2014, and exemplifies the SEMA Hall of Fame criteria with regard to professionalism, dignity, integrity, stature and growth of the industry.

Jack Chisenhall is credited with making climate control systems accessible by founding the San Antonio company Vintage Air, and also helped create what is now the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), among other innovations and contributions. His work made enthusiast cars more comfortable, easier to drive and that meant more miles logged behind the wheel, more money spent on modifications and more time on the road wrenching, driving, building and enjoying these cars. It was a cultural shift and a game changer.

John Gaines was an early pioneer in the automotive aftermarket warehouse distribution. His company, G&M Performance Parts was one of the first warehouse distributors in the country for the automotive aftermarket, and his distributorship was one of the first in the country to utilize a fleet of vehicles to distribute product direct to the local speed shops, truck accessory stores, car dealerships, machine shops, creating a much quicker and more streamlined process from manufacturer to end user. Gaines is credited with forward thinking early on that helped many manufacturers grow to where they are today.

Joe St.Lawrence started RTM, the industry’s first production company for auto how-to shows in the mid-1980s. He created PowerBlock, television’s first two-hour auto theme-block featuring how-to shows that introduced SEMA member products to million of viewers. His shows sparked parts buying on Monday, and gave DYIers the confidence to bolt on aftermarket parts and customize their vehicles. He introduced broad audiences to cool cars and helped change the image of the backyard mechanic into a tool-wielding expert.

For additional information about the SEMA Hall of Fame, visit www.semahof.com.

Ultra Start Intros Ultra Safety PPE Products

LOS ANGLES, CA (05.19.2020) – Ultra Safety products are a collection of essential protective products in high-demand as a result of the COVID-19 crisis around the world and across the U.S.

John Kelly pictured, with an Ultra Safety mask in place, in his East Coast office.

John Kelly, JCK Sales, represents Ultra Start and the new Ultra Safety line. Kelly stated “The Ultra Safety collection is comprised of PPE products that will assist 12volt retailers, along with staff and customers, to meet mandates related to the COVID-19 crisis. Every store, when they start opening, will have to make sure all in the store have a mask in place. If customers don’t have a mask, dealers will need to have a mask available to offer the customer. All employees will need to wear masks also. The Ultra Safety line offers several models of face masks including low cost masks to provide to customers.”

Tim Choi, Ultra Start President, pictured with a selection of Ultra Safety products at the company’s Los Angeles HQ.

Hand sanitizer, infrared thermometers and a UVC handheld wand are also included in the Ultra Safety lineup.

Ultra Start has offered a full line of remote starters, keyless entry and vehicle security systems to 12volt dealers and distributors for over 20 years.

See the Ultra Safety lineup at www.ultrastarters.com/ultra-safety for more.

Maxxsonics USA Receives ISO 9001 Certification

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.19.2020) – ISO 9001 Certification involves certifying company department processes from the Master organization flow chart, down to the individual processes, and even to their respective forms and outputs.

Maxx Stiefel, Vice President General Manager at Maxxsonics USA commented, “I feel that this was an incredible learning experience for the company as a whole and believe that the ISO 9001:2015 standard will help Maxxsonics provide its customers with the best quality products on time and consistently. Certifying the Quality Management System on Monday was a milestone for Maxxsonics and the results from the ISO certification audit epitomize the successful future for the company and its customers!”

Through non-conformity and corrective action documentation, the company is now better equipped to enhance its Quality Management System (QMS), quality policy, quality objectives, and continual improvements.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product & Marketing for Maxxsonics USA said, “We’re excited to gain our ISO certification. It represents a significant evolution in our processes and has us poised to better serve all of our customers, especially our OEM clients. The team at Maxxsonics all joined forces and willingly embraced the changes required to make this happen. I’m proud of what we’ve done here and we’re excited to show the world the great products that are a result of this evolution. Hats off to Maxx Stiefel for making this happen!”

In addition, ISO 9001 Certification also promotes interdepartmental cross-functionality in regards to communication and job responsibilities, as well as encourages Advance Product Quality Planning (APQP) within its master flow chart and quality planning process. APQP drives the Plan-Do-Check-Act procedure advancing the checks and balances (2-step verifications) within the organization.

Visit maxxsonics.com for more.

NavAtlas Intros ‘ZONE’ Off-Road Audio Systems in a Box

BREA, CA (05.18.2020) – NavAtlas introduces a series Off-Road Audio Systems in a box for the Polaris RZR and CanAm X3. Defined as ZONE, the RZR1ZONE3 is a Polaris system, shown below, that includes the NA30C 3” Screen Media Center and Mounting Bracket, 10” Subwoofer with 500 Watt (RMS) Mono Amplifier, a pair of 6.5” Speakers with Kick pods plus a 2-Channel 300 Watt (RMS) Amplifier.

The Polaris RZR and CanAm X3 systems will include all the mounting hardware needed for a professional install.

Patrick Brooks pictured in the NavAtlas warehouse in Brea, CA.

Patrick Brooks, NavAtlas National Sales Manager, stated “When you define a PowerSports customer they’re fanatical about their vehicles and they want the very best aftermarket products. Audio will be one of the most important purchases they will make over the lifetime of the vehicle. The new NavAtlas ZONE Audio system delivers a complete high-end audio system in a box tailored to their specific vehicle. This is the wave of the future.”

The Zone systems will be available in mid-June. Contact your local distributor and ask for the ZONE System by NavAtlas.

Visit navatlas.net for more.

SCOSCHE Industries Announces Availability of New Scosche / ProClip USA Direct-Fit Device Mounts

OXNARD, CA (05.18.2020) – SCOSCHE Industries has announced the arrival of their new vehicle-specific
magnetic and wireless charging phone mounts.

These new mounts, created through a collaboration between Scosche Industries and ProClip USA Inc.*, are custom fit to the exact make, model and year of a vehicle. They easily snap into the seams of a vehicle’s dashboard and grip the dash panels to provide a solid and secure fit.

Scosche’s multi-award winning MagicMount magnetic
mounting and wireless charging solutions, combined with
ProClip’s direct-fit dash mounts, provide a high quality
solution to quickly, conveniently and securely hold devices
for safer driving.

Scosche Ambassadors: Rockstar Performance Garage,
GenRight Off Road, Camburg Racing, and Carl Jocumsen,
thoroughly road (and off-road) tested and recommend these
new mounts.

Scosche offers the following three mount head options that
are paired with the direct-fit ProClip vehicle mounts:

MagicMount Pro XL SURFACE – Magnetic Device Mount
The MagicMount Pro XL Surface is designed to securely hold XL smartphones, tablets, remotes, radio handsets, and more, with extra powerful 100% device-safe Neodymium magnets. It comes with two interchangeable trim rings (Black and Silver) to coordinate with your phone or vehicle interior.

MagicMount PRO CHARGE – Magnetic Wireless Charging Mount
The Qi-certified MagicMount Charge is designed to hold your Qi-enabled phone securely while charging it at its fastest, safest rate. It’s powerful 100% device-safe Neodymium magnets hold your device securely.

Universal Grip CHARGE – Universal Wireless Charging Mount
The Qi-certified Universal Grip Charge is designed to hold your Qi-enabled device securely while charging it at its fastest, safest rate. Its adjustable arms hold devices up to 3.5 inches wide.

Each of the three mount heads (shown above) are available as direct-fit for the following vehicles:
● Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 C/K Full-Size Trucks 2014-2018
● Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 Series 2015-2019, Chevrolet Silverado 4500/5500/6500 Series
2019-2020, & International CV-Series 2019-2020
● Dodge Challenger 2015-2020
● Dodge Charger 2011-2020
● Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 2019-2020
● Ford F-150/Raptor 2009-2014, and Lincoln Mark LT 2010-2014.
● Ford F-150/Raptor 2015-2020
● Ford F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550/Super Duty 2017-20 & Ford Expedition 2018-2020
● Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011-2020
● Jeep Wrangler 2011-2018
● Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2019 & Jeep Gladiator 2020
● Subaru Impreza 2012-2016, Subaru WRX 2015-2019, & Subaru XV/Crosstrek 2012-2017
● Toyota 4Runner 2010-2020
● Toyota Tacoma 2016-2020
● Toyota Tundra 2014-2020

Visit scosche.com for more.

Tint World Announces Partnership with Top Antimicrobial Auto Application

BOCA RATON, FL (05.15.2020) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced a partnership with BioPledge, the EPA-registered, hospital-grade, AntiMicrobial Protection (AMP), offering their customers long-lasting, industry-leading protection from germs that can cause illness and odors.

The partnership is part of Tint World’s ongoing commitment to helping vehicle owners stay safe and healthy during the COVID-19 crisis.

“BioPledge is an industry-leading disinfectant for treating microbes that can build up on high-touch surfaces inside vehicles, boats, homes, and offices,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “Our customers are looking for the additional level of security that BioPledge delivers right now, and during this challenging situation we’re doing everything we can to enhance their safety.”

BioPledge is EPA-Registered, offering Anti-Microbial Protection (AMP) that instantly kills viruses, bacteria, mold, mildew, algae, and yeast – all without the use of caustic chemicals or scented masking agents. A one-time treatment of BioPledge AMP forms a protective shield that delays the growth of harmful microbes on interior surfaces and prevents odors for up to 30 days after it is applied. BioPledge AMP treatments also remove organic and inorganic odors from air, carpet, upholstery, and other “high-touch” surfaces.

“With this partnership, Tint World customers will have the number one option for preventing germs and microbes in their vehicles, which is a critical service and one that’s top of mind for most people right now,” said Alex Baranga, president of BioPledge. “Tint World’s success is built on providing the highest-quality products and services that are available, and BioPledge is looking forward to being part of that mission.”

Visit tintworld.com and biopledge.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Develops Virus Neutralizing UV-Light Face Mask for Consumer / Medical Use

METAIRE, LA (05.15.2020) – Oracle Lighting has revealed details on the new Antimicrobial Irradiation Respirator (aka AIR device), a patent-pending wearable UVGI face mask sanitizer system. The AIR device is expected to be available in late June 2020.

“N95 masks have been the go-to PPE for preventing exposure to COVID-19, but these only filter 95 percent of particulate,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of product development. “Consumers need better assurance to be confident that they will not be exposed. The AIR device will neutralize that remaining five percent while sanitizing the contaminated mask at the same time. Studies have shown that respiratory pathogens on the outer surface of cloth masks can actually result in self-contamination, which is exactly what they are intended to prevent. Because if this, we see the unique UV irritation benefits of the AIR device as the best sanitization scenario for mitigating exposure to COVID-19 and other viruses.”

Existing personal air filtration masks are designed to prevent inhalation of viruses by trapping the particles from the incoming air in the cloth material worn on the face. However, they are not designed to disinfect or sanitize the particles. Because of this, the masks can become saturated with live viruses, pathogens, bacterium, or other microorganisms attached to the fabric surfaces. Because the cloth mask becomes contaminated with use, washing a cloth mask is recommended by health officials. Unfortunately, most consumer-grade laundry detergent does not contain disinfectant and, in fact, studies show that pathogens can actually be spread in the wash and contaminate other laundry in the load.

The AIR device is worn under any common face masks and utilizes a patent-pending system to sanitize the air while simultaneously neutralizing contaminants trapped in the cloth face mask by means of short-wave ultraviolet light exposure. The ultraviolet light source is produced via UV LEDs which are integrated into the device. The spectrum of ultraviolet light is separated into various ranges, with shortest-wavelength referred to as UV-C which is considered “germicidal UV.”

“The AIR device is composed of a small cover made of an anti-microbial polymer which is worn on the face and attached with straps similar to a traditional face mask,” Hartenstein continued. “The user wears a traditional face mask (cloth mask, surgical mask, N95, etc.) over the device. A small rechargeable battery pack powers the device and can be manually turned on and off by the user. In addition to the anti-germicidal LEDs, the device also contains UV-A LEDs which provide a wider light spectrum and visible light. The visible UV-A LED functions as an indicator that the device is on and working but provides minimal anti-microbial benefits.”

Wavelengths between 200-300 nanometers, such as the LEDs utilized in the AIR device, provide the most effective germicidal function. This is because the wavelength of UV-C irradiation utilizes photons to inactivate the virus which prevents the cell from replicating and infecting the body if inhaled. The AIR’s UV-C LED emitters are integrated into the airflow partition of the device which is designed to scrub the air and sterilize the cloth mask simultaneously.

Is it safe?

For years hospitals and labs have used Ultra-Violet light for disinfection and medical sanitation against viruses. Commonly known as “Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation”, UVGI is a disinfection method that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by disrupting their DNA in a manner which renders the cells inactive and unable to perform cellular functions.

“UV-C light has been used in many applications such as the purification of drinking water for decades,” said Hartenstein. “While UV-C is part of the normal spectrum of sunlight, it is invisible and can cause sunburn with direct skin exposure. This was taken into account when developing the AIR and so the UV light is directed into the mask, away from the user, to prevent any direct skin exposure.”

For more information on the AIR device, visit www.theairdevice.com email info@theairdevice.com or call 504-613-4756.

Visit oraclelights.com for more.