Industry

ZZ-2 Is a New Company Specializing in Automotive Integrations with Rich DeSclafani at the Wheel

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BROOKLYN, NY (03.02.2020) – ZZ-2 is an engineering company specialized in automotive integrations, such as CarPlay and Android Auto, front and rear camera interface, video input interface and more. ZZ-2 is bringing to the 12v market a new way of business that will provide clients with a complete range of automotive solutions, with a brand new line of premium automotive integrations. Our interfaces were developed to help automotive enthusiasts improve their factory system by adding extra features as desired.

Visit zz-2.com to learn more.

Co-founder Luis Guilherme Rocha states “on this new journey, ZZ-2’s main goal is to provide a big variety of solutions to add new technology to all vehicles, regardless of the year, make and model. We have a successful history in South America and Europe, and we are proud to bring our model of business to America. I believe this will be a great addition to the market, especially for the audio shops and dealerships spread all over the country.” 

ZZ-2 is also happy to have Rich DeSclafani part of our team, awarded as Manufacturer Sales Rep of the Year by the Mobile Electronics Association in 2012. Rich has over 23 years of experience in the 12v industry, over 12 years just working directly with high end OEM integration. DeSclafani held positions in sales, technical support and product training with multiple manufactures, such as Nav-TV, K40 Electronics and most recently at Crux Interfacing.

“Our goal is to provide a product that people can trust so they can be completely satisfied with their daily driven vehicle. I am very excited to be part of this new project. The company has phenomenal potential and a large variety of OEM integration interfaces. Our most popular line is the Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, which is one of the most frequent requests that I’ve been receiving for the last couple of years. Another big specialty is our line of vehicle specific smartphone wireless chargers, which makes a perfect combo with our CarPlay/Android solutions. We are also stocking vehicle specific front and rear cameras and other niche 12Volt products,” said DeSclafani.

To get more information about the complete line of products zz-2.com or contact the sales team at 929-220-1212 or sales@zz-2.com.

Directed Releases More T-Harnesses Including Popular Plug-n-Play Options

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VISTA, CA (03.02.2020) – Directed has announced the release of several new DS4 T-Harness solutions that cover a wide array of vehicle makes and models. The nine new solutions cover select Toyota, Scion, Lexus, Honda, GM and Subaru vehicles. The lineup includes three ‘completely plug-n-play’ T-Harnesses THGMN4, THHON7 and THSUN1.

“At Directed, we’re always innovating – and one place that truly shows is in our line of vehicle integration harnesses,” according to James Turner, SVP, Core Product Planning. “We’re especially proud of our ‘completely plug-n-play’ solutions like the THSUN1. These harnesses allow for installation of a remote starter with no hardwired connections to the vehicle. They’re an installation speed and simplicity game changer. We are also launching several new ‘mostly plug-n-play’ harnesses which speed and simplify installation by substantially reducing hardwire connections.”

The following ‘completely plug-n-play’ T-Harnesses are currently shipping:

  • THGMN4 is for 10-20 GM SmartKey vehicles like 19+ Silverado/Sierra, 13-20 Malibu and 15-20 Escalade. It works with GM9 firmware and is compatible with DS4 and DS4+ systems.
  • Coverage for THHON7 includes three Honda/Acura SmartKey vehicles including 19+ RDX, 16+ Civic and 17-19 CR-V. It works with HONDA9 firmware, supports the “takeover” feature and is compatible with DS4 and DS4+ systems.
  • The THSUN1 covers select 10-19 Subaru vehicles including 12-16 Impreza, 15-19 WRX and 13-15 XV Crosstrek. It works with SUBARU2 firmware and is compatible with DS4+ systems only.

The following ‘mostly plug-n-play’ T-Harnesses are now available:

  • The THHON9 covers select Honda/Acura SmartKey vehicles including 15-19 Fit, 16+ HR-V and 15+ TLX. It works with HONDA9 firmware, supports the “takeover” feature and is compatible with DS4 and DS4+ systems. It replaces THHON1.
  • THHON10 offers coverage for select older Honda/Acura SmartKey vehicles including 13-17 Accord, 14-15 Civic and 15-16 CR-V. It works with HONDA9 firmware, supports the “takeover” feature and is compatible with DS4 and DS4+ systems. It replaces THHON2.
  • The THTON7 offers coverage for Toyota and Lexus vehicles like 18+ Camry, 19+ Avalon, 19+ Rav4 and 20+ Corolla for both key and push-to-start vehicles. It works with TL8 and TL14 firmware and is compatible with DS4 and DS4+ systems.
  • The THTON8 is for select 13-20 Toyota and Scion ‘H’ and ‘G’ key vehicles like 13-18 RAV4, 16+ Tacoma and 14-19 Corolla. It works with TL10 firmware and is compatible with DS4+ systems only.
  • Coverage for THTON9 includes select 05-20 Toyota and Scion ‘H’, ‘G’ and ‘dot’ key vehicles such as 07-20 Tundra, 08-19 Sequoia and 07-17 Camry. It works with TL7, TL10 and TL11 firmware and is compatible with DS4+ systems only. It replaces THTON4, with six fewer hardwired connections at the vehicle.
  • The THTON10 offers coverage for select 04-20 Toyota, Lexus, Scion and Pontiac ‘H’, ‘G’ and ‘dot’ key vehicles like 04-19 4Runner, 11-20 Sienna and 05-16 tC. It works with TL7, TL10 and TL11 firmware and is compatible with DS4+ systems only. It replaces THTON5, with six fewer hardwired connections at the vehicle.

Directed T-harnesses utilize OEM connectors for a seamless installation, factory fit, and most importantly, many are plug-n-play to reduce installation time drastically. Directed firmware supports 95% of all 2010 to 2019 vehicle models.

Visit directed.com for more.

DS18 Partners with GoFast Solutions

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MIDDLETOWN, CT (02.28.2020) – DS18 has brought another major distributor to serve their large network of dealers. GoFast Solutions has been in the business over 15 years and knows what it takes to please their customers. Gofast sells an abundance of racing parts, safety products, and mobile audio.

Dave Prinz (CEO) has worked in the car audio field on and off since the 90s. He was initially employed at The Sound Company, once a CT-based car audio chain and then moved to a computer distribution company where he gained experience as a distributor. After that, Prinz worked for MRI’s car audio division as a merchandizing manager where he eventually purchased it after MRI was sold to SnapAV.

GoFast is striving to help car audio dealers branch into racing and performance parts with plans to encourage new shops to enter the car audio market, which the company believes is underserved in the region.

Any new dealers near the North East and Eastern PA will fall under the DS18 territory for product. Any new dealers and customers can contact them for info on product, merchandise, or new dealer information to be able to join the extended DS18 family.

Visit ds18.com and gofst.com for more.

JL Audio and Nautique Launch Updated WaveFront Speaker Technology for Super Air Nautique Paragon Boats

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MIAMI, FL (02.28.2020) – JL Audio, a U.S.-based designer and manufacturer of high-end , marine audio products, in collaboration with Nautique boats, is proud to announce an updated version of its WaveFront speaker technology, specifically engineered for the all-new Nautique G23 and G25 Paragon boats.

Updated for 2020 with powerful JL Audio M6 coaxial drivers, WaveFront is an innovative hidden speaker system, engineered to elevate the music experience provided on board Nautique boats. Full-range drivers are located under the dashboard and connected to a specially engineered wave guide which shapes the sound waves and delivers them to passengers’ ears through specially tuned apertures located at the base of the boat’s port and starboard windshields. WaveFront lifts the sound stage delivered by the JL Audio system from seat level to ear level, significantly enhancing the listening experience.

“Engineering an audio system to deliver extreme performance and durability in an open-air boating environment is a considerable challenge by itself. But, creating a balanced audio system capable of delivering a perfectly elevated sound stage requires a significant understanding of open-air acoustics,” said Ora Freeman, Director of OEM Sales, North America at JL Audio. “Working with Nautique has empowered our engineers to rethink the possibilities of marine audio system integration and has led to the development of some very exciting technologies, like JL Audio WaveFront.”

To further enhance the audio performance of Nautique boats, all 2020 model year boats feature JL Audio’s all-new MVi amplifiers with integrated DSP. MVi amplifier allows JL Audio and Nautique to develop customized DSP tunings for each model of boat to account for each vessel’s hull acoustics, speaker configuration, frequency response range, and seating arrangement.

All 2020 model year Nautique boats offer as standard equipment the following JL Audio products: MediaMaster MM100 source units, M6 speakers, tower speakers, and subwoofers.

Visit www.jlaudio.com for more.

CRUX Releases New RFM Interface for Select Vehicles with My Gig Radio Systems

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CHATSWORTH, CA (02.27.2020) – The product enables the activation of Video features in MYGIG Radios and also provides an additional Audio/Video input. It seamlessly integrates with the factory installed system for adding Front, Rear, 2 Side, and wireless cameras.

Key Features:

  • Adds a reverse camera input, 6 video plus 1 audio/video inputs.
  • Uses the steering wheel controls buttons to toggle between the sources.
  • Turn signals automatically trigger the corresponding side camera.
  • Turn signal camera trigger can be turned on or off by using the SWC button.
  • Has Video In Motion capability

Visit cruxinterfacing.com for more.

Sound Storm Laboratories DD988ACP Apple CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Player Now Shipping

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OXNARD, CA (02.27.2020) – Sound Storm Laboratories is proud to announce its new DD988ACP Apple CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Player is now shipping with an MSRP of $199.00.

“The DD988ACP comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a sharp, responsive 6.75-inch capacitive touchscreen,” explained Greg Orlando, SSL brand manager. “This MECH-LESS multimedia player lets drivers enjoy on-screen navigation, phone calls, messages, and a wide range of music and phone apps.”

As smartphones become an essential part of people’s day-to-day life, a great car stereo that can talk with your smartphone is extremely important to keep consumers connecting seamlessly. “The DD988ACP shows SSL’s commitment to leading the market with high demand products at an affordable price, featuring connectivity and driver safety,” added Orlando.” Our products go through a formal certification process and we are proud to launch full featured, budget-friendly quality choices for our consumers.”

The DD988ACP’s big 6.75-inch capacitive touchscreen monitor allows you to easily select CarPlay related icons as well as all other system settings and configurations. With Siri voice controls you can get directions, look for points of interest, check your messages and reply to them, play music and more. Hook your Smartphone or MP3 player up to the auxiliary input, tune into your favorite AM/FM radio station, or plug into the USB port for more music choices. You can charge USB devices with the USB port. Bluetooth technology lets you play and control music apps and make calls hands-free. Make changes to your music choices and settings with ease using the existing steering wheel controls or the touchscreen.

Features and specifications include:
• Apple CarPlay compatible with iOS apps
• Android Auto with Google Assistant
• Bluetooth: Make/receive calls, play and control music and apps such as Spotify/Pandora wirelessly
• Plays MP3/USB and Smartphones
• No CD/DVD Player
• Inputs: USB, Aux, Rear Camera, Steering Wheel Control, USB Charging
• Outputs: Front, Rear and Sub Pre-Amp
• Bass/Treble/Balance/Fader Controls and Preset Built-in EQ
• Switchable US & Europe Tuner Frequencies, Power: 80 Watts x 4
• Warranty: 1-year

Visit www.soundstormlab.com for more.

KnowledgeFest Long Beach Established as Premiere West Coast Event for the Mobile Electronics Industry

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NORTH ANDOVER, MA (02.26.2020) – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) has announced KnowledgeFest, in its third year at the Long Beach Convention Center, marked another success for education and training. Attendance was more than 1,500 industry professionals, including over 1,000 retailers and distributors. This year the event provided over 30 hours of educational workshops, including three additional sessions in Spanish. Also new for this year were three educational sessions focused on Fleet Safety technologies led by published author and business management expert Tomas Keenan. Key exhibiting companies provided education about new products and services with a record-setting 70 hours of manufacturer training.

“The decision was made three years ago to bring premium industry education to the west coast with the first KnowledgeFest in Long Beach,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “Through the consistent effort of local reps, manufacturers and retailers who have attended our other Knowledgefest events, we have been able to educate local retailers on the benefits of our curriculum, training and networking. The collective hard work has paid off, and exhibitor space selection for the 2021 event finished with over 90% of the available exhibit space chosen. This includes several new exhibitors.”

Coming up next month, March 27-29, KnowledgeFest sets its sights on Indianapolis in a Friday-through-Sunday event at the Indiana Convention Center. KnowledgeFest 2020 will then continue with a new event in Orlando Florida May 15-17 and then concludes the 2020 season with its Dallas event: August 12-14 at the Dallas Convention Center.

“The Indianapolis show and education conference continues to be one of our fastest-growing events,” added Cook. “Attendee pre-registration is up 50 percent to date over the previous year. Our 2020 show floor is nearly sold out. We’re looking forward to a great show in Indy, and an exciting first foray into the southeast with the new Orlando show.”

Upcoming KnowledgeFest Dates:
• Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
• NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
• Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 14-16, 2020
• Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 12-14, 2021

Visit knowledgefest.org for more.

SCOSCHE AND ProClip USA to Offer Direct Fit Magnetic and Wireless Charging Phone Mounts

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OXNARD, CA (02.26.2020) – SCOSCHE is proud to collaborate with ProClip USA to deliver vehicle-specific, high-quality magnetic and wireless charging smartphone mounting options.

Scosche’s multi-award winning MagicMount magnetic mounting solutions provide a high quality solution to quickly, conveniently and securely hold devices for safer driving. Through this collaboration Scosche will initially offer three mounting head options that can be paired with the direct fit ProClip vehicle mounts, for a wide selection of vehicles. These three options are: the MagicMount Charge, the MagicMount Pro XL Surface, and the universal grip Qi-certified wireless fast charging mount.

ProClip (USA) vehicle mounts are custom fit to the exact make, model and year of a vehicle. Their vehicle specific mounts easily snap into the seams of a vehicle’s dashboard and grip the dash panels, providing a solid and secure fit. They’re easy to install and don’t require any drilling or professional installation. Once installed they provide a sturdy mounting platform for a device holder.

“We’re excited about our collaboration with ProClip and the direct fit mount line. We are no strangers to vehicle specific mounting applications for stereo kits. So having a vehicle specific phone mount line that is built with proper fit, finish, and function is vital. With ProClip and Scosche we offer the best of both solutions,” stated Kas Alves, Co-President, Scosche Industries.

“We’re thrilled to partner up with the team at Scosche to offer a high-quality wireless charging phone mounting solution. Their dedication and innovation for in-vehicle electronics continues to push the industry forward. Pairing their technology in wireless charging with the quality of ProClips custom vehicle mounts is a natural fit,” commented Don Rankin, COO and CMO,ProClip USA, Inc.

Visit www.scosche.com for more.

Mobile Solutions Offers Two New Training Classes in March

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TEMPE, AZ (02.25.2020) – Mobile Solutions announces two new training classes launching at their Tempe, AZ training facility in March 2020. The 201-level “boot camps” are shorter 2-day courses heavily focused on audio and, separately on practical and time-saving fabrication techniques. The boot camps are intended to provide an experienced and targeted audience with the need-to-know information in a specific discipline so that technicians can be even more productive in their day-to-day installation efforts. The Mobile Solutions training facility recently underwent a significant redesign in late 2019 to better accommodate training groups and exciting new topics.

MasterTech Car Audio Boot Camp 201

This 2-day course is focused on acoustics, vehicle electrical theory, OEM audio system integration and tuning an audio system using DSP. Guest presenters Ken Ward of Educar Labs and Todd Ramsey of Ramsey Consulting Group provide attendees with important, highly relevant information covering electrical and acoustic installation challenges in modern vehicles. Learn enhanced fundamentals of sound and in-depth AC/DC electricity. Learn detailed electrical measurement techniques. Learn how to identify OEM audio signals in complex vehicles and determine an integration approach. Learn quick and effective audio system tuning techniques. Learn how to avoid and effectively troubleshoot many common issues encountered in car audio system design and installation. This is a great class for those technicians who focus more on remote starters over the winter months, technicians who primarily do fleet-type installations or those who primarily only fabricate. This is also a great class for technicians and sales professionals with good audio system installation fundamentals looking to achieve the next level in the world of DSP-based integration and audio system tuning. The course runs March 5-6, 2020 and costs $799.98.

MasterTech Fabrication Boot Camp 201

This 2-day course is perfect for those who which to learn and grow their palate of advanced fabrication techniques. Instructor Bryan Schmitt, president of Mobile Solutions, demonstrates time-saving smart fabrication techniques and industry secrets that will enhance the way technicians integrate mobile electronics with vehicle panels and structural components. Some of the training fabrication highlights include using the Mobile Solutions Animal and SFS tools to safely and efficiently create unique 3D panels, speaker mounts and interior trim accents. Additionally, router table & table saw tricks for custom subwoofer enclosures, plastics fabrication, urethane foam implementation and upholstery techniques are all part of the cohesive design and fabrication mindset presented throughout the training. This course helps guide attendees on how to charge for their custom fabrication work so they maximize their profitability and make efficient use of time. A student-built take home project reinforces the learning concepts and serves as an additional visual tool to communicate fabrication capabilities to clients. The course runs March 7-8, 2020 and costs $799.98.

These training camps are presented back-to-back so attendees can easily travel to one or both. Register for the training sessions now at mobilesolutions-usa.com/audio-camp-fab-camp as spots are limited. For more information or questions, email info@mobilesolutions-usa.com.

JL Audio Unveils WakeSub Rider-Focused Subwoofer Technology

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MIAMI, FL (02.25.2020) – JL Audio has announced the launch of WakeSub, a new hidden subwoofer technology designed to complement the powerful JL Audio tower speaker systems on boats. Emitting low -frequency audio at the boat’s wake zone, WakeSub transforms the music listening experience for those being towed or surfing behind the boat.

The WakeSub system consists of two JL Audio enclosed bandpass subwoofer systems t hat are integrated deep into the aft portion of the boat’s hull, completely hidden out of sight and not intrudingon passenger space. Low frequency sound waves are generated through tuned ports, from the hidden enclosures to apertures located at each end of the boat’s transom. The result is a complete engulfment in powerful, deep bass as you ride or surf behind the boat.

“We pride ourselves on working closely with boat builders to engineer audio systems that deliver extreme performance and durability. With WakeSub, we’re extending that legendary JL Audio sound from the boat’s passenger area to the wakes and waves behind it,” said Ora Freeman, Director of OEM Sales, North America at JL Audio.

“While tower speakers do a great job at projecting a broad spectrum of sound behind the boat, they physically can’t produce the same high -impact, low frequency response that a dedicated subwoofer can. WakeSub was engineered to do exactly that, w ithout having to hang any bulky subwoofers off the tower.”

Several features of WakeSub are designed to protect the system from the elements, such as a self-draining design should any water enter the apertures for the ports. JL Audio has been issued U.S. Patent #10,362,389 for the WakeSub technology.

Intended to be integrated into boats early in the design process, JL Audio’s WakeSub technology is available to boat manufacturers today, along with the company’s robust line of feature-rich source units, powerful amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers and enclosed tower speakers that have been rigorously engineered for marine applications. Nautique Boats is the first boat manufacturer to integrate this technology, as an option for the Studio Elite sound package offered on all -new Super Air Nautique G23 and G25 Paragon boats.

Visit www.jlaudio.com for more.