Celsus UK to Expand Presence at METSTRADE for 2019

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS (11.18.2019) – Celsus UK will have a larger presence at the 2019 METSTRADE show to present the KICKER marine audio & Dynamat sound and heat control brands.

The UK based distribution company will adopt booth 01-245 in Hall 1; a position double the size of previous years. The event takes place in Amsterdam’s RAI from 19th

Celsus UK Managing Director Paul Baker (R) and Mike Keenan hold Dynamat and Kicker Marine products they will display at the Metstrate Show

21st November and is the central gathering for the marine equipment industry.

Visitors to the Celsus stand have the chance to learn all about premium performance marine audio from U.S manufacturers KICKER. The range of premium 12v audio equipment from the Oklahoma based manufacturer is the perfect balance of marine engineering, sound quality and value. From source units to speakers, amplifiers and subwoofers KICKER bring an exciting new dimension to the marine entertainment segment, and live by the mantra #GoOverboard! Visitors to the booth will gain insight into the brand’s expanding range of source units for 2020/21. A much anticipated group of products which will contain leading edge features in line with consumer demands including NMEA compatibility.

Click here to view this video on instagram.com/12voltnews

Recent growth of KICKER in the European market since its introduction at METS 2018 is something the company wish to build on by developing further distributor and OEM relationships

“We are excited to expand our presence at what will be our 6th METS. We believe we have a unique proposition with KICKER and DYNAMAT in what they currently offer and future product roadmap. Both products have been very well received in the market and our search for prospective new partnerships continues” Paul Baker, Managing Director, Celsus UK.

On booth 01-245 visitors will also discover DYNAMAT, a range of acoustic and thermal control materials that address common noise and heat problems on board all manner of vessels. DYNAMAT products will help control noise from vibration, conducted noise and audio/ sound migration as well as insulate areas to help create a more enjoyable environment on-board. The unique DYNABOX speaker enclosure will be a focus for demonstrations.

The knowledgeable Celsus team will be on hand to answer technical questions alongside marine industry specialist Adrian Gray and KICKER Marine brand manager Jeremy Bale.

For further information, contact marketing@celsusgroup.net or visit Hall1 Stand 01-245.

Rockford Fosgate Introduces New PRIME R2 Amplifiers

TEMPE, AZ (11.18.2019) – Rockford Fosgate has announced the new PRIME R2 line of amplifiers that includes multiple models for system design flexibility. With MSRP ranging from $169.99 to $379.99, the R2 amplifiers will begin shipping in December 2019.

“Many of the design innovations that we’ve developed over the years, from how to deal with heat to maximizing the efficiency of the power supply, have made their way into these new R2 amplifiers,” explained Jake Braaten, Rockford Vice President of New Product Development and Engineering.

“We also included smart features like our C.L.E.A.N. technology for fast and accurate setup. Overall it’s a line that is high quality and affordable.”

The new Prime Amplifier display in the Rockford Fosgate North Hall Booth at SEMA 2019. Image from Concept470. Instagram @concept470

The R2 amplifiers are all extremely efficient because of their class D technology which reduces demand on the vehicles electrical system. They also incorporate the unique P.O.W.E.R supply which continues to generate more than rated power as the voltage increases and are equipped with auto-sense turn on for more installation options. The mono amps and 5-channel model include a variable infrasonic filter as well as a remote level control that allows for fine tuning the bass and adjustment to the desired music level.

For more information and complete specifications please use the links below.

PRIME R2 Models include:

  • R2-200X2 | 200 Watt 2-Channel Amplifier 
  • R2-300X4 | 300 Watt 4-Channel Amplifier 
  • R2-500X4 | 500 Watt 4-Channel Amplifier 
  • R2-750X5 | 750 Watt 5-Channel Amplifier 
  • R2-250X1 | 250-Watt Mono Amplifier 
  • R2-500X1 | 500-Watt Mono Amplifier 
  • R2-750X1 | 750-Watt Mono Amplifier 
  • R2-1200X1 | 1200-Watt Mono Amplifier 
  • 1 Year Warranty

Visit rockfordfosgate.com for more.

AudioControl Shined at SEMA Show

SEATLLE, WA (11.15.2019) – AudioControl has returned from a wildly successful exhibition at the 2019 SEMA show in Las Vegas. SEMA showcases the best and brightest from the automotive aftermarket, and AudioControl’s booth in the North Hall was ground zero for the finest audio products at the event. AudioControl and Mobile Solutions also hosted an after-hours training event, the fourth consecutive year that the companies have collaborated, that was filled to capacity at the Orleans Hotel.

“The facility at the Orleans worked out very well for our co-hosted event—we were able to accommodate more than 150 attendees in a classroom-style setting in addition to seating for casual conversation and networking,” stated Chris Bennett, National Sales Director – Mobile at AudioControl. Bennett opened the event by welcoming everyone to the expansive taco bar, then turned it over to National Sales Trainer Matthew Palumbo for some valuable insights on new AudioControl products before all eyes and ears were tuned to a Mobile Solutions Fabrication Demo with Bryan Schmitt, Gary Bell and Chris Pate. Nearly all of the event attendees remained long past the training and enjoyed the after-hours festivities and camaraderie until closing. “AudioControl and Mobile Solutions thank all who attended and are already planning next year’s event, so we encourage our dealers to mark their calendars—see you in 2020!”

AudioControl Showcases New 5-Channel Amplifiers
Two new 5-channel amplifiers from AudioControl both offer 125 watts X4-channels RMS at 4-Ohm (200watts RMS X4 at 2-Ohm) and 500 watts X1-channel at 2-Ohm along with eight speaker level inputs with selectable summing capability. The D-5.1300 delivers onboard DSP control of all amplified outputs and a pair of low-level outputs as well. The DSP interface is managed by the highly intuitive DM Smart App designed for all of AudioControl’s DSP amplifiers. The LC-5.1300 offers the same outstanding specs and performance without the DSP features.

OEM integration with two new Load Generating Devices (LGD)
Most new vehicles use a class D amplifier platform in their factory sound systems. These amplifiers can become unstable when they are connected to aftermarket audio equipment, causing system noise and overall compatibility issues. In order to maximize the upgrade opportunity for 12-volt retailers, AudioControl engineers created the LGD series of solutions, which seamlessly interfaces these newer OEM systems with aftermarket amplifiers. The AudioControl AC-LGD20 was designed specifically for Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati audio systems without an amplifier. The AC-LGD60 provides interface capability for these same vehicles that feature audio systems with an amplifier.

DM-RTA
The AudioControl DM-RTA is a sophisticated yet compact audio analyzer containing powerful analysis software designed to provide installers with the features of a fully functioning Oscilloscope, Voltage Meter, Real Time Audio Analyzer (RTA), SPL Meter and Polarity Checker. Because installers are often on-the-go and in cramped spaces when building a car audio system, the DM-RTA was designed to be light weight, compact and durable. Input/output options are staggering, including balanced XLR inputs, phono and RCA style unbalanced inputs as well as speaker level inputs designed to make OEM audio system interface a snap. Digital audio output options include Optical, COAX and USB. The DM-RTA is powered by a 5-hour rechargeable battery so that it can be effortlessly deployed anywhere.

Visit audiocontrol.com for more.

OPTIMA Searches for the Ultimate Aussie Street Car

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA (11.15.2019) – The OPTIMA search for Australia’s Ultimate Street Car will go down at Calder Park, Melbourne Australia on November 16 and 17.

The Aussie OPTIMA Search for the Ultimate Street Car (OSUSC) event is modeled after the American OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) which is held each year in Las Vegas. Both events aim to discover the best all around street car in terms of performance, fit and finish, engineering, and comfort.

OUSCI contestants build their cars with corner-carving semi-slick tires, forged three-piece wheels, exotic suspension, wild aerodynamics, and injected powerplants. First-gen Camaros, aero-laden Corvettes, off-tap Mitsubishi Evos, Dodge Vipers, BMW M5s, and ground-hugging pick-ups are just a few examples of the vehicles you may see at the event!

The Aussie OPTIMA Search for the Ultimate Street Car (OSUSC) competition is broken down into several disciplines including a Motorkhana, a time trial on the race circuit, drag racing, and a go-to-whoa-style competition called Speed Stop. OSUSC classes include Classic (1989 or earlier), Modern (post-1990), Fast Four (turbo and aspirated, all-wheel-drive, rotary or three-cylinder), and SUV/4×4.

Wayne Harris picture at LAX on Tuesday evening November 12th as he prepared to catch a 15 hours flight to Melbourne.

Although the focus of the event is to drive your car to its limits, there will also be a static car show and a Sound and Vision competition.

The dB Drag Racing Association (dBDRA) will be officiating the car stereo contest at the event. The dBDRA offers five different formats of competition, including dB Drag Racing, Bass Race, Psychlone, Top Dog, and Bagger Beatz! Each format is further divided into various classes based on the sound equipment installed and the extent to which vehicle modifications have been made. The dBDRA will be represented by judges from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States. The entry fee for the sound competition is $20.

While class winners get a trophy to take home, the overall winner of the Australian Ultimate Street Car competition scores a trip to Las Vegas OUSCI event and SEMA.

Let’s get ready for Australia’s Ultimate Street Car, at Calder Park, Melbourne, on November 16 and 17. Visit driveusca.com/optima-au/ for more information.

Visit dbdragracing.com for more information on the car stereo competition.

Ricky Smith’s Audio Tent Sale & Cruise In

LAFAYETTE, LA (11.14.2019) – The second annual Tent Sale and Cruise In drew cars, Jeeps, trucks and a Sling Shot to the Ricky Smith’s Audio parking lot on Saturday, November 9th.

Event signage grabbed attention from the busy Johnson Street thoroughfare.

“The weather was perfect. The deals we had in place were smoking. We had quite a selection of vehicles in the lot of the shopping center. A really unique older Ford pickup, Charger, Mustang and a Sling Shot were attention getters. The Sling Shot highlighted a recent installation we did with 4 speakers, amp and head unit. All could hear the Sling Shot across the parking lot” Alan Benit stated.

This unique highly customized pickup is thought to be a Ford.

The large custom Ricky Smith’s Audio tent attracted attention from the busy Johnson Drive in front of the shopping center.

This SlingShot, that had a recent extensive audio upgrade at Ricky Smith’s, rocked with its owner.

Ricky Smith’s Audio is a MESA member and utilized their ever growing email database to deliver information about the promotion. Benit offered “It was very good to see people come into the store with our Tent Sale and Cruise In promo on their phones. We sold a number of the bass packages we featured on the email.”

While the event was successful, the Alabama-LSU game that started at 2:30 on Saturday afternoon definitely slowed activity at the event.

For more see @rickysmithsaudio on Instagram.

Fortin Releases New EVO 4 SERIES RF Solutions

MONTREAL, QUEBEC (11.14.2019) – Fortin has introduced its new EVO 4 SERIES RF solutions. EVO 4 SERIES lineup includes 3 1-way or 2-way FM 433 MHz RF kits, all supplied with two controllers, a Fortin FMH Antenna and an antenna cable.

The RFK411 RF kit includes two RM411 1-button 1-way remotes that cover 2,000 feet (600 meters). The RFK441 RF kit includes two RM411 4-button 1-way remotes that cover 2,800 feet (850 meters). Finally, the RFK442 RF kit includes two 4-button 2-way remotes that cover 3,000 feet (915 meters).

Fortin Electronic Systems is a world-leading developer and manufacturer of integrated consumer solutions for vehicle control and connectivity.

Visit www.fortin.ca to discover more remote starter, immobilizer bypass and security system solutions or contact us at sales@fortin.ca to receive additional information about our products and solutions.

Rockford Fosgate Introduces New Audio Kits For Harley-Davidson Road King Motorcycles

TEMPE, AZ (11.13.2019) – Road King riders can now experience great Rockford Fosgate audio out on the open road.

Rockford Fosgate the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is proud to announce its new line of audio kits purpose built for Harley-Davidson Road King motorcycles. With an MSRP of $1199.99, the Road King kits are expected to begin shipping by year end.

“Both the 2014+ and 1998 – 2013 kits are designed to deliver an exceptional sound experience while retaining as much interior bag space as possible,” explained Greg Cobbs, Rockford Motorcycle Sales Manager. “The amplifier mounts to a custom plate inside the rear of the bag and powers 6 by 9 speakers installed into the top of the bag lids. Then the rider simply connects their smartphone via the included Bluetooth module and they’re ready to ride.”

The 6×9 inch bag lid speakers install seamlessly into the top of the factory bag lids using the included cutting template, waterproof bag lid mounts, and speaker grilles. They are then connected to the 400-watt amplifier and Bluetooth receiver via a plug and play wiring harness.

The entire system is Element Ready to withstand rain, dirt, and dust in the riding environment. The speakers are also highly efficient and tuned to overcome wind, exhaust and road noise.

Additional features and specifications for the HD14RK-Stage2 and HD9813RK-Stage2 include:

  • Element Ready Power Series 400-watt 4 channel amplifier
  • Element Ready Motorcycle Specific Power Series 6×9 inch Speaker (pair)
  • Amplifier installation kit with mounting brackets, speaker grilles, and wiring harness with Bluetooth receiver
  • Easy One Button Pairing
  • Compatible with Android 5.0 and Above, iOS 8.0 and Above
  • FCC, IC, RCM, CE Certified
  • 2 Year Warranty

Visit rockfordfosgate.com for more.

DEI Introduces Jeep Gladiator (JT) Headliner / Side Window Kit

AVON LAKE, OH (11.12.2019) – The Jeep Gladiator open air pickup is one of the most exciting vehicles to be introduced by Jeep in years, and now DEI, the leader in automotive heat and sound control, is hot on the trail by introducing a JT headliner kit to improve interior comfort and sound quality. Designed with a dual purpose of sound deadening and insulation, the headliner kit greatly reduces distracting road noise while insulating the interior from extreme heat or cold. Rides on or off the trail are much more enjoyable and the final product is a professional look that will add to resale value.

Made from marine grade foam that resists mold and mildew, the seven-piece Jeep headliner is custom cut and CNC machined for a perfect OE fit. Installation is easy.

Simply peel, position in place and stick-on for a secure fit. DEI’s Gladiator kit is available now in two finish options – Original or Leather Look. Original finish is available in three attractive colors: black, gray and white. Leather Look is available in black or gray.

Original Look Leather Look

050183 Black 050186 Gray

050184 Gray 050187 Black

050185 White

Visit DesignEngineering.com for more.

JBL Takes the LINK Series on the Road with JBL LINK Drive

(11.12.2019) – JBL welcomes the latest addition to its LINK series with Drive, a device optimized with the Google Assistant, engineered specifically for automobiles. The JBL LINK Drive brings the Google Assistant on Android or Apple smartphones into the car for a seamless experience, allowing drivers to easily stay connected, get directions, and find information on-the-go with just their voice. 

Click here to view a PDF with product details.

Whether accessing music or asking the Google Assistant to locate the nearest gas station or restaurant, the JBL LINK Drive solution makes it easy for drivers to operate voice assistant controls, while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. With a simple “Hey Google” voice command, motorist can ask for directions, traffic conditions, weather, or calendar updates without needing to interact with or unlock their phones. 

The JBL LINK Drive device is outfitted with dual noise cancelling microphones to mitigate road, wind, engine and general driving sounds that may interfere with voice commands on a standard phone. It’s also programmed with Radio Barging technology, allowing drivers to listen to the radio as desired but will quiet when it detects a voice command with “Hey Google.”  Once the request is finalized, content from the radio will resume. This feature also works with incoming phone calls, allowing automobilists to have a safe, hands-free conversation without noise inference.

“Market research shows there is a low engagement rate of motorists using voice activation technology in cars. We’re finding drivers often experience poor performance with their smartphones due to all the noises inside their vehicle and on the road,” said Jeffery Fay, Vice President and General Manager Car Audio Services, Harman. “The JBL LINK Drive addresses these sound interruptions through innovative noise cancelling technology, providing a convenient, smarter, and improved user experience. Whether it’s reading texts aloud, playing music or finding an alternate route, it’s more convenient to let the Google Assistant handle the task at hand, especially when driving.”

To set-up the JBL LINK Drive, drivers simply plug the device into a 12V socket (cigarette lighter) or auxiliary outlet and pair their Android or iOS smartphone to the Google Assistant App via Bluetooth. For vehicles equipped with built-in Bluetooth, the JBL LINK Drive will sync with both the smartphone in use and the car stereo system. For cars without Bluetooth, drivers can set up the LINK Drive through the auxiliary outlet to connect with the car’s existing speakers.

JBL LINK Drive Features:

  • Multi-Function Key
    • Short press – push-to-talk redundancy
    • Long press to mute microphone
  • 2.1 Amp USB charging
  • Auto pairing through the Google Assistant app
  • Auto re-connect
  • Multi-phone memory
  • Bluetooth 4.2

Pricing and Availability

JBL LINK Drive will be available on JBL.com and select retailers starting Spring 2019 for $59.95. 

The Install Bay Introduced 12 New Vehicle Cameras and More at SEMA

HOLLY HILL, FL (11.12.2019) – Metra Electronics introduced twelve new automotive cameras and a universal mirror monitor from The Install Bay at the 2019 SEMA Show. As more drivers see the value in upgrading their vehicles to reduce blind spots and prevent collisions, installers have an opportunity to provide quality aftermarket solutions at an affordable cost with this new value series from The Install Bay.

This affordable product line features ten universal automotive cameras and two commercial vehicle cameras with active or selectable parking lines. Active parking lines offer dynamic guidelines, lines that move according to the direction the vehicle is reversing. Those with the selectable parking line option allow the installer to turn the parking lines on or off by cutting a wired loop if the customer does not desire parking lines. Five of the cameras also have a selectable mirrored or non-mirrored image option that allows the installer to choose the customer’s desired image with a different colored loop and allows the cameras to be mounted on either the front or rear of the vehicle. These solutions are in stock now and shipping.

Universal Vehicle Cameras
The Install Bay has two new, universal surface mount cameras, the Surface Mount Camera (CC001) and the Surface Mount Camera with LEDs (CC003). The CC001 comes with the selectable mirrored/non-mirrored image option and a 170-degree viewing angle. The CC003 has four LEDs that light up when powered and a 150-degree viewing angle.

Two new angled cameras, the Angled Push-In Camera (CC002) and the Angled Bolt-In Camera (Angled Bolt-In Camera), both have selectable parking lines and a 170-degree viewing angle. The Angled Push-In Camera also offers the selectable mirrored/non-mirrored image option.

For the driver who wishes to have a camera installed on the license plate, The Install Bay has three new License Plate Cameras. The IR Plate Camera (CC005) has eight infrared lights for night vision, selectable parking lines and a 160-degree viewing angle. The License Plate Active Line Camera (CC004) comes with both the active and selectable parking line options, four LED lights that light up when powered and a 160-degree viewing angle. The License Plate Camera (CC007) has the selectable mirrored/non-mirrored image option, selectable parking lines and a 170-degree viewing angle.

The three final universal cameras showcased are the Bullet Camera (CC008), the Adjustable Side Camera (CC010) and the Thru-Hole Camera (CC009), all of which come with the selectable parking lines option. The Bullet Camera and the Adjustable Side Camera also offer selectable mirrored/non-mirrored image option and a 160-degree viewing angle. The Thru-Hole Camera offers infrared lights for night vision and a 150-degree viewing angle.

Universal Mirror Monitor
For an affordable replacement rearview mirror monitor upgrade, The Install Bay is introducing the Universal 4.3” Mirror Monitor (CCM01). With two camera inputs and signal sensing, this 4.3” LCD display mirror monitor can be mounted on any vehicle with its universal mount brackets, complete with screws and the harness. It features an integrated 4.3” display within the mirror monitor. (Cameras are sold separately)

Commercial Vehicle Cameras
For commercial vehicles demanding a heavy-duty solution, The Install Bay is offering two cameras in black or white housing options. These solutions are ideal for larger commercial vehicles or equipment, including tractor-trailers, and include a 32-feet/10-meter harness. The white camera can also blend in on boats if desired for marine applications. Both cameras come with IR lights for night vision, selectable parking lines, a 160-degree viewing angle, a 32-feet/10-meter harness, power adapter harness, hardware and a user manual.

The Install Bay offers a convenient “one-stop-shop” for installation professionals to order everything they need from one place at an affordable price. In addition to automotive cameras, several new installation products will also be on display with Metra Electronics at the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 5th – 8th at booth 11639 in the North Hall. Powersports, Jeep, truck and off-road accessories will be on display at booth 37017 in the South Hall Upper Level at SEMA. New products can also be seen in Metra’s 2019 catalog, available at MetraOnline.com on the opening day of the show.

Product Numbers and Titles:
CC001 – Surface Mount Camera
CC002 – Angled Push-In Camera
CC003 – Surface Mount Camera with LEDs
CC004 – License Plate Active Line Camera
CC005 – IR Plate Camera
CC006 – Angled Bolt-In Camera
CC007 – License Plate Camera
CC008 – Bullet Camera
CC009 – Thru-Hole Camera
CC010 – Adjustable Side Camera
CC011 – Commercial Black Camera
CC012 – Commercial White Camera
CCM01 – 4.3” Universal Mirror Monitor

Visit metraonline.com for more.