OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (05.13.24) – DD AUDIO is proud to introduce the VO-W700s, drivers made to satisfy an under-appreciated bandwidth between the bottom end of a midrange and the heavy lows of the subwoofer, striking a balance of clarity and power that puts them in a class of their own. With a rich pedigree tracing back to the 1990’s era of Digital Designs 9000 Series subwoofers, and a sleek undemanding profile, these woofers have been made for applications where depth is limited, but expectations are not.

The high powered dual magnet motor is focused through a precisely CnC cut magnet gap, utilizing distortion reducing shorting rings. The voice coil is a high temperature 4 layer copper wire, wound on a dual slit aluminum former for lower inductance and maximum heat transfer. The pressed cone, with weather resistant finish, offers increased rigidity and midrange ability. The dual spiders and high-density, closed cell foam rubber surround govern intense restoring force to deliver fast, hard transients while controlling low frequency flutter under high power.

These features make the VO-W700 woofers the ideal choice when the system design requires a higher crossover pointing to high output midranges, where normal subwoofer rolloff leaves a frequency gap. The bandwidth optimized build coupled with low inductance measures extend the usable frequency response octaves beyond that of traditional subwoofers of a similar design, like the old 9000 Series.

Best of all, the combination of high motor force, tight control, and compact cast frame, allow the VO-W700s to be used in small vented box designs, taking advantage of vehicle acoustic loading, allowing you to enjoy the low end punch with a higher frequency attack, from a myriad of locations in the most cramped of cabin spaces.

Available in the 10 inch VO-W710 and 12 inch VO-W712.

STILLWATER, OK (04.26.24) – Early Wednesday morning, April 24th, students from Franklin Tech School in Joplin MO boarded a bus headed to Stillwater for a tour of the Kicker HQ. 36 students, along with instructors Joe and Doug, made the 186 mile trip in about three hours. Once arriving the students gathered for a photo op outside the HQ before entering the amazing lobby and getting the tour underway with KICKER Tech Force team members Aaron Malin and Jacob Luckey.

Malin related “This is the third year that students from Franklin Tech School have travel to Stillwater for a tour of the facility. During the day the group was split into two groups as we only have space for 20 students per session. The other students enjoyed lunch while waiting for their tour.”

During the tour, the students checked out KICKER’s broad lineup of products, spent time in the tech center and also in the KICKER UnMasked Studio. They also enjoyed a listening session in the theater that provided sound quality and volume that they had never experienced before. All were definitely Livin’Loud!

Cassie Dorton, who coordinated the Franklin Tech School tour stated “It is so terrific that KICKER will provide their facility and conduct tours for our students. Not many companies will and our students enjoyed the tour so much. The experience and opportunities to really further their careers in the technology field is a terrific benefit. Our thanks to KICKER.”

Malin concluded “It is so important to engage students for their potential careers in the mobile electronics and aftermarket automotive industries. Recently, KICKER hosted a SkillsUSA Oklahoma State competition and provided winners with a tour of KICKER HQ. We will continue working with schools and the SkillsUSA initiative as we are sponsor of the 2024 SkillUSA Convention in Atlanta this June.

Visit kicker.com for more.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (04.26.24) – The PowerBass distributor sales person incentive contest cruise headed out from West Palm Beach Florida on April 21 and returned on the 23rd following a stop in the Bahamas.

“It was a fun time for all. Everyone had a blast on the fun short cruise as we all had a drink in our hand and feet in the sand” Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager, related.

Seven PowerBass Distributors were on the cruise that included flights for the distributor person and a guest. Lootens Distributing, DAS, D’Source Distributing, Davis Distributing, N&H Distributing and Bestco Distributing were on the cruise as well as Nelson Pierantoni the PowerBass Road Warrior of the Year Repfrom Florida.

The PowerBass Cruise crew members pictured having an evening dinner and enjoying a great night together. Pictured with their guest on the cruise are (LtoR) Doug Looten- Looten Disstributing, Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager, Justin Smith – DAS, Josh Burris – D Source Distributing, Nelson Pierantoni-PowerBass Road Warrior Florida rep, Bobby Jones – Davis Distributing and Van Lee-N&H Electronics. Pietro Martinez from Bestco Distributing is not pictured at the dinner.

Distributor personnel on the trip had great networking opportunities discussing the state of the 12volt industry, hot PowerBass categories along with plans to drive business going forward in 2024.

Doug Looten related “It was terrific to get together and see old friends plus meet people from other distributors across the country. Always good to know what’s working to drive business in their respective territories”

Josh Burris from D’Source stated “Getting input from other distributors with regard to hot categories for PowerBass was very informative. The OE category has not been that hot in Minnesota. Nelson really gave me some pointers to spotlight the OE Direct Fit category of speakers”.

Van Lee with N&H Electronics was another one of the distributors who indicated the real value of communicating with other distributors to deliver the message to dealers and get everyone excited about growing business across the 12volt industry.

Justin Smith from DAS commented “We had s spectacular time on the cruise. It was super to spend time with Jeff and other distributors. I will be excited to share what I learned on the cruise with my dealers and DAS colleagues. We actually extended our trip due to the kindness of PowerBass and spent additional days in Florida. My wife Tracy and I have been married for 14 years and had never taken a real vacation. PowerBass to the MOON from the bottom of my heart. THANK YOU PowerBass!”

Eric Harbour, PowerBass VP, offered “It was super to see our distributors embrace the contest and participate on the cruise. PowerBass will continue to connect with industry members in-person as Jeff will attend the upcoming PNWCEE in Seattle and I will be at the D’Source Dealer show in Minnesota next month.”

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

LONG BEACH, CA (04.26.24) – After years of dedicated service and invaluable contributions to JVC Mobile Electronics, Ron Trout’s has announced his retirement from his position as Director of Sales. Trout’s departure marks the end of an era for the company, as he leaves behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and unmatched commitment to excellence.

Trout’s journey with JVC Mobile Electronics began 14 years ago, when he joined the company, bringing over 30 years of industry experience with him at the time. Throughout his tenure, Trout played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s sales strategies, driving growth! Under Trout’s leadership, JVC experienced significant expansion and success, with the company consistently delivering cutting-edge products and solutions to consumers.

Throughout his career, Trout’s earned a reputation as a trusted advisor and mentor, both within the company and across the industry. His passion for excellence and his ability to inspire and motivate others have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him.

In a statement regarding his retirement, Trout’s expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Director of Sales at JVC Mobile Electronics. He said, “It has been an incredible journey working with such a talented team and being part of the JVC family. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident that the company will continue to thrive in the years to come.”

Trout’s retirement comes at a time of transition for JVC Mobile Electronics, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. As the company bids farewell to a visionary leader, it also looks forward to building upon the foundation that Trout’s helped establish.

The team at JVC extends its heartfelt thanks to Ron Trout’s for his years of dedicated service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions will be remembered and celebrated as the company continues its journey into the future.

As previously reported, industry veteran Steve Cote advanced to Director of Sales for JVC Mobile Electronics.

Visit www.us.jvc.com/car for more.

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL (04.19.24) – Specialty Marketing Veteran Dennis Hopper is hitting the road across Florida to inform dealers throughout the state that Specialty Marketing is on the ground to work face to face with 12volt retailers.

“The dealer meetings I had the week of April 8th were terrific. As an industry veteran of 36 years I knew many of the dealers and they were happy to see me and welcomed me into their stores. We talked about Pioneer, Diamond Audio and new brands like THINKWARE.” Hopper related.

The Specialty Jacksonville warehouse is scheduled to be open and shipping on May 1st to allow next day shipping to all of Florida and Georgia.

Hopper’s time on the road continued the week of April 15th with dealer stops. A stop at Soundcrafters in South Daytona was super as the two 12volt industry veterans caught up on the many years passed. “Paul was excited to know the warehouse in Jacksonville will be on shipping on the 1st of May. In our discussions the Diamond Audio bikes products came up and Paul not aware of some new models for Harleys. He had a very nice THINKWARE display in his showroom and is doing well with the dash cam category” Hopper added.

Concluding Hopper commented “One prominent dealer related… with Bryan Mongiovi and Dennis Hopper at the helm, I’ll support them 100%, because they have known for years exactly how to service my account.”

For more see SpecialtyMarketing.com

JASPER, IN (04.19.24) – Meyer Distributing, Inc. has announced that they have substantially acquired the assets of Frank’s Supply, a regional distributor serving the southern states of TX, OK, LA, and NM.

Meyer Distributing is a complete wholesale distributor. With 100 locations nationwide and over 3,500,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, Meyer Distributing has a huge inventory of parts to service their customers. With strategically positioned warehouse facilities, Meyer Distributing is able to provide next day delivery to most locations using Meyer Logistics direct ship.

All customer orders placed with Frank’s Supply that have not yet been shipped by Frank’s will still be fulfilled as they were placed by Meyer. These orders will transfer over to the online.meyerdistributing.com portal. While many Frank’s customers already have a Meyer login, for those that do not, account managers will be reaching out to you asap to provide this information. You can continue to call 800.392.4513 and use the same Frank’s phone number or you may also call 800.639.3787 (800.MEYERUSA).

To our vendor partners, all inventory received and posted by Frank’s and sold to Meyer will be paid directly to the vendor by Frank’s from Meyer proceeds. All inventory received by Frank’s that is in the building but has not been posted to Frank’s inventory will be paid directly by Meyer to the vendor. All open unshipped purchase orders placed by Frank’s will need to be audited by Meyer for accuracy and to have shipping addresses updated to a respective Meyer warehouse location. Purchasing agents will be reaching out to each vendor to discuss an audit of open orders placed by Frank’s and any other relevant concerns.

Customers: To Pay final Frank’s Supply A/R balances, please call 713-668-9484.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (04.19.24) – Delivering LOUD AUDIO with unparalleled detail in a smaller size, Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifiers infuse sound with PRO POWER while staying flexible enough to fit anywhere your customer’s audio install calls for.

Have your customers experience Colossus performance through even the smallest of sizes with the ALL-NEW Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifier line!

Taking audio to new thrills of Colossus performance and sound – Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifiers signify ULTIMATE POWER in a smaller heat sink. Get ready for your customer’s songs to transform within deeper details and cleaner clarity, and have them obtain Colossus levels of audio performance!

The entire line of Colossus Mini models features monoblock and 4-channel amplifiers (like the PRO Series of amplifiers). Including the HCM-3000.1D Colossus Mini amplifier that creates 3000 watts of PRO POWER sound and the HCM-400.4D that makes 400 watts of clean Colossus Mini audio —
every Colossus Mini amplifier is fueled with Colossus innovation that pushes audio to the peak of performance.

Incorporating full-range Class-D chipsets (including the mono models) – all Colossus Mini amplifiers are compatible with a wide range of drivers, especially pro-style speakers. Colossus Mini amplifiers incorporate a smaller footprint design that enables them to be placed in motorcycles, UTVs, and other automotive vehicles – all while still creating Colossus sound.

Hifonics Colossus Mini sound takes audio to the Colossus level of performance. Have your customers embrace PRO SOUND and POWER with Colossus Mini AMPLIFIERS FROM THE GODS TODAY!

Learn complete Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifier line details HERE from the Hifonics website and CONTACT your Maxxsonics sales representative NOW to place your Hifonics Colossus Mini order.

Visit hifonics.com for more.

STILLWATER, OK (04.15.24) – A host of KICKER employees judged the 2024 Oklahoma State SkillsUSA Mobile Electronics contest at Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater OK on Thursday April 11. Three of KICKER’s Tech Force training team joined members of the company’s Special Projects Team, R&D, and Marketing departments to judge the effectiveness of 48 Oklahoma student competitors, each attempting to solve the challenges presented by eight independent mobile-electronics workstations. The winning competitors earned awards from the brand and qualify for the SkillsUSA Finals in Atlanta later this year.

SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America continues to have a skilled workforce, according to SkillsUSA.org. Students who excel in the program are prepared to shine in the exciting 12-volt industry.

The mobile-electronics category tests competitors’ abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile-electronics installers. In the industry, these skills have been established through the certification objectives and items created for basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association.

“We hear from retailers regularly that they cannot find qualified people to hire,” said Aaron Malin, KICKER Tech Force/Global Training Manager. “This challenge stresses various aspects of the real-world workplace. When they complete the SkillsUSA challenge, they are positioned to enter a job and immediately contribute.”

“I would like to encourage other 12-volt industry leaders and manufacturers to get involved with SkillsUSA; we need those young men and women to join us in this quickly evolving industry” Malin added.

In addition to the challenges presented at Meridian Technology Center, each competitor must take and pass the MECP Basic Certification program before competing. A professional interview and hands-on applications are all required, including the demonstration of several core 12-volt installation skill sets like taking electrical measurements, installing consumer-electronics equipment, soldering, working with relay circuits, and troubleshooting electronic circuitry.

“SkillsUSA is definitely growing,” says Tech Force trainer Jacob Luckey. “Last year we had 10 competitors; this year we had 45. It speaks to the importance of getting the right training, and then using those skills on the job. Being prepared makes all the difference, and these competitors recognize that.”

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc., are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide.

For more visit www.kicker.com.

STAMFORD, CN (04.12.24) – HARMAN International Industries, the premier connected technologies
company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets, announced today the launch of the
JBL JAM5000N and the JBL JAM3000, two brand-new head units that leverage JBL’s industryleading
technology to provide a high-value solution for audio-enthusiast boaters.

The two head units are designed for multi-element environments, able to meet the demands of
extreme conditions. Built to be accessible, the JAM5000N and the JAM3000 head units are
engineered to satisfy the performance requirements for marine audio consumers in their price
range. The design allows them to integrate seamlessly into any boat design with an elegant and
brand-specific look and feel that is capable of being mounted either in the traditional front
mounted or can be back mounted for a cleaner smooth dash finish.

Both head units boast 2.8-inch screens with easy-to-use controls and an intuitive user interface.
Robust and offering unprecedented value, both the JAM3000 and the JAM5000N support multiple
audio sources. The JAM3000 allows for use of Bluetooth and AM/FM radio, while the JAM5000N
supports even more options, including USB, WB and radio. In addition, the JAM5000N has a
sunlight viewable color TFT display, and features three zones with each zone including three
channels of right, left and subwoofer output, NMEA 2000, and an input for a rear camera which no
other radio at this price has. Both compact IP66 source units provide four channels of RMS power
output at 25Wrms.

The JAM5000N and JAM3000 are available for $399.95 and $229.95, respectively. For more
information on Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL or their full lines of marine audio products, please visit
www.harman.com, www.jbl.com or contact them at HarmanMarine@harman.com.