Holly Hill, Fla. – December 28, 2018 – Metra Electronics® has improved and expanded their T-Spec® and Raptor® car audio accessory lines, with new products launching at CES. T-Spec, which offers competition-rated audio cables, amp kits, power wire, capacitors and more, is introducing a new v16 Series to bring their top-of-the-line products to an even higher level of performance. T-Spec is also introducing new premium brass accessories for a battery terminal, fuse holder, fuse block and distribution block.  Raptor has improved its existing product line with better connectors on its Pro Series RCA audio cables and improvements to the Mid Series for right-angled interconnects that can fit into tighter spaces. Raptor is also introducing a new look for the Vice Series, better construction of the Bulk Series RCAs and more.

T-Spec v16 Series

T-Spec’s new v16 Series of premium RCA cables feature locking connectors that create solid, continuous pressure providing a secure and reliable connection with the highest quality signal transfer. The v16 RCAs are designed and engineered for Hi-Res audio performance. The gold plated copper RCA tips also have enamel painted color bands that are durable and used for identification. For ultimate sound performance, large 26-gauge oxygen-free copper core strands handle the deepest bass frequencies while the higher frequencies skim along the
silver-plated surface. This combination carries even the most demanding signals without altering or coloring, resulting in true audio reproduction.

Lesser quality cables are continuously bombarded with electrical and magnetic pollution that reduce clarity by injecting noise into the signal. T-Spec’s v16 Series construction prevents this from happening with three separate layers that have been integrated to trap, isolate and reject both transmitted and electromagnetic pollution, allowing the signal to travel noise-free. A woven cotton mesh shield protects the cable and reduces friction during installation. The v16 Series of RCA audio cables will offer 2-channel options in lengths from 1.5 feet to 17 feet along with a 17-foot 4-channel option and two Y adapters.

T-Spec v16 Series RCA Cable Specifications:

●      Gold-plated copper RCA tips with continuous locking barrel

●      Enamel painted color bands for durable identification

●      26AWG oxygen-free copper core for maximum bass

●      Silver plating for true midrange and high-frequency fidelity

●      M-jacket insulates each channel separately

●      Non-conductive cotton filler

●      Polyethylene foam insulated jacket

●      Aluminum-faced mylar foil for EMI rejection

●      85% coverage braided tinned copper for emitted noise rejection

●      PVC outer jacket for strength and flexibility

●      Woven cotton cable shield

T-Spec Premium Brass Accessories

T-Spec is introducing four new components to simplify and streamline any installation.  Maximizing functionality while maintaining the smallest profile was key with these new groundbreaking designs. The V-BATT-TML is a four position battery terminal that can accept up to (2) 1/0 AWG and (2) 4 AWG, down to (4) 10 AWG wires. It includes all markers and hardware to be used for positive or negative post. The V-ANL-H is a revolutionary fuse block capable of mounting a single ANL fuse, single MANL fuse, or even dual MANL fuses; making it the all-in-one fuse solution. For multiple amplifier systems, the V-DIST-PWR three-way fused distribution block and the V-DIST-GND 2-to-1 grounding block will ensure solid power transfer to all components with a discrete footprint. All of these components are constructed of 100% brass for optimal conductivity and nickel plated for durability and longevity.

Raptor Pro Series

Raptor, another car audio brand by Metra, has improved its existing product lines to offer an even better value. The Pro Series RCA audio cables will feature a smaller headshell that is designed to give a better grip and tighter locking connector. Raptor’s Pro Series amp kits feature these same improvements as the individual RCA cables. The Pro Series is also receiving a new clear color for power wire.

Raptor Mid Series

The standard Mid Series RCA audio cables will have right-angled connectors that fit better into shallow applications, allowing for less looping wires and a cleaner installation. The Mid Series amp kits have also been updated to use these same RCA cables.

Raptor Vice Series

The Vice Series from Raptor will have a new look, going from black and orange colors to red with a new twisted cable design. The amp kits also have higher quality fuse holders and can handle more power, with the R3AK4 kit going from 600 watts to 1,000 watts and the R3AK8 kit doubling from 300 watts to 600 watts. The Vice Series will also have two new reducers added to the product line, for 0 to 4 gauge and 4 to 8 gauge cable sizes.

Raptor Bulk Series

The Bulk Series features improved quality and construction, with individual RCA audio cables utilizing the same engineering as those found in the Builk Series amp kits.

T-Spec and Raptor’s new products will be on display with Metra Electronics at CES booth #5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. New catalogs for both brands will be available at TspecOnline.com and Raptor-Online.com on January 8, 2019.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world.  We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources into developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make more dash kits for the most vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice” ® for more than 72 years. Our other brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic®, AmmoTenna®, Metra PowerSports®, and Metra Marine®. Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to its division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®.  For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 800.221-0932.

Holly Hill, Fla. – December 13, 2019 – Metra Electronics®, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, is excited to announce an improved and expanded T-SPEC® car audio accessory line with new products launching at CES 2020. T-SPEC, which offers competition-rated audio cables, amp kits, power wire, capacitors and more, is introducing new premium brass core accessories for distribution blocks, a battery terminal and fuse holders. Fourteen new brass core components will be added to the product line, designed to simplify and streamline any installation. Maximizing functionality while maintaining the smallest profile was the focus of these new and improved designs. T-SPEC’s existing v12 Series of RCA cables has also been improved with a new braided outer jacket to provide strength and stability. T-SPEC’s products will be on display at CES with Metra Electronics and available soon.

Distribution Blocks

Seven new distribution blocks have been designed with Gate-Lock technology, which allows for a secure connection without the need for reducer rings. The new black nickel finish protects the brass core and is highly conductive for maximum current transfer. The new blocks use T20 Torx® for all screws, making them an easy one-tool installation, and feature TPE wrapped soft-touch material. The VANL, VMANL and VAGU have a 360-degree rotatable base mount for an even easier installation. These products will be available soon in different sizes.

Battery Terminal

T-SPEC is also introducing the VBTPN, an eight-position battery terminal that can accept up to (4) 4/8/10 AWG output set screws and (4) 1/0/10 AWG output ring terminals while still maintaining a small footprint. This new battery terminal can be used on the positive post or the negative post and the sleeve adaptor is included. The terminal also has the add-a-post feature, which allows you to retain your OE battery terminal by attaching it directly to the VBTPN. This product also features T20 Torx® screws, Gate-Lock technology and solid brass construction with a black nickel finish.

Fuse Holders

Completing the brass accessories are six new fuse holders. Each new fuse holder is designed with Gate-Lock technology and available in options for ANL, MANL, or AGU fuses. All new fuses have dual size gaskets and use T20 Torx® screws. All of these components are constructed of 100% brass for optimal conductivity and have the new black nickel finish for durability and longevity.

Improved T-Spec v12 Series RCA Cables

T-Spec’s v12 Series RCA cables feature high levels of noise rejection resulting from meticulous build quality and have full oxygen-free copper construction. For years, these cables have been the go-to standard for competition-rated car audio performance. Now, the improved v12 Series is upgrading the clear jacket to a braided jacket that enhances its durability as well as its aesthetics. The braided jacket adds an extra layer of protection against physical damage to the conductors.

These new and improved products will be shipping soon and can be seen on display at CES. Additional specifications and part numbers are available in the new 2020 T-SPEC catalog and T-SPEC-Online.com, which will be released on January 7, 2020. Metra Electronics will be at CES from January 7-10, 2020, at booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, showcasing their new products from their 12volt brands and at booth 11435 in the Central Hall with Metra Home Theater Group.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world. We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources into developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make dash kits for more vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice” ® for more than 72 years. Our other brands include: Axxess®, T-SPEC®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic®, AmmoTenna®, Metra PowerSports®, Saddle Tramp®, Metra Marine® and Daytona Lights™. Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to its division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®. For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 386-257-2956.

Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has added a third model to the popular Halo category. The new iLX-F411 Alpine Halo Mech-Less (no CD/DVD) Audio/Video Receiver features the same “hovering” screen platform as its predecessors while boasting a larger, 11-inch touchscreen – 49 percent more surface area than the 9-inch.

January 7, 2020 -- “The impact that the Alpine Halo9 has had in the industry cannot be understated,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The introduction of the new 11-inch display solidifies Alpine as an industry leader with the biggest display on the market.”

The iLX-F411 debuted during the 2020 International CES, taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7-10.

Customizable User Interface

The iLX-F411 has the same features as its predecessor, the iLX-F259, including a customizable user interface, with three home screens and 22 available widgets that can be customized through swipe and drag-and-drop motions. Users can personalize the background using their own photos or several pre-loaded patterns.

Through extensive industry research, the iLX-F411 includes all the features needed to command an exciting drive and is an ideal upgrade for the active weekender or everyday commuter. The increased screen size allows for safe navigation and easy control of music, text messages, and phone calls through Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™.

Features and System Expansion

The large, 11-inch screen has a WVGA display, Capacitive Touch, and Swipe Graphical User Interface (GUI) that’s optimized for in-vehicle smartphone use so drivers can access Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto with the Google Assistantfor media or navigation while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. It features built-in Bluetooth® for hands-free calling and audio streaming and is SiriusXM-Ready® (requires a SiriusXM® tuner and subscription, sold separately).

External sources can be connected via the USB port, AUX input, or HDMI input. One universal rear camera input or additional cameras can be added when used with the KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector (cameras and selector sold separately). Drivers can retain select factory features like vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles with the iDatalink® Maestro® module (sold separately).*

*iDatalink® connectivity available via software update Fall 2020

Installation Fitment

The iLX-F411 follows the same flexible installation fitment as its 9-inch predecessor with an adjustable mount and four screen angle adjustments, five screen height adjustments, and two screen depth adjustments for optimized viewing.

The 1-DIN chassis and adjustable installation options make it easy to add the iLX-F411 to a variety of applications without blocking factory buttons or features on the dash and avoiding the need for custom installation.

The iLX-F411 will ship in June for $1,200 SRI and will be for sale at Alpine Authorized retailers or online at www.alpine-usa.com through Crutchfield. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

The Halo Display Category includes:

NEW iLX-F411 HALO 11-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER

• 11-inch WVGA display with a capacitive touchscreen and swipe graphical user interface
• Floating style display with adjustable height, depth, and angle mounting bracket
• Customizable user interface (three pages with 22 available widgets)
• Customizable wallpaper (user photos)
• Works with Apple CarPlay®
• The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto™
• SiriusXM-Ready® (requires a SiriusXM® tuner and subscription, sold separately).
• Bluetooth® built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming
• 1 HDMI input and 1 HDMI output
• iDatalink® connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles*
• FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV music playback
• AVI/MP4/MPG/MOV/WMV video playback via USB
• JPG/PNG/BMP USB photo viewer
• 5-band graphic EQ
• 45W x 4 Amp
• 3 Preouts (4V)
• 6-channel time correction
• KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector Ready
• 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display

• Available in June SRI: $1,200

*iDatalink® connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles*

              *Available via software update Fall 2020

iLX-F309 HALO 9-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER

• 9-inch WVGA display with capacitive touchscreen and swipe graphical user interface
• Floating style display with adjustable height, depth and angle mounting bracket
• Works with Pandora® Music for iPhone® and Android™
• Built-in HD Radio®
• My Favorites Function
• MediaXpander® HD
• Works with Apple CarPlay®
• The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto™
• SiriusXM-Ready® (requires a SiriusXM® tuner and subscription, sold separately).
• Bluetooth® built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming
• iDatalink® connectivity for vehicle information and parking assist display on compatible vehicles
• FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/HE-AAC music playback
• AVI/MPEG4 video playback via USB
• Alpine TuneIt® App for iPhone® and Android
• Bass Engine SQ
• 9-band graphic EQ
• 50W x 4 High Power Amp
• KAC-001 Accessory Controller Ready
• KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector Ready
• 1 HDMI input
• 3 Preouts (4V)
• 6-channel time correction
• 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display
• Available now SRI: $1,200

iLX-F259 HALO 9-INCH MECH-LESS AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER

• 9-inch WVGA display with capacitive touchscreen and swipe graphical user interface
• Floating style display with adjustable height, depth and angle mounting bracket
• Customizable User Interface (three pages with 22 available widgets)
• Customizable wallpaper (user photos)
• Works with Apple CarPlay®
• The Google Assistant is available on Android Auto™
• SiriusXM-Ready® (requires a SiriusXM® tuner and subscription, sold separately).
• Bluetooth® built-in for hands-free calling and audio streaming
• FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV music playback
• AVI/MP4/MPG/MOV/WMV video playback via USB
• JPG/PNG/BMP USB photo viewer
• 5-band graphic EQ
• 45W x 4 Amp
• 3 Preouts (4V)
• 6-channel time correction
• KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector Ready
• 1 Rearview camera input with distance guide display
• Available now SRI: $800

Product information is based upon current information at the time of press but cannot be guaranteed. All designs, features, specifications and delivery dates are subject to change without notice.

CarPlay® is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google, Android, and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC. SiriusXM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. All rights reserved. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth® SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Alpine Electronics, Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.  

January 13, 2020 -- VAIS Technology, a Colorado based manufacturer of audio, video, Bluetooth streaming and SiriusXM integration announces their 2019 Distributor and Dealer awards.

2019 Distributor of the Year: Audio America, FL

2019 Canadian Distributor of the Year: Importel, ON

2019 Online Dealer of the Year: Crutchfield, VA

2019 Dealer of the Year: The Specialist, AZ

2019 Expeditor of the Year: Dealer Source, TX

EVP Dennis Hopper said, "These accounts have continued to grow with the VAIS Technology brand and have made excellent advances in 2019. For three years in a row VAIS Technology has seen strong growth, a true testament to the quality products that are sold through our dealers and distributors in North America."

Founded in 2003, VAIS Technology offers a wide variety of OEM factory radio upgrades, including SiriusXM add-on adapters, kits for adding a Bluetooth music streaming through a factory radio. VAIS Technology currently offers products for most automotive brands, including Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Honda, Harley Davidson, Jeep, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mazda, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, VW and more. All VAIS Technology products are built to OEM standards and are designed to offer seamless functionality for best user experience. VAIS Technology products come with one-year warranty and do not affect OEM warranties. Visit http://www.vaistech.com to learn more.

Please come see us at booth 18029 and see why DS18 LIKES IT LOUD!

December 31, 2019 -- On Friday, January third, 2020, DS18 will be traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada, led by CEO Sasha Susterman, Event Promoter Rob Ferro, Engineer Diego Navarro, Sales Manager Jonathan Garber, Marine Sales Consultant Luis Delgado, and Alex Cortex our e-commerce specialist. The company will be showing off all the new and forthcoming gear that DS18 will be offering for the year 2020.

DS18’s Zumba Loud will also take center stage and Diego will have his world-famous Red Mus (2015 Mustang) on the show floor room surrounded by loads of very cool DS18 gear that will be sure to have the event talking! CES 2020 will once again an amazing experience for all the DS18 team and everyone who attend this very exciting yearly event. Our strong DS18 Team (that consists of some of our most experienced staff) will be there to help the large crowd with info about all our new tech and upcoming items.

We would like to encourage our dealers and fans to drop by and hang out while we update them on all the awesome things just released and what will be to come throughout the year. The large booth will be a spectacle to behold with Diego Navarro’s Red Mus taking center stage filled with a plethora of all our newest and best-selling products.

DS18 will be showing videos, playing music at the booth, and bringing perspective to all the passersby who want to see why DS18’s motto is "We Like It Loud!" 

January 10, 2020 -- CES marks the official full release of the new Titan 8 Series Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) battery lineup designed with the most demanding enthusiasts in mind.  The unique modular design allows users from nearly any market segment to benefit from the many well thought out features it brings. With 2V, 12V, 14V, and 16V modules available in either high power or high reserve capacity configurations, this series will find itself right at home in Mobile Audio, Commercial, Leisure, Marine, Powersports, Racing and many other applications. 

The built in 2/0 bussing allows up to 4 Positive and 4 Negative hidden direct connections to each module without the need for any external exposed bussing, while still leaving two easily accessible top terminals and four series or parallel expansion terminals to easily build a bank of nearly any configuration from 12V, 14V, 16V, 24V, 28V, 36V, 48V, or any configuration imaginable. With the unique design, single 2.4V individual modules can be made for even further installation flexibility.  Each module comes packed with all the required accessories including two XS Logo cable covers, expansion bussing with rubberized insulating covers, mounting hardware, and all the terminal set screws and bolts required.

Each module comes standard with built in balancing system and can be upgraded to include Bluetooth connectivity that allows remote cell monitoring, internal temperature sensing, battery health monitoring and can be configured to send notifications to any tablet or smartphone when any user preset limit is met, including low voltage, over temp, over charge, etc.  Usage data is stored in the app to assist with trouble shooting and allows the user to enjoy an extended warranty up to 4 years. Multiple Titan 8 batteries can be monitored from one app from a single installation, or multiple different vehicle installations. 

The initial release includes the modules listed below with their voltage, power, capacity and price listed. Many more options will be available soon including BCI direct fit models that are fully insulated with temperature monitoring built in that are suitable for use in the factory under hood position.

Power Modules - Designed for Peak Power

This series uses a very high power lithium cell that is designed for very high burst output (up to 100 times its capacity) as well as very high charge current (30-60 times its capacity).  This translates to a single 10Ah module that can support burst current up to 1,000A, and can accept 300A of continuous charge current.

PWR-S5: $599.99
12V, 10Ah, 5,000W - 8,000W

PWR-S6: $699.99
14V, 10Ah, 6,000W - 9,000W

PWR-S7: $799.99
16V, 10Ah, 7,000W - 10,000W

Reserve Modules - Designed for Peak Capacity

This series uses a cell that is designed to maximize capacity and deep cycling abilities. Although it is physically the same size as the power series, it has double the amount of storage energy but only half of the instant discharge energy. This gives it double the capacity rating, but half of the wattage rating. In some installations, it may be desirable to use one or more modules from each series to get the desired wattage and capacity. In this type of installation, we recommend the PWR module be placed nearest any high amperage loads.

RSV-S5: $649.99
12V, 20Ah, 2,500W - 4,000W

RSV-S6: $769.99
14V, 20Ah, 3,000W - 4,500W

RSV-S7: $889.99
16V - 20Ah, 3,500W - 5,000W

BCI Models soon to come include 51, 51R, 47, 48, 49, 34, 34R, and 65.

All Titan 8 products are backed with a one year free replacement warranty which is extended to 4 years when purchased with the Bluetooth battery management system included.

Pre Orders will be accepted beginning January 15th with the first wave of shipments expected to ship in late February. 

Visit the Titan 8 section of the website and check out all the other new lithium options while you’re there!