The Industry's #1 Resource




Rosa Sophia

August 7, 2019 -- Crux Interfacing Solutions has released a new line of Integration products made for adding Android Auto & Wireless CarPlay in Factory-installed infotainment systems. The current product releases are for Audi and BMW vehicles which are to be followed by Mercedes-Benz in early September. These new solutions are an ideal add-on for vehicles in which factory radios are either difficult to replace or are customarily not being replaced due to varying reasons.

Crux will be exhibiting at Knowledgefest in Dallas, August 9 -11.

August 7, 2019 -- Davie, Fla. - SounDigital USA (www.SounDigitalUSA), worldwide producer and innovator of high performance audio amplifiers, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Ventura as National Sales Manager for SounDigital and Ground Zero (www.Ground-Zero-Audio.com) for the US and Canadian market.  With over 20 years of experience navigating the world of 12-volt electronics, he spent a portion of that time in retail before moving to the rep side of the business. For the last eight years he was working as a Division Manager for a large manufacturer in the 12-volt category.

“I believe he will be a great asset for us, and will be working closely with our rep community to grow the US market and strengthen our current partnerships,” said Diogo Iancaconi CEO of SounDigital USA.

“This is a very exciting time for SounDigital and Ground Zero,” said Ventura. “SounDigital is recognized as a high quality provider of amps and speakers. They have established their market organically in the US Market and I am excited to be a part of this next phase of growth.”

Always innovating and searching for new technologies, SounDigital has earned its share of the market in a small period of time and has become well-known to demanding professionals of this segment. The brand’s products can be found in over 40 countries around the globe. Innovation is part of SounDigital’s DNA. The continuous search for new technologies, the creation of products with high power and quality, are additive factors for the company’s growth.

SounDigital and Ground Zero will be on display at KnowledgeFest in Dallas. They also will be hosting training. SounDigital on Saturday the 10th at 4:45 and Ground Zero on Sunday the 11th at 3:30.

Mike Ventura can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Dallas, Texas and Miramar, Florida, August 7, 2019 – JL Audio, an innovator in high-end audio solutions, today announced it will be attending the KnowledgeFest 2019 event in Dallas, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) and its mission to inform, educate and empower retailers.  

Returning as a Diamond Partner for 2019, JL Audio will have a 400 square-foot booth at the Dallas event, where it will be previewing and training the industry on upcoming marine-specific products, as well as showcasing its current marine audio solutions, including the:
  • M3 series: high-performance marine loudspeakers, subwoofers and tower speakers with optional RGB illumination;
  • M6 series: premium, high-performance marine loudspeakers, subwoofers, and tower speakers with Transflective RGB illumination;
  • And, MediaMaster source units.

“Marine is a hot market segment that offers a lot of exciting growth opportunities for retailers and dealers. But, selling and installing marine products requires retailers and dealers to have a thorough understanding of how vehicles and vessels differ acoustically,” said Bryatt Fischer, Director of Marketing for JL Audio. “KnowledgeFest events provide us with an exciting opportunity to showcase our latest marine-specific products, as well as offer attendees an advanced look and hands-on sales and installation training for upcoming products.”

In addition to its exciting marine product line, JL Audio will also showcase its powerful VXi series of compact DSP automotive amplifiers designed to give installers unprecedented tuning power and flexibility.

The company will be hosting multiple training sessions at KnowledgeFest Dallas designed to empower attendees with advanced knowledge on designing and configuring automotive and marine audio systems to achieve maximum audio performance.

Sessions include:
 
Class
Day/Time/Location
Session Description
JL Audio - Marine S.O.S.; Because a Vessel is Different from a Vehicle
Fri., August 9, 2019
3:00 to 4:00pm
Meeting Room: C146
Repeated
Sun., August 11, 2019
3:30 to 4:30pm
Meeting Room: C155
The training team at JL Audio has developed a variation of their renowned School of Sound specific to marine audio. Steve Turrisi, Kevin Ferry and Rob Haynes will ensure you are prepared for the boating season with a refresher on the basics and provide insight to advanced system design, along with amplifier set up for marine audio applications.
DSP the Forgotten Course; ‘Time’ the Four-Letter Word that Should Not be Profane
Part A:
Sat., August 10, 2019
4:45 to 5:45pm
Meeting Room: C146
Part B:
Sat., August 10, 2019
6:00 to 7:00pm
Meeting Room: C146
Typically, when DSP system tuning is discussed only two of the three pillars are mentioned; Level and Frequency response.  Leaving ‘Time’ only briefly touched on, because time is difficult to measure and analyze. Steve Turrisi, Kevin Ferry and Rob Haynes will discuss how ‘Time’ plays a factor in the system tuning of a vehicle and the tools to use to address the effects it introduces.
 

In addition to the sessions above, JL Audio will also host its annual “School of Sound” series, where Steve Turrisi, Kevin Ferry and Rob Haynes educate the audience on the fundamentals of making good system design choices and how having an understanding of the basics will help retailers grow their businesses and boost customer loyalty. Part one takes place on Friday, August 9, 2019 at 11:00am in meeting room C146, and part two takes place during the Night School sessions, at 8:15pm in meeting room C146.

For more information about JL Audio, please visitwww.jlaudio.com, or follow onFacebook,TwitterandInstagram. Guided by a philosophy that great audio has real value, JL Audio develops innovative products that improve the audio experience on the go, in the home and in the studio. Committed to unique engineering and quality manufacturing, JL Audio operates three U.S. engineering facilities, and builds many of its home, car and marine loudspeaker products at the company's Miramar, Florida, USA factory, with components sourced from the company's global supply network. For more information, visit jlaudio.com or follow the company on Facebook or Twitter.

STILLWATER, USA – Adding to a long line of installation innovations, KICKER® announces the availability of the KISLOC2 Stereo Line Output Converter, now available at Authorized KICKER Dealers both in-store and online. In addition to standard LOC traits, KISLOC2 features a remote turn-on wire so installers don’t have to search for a switched 12-volt power source.

In addition, unlike traditional LOCs, the KICKER KISLOC2 was designed without inductors to deliver a completely flat frequency response, regardless of volume level or music type.

Along with touting superior sonic accuracy, the innovative KICKER KISLOC2 uses the radio’s DC offset to convert the incoming high-level signal into both an RCA signal and a powerful 100-milliamp, 12-volt remote wire, supplying enough remote power to turn on multiple amplifiers with this single connection. KISLOC2 also includes a signal-sensing LED for turn-on verification.

For more information, consumers can log onto www.kicker.com/KISLOC2.

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, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Hands-On Demonstration of Latest Technologies and Technical and Sales Trainings

VISTA, Calif. (August 1, 2019) – Directed announced today its training schedule for KnowledgeFest Dallas, continuing its relationship with the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) as Platinum Partners.

“We love exhibiting and training at the KnowledgeFest series of shows,” said Directed CEO Bob Struble. “Our participation in these events helps build our strong relationship with our dealer and installer partners and highlights Directed’s industry leadership in product innovation and support.”

Directed will be at the Dallas Convention Center from August 9th through 11th. Attendees can experience Directed’s industry leading innovation in Booth 515. They will see the latest DS4 technologies including the industry’s only wireless siren, SmartStart Pro, the industry’s fastest Connected Car solution, and Viper Powersports Security and GPS products. Attendees can also learn about the new revenue opportunities available from Directed’s Ignition Interlock business, Alcohol Detection Systems.

Last year’s “Race the CEO Challenge” was such a success Directed is repeating it and will be rewarding folks who beat Bob’s install time with an “I Beat Bob” t-shirt. The person with the fastest time will win a Denon / Definitive Technology sound system. Directed’s Race the CEO challenge will be available during all show floor hours.

During technical trainings, Directed Product Specialist Representatives Bryan Nelson and Colby Pitman will coach up attendees on the latest technical updates in Directed’s evolving product line. Show attendees can choose from four different timeslots, so there’s no reason to not attend.

Technical training sessions for KnowledgeFest Dallas are scheduled as following:

  • Friday, August 9th from 3-4PM in Room C149
  • Saturday, August 10th from 4:45-5:45PM in Room C143
  • Saturday, August 10th from 6-7PM in Room C143
  • Sunday, August 11th from 4:45-5:45PM in Room C154

Directed will also host a sales training led by Regional Sales Director for Western US, Tim Page. He’ll guide attendees through the best practices of selling Directed products. Your sales team will not want to miss it. The sales training takes place Sunday, August 11th from 3:30-4:30PM in Room C154.

All technical and sales training attendees will receive a gift bag full of Directed swag and Directed will also give away Bluetooth speakers during trainings.

To show appreciation for visiting its booth, Directed will be raffling off some great prizes. Come by the booth for more information.

Not a Directed Dealer? Please visit www.directed.com/contact/ or call 1-800-876-0800 to become a Directed Dealer today!

Directed is a world leader in automotive electronics, the largest North American designer and marketer of consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems, and a pioneer in the connected car space. Its products connect more consumers to their vehicles than anyone else on the planet. Directed markets its broad portfolio (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart®, AstroStart®, Alcohol Detection Systems® and other brands) through leading national retailers and specialty chains. For more information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Las Vegas, Nev., August 5, 2019 – Eton Car Audio, the world-famous German loudspeaker manufacturer, has announced it will be debut its new ‘Upgrade’ series of components, coaxial systems and neodymium woofers, at the Dallas KnowledgeFest this weekend.

Founded in 1993, Eton gmbh, is recognized as the premier loudspeaker manufacturer  in Germany and is celebrated their 35th Anniversary by entering the N. America market. Over the past few decades, the company has developed a formidable reputation for advanced technology and precision engineering and has become the premier OEM speaker supplier for both automotive manufacturers, as well as numerous prestigious European and US brands, including the original, Diamond Hex series of components.

The new systems join their existing ‘Upgrade’ series of “Plug and Play” systems, which are specifically designed for 2004 and up BMW / Mini and VW platforms. The new UG systems include five (5) models, one 4-inch 2-way component system, with 25 mm silk dome tweeter, dedicated front and rear coaxial systems, as well as center-channel coax, plus matched pairs of 195mm (8-inch) Neo motor woofers, specifically designed to replace the factory “FrontBass” foot-well woofer enclosures. 

All the drivers use compact, exotic, neo-motors and fit most popular C, E, G and S-Class platforms. As with all Eton speakers, these new systems are precision designed, developed and manufactured at their state-of-the-art factory in Neu Ulm Germany.  Initial delivery of the new models are scheduled for Q4. 

The line is now in stock and shipping from three (3) regional warehouses, to provide Retailers ‘JIT’ delivery to all major US markets.

Retailers who are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity are invited to call AMG at (702) 829 - 4155, or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., to schedule a meeting during the show.

Additional info will be forthcoming regarding delivery dates.

Contact:  Matt Overpeck, AMG This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Las Vegas, Nev., July 30, 2019 – Audiomobile has announced that it has recently added a second, Eastern regional distribution warehouse, in Nashville TN. The new location complements the existing one in New Jersey.  Both of these operations are strategically located, to provide 1-2-day delivery to 90% of the Continental US.

Audiomobile is uniquely positioned to provide the upscale, 12 Volt Specialty retailer segment with truly exceptional, high-performance, reduced form factor, relevant solutions. These truly unique products offer retailers protection from the ever increasing Internet pricing-pressures, who are seeking high-quality brands focused  on delivering the rare combination of relevant solutions, combined with strong value  and superb reliability, at competitive price-points.

Audiomobile will also return to Knowledgefest in Dallas, and debut several new models, including their first high-power “Exact” series of subwoofers, as well as additional models of their unique “SoloPass” line of prefab, low-profile, enclosures, which have been specifically engineered to work with their formidable subwoofers, as well as designed and optimized to work with their unique, proprietary, pre-tuned, “MCAR” (Modular Coupled Acoustic Radiator) transducers.  

Invitation information and details can be found at www.Facebook.com/Audiomobileusa. Retailers who are interested in learning more about this opportunity are welcome to call Audiomobile at (310) 941-2171, or to contact the company at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,  to schedule a meeting during the show. 

Contact: Matthew Overpeck, VP of Sales and Marketing
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  (310) 941 - 2171

Special listening event to showcase Grand Utopia EM EVO and Spectral 40th speakers

CAMARILLO, CALIF., August 6, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – Orca Design and Manufacturing, exclusive U.S. distributor of French-made Focal car audio products, is partnering with Focal’s home products distributor to create a special listening event at the upcoming KnowledgeFest learning and networking event in Dallas. The duo will present attendees with the opportunity to hear what audiophile writers are calling an industry benchmark: the Grand Utopia EM EVO floor-standing speakers. The listening event, comprising several sessions over the show’s three days (August 9-11), will also include Spectral 40th, a pair of floor-standing speakers that were crafted in celebration of Focal’s 40th anniversary.

Both sets of speakers will be powered by amplifiers and source units from Naim Audio, which has specialized in building audiophile products since 1973. Spectral 40th will be paired with a selection from Naim’s Uniti line, while Grand Utopia will benefit from Naim’s flagship Statement preamplifier and amplifier set, ND 555 network player and NAPS555-DR power supply.

“Our goal in bringing these speakers to KnowledgeFest is threefold,” said Nalaka Adikari, director of sales for Orca. “First, we want to create a memorable experience for attendees by providing the same listening session we present to select retailers on our Focal factory tours. Second, we want retailers to really understand Focal DNA and see how it is shared between the home and car product. And finally, we know that many retailers have affluent customers on the car side, and this may open an opportunity to satisfy those customers in their homes by offering Focal home products.”

If the Grand Utopia listening session is the main event, Focal’s high-end headphone line is the opening act. KnowledgeFest attendees will be able to hear the complete selection of headphones, from the $4,000 Utopia to the $299 Listen headphones.

The listening event is open only to registered KnowledgeFest attendees and will take place in Room C150 at the Dallas Convention Center during exhibit floor hours. Attendees must reserve seats for the 30-minute listening sessions, which take place at the top of each hour. However, the room is open to all attendees in between sessions, when visitors can listen to headphones and ask questions about the audiophile systems. Attendees can reserve online at https://mea-events.as.me/orcalistening.

For more information on KnowledgeFest, visit knowledgefest.org. For information on Orca products and represented brands, visit orca-design.com.

Based in Southern California for more than 30 years, Orca is a multi-faceted supplier of premium audio brands and components. Orca is the sole U.S. importer and distributor for Focal mobile audio and Gladen-Mosconi. With in-house design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities, Orca also produces quality products including Blackhole damping materials, Raven pure ribbon tweeters for pro audio applications, and Illusion Audio reference car speakers and subwoofers. For more information, visit our website at orcadesign.com.

Now Shipping, the High Power Marinized UTV4B is Designed to be Used Where a Soundbar Fits in Nearly Any ATV/UTV/SXS Application

OXNARD, Calif., Aug. 5, 2019 – BOSS Audio Systems (www.bossaudio.com), a leader and innovator in 12 Volt aftermarket audio and video products, is proud to announce the latest addition to its powersports line: the UTV4B Bluetooth® amplified all-terrain sound system. With an MSRP of $149.95, the UTV4B is now shipping.

“Our new UTV4B Bluetooth® amplified all-terrain marinized sound system features four-inch marine speakers and a built-in high power Class D amplifier, designed to be used where a soundbar fits in nearly any ATV/UTV/SXS application,” said Doug Kern, VP of Sales & Marketing. “It has true plug-and-play performance which is compact in size, but not in sound. Compatible with the audio output of iPod®/iPhone®, Smartphones, and MP3 Players, users can also stream their favorite music apps via the unit’s Bluetooth capability.”

Additional features of the UTV4B Bluetooth® amplified all-terrain sound system include:

  • Easy pairing with auto re-connect
  • Polypropylene cone
  • High performance one-inch tweeters
  • Aux-In
  • Includes (4) heavy duty straps with Velcro® for any mounting position
  • Dimensions: L x W x H: 23.5in. x 7.5in. x 5in. (597 x 191 x 127 mm)

For more information, please visit www.bossaudio.com.

Since 1987 BOSS has produced quality audio and video products that feature the latest technology while consistently delivering a clean and powerful sound.  Our in-house acoustic, design, mechanical, and electronics engineers collaborate with a vast resources of global manufacturing partners, working as a team to infuse products with state-of-the-art features that have made each listening experience more enjoyable for over 30 years.

The company offers more than 400 car, marine, and Power Sports products that are sold in 130 countries, both in storefront retailers and online. Headquartered in Oxnard, CA, with offices in Shenzhen, China, BOSS leverages robust logistical and production capabilities to create optimized audio and video experiences as well as deliver innovative products. 

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Control Center Ensures a Great DS4 Experience Whether the Customer Purchases an RF Kit or Not

VISTA, Calif. (August 5, 2019) – Directed today announced it is now shipping a new D2D Control Center for DS4/DS4+ systems – the 8620D – which will enable faster and more efficient installation of DS4 and DS4+ systems when used without a Directed RF kit.

The 8620D is a plug and play control center that connects to the DS4/DS4+ via one of the D2D 2.0 ports on the module, and includes a programming button and features the same LED flashing style as the new XDR control center.

“With the 8620D, we are responding to feedback from our valued installer partners. Before its release, technicians were required to hardwire an LED and valet switch into the DS4 if they weren’t using one of our RF kits,” said James Turner, SVP Core Product Planning. “With the 8620D, it’s easier for install techs to use the Directlink mobile app for programming. Plus, vehicle owners will love the fact that they can easily add their system to the SmartStart mobile app for convenient Bluetooth® control.”

The 8620D replaces the current wired LED/Valet switch in existing DS4/DS4+ systems and will be available as a separate part number for existing systems.

“The 8620D simplifies the DS4/DS4+ install for expediters who are selling 3x Start and still need to access control menus and BLE pairing on the DS4 and the DS4+,” according to Turner. “Because the 8620D connects to the DS4/DS4+ via an included D2D RF cable, adding an RF kit will be even easier if the customer decides to upgrade later on.”

To learn more about DS4 technologies, go to www.directed.com/ds4.

Not a Directed Dealer? Please visit www.directed.com/contact/ or call 1-800-876-0800 to become a Directed Dealer today!

Directed is a world leader in automotive electronics, the largest North American designer and marketer of consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems, and a pioneer in the connected car space. Its products connect more consumers to their vehicles than anyone else on the planet. Directed markets its broad portfolio (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart®, AstroStart®, Alcohol Detection Systems® and other brands) through leading national retailers and specialty chains. For more information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

August 1, 2019 -- Coral Springs, Fla. and St. Petersburg, Russia -- NAV-TV Corp® has partnered with Author Alarm, a leading developer of CAN based vehicle security, convenience and comfort products, to provide exclusive distribution and support for Author Alarm products in the USA. The Companies will be debuting the entire Author Alarm lineup this month during the Dallas, Texas KnowledgeFest event in booths 443 and 843.

Author Alarm products are vehicle agnostic and are flashed with vehicle-specific software upon installation. This allows the authorized dealer to stock less inventory, yet cover a wide range of vehicles at the same time. 

Author Alarm products include:
IGLA 200, 231 and PRO:
The IGLA is a tiny immobilizer device that defeats engine start and other vehicle features using CAN bus technology. The optional anti-hijack feature is included and can be engaged at the time of installation. Deactivation is achieved using a user programmable PIN-code that is entered using the vehicles factory buttons, a free smart phone application or key fob (231 and PRO come with the key fob for disarming the device). The IGLA PRO includes the TOR digital solid-state water proof relay for additional mechanical theft protection.    

OBD Block:

OBD BLOCK is designed to protect the OBD-II diagnostic connector from unauthorized access, additional key programming or digitally disarming the factory vehicle alarm and immobilizer system. Deactivation is achieved using a user programmable PIN-code that is entered using the vehicles factory buttons.

KEYLESS BLOCK:

KEYLESS BLOCK disables the factory passive keyless entry system if there is no key fob or smartphone next to the car. When a key fob or smart phone is within 30 feet the car, the regular Keyless system is activated and keyless access for the owner is restored.

COMFORT:

The COMFORT system uses the vehicle CAN bus to automatically close the car windows, closes the hatch and fold the mirrors. Folding of mirrors and a hatch depends on the car and its factory features.

 “Car thefts in the United States have been rising each year since 2015, especially amongst push-to-start automobiles," said Derek Schmiedl, NAV-TV Vice President. "Modern vehicle owners have a false sense of security and believe that the factory security system is sufficient to deter theft. Unfortunately, the technology they believe will keep their car safe actually makes it incredibly easy to steal. We are excited to have the opportunity to introduce Author Alarm’s universal security and convenience products to our USA dealers and are confident that they will appreciate the ability to again be profitable in the automotive security category."

Regional combined NAV-TV and Author Alarm training sessions have been set for Texas, California, Florida and New York this month and space is limited. Please RSVP to guarantee a spot. Food and drinks will be supplied:

Dallas, Texas
August 9th, 2019 from 7:45 PM - 10:45 PM in the VIP room at the Owner's Box Bar and Grill inside the Omni Hotel in Dallas. Contact to RSVP.

Coral Springs, Florida
August 13th, 2019 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at NAV-TV 3950 NW 120th Ave, Coral Springs, FL 33065 866-477-3336 or to RSVP.

Northern California
August 13th, 2019 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Buffalo Wild Wings, 200 Montgomery St, San Ramon, CA. RSVP with Scott Baughman at Reliable Product Marketing

Los Angeles, California
August 14th, 2019 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Ivanhoe Restaurant (near Dodger's Stadium) 2500 Riverside Dr, Los Angeles, CA. RSVP to Wayne Smedile at Paragon Marketing

Orlando, Florida
August 14th from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Tint World, 2100 N Ronald Reagan Blvd, Longwood, FL 32750 RSVP to

Anaheim, California
August 15th from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at El Torito, 2020 E Ball Rd, Anaheim, CA 92806 RSVP to Wayne Smedile at Paragon Marketing

New York City, NY
August 15th from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Avenue Sound, 249 W Sunrise Hwy, Freeport, NY 11520 RSVP to

“We look forward to demonstrating Author Alarm products to dealers in the USA. The USA is critical to the success of our global expansion and we are pleased to announce NAV-TV as our exclusive USA partner. NAV-TV, like Author Alarm, has years of experience in CAN bus technology and our partnership will enable us to take an active role in quickly developing compatible software for cars not available to us in our market. As high tech theft becomes more common, we are committed to providing a viable and modern solution to combat it,” stated Author Alarm.

Author Alarm products are in stock and shipping from NAV-TV’s headquarters in Coral Springs, FL. For more information on Author Alarm, please contact us at 1-866-477-3336 (toll free USA), 1-561-955-9770 (international) or by emailing us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

This year’s top-tier professionals are moving forward by gaining and sharing knowledge to help improve the industry as a whole.

Words by Rosa Sophia

Pierce Barrett of Soundscape Car Audio in Carrollton, Texas—one of this year’s Top 12 Installers—pointed out there’s something satisfying about learning a new skill. “When you’re delivering the vehicle to the customer, and you see their excitement at the project, you’re thinking, ‘I built that,’” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling.”

For many installers, retailers and sales professionals, the passion they have for their work overlaps into their personal interests. These rising stars in the 12-volt industry share their what they’re proud of and their recent challenges, but most of all, what... [click here] to read more.

North Andover, Mass. – August 1, 2019 –InstallerNet, a nationwide provider of installation services for consumer technology in the car and home, announced today the hiring of Sean Reid as Director of Member Services. 

In this new position, Mr. Reid will be managing and maintaining the company’s network of member installation companies for current and future initiatives. In addition to working with installation partners, Reid will also be working closely with vendor partners. Reid previously served as National Sales Manager at AudioControl, Escort, and most recently Elettromedia-USA.  Reid is also no stranger to InstallerNet as he was the Pacific Northwest region Pro Team Manager for a number of years.

“I am happy to be back with the InstallerNet family in this new role.  There is so much opportunity out there and helping strengthen the network of installers for future business is something I am really looking forward to,” Reid said.

“We’re excited to have Sean on board as Director of Member Services,” said Tony Frangiosa, president of InstallerNet. “He will play a key role in the successful launch of several new business ventures we have planned. Sean’s experience in the mobile electronics industry and knowledge of InstallerNet’s business make him the perfect candidate for this new position.”

Sean will be in the InstallerNet booth at Knowledgefest™ in Dallas, Aug. 9-11. He will be available to discuss programs and initiatives with dealers and vendors and can also be reached at or 206-300-2299.

InstallerNet is an installation solutions provider for the consumer electronics industry delivering content, technology, services, and logistics to CE retailers, manufacturers and installers. The company specializes in merchandising and coordinating consumer electronics installation services through the nation’s largest network of independently owned home and mobile electronics installers. It has developed a unique approach to better merchandise services through its branded InstallCard, that allows retailers to sell professional services like a gift card. With proprietary web and call-center technologies InstallerNet can provide the complete package to meet and exceed customer expectations. Visit us at www.InstallerNet.com.

 

Hawaii independent sales representative worked with KENWOOD since 2014

LONG BEACH, CALIF., August 1, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – KENWOOD USA was greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Robert Matsumura, an independent sales representative in Hawaii and valued member of the KENWOOD family. Matsumura passed away on July 11 of a sudden heart attack at the age of 55. He is survived by his wife Coleen Matsumura, their children Carley and Cody Matsumura, and his sister Cheryl Bailey.

Robert and his wife Coleen started Paradise Marketing in Waipahu, Hawaii in 2002 to service mobile electronics retailers throughout the state. The small firm joined the KENWOOD family in 2014.

“Words cannot express our sadness at the news of his sudden passing,” said Dave Hoag, executive vice president of the KENWOOD Car Electronics sector. “Beyond representing our brand and products in his home state of Hawaii, Robert was a close friend to many of us, an excellent husband and father to his family and a caring member of his community. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.”

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

Douglasville, Georgia – August 6th, 2019 – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. & Crimestopper have relaunched its 2-Way units. Enhancements were made to the LCD controller, improving battery life and overall durability. New production controllers are etched with an Omega logo for easy identification, and available in the RS7-G5, SP-302, SP-502, & 2-WAY UPGRADE units.

All Crimestopper customers can sign up for unlimited vehicle wiring info at OmegaDealer.com, as well as have full access to Omega’s live technical support team. Omega is a core Remote Start, Security, & safety company, so Dealers will immediately enjoy the highest level of dedicated support.

Please contact your Omega or Crimestopper sales representative or email us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For information on becoming an Omega or Crimestopper Dealer in the US, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For more information on Omega’s car security, keyless entry and remote start product lines, please visit www.CarAlarm.com, www.OmegaWeblink.com and www.OmegaLinkr.com. Don’t forget to follow us at http://facebook.com/OmegaRD and @omegaresearch on instagram!

Omega Research & Development Technologies has been an innovative leader in the vehicle security industry for over 40 years. Since its founding in 1971, Omega's product line has diversified to include remote start modules and other vehicle accessory products. Omega's most recent product offerings include the exciting new technologies of telematics, wireless and databus integration.

Omega's mission, as it was over four decades ago, is to provide reliable, leading-edge security and automotive accessory products at a competitive price.

For more information contact:

Javier Leiva, North American Sales Director

Omega Research and Development Technologies, Inc.

800-554-4053 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

August 1, 2019 -- MSC America will be hosting a get together on Friday August 9th at 9:30pm in the West End Ballroom on the 5th floor of the Omni Hotel.

This event is open to all our current and future customers. Come on by and meet one of the most dynamic teams in the industry. We will have some very special guests for you to discuss their products and future plans:

  • Julian Fischer, CEO-Audiotec Fischer
  • Florian Balkenhol, Chief Engineer-Audiotec Fischer
  • Guy Bonneville, President of BLAM Audio
  • Jim and Tom De Wilde, Owners of Stinger-Speed Trap Protection
  • And your Hosts Team MSC Canada and Team MSC America
 
We will also have a unique listening experience debuting new products and technologies from Audiotec Fischer and BLAM Audio. We look forward to seeing you at our event. For more information please contact MSC-AMERICA at (480) 372-2929 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

In a Move to Enforce its Intellectual Property Rights, Oracle Lighting is Filing Design Patent Infringement Cases Against Producers of Knockoff Vector™ Grilles in China

METAIRE, LA, USA, Aug. 1, 2019 – Oracle Lighting (www.oraclelights.com), the market leader in creating high quality lighting products and innovative LED solutions for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets, has announced that it is enforcing its intellectual property rights and is filing design patent infringement cases against knockoff producers. Shortly after Oracle Lighting's Vector™ Grille was unveiled at a Las Vegas, Nev. trade show in 2017, Chinese knockoffs began appearing on the market.

The move follows months of investigations and undercover operations in China, where factories producing knockoff goods are often designed to be packed up and moved overnight, making them hard to pin down. Oracle Lighting recently filed their first case against an operation producing knockoff Vector™ Grilles and other products in Intellectual Property Division of Suzhou Intermediate People’s Court - (2019) Suzhou 05 Intellectual Property First Instance No. 580. Oracle Lighting initiated the action in the hope that it sets an example for other businesses trying to protect their intellectual property rights.

Justin Hartenstein, Director of Product Development at Oracle Lighting, emphasized that this is just the company's first step toward protecting itself against knockoffs. "We take our intellectual property rights very seriously and are willing to do whatever it takes to prevent the theft of our patented designs. If that means going to court in China or any other country, we'll be there," he said.

Designed for use on the Jeep Wrangler JL, Oracle Lighting's aftermarket Vector™ Grille has earned the company awards from the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), including a 2018 Global Media Award and a runner-up award for the SEMA Best New Exterior Accessory Product of 2019.

Celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2019, Metairie, Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today's world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

Celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2019, Metairie, Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today's world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

Located just outside New Orleans, Oracle Lighting has received accolades from numerous organizations for our business practices, including being listed on the Inc500 list of the Fastest Growing Businesses in the USA for the past eight years consecutively, winning the 2012 Bronze Stevie Award for Consumer Products Company of the Year, and most recently being named The Small Business Administration's Exporter of the Year and a Small Business Champion by the U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. In 2012, Oracle was named the Jefferson Parish Small Business of the Year by JEDCO. New Orleans CityBusiness Magazine also named ORACLE Lighting a Top Private Company in the Greater New Orleans Area in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® will display its XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle) big rig along with more than 300 of the fastest street cars in the country this weekend at the Outlaw Armageddon no-prep drag race, August 2-3 at Thunder Valley Raceway Park in Noble, Okla.

KICKER-equipped vehicles from Street Outlaws’ Ryan Martin (driver of the Fireball Camaro®) and Chris Bales of Bales Perfomance will be in the booth near the rig, along with a custom side-by-side loaded with audio gear by KICKER and SSV Works™.  The XRV itself features a rolling showroom of hands-on KICKER gear for consumers to check out.

Billed as the largest race of its kind, more than 12,000 spectators attended the event last year, with more anticipated in 2019. Total prizes approaching $100,000 are at stake in five different classes, with several members of Discovery Channel’s® Street Outlaws and Street Outlaws:  New Orleans committed to attend.

In addition to Martin, racing celebrities such as Daddy Dave, Big Chief, Murder Nova, Deathtrap, Jeff Lutz, Dominator, Farmtruck and AZN, Birdman and many more will be on hand, ready to race and sign autographs during one of the loudest shows of the year.

For race details, fans can visit www.outlawarmageddon.com.

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, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Camaro is a registered trademark of GM, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.

SSV Works is a trademark of SSV Works, Inc.

Discovery Channel, Street Outlaws, and Street Outlaws:  New Orleans are trademarks of Discovery Communications, LLC.

Holly Hill, Fla. –  August 1, 2019 – Axxess® by Metra Electronics® is now shipping a new product designed to automatically disengage the STOP/START engine feature on vehicles, featuring patent-pending and exclusive interface technology. This interface, the AX-SSO, is now available, along with vehicle-specific harnesses for select Ford vehicles. A solution for select Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles is coming soon and Axxess will be expanding the AX-SSO product line to work with additional vehicle applications.

Having the engine turn off when stopped may be bothersome to some people, especially if it causes the air conditioning or heat to turn off at a long traffic light during the summer or winter months. Now installers can offer drivers the option to override or re-engage this feature automatically, whether they have a factory or aftermarket radio installed. The vehicle type is configured through Axxess Updater PC software and a simple four-wire installation is done at the radio location.

AX-SSO - STOP/START Interface

  • Allows the override of the STOP/START engine feature
  • The factory STOP/START button can resume the STOP/START feature
  • Can be used with either a factory or aftermarket radio
  • Vehicle type configured through the Axxess Updater software program
  • Simple four-wire installation

AX-FD-SSO - Vehicle-Specific Solution for Ford

Includes AX-SSO interface and vehicle-specific harness

Designed for:

  • F-150 2015-up*
  • Focus 2016-up*
  • Fusion 2015-up*
  • Edge 2015-up*
  • Escape 2017-up*

AX-CH-SSO - Vehicle-Specific Solution for Chrysler (Coming soon)

Includes AX-SSO interface and vehicle-specific harness

Designed for:

  • Chrysler Pacifica 2017
  • Dodge Durango 2016-up*
  • Jeep Cherokee 2016-up*
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee 2015-up*

Visit AxxessInterfaces.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific applications and more information.

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 in developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make more 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™ 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 386-257-2956.

August 1, 2019 -- VAIS Technology, Englewood CO. has released new satellite radio integrated solutions specifically designed for 2020 Hyundai, Palisade, Veloster, Santa Fe and Elantra. This solution allows owners of these 2020 models to add SiriusXM® satellite radio to their existing factory stereo, without compromising functionality.

“Since 2003, VAIS Technology have been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM® tuners,” Dennis Hopper, EVP, says. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many new OEM vehicles still don’t come equipped from the factory with satellite tuners. For 2020 several more OEM’s have removed satellite tuners from their platforms. Over the last few years Hyundai, Kia, Jeep, GMC and Chevrolet have removed satellite tuners from their base model vehicles. VAIS Technology develops simple, easy to install integrated solutions that add satellite radio, but preserve factory functions.”

The new 2020 integration kits provide coverage for Most Hyundai model (GSR-HY02) vehicles. Also, all these models are compatible with the GSR-UV01 (universal unit) which can be flashed using online software. This allows dealers to only stock one unit to do almost all applications.

This adapter connects directly to the original factory radio and allows the vehicle owner to listen to satellite radio through the existing factory system. The VAIS integrated solution also allows for full control of satellite radio functions - changing stations, setting presets, steering wheel functions, etc.

To learn more about all the new 2020 units from VAIS Technology, visit http://www.vaistech.com.

The Magazine

Magazine Quick Links







Copyright - Mobile Electronics Association 2020