MIramar, Fla. — September 2018 — JL Audio, an innovator in high-end audio solutions, has announced the appointment of Richard Vreeland as the company’s new Area Sales Director. Vreeland will work with home audio, marine, powersports and 12-volt dealers and sales rep firms located in the Central United States.

Vreeland has over 25 years of sales and marketing experience working within the consumer electronics industry where he has held sales and technical positions with Clifford, Eclipse/FujjitsuTen and Clarion. Additionally, Vreeland was co-owner of an independent manufacturers rep firm covering the TX, OK, AR, and LA markets where he developed strategic partnerships with top manufacturers and distributors. Most recently, he was with Visionality Designs that Compute, an A/V integration firm that designs custom video conferencing and audio/video solutions for commercial businesses.

Distinguished Rep Firm to Service Four-State Territory

DAVIE, FLA., September 4, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)– SounDigital USA announced that Southwest Sales and Marketing will represent its brand and product lines in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas. Southwest Sales and Marketing's principal and majority owner is Scott Ringo, a 35-year industry veteran with a strong background in product sales and distribution. The new partnership gives SounDigital a solid, trusted advocate in the territory with more than 120 years of combined industry experience among the firm’s four sales representatives.

In addition to Ringo, the four-state territory will be serviced by Southwest Vice President Tommy McClure, along with regional sales managers Bill Ivey and David Lynch.

"Unlike a lot of rep companies that carry a ton of lines, we are very selective because we want to be able to present everything to our retailers," Ringo said. "We chose SounDigital because of the popularity of the company's amplifiers among motorcycle and powersports retailers; plus, our in-house tests show the amplifiers deliver 100 percent of their rated power at an affordable cost. It's an exciting line and we are excited to represent it.”

Southwest takes on the line following SounDigital’s strong showing at the KnowledgeFest trade show and education conference, held August 17-19 in Dallas. More than 1,000 retail professionals attended the show and had the opportunity to experience SounDigital’s three amplifier lines on the show floor as well as get detailed specs and sales strategy tips in the brand’s exclusive training session. SounDigital will attend the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, October 30-November 2, and join the next KnowledgeFest show in Long Beach, Calif., February 23-25, 2019.

“It’s our continuing goal to expand our U.S. footprint and we are doing it by working with the right partners,” said Diogo Ianaconi, CEO of SounDigital USA. “Scott has owned businesses and sold products in this industry for years, so we know he can relate to dealers’ needs. We are very happy to have him and his team on board to help grow our retail base and support our dealers.”

Southwest Sales and Marketing can be reached at (214) 212-9049, or email Scott Ringo directly atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For more information on SounDigital or to become an authorized SounDigital retailer call (786) 600-1056 or emailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Fleet, Commercial and Heavy Equipment Safety and Jobsite Solutions

Holly Hill, Fla. – August 28, 2018 – Metra Electronics®, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, introduces the Municipality Series from Heise LED Lighting Systems®designed for government, construction and emergency vehicle lighting. The universal lights were engineered for any fleet, commercial vehicle, or heavy equipment requiring powerful visual alerts.

All of the Municipal Series lights come with matched or built-in controllers for 15-plus different flash patterns and covers from full-size light bars to low-profile marker lights for permanent mounting or temporary magnetic solutions.

“The lighting colors used on emergency vehicles vary based on local, state, and national laws. Metra is now able to offer high-quality Heise LED lighting systems to the government, emergency and construction sectors to meet safety and lighting needs,” said Bill Jones, president and CEO of Metra Electronics.

The safety lights are designed for higher-voltage applications, offering a wide-range of products that work with both 12 and 24 volt systems. With a water-resistant IP65 rating, Heise’s municipality lights are durable; built to withstand all weather conditions, year after year. For those who operate at night, pair this series with the tried and true Heise Work Lights for the ultimate combination of safety and functionality.

There is an array of available solutions that can be grouped into four major categories, Light Bars, Strobe Light Kits, Marker Lights and Light Heads. To learn more about each of the product areas, visit www.HeiseLED.com.

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 70 years. Our brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic® and AmmoTenna®.  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.

Torrance, Calif. (August 28, 2018)– Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the PSS-23WRA, a new aftermarket powered sound system upgrade for the all-new 2018 4-door Jeep Wrangler.

“Jeep Wrangler owners like to accessorize their vehicles, so the PSS-23WRA is the first aftermarket sound system upgrade for those who own the all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler,” said Mike Anderson, vice president and general manager, brand business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The PSS-23WRA boosts the overall performance of the factory sound system for an increase in bass with refined music characteristics, even with the vehicle’s top off.”

The PSS-23WRA is a powered sound system upgrade for 2018 and future model years 4-door Jeep Wrangler models that do not have the optional factory Alpine premium sound system. The 300-watt system consists of the PWE-S8 powered subwoofer, KTP-445U 4-channel ultra-compact power pack amplifier, SPR-10TW 2” component tweeters and a remote bass knob.

When driving with the Wrangler’s top off, it can be difficult to achieve good bass reproduction due to the noise in the exposed cabin. The PSS-23WRA addresses this by positioning the subwoofer and amplifier under the front passenger’s seat using the included Wrangler-specific bracket. This configuration loads and disperses the lower frequency sound into the passenger’s foot well, producing maximized bass extension throughout the vehicle even when the top is off. Utilizing this location does not take away from usable storage space in the vehicle.

The PWE-S8 and KTP-445U are compact designs, which makes it possible for them to be installed under the passenger’s seat. Unlike traditional subwoofers, the PWE-S8 is a shallow format that measures just 13.5” L x 9” W x 3” D. The PWE-S8 and KTP-445U are pre-assembled for bolt-on installation with simple wire routing. Installation accessories such as tweeter adapters, a wiring harness, and a T-harness for connection to the vehicle are included. The tweeters add high frequency response for clarity and definition and fit in the factory locations on top of the dash, so no custom installation is needed.

Compatibility and Availability

The PSS-23WRA is compatible with the factory Jeep base radio and an Alpine or other aftermarket head unit. It can be purchased nowfor $1,500 SRI at authorized Alpine retailers, visitwww.alpine-usa.comfor a store locator.

In This Role, the Industry Veteran Will Manage Customer Relationships and New Business Development Via Rockford Fosgate’s National Off-Road Dealership Market

TEMPE, Ariz. – Aug. 28, 2018 – Rockford Fosgate (www.rockfordfosgate.com), the industry leader in high-performance audio solutions, is proud to announce it has recently named Mark Schleipfer Regional Sales Manager - Powersports Aftermarket. In this role, Schleipfer will report to Rockford Fosgate National Sales Manager Zach Luke and manage the division’s customer relationships and new business development via Rockford’s nationwide network of off-road dealers.

“Powersports is an important growth segment for Rockford, and we needed to expand our team by adding someone not just with side-by-side industry experience, but also with a passion for the market and lifestyle,” Luke said. “Mark fits the bill. As an outdoor sport, off-road racing, and UTV enthusiast with an impressive sales and marketing pedigree, Mark will fit in perfectly at Rockford in this position. We are excited to have him on the road to help us grow the channel.”

During his award-winning 25-year career, Schleipfer has graced the cover of industry publications, and has held positions in sales and marketing management, new business development, and corporate sponsorships.

“Powersports is an incredibly energetic, highly focused, and immensely competitive market, and a manufacturer has to be dedicated not only to survive, but to thrive, as well,” Schleipfer said. “Rockford is all of these things, and is the reason it is the go-to brand for high-performance powersports audio solutions. As an off road and motor-sports enthusiast myself for more than 35 years, I am both proud to be a part of the team, and equally excited to be on the road working with our current customers and cultivating new ones.”

For more information on Rockford Corporation, please visit www.rockfordcorp.com.

Setting the standard for excellence in the audio industry, the Rockford Corporation markets and distributes high-performance audio systems for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM market.  Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a publicly traded company and manufactures or distributes its products under multiple brands: Rockford Fosgate(R), Rockford Acoustic Design(TM), CrimeStopper, and Renegade. For more information, please visit: www.rockfordfosgate.com, www.rockfordacousticdesign.com, www.crimestopper.com, and www.renegadecaraudio.com.

August 29, 2018 -- NAV-TV is proud to announce the new Front View Camera integration for all F-Series Trucks from 2013 & UP equipped with the 8-inch screen SYNC 2 & SYNC 3.

The new MFT-FCAM is a plug and play kit that can trigger the camera on the factory LCD screen by pushing and holding factory buttons on the steering controls for couple of seconds.

Force Factory Rear Camera feature is not available on 2015 & UP F-Series trucks.

For more information about any of our products, feel free to contact our sales department at 866-477-3336 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Montreal, 28 August 2018 -- Fortin is pleased to announce a HONDA "Quick Connect" T-Harness cable for EVO-ONE that will speed up your remote starter and alarm system installations. Fortin "Quick Connect" T-Harnesses allow you to perform easy and clean installations while keeping the original vehicle wiring intact.

No wire to cut! Simply plug the cables and program the module. THAR-ONE-HON6 "Quick Connect" T-Harness for Civic, CR-V and Odyssey Push-to-Start vehicles: THAR-ONE-HON6 is compatible with EVO-ONE platform and works with the following HONDA Civic, CR-V and Odyssey Push-to-Start vehicles: Click here to view the list.

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

Visit Fortin.ca to discover more remote starter, bypass and security system solutions.

Al & Ed’s Partners with REZURXN Speed & Marine to Expand their Footprint to the High Desert Area

Los Angeles, Calif. -- August 27, 2018 -- Al & Ed’s Autosound, the oldest mobile electronics retailer, has added another storefront to their franchise-based program. Combining forces with an existing hot rod, speed and marine shop, Al & Ed’s store count has increased to fifteen, and adds a location to an area previously not serviced. This new location will be a co-branded “hybrid” store. Rezurxn has its own following and reputation. By co-branding the location, the business is enhanced with the addition of the Al & Ed’s Autosound program, while retaining its prior identity.

“The team at Rezurxn will be a perfect fit for this new partnership,” said John Haynes, General Manager of Al & Ed’s. “Paul and his crew have been building fantastic street rods, trucks, boats and other vehicles for years, and their high rating on Yelp! demonstrates their client’s satisfaction. Their attention to detail, fabrication skills and high service levels make them a great fit for the Al & Ed’s Autosound program.”

Paul Ferris, owner of Rezurxn Kustoms, and now a proud new Al & Ed’s franchisee, added, “Thanks to the Al & Ed’s family for all of their well wishes and support. The team here at Rezurxn Kustoms/Al & Ed’s Autosound are very excited. We are looking forward to a rewarding future, as well as being able to offer our unique skills to other Al & Ed’s locations.”

The Al & Ed’s Autosound franchise program is an easy way to own and manage a mobile electronics retail store, providing product, line and marketing support. The 64-year old brand has tremendous strength with the consumers in the Southern California market. While a structured program, franchisees are encouraged to put their own personal stamp on their locations. Al & Ed’s is currently seeking more store locations throughout Southern California.

Contact:

John Haynes, General Manager
Al & Ed’s Autosound
818.908.5710
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.al-eds.com

Paul Ferris, Franchisee
Al & Ed’s Autosound #46, Hesperia CA
760.244.7474
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Establishes KnowledgeFest™ as The Premier Event for the Mobile Electronics Industry

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – August 24, 2018 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced final figures for its recently completed KnowledgeFest® in Dallas. Following a successful first-time event in Long Beach, California and a record-setting fourth-year event in Indianapolis, Indiana year-over-year growth for all KnowledgeFest events in 2018 continues. Dallas was another record-setting event for MEA with year-over-year growth in attendees and exhibitors:

• More than 1,729 attendees, including 1,217 retailer and distributor attendees: 1,115 retailers and 103 distributors;
• 60 Exhibitors occupying 90,000 square feet of exhibit space;
• 48 Hours of educational workshops; and
• 78 Hours of manufacturer training

For 2018, to accommodate the event’s growth, the show floor moved to a bigger Hall C in the Dallas Convention Center, where it again will be held in 2019. Growth came from new product categories such as driver assistance and safety products—both categories offering installing dealers new revenue opportunities. New tech companies are finding the KnowledgeFest show floor and available training time an affordable way to bring their products to market with the mobile specialist.

“Over the last several years we’ve watched KnowledgeFest evolve to the point where, this year in Dallas, we’ve seen the mobile electronics industry make KnowledgeFest their own,” stated Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Looking at our show floor, I was struck by the number of pure 12-volt companies exhibiting—more than the North Hall. Attendees, eager to learn, packed our education and training sessions. Dallas establishes KnowledgeFest as the premier event for our industry. I believe we’ve created the optimum venue and experience to achieve our exhibitors’ and attendees’ goals.”

KnowledgeFest is three regional trade-only events covering the eastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

2019 KnowledgeFest Dates:

• Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 23-25, 2019
• Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 15-17, 2019
• Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 9-11, 2019

Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, regional trade-only industry events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® will be the title sponsor of the annual Ocean City Jeep Week 2018, held from August 23-26 at the Ocean City (Md.) Convention Center. Jeep clubs, individuals, thrill seekers and loyalists can still register to participate in OCJW activities on-site at the Convention Center.

Located in front of the Convention Center entrance, KICKER will bring the XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle), the brand’s outrageous rolling showroom complete with a full line of KICKER audio gear and a 20,000-watt “Boom Room.” The Boom Room features a wall stacked with 15-inch L7 square subwoofers and plenty of space to experience and even dance.

Expected to be playing nearby, KICKER’s Polaris® RZR® 4-door UTV comes stacked with a KICKER/SSV Works™ Phase 5 audio kit, all plug-and-play. Next to the RZR, a black Jeep® Grand Cherokee will be parked for demo, equipped with KICKER’s premiere Q-Class subwoofer, amplifier and coaxial speakers. Next to the XRV, the Maryland chapter of Infidel Jeepers club will be joining in to demo.

Two winners per day will be selected for the KICKER “Livin’ Loud®” award on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The recipients of the award will each receive a KICKER Bullfrog® weather-proof Bluetooth® speaker. Winners will be chosen for their KICKER “spirit” – carrying the audio gear in their vehicle and having a Livin’-Loud attitude.

Several events are planned for the show. Each day will begin at with 300 Jeepers cruising the Ocean City sand at the Beach Crawl. This is the only time all year the city of Ocean City permits Jeep vehicles on the sand. New for 2018, a beach obstacle and trail rides are planned daily, as is a Kids Zone, live DJ, vendor’s row and more. A show n’ shine is also projected for the event, as well as several parties.

Full event details are available on the OC Jeep Week web page at www.oceancityjeepweek.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 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. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

August 21, 2018 -- Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. will participate in two popular Jeep consumer events taking place this weekend, Ocean City Jeep Week and the Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion. The company will host exhibits and sell Alpine Restyle Jeep Wrangler products at both events.

Ocean City (OC) Jeep Week will be held in Ocean City, MD on August 23-26. The Ocean City Convention Center is the home base for Jeep Week and will feature vendor booths and various events. Other activities will be held at close-by venues and include trail rides, an obstacle course, and a daily morning Beach Crawl.

2018 marks Alpine’s third year at OC Jeep Week. Wells Auto Sales, an authorized Alpine retailer from Warrenton, VA, will bring their 2018 Wrangler JL featuring the new Alpine PSS-23WRA 300-watt sound system upgrade. There will be two other Jeeps in the Alpine booth -- a 2015 JK and 2012 JK -- and all three vehicles will have Alpine in-dash, sound, and rear-view camera systems. Alpine employees and sales reps from Focused Marketing Solutions will be available to advise on system recommendations, while the Wells team will handle sales and on-site product installation.

The Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion will be held in Pigeon Forge, TN on August 24-25. The LeConte Convention Center is the site of the main event and will feature vendor booths, a Show and Shine competition, and other activities. Local trail rides will also be offered.

The Alpine booth will be staffed by Alpine employees and sales reps from Tech Marketing. Rubitrux, an authorized Alpine retailer from Boone, NC, will coordinate the Alpine product sales and installation at the show. Alpine’s “Hellbender” 2017 Wrangler JK, a 2018 JL, and a 2015 JKU will be featured in the Alpine booth, and all vehicles will have complete Alpine systems. Additional authorized Alpine retailers participating at the event are Morris 4x4 Center, who will be selling Alpine products on-site; and Quadratec, who will coordinate online sales for those who prefer having their Alpine products shipped to their homes. 

Consumers are welcome to visit the Alpine booths at both events, which will be easily identifiable by the large blue Alpine tents.

Holly Hill, Fla. – August 21, 2018 – Metra Electronics®, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, is launching its snap-in Bluetooth Wireless Receiver designed to be used in multiple power sports applications including UTVs and watercraft. The MPS-BTK receiver fits the standard 1.45” x .83” cutout used for switches by most manufacturers. It features a one-knob control that adjusts all functions including volume, track up and down, source selection, play and pause and pairing. It is equipped with a built-in line driver that triples the voltage input, so the audio sounds great no matter the source.

The MPS-BTK has an IP (International Protection Rating) of IPX5 and weather-proof connector designed to connect directly to the Metra Powersports 6PIN DIN amplifiers. A breakout cable is included if connecting to any other amplifier. The controller remembers up to nine paired devices and automatically reconnects, in connected order, when a device is present. The patent-pending single-wire controller provides a direct connection to a Metra PowerSports amplifier and includes a universal adapter for use with any other amplifier.

Compatible Metra PowerSports amplifiers include the MPS-AMP60X4 and the MPS-AMP100X2.

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 70 years. Our brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®,Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic® and AmmoTenna®.  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.

Mobile Electronics Association Recognizes the Industry’s Best

Holly Hill, Fla. – August 20, 2018 – Metra Electronics®, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, received the Mobile Electronics Industry Award for 2018 TOP Vendor- Accessories and Materials given at a ceremony held August 19th at the Mobile Electronics Association KnowledgeFest Tradeshow and Conference in Dallas, Texas.

Given annually, the “Mobile Electronics Industry Awards comprise a months-long process to recognize and honor those in the mobile electronics industry that best exemplify the professionalism, business ethics, service and expertise we want to think of when they do business in our industry,” according to Mobile Electronics Association, the entity responsible for the awards.

“Metra Electronics is known as The Installer’s Choice®. This award is another confirmation of that. We take pride in being on the forefront of product development for aftermarket solutions, focusing on quality at the best value,” said Bill Jones, president and CEO of Metra Electronics. “We have developed kits and accessories for a wide range of vehicle applications, where others may invest the resources into the most popular vehicle applications, Metra has created hundreds of kits for many of the ‘hard to find’ vehicles.”

Metra Electronics won in the Accessories and Materials category for products or technology that improve upon the look, style and/or function of existing vehicle components or standard components that accompany aftermarket products.

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 70 years. Our brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic® and AmmoTenna®.  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.

Addition Brings Strong Customer Service Focus and Industry Experience

TAMPA, Fla. (August 21, 2018) – DOW Electronics announced today that Tom Will has joined the company to support and grow the Custom Integration channel. Mr. Will has shown a customer support focus that enhances his product knowledge and sales experience.

Mr. Will was hired as the Account Manager focused on helping DOW’s custom integration customers in Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Mr. Will joins DOW after working in a Sony business development role at Tech Data. In his prior positions, Mr. Will focused on expanding and growing accounts, offering training and product information, and proactively supporting dealers. The skillsets he learned in these roles will be valuable to his position with DOW.

“This is a great opportunity for me to take the next step in my career, I feel like the environment and culture at DOW will help my growth,” Mr. Will said. “I look forward to working with the great dealers that have partnered with DOW, and expanding the dealer base.”

“Tom is comfortable working with dealers and effectively communicates the product knowledge he has,” added strategic sales manager Eric Friedman. “Working the Sony account at Tech Data gave him valuable experience that will translate well to our B2B environment.”

“Tom has a natural customer service focus that was honed over his last two jobs; we feel this is important to our company culture,” stated Drew Fischer, director of sales.

To learn more about DOW Electronics, please visit www.DOWElectronics.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., DOW Electronics is one of the largest independently owned and operated electronics distributors servicing independent retailers in the Southern United States for 59 years. With six locations serving Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, DOW Electronics focuses on providing consumer electronics that enhance the customer experience.

DOW Electronics’ six areas of business include:

                        • Car and Marine Audio/Video            • Consumer Electronics

                        • Satellite Broadband                          • Satellite Television

                        • Surveillance                                      • VoIP

VISTA, Calif. (August 17, 2018) – Directed today proudly announced that the fastest Viper SmartStart ever – the Viper SmartStart Pro VSM550 – launched at Knowledgefest.

The all-new Viper SmartStart Pro is the fastest connected car solution available. Optimized for use with Viper’s groundbreaking DS4 platform, Viper SmartStart Pro delivers scorching speed with 4G LTE connectivity and future-proof design to ensure support for new features as they are developed. 3G backup is also built in, ensuring the most robust possible coverage.

Geoff Weathersby, Directed VP Connected Car said, “We’re thrilled to introduce the Viper SmartStart Pro – the speed is unbelievable. Harnessing the power of the 4G LTE network while continuing to access the 3G network ensures the fastest and best coverage across North America. Viper SmartStart Pro is truly the connected car re-imagined.”

The VSM550 will ship with a new, simplified one-piece wiring harness allowing for faster and cleaner installations while maintaining pin-for-pin compatibility with older models. The VSM550 will ship in early September and carries an MSRP of $199.99. A Directed-branded unit will be available as well, the Directed SmartStart Pro DSM550.

Not a Directed Dealer? Please visit http://www.directed.com/contact/becomedealer 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® 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..

STILLWATER, USA – Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.® d/b/a KICKER® (“KICKER”) reached a settlement with Josha26, Inc. d/b/a as Discounts Jungle (“Discounts Jungle”) who was a defendant in a gray-market litigation that KICKER filed in August of 2017 in the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts. Discounts Jungle was engaging in the unauthorized distribution and sale of KICKER products. 

KICKER sought injunctive relief and monetary damages for Discounts Jungle’s improper sale of KICKER products. In its complaint, KICKER asserted claims for trademark infringement, tortious interference with contract and/or business relations, as well as unfair and deceptive trade practices.

As part of the settlement, amongst other things, the dealer was forced to cease all distribution and sale of KICKER Products.

“KICKER is committed to supporting our authorized partners and protecting our loyal customer base,” said Rob Limbaugh, KICKER Vice President, Business Development. “We’re committed to aggressively pursuing unauthorized resellers who use improper means to obtain KICKER products and sell them through unauthorized channels.”

KICKER has invested in its Authorized Distribution Network and requires resellers of its products to apply and be authorized by KICKER. Authorized KICKER Dealers must execute an agreement regulating the manner in which they sell. Resellers who have not applied and have not been approved by KICKER are strictly prohibited from selling KICKER products. Further, the KICKER manufacturer’s warranty is only valid on KICKER products purchased from Authorized KICKER Dealers. KICKER systematically identifies and shuts down unauthorized resellers. 

The program benefits KICKER and its authorized dealers in a number of ways. It ensures the protection of KICKER’s online brand presence and the elimination of free-riding by unauthorized, discount and gray-market retailers who provide little to no product service or expertise. 

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 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. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

Entertainment Leader's Wi-Fi Audio Streaming for Apple Devices Enables Customers to Seamlessly Send High Quality Audio From Their Favorite Streaming Services to the New Apollo Series Marine Stereos

Auckland, New Zealand – August 16, 2018 -- FUSION®, a worldwide leader in marine audio entertainment, announced today the addition of Apple AirPlay functionality to the new Apollo Series marine audio entertainment systems. Offering the industry’s first Apple iOS Wi-Fi streaming, the new feature is available with a free software update.

Compatible with all current Apple iOS devices, AirPlay is incredibly easy to use allowing seamless device-to-device audio streaming. Unlike Bluetooth which offers limited-range streaming and compression of audio files to lower-quality formats, AirPlay offers significantly greater range for complete vessel coverage and transmits lossless audio at 44.1khZ, resulting in pure audio playback.

“We went through an extensive application process to demonstrate to Apple why FUSION marine stereos are unique in construction and worthy of AirPlay designation,” said Chris Baird, managing director of FUSION Entertainment. “Unlike our competition, we recognize that a boat is not a car, and have built our systems from the ground-up specifically for the demanding needs of our discerning clientele. Having the official Apple AirPlay distinction further solidifies FUSION as the premier innovator in the marine audio space and sets the Apollo series even further apart amongst audio entertainment systems.”

The FUSION RA770 is the flagship of the new Apollo Series, epitomizing creative design and technological brilliance. The world’s first purpose-built marine entertainment system with a one-piece glass touchscreen display, built-in Wi-Fi streaming, Digital Signal Processing Technology (DSP) and PartyBus capabilities, the RA770 takes marine audio entertainment to the next level. The FUSION Apollo Series also includes the SRX400, delivering a truly powerful feature set in a compact versatile form factor. Like the RA770, the SRX400 offers Apple AirPlay, Wi-Fi streaming, DSP and PartyBus functionality.

Along with Apple AirPlay, Apollo users will benefit from the new Fusion-Link App update. It features a modernized user interface, over-the-air software updates, the ability to set up DSP profiles directly from the app and remote PartyBus control. Connecting to the app through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi allows the user to stream music in any zone, control volume, and access all music sources from anywhere on the boat. The Fusion-Link update is free to download through the Apple App Store® or Google Play™ and gives users the power to control their entertainment experience right from their fingertips.

FUSION, the leader in marine entertainment, is dedicated to offering innovative solutions that enhance personal leisure time on the water. FUSION, owned by GARMIN, builds products that exceed regulatory standards using the latest technologies at GARMIN’s international ISO accredited manufacturing facility.

For more information on Apple AirPlay functionality, the FUSION Apollo RA770, SRX400, FUSION or its entire line of audio products, please contact 623-580-9000 or visit www.fusionentertainment.com.

STILLWATER, USA – August 14, 2018 -- KICKER® is teaming with Makita®, a leader in cordless-tool technology, and hitting the road with the new Driving Innovation Tour™, a fleet of fully custom vehicles with product specialists delivering an interactive and hands-on experience for Makita tool users and dealers across America.

The Tour delivers a 360-degree experience with the very latest in Makita cordless innovation as well as sweepstakes, giveaways and promotions – all backed up with a custom KICKER audio system. Each vehicle in the fleet will carry a full range of Makita LXT®, which gives users one system using the same batteries and chargers on all LXT tools.

“KICKER has been proud to be a marketing partner with Makita for over 10 years,” said Roger Demaree, Associate Director of Brand and Sports Marketing, KICKER. “When they informed us of their Makita Driving Tour, we knew we had to help them out so their tour experience would be over the top!”

The Driving Innovation Tour is a mobile demonstration of Makita’s leadership in the cordless-tool category. Makita created the 18V lithium-ion tool category in 2005, and today LXT is one system that will offer over 200 cordless solutions in 2018, the world’s largest cordless-tool system powered by 18V lithium-ion, slide-style batteries. Besides an intense KICKER sound system, each Driving Innovation Tour vehicle packs a full range of Makita LXT tools, power equipment and lifestyle solutions, offering users and dealers an opportunity to experience Makita’s vision of a cordless job site.

“We worked with (Makita’s) team and came up with a killer audio system for these rigs that uses a combination of our (KM-Series) marine component speakers, L7 subwoofers and our KX power amplifiers,” Demaree continued. “We can guarantee wherever the Makita Driving Tour rigs are, you’ll be able to hear it before you see it.”

"Makita made a significant commitment and investment in the Driving Innovation Tour to bring our leading LXT technology to users and dealers so they can experience Makita innovation hands-on,” said Brent Withey, Sr. Director of Brand Marketing, Makita U.S.A., Inc. “The number of Tour events will reach well into the four-figures each year as we bring this mobile experience to our user and dealer audiences where they work and where they learn, and even where they play as the Tour will make stops at Makita-sponsored events off the job site."

For more on the Makita Driving Innovation Tour, consumers can visit www.makitatools.com/drivinginnovation.

Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial power tools, pneumatics and power equipment, and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network throughout the U.S. Call 800/4-MAKITA or visit makitatools.com. Find Makita on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube @makitatools

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 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. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

Oklahoma City, Okla. -- August 15, 2018 -- As promised, Texas Heat Wave was HOT! With temperatures well over 100 degrees, it was up to the DD Audio Demo Team to blast breezy beats from the DD Kong to cool the place down. Of course, thanks to the USACi audio competition, the spectacular show builds and unique events like the tattoo expo and hydraulic car dance competition, Texas Heat Wave was much more than your typical summer bake-off.

DD Audio would once again like to extend a huge thanks to the local DD Audio dealers, G’s Audio and Audiomaster, who endured the toasty conditions and exhibited alongside the team all weekend long. The short 400 mile trip south provided a chance for Texas native and DD KONG builder Lewis Jackson to visit family and friends while meeting several DD Audio fans and making countless impressions on newcomers to the brand. The DD Audio booth even had a celebrity appearance when rapper Psyph Morrison, stopped by specifically to experience the DD KONG. Lastly, congrats to #DDKONG Photo Contest winners Aaron Herrera, Vance Sanders, and Cris Ruvira: Enjoy your DD Audio Lifestyle Gear!

With Heat Wave behind them, the DD Audio Demo Team are packing up the DD Kong for the cool and distant shores of Lincoln City, Oregon. DD Audio’s first ever appearance at the Chinook Winds Surf City Show is the final leg of the 2018 Summer Tour for the DD Kong. This car, truck and bike show will offer fantastic food, a beer garden, live music, and most notably the Surf City Soundoff where DD Audio is a main sponsor.

The Surf City Soundoff is a tribute to and celebration of the loudest and best sounding vehicles the West has to offer and is quickly becoming a who’s who event for the west coast car audio scene. SQ and SPL competition styles sanctioned by dBDRAG and IASCA. Something else you won’t want to miss while attending Surf City Show is the Psyph Morrison performance brought to you by DD Audio. The team is looking forward to providing the good people of the pacific-northwest with DD Kong demos, while also enjoying the cool ocean breeze and Chinook Winds Casino Resort’s many amenities.

Attention Attendees:

While the Kong is far from retired, this will be your last chance of the Summer to upload a photo or video on social media of the DD Kong, with the hashtag #DDKONG , for chances to win a limited edition DDKONG/SHTNONM shirt and DD Audio Lifestyle Gear! Check out the DDKONG Web Series.