Thomas is Charged with Developing New Key Opportunities and Driving Sales & Revenue Objectives Throughout the Continent

Herlev, Denmark, July 31, 2017 – Merus Audio (www.merus-audio.com), a global supplier of single-chip audio amplifier IC solutions, announced that it has appointed Mark Thomas Director of Sales – North America, effective immediately. Thomas is located in the Merus Regional office in Massachusetts.

“Thomas is charged with developing new key opportunities and driving sales and revenue objectives throughout North America,” explained Jens J. Tybo Jensen, Merus Audio V.P. Sales & Marketing. “We are confident Mark’s technical expertise and sales management experience will help significantly increase opportunities across the continent.”

Prior to joining Merus Audio, Thomas has had more than 15 years experience in the semiconductor and electronics industries. Most recently he held the position of Regional Manager at Micross Components and Vice President of Sales at Electronic Components Inc.  He has extensive experience in the development and management of internal sales teams and distribution/rep networks. Thomas started his career as a component engineer at Raytheon Company and studied Electrical Engineering at Northeastern University.

“The industry is growing quickly, and Merus Audio is at the forefront of its technological advancements,” said Thomas. “I am excited to help further the company’s continued sales growth in North America by strengthening our existing partnerships and discovering new opportunities across multiple markets.”

Seattle, WA, July 31st, 2017 – AudioControl will be showcasing its latest aftermarket audio solutions at the 2017 KnowledgeFest in Dallas, August 11-14. AudioControl will be exhibiting in booth 212, featuring a 2010 Mercedes GLK demo vehicle sponsored in cooperation with partner manufacturers. AudioControl will also be offering training seminars led by National Sales Director, Chris Bennett covering OEM integration, the power of DSP and a close look at new products including their high-powered multi-channel amplifier solutions.

DEMO CAR

The Mercedes GLK demo vehicle features a system designed and installed by Nick Williams and fabricator James Davidson of Mobile Sound Systems of Arlington, TX. The system utilizes some of AudioControl’s newest components including the DM-810 DSP processor, two LC-4.800 amplifiers and the brand new LC-1.800 mono amp driving the subwoofer. These newest AudioControl products represent a valuable opportunity for 12-volt retailers to differentiate themselves from competitors with superior system performance that is likely to earn them repeat and referral business. Other sponsors include Sony (RSX-GS9 head unit), Focal (speakers/subs), NavTV (backup camera), SoundSkins (dampening materials) and Stinger wiring and accessories.

TRAINING

AudioControl’s Chris Bennett will be offering comprehensive OEM integration and product application training on the following dates and times:

• Saturday, August 12 | 6:00 - 7:00 | Arts District 3
• Sunday, August 13 | 6:00 - 7:00 | Arts District 3

Attendees are encouraged to email Chris (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to reserve a seat at the seminar that best fits their schedule. REGISTER HERE

NEW PRODUCTS

AudioControl will have a full array of new car audio products on display at KnowledgeFest, including the D-4.800 amplifier with onboard DSP, the brand new LC-1.800 mono amplifier, the LC-6.1200 6-channel amplifier and the DM-810 and DM-608 DSP processors. AudioControl’s made in USA amplifiers and processors provide installers with the most sophisticated OEM interface solutions, enabling dealers to offer the right system tuned and calibrated to ideally suit each consumer.  

Leading Audio Manufacturer Receives Supconnect Technology Gear of the Year Award  

Auckland, New Zealand – FUSION® announced today that its STEREOACTIVE purpose-built portable marine stereo has won the Supconnect Gear of the Year Award in the Technology category at the 2017 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market show in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Gear of the Year Award is presented to products in ten categories, as well as an Overall gear winner. The 2017 Supconnect Gear of the Year Awards launched on June 15 and winners were chosen with support from voters, feedback from retailers and the Supconnect advisory board.

“Technology and accessories have opened up SUP to an even greater market. It now appeals to yogi’s, whitewater enthusiasts and beyond,” said Andre Niemeyer, publisher, Supconnect. “Though tech and accessories are usually small in size, their ability to open markets couldn’t be more grand. In that spirit, it’s with great enthusiasm that we award the Technology Supconnect Gear of the Year Award 2017 to the Fusion STEREOACTIVE. A group of sport enthusiasts with ample experience in industrial design and paddling developed a highly thoughtful mobile stereo device designed specifically with stand up paddling in mind, but also for the broader paddling community. With that, they have broadened the SUP appeal even further and proved that one can still stand up paddle and rock some tunes!”

“We are very proud of the passion and dedication our design and engineering team has put into STEREOACTIVE and are excited to be honored by Supconnect and the paddling community,” said Chris Baird, managing director of FUSION Entertainment. “We designed an audio entertainment system that was engineered for the ocean, but is just as practical to use 365 days a year in any outdoor or indoor application. STEREOACTIVE continues to add to its accolades, including an NMMA Innovation Award at the Miami International Boat Show, Coolest Gear of the Show at PADDLE Expo and being recently nominated for a DAME award. We are humbled by the overwhelming acceptance the industry has shown this product.”

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

For more information on the FUSION STEREOACTIVE, FUSION Entertainment or its entire line of marine audio products, please visit www.fusionentertainment.com.

The model is the first Alpine system with both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ capability

Torrance, Calif. (July 27, 2017) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the iLX-207, a mech-less audio/video (A/V) system with 7-inch touch screen. It’s the first Alpine system to offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

“Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are popular features that we’re excited to bring to our consumers,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The iLX-207 is a match for consumers who depend on their phones and want to be smart about using their main phone features in the vehicle.”

Optimized Smart Phone Connectivity

The iLX-207 is an AM/FM system with Bluetooth® wireless technology on a 7-inch WVGA capacitive touch screen and is optimized for wired connectivity with an iPhone or Android™ smartphone. The iLX-207 “Works with Apple CarPlay,” so iPhone owners can use CarPlay to make and receive calls, access text messages, play music, and get directions optimized for traffic conditions in a way that allows them to stay focused on the road. CarPlay is accessed through the iLX-207’s touch screen or through Siri voice control using the “Voice” button. CarPlay is compatible with iPhone 5 and later.

The iLX-207 is also Android Auto Compatible. Android Auto was designed with safety in mind. With larger touch targets, a simplified interface, and easy-to-use voice actions, it's designed to minimize distraction so drivers can stay focused on the road (requires both a USB cable and Bluetooth connection; requires an Android phone running 5.0 [Lollipop] or higher and the Android Auto app.). Android Auto is accessed through the touch screen or the “Voice” hard button with voice control.

For both technologies, the audio for music, driving directions, messages, and phone calls is played through the vehicle’s speaker system.

Entertainment and Information Features

The iLX-207 is SiriusXM-Ready™ (tuner and subscription sold separately) and includes other audio features such as a built-in HD Radio receiver, Pandora control from iPhone and Android phones, and FLAC file playback via USB. Customized sound tuning for the iLX-207 is available through the free Alpine TuneIt® App. 

The iLX-207 has an HDMI input for video entertainment from HDMI-enabled devices (HDMI cable sold separately). DVD or CD entertainment can be added through the optional DVE-5300 Add-on DVD player, and the KCX-630HD HDMI Selector Interface (sold separately) can also be used to retain HDMI capability when the iLX-207 is connected to the DVE-5300.

The iLX-207 can retain select factory features and display customized vehicle information when used with an iDatalink® Maestro® module (sold separately, retained features and vehicle information will vary by vehicle).

System Expansion

When used with the KAC-001 External Accessory Control Module (sold separately), the iLX-207 can serve as a hub for touch screen control of up to eight add-on electrical accessories like a motorized tonneau cover, winch, LED lights, etc. The iLX-207 is compatible with Alpine’s rear and front camera systems and can be used with the optional KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Controller to manage multiple camera systems from the touch screen (controller and cameras sold separately).

The iLX-207 is now available for $900 SRI at authorized Alpine retailers, visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.

7-31-2017 -- Davis Distribution, one of the major consumer electronics distributor in USA, has started carrying the entire line from SounDigital, a manufacturer of car audio amplifiers from Brazil.

Davis serves the 12-volt and custom integration markets within the entire midwest of the USA. SounDigital is very happy about this partnership to offer its customers in the region an even better service, with the possibility of same day shipping.

"We are thrilled with this partnership that will bring SounDigital USA to another level in the MidWest region. Our current dealers will have an even better experience now, without compromissing any of their current benefits," said CEO Diogo Ianaconi.

For more information:

Website: http://www.davisdistribution.com

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Telephone: 304-387-3900

San Jose’s Audio Design to Host Intense 9-Hour Session of Fabrication and Installation Instruction

WILSONVILLE, ORE., July 26, 2017 (MEDIAWIRE) – Kingpin University (KPU) will travel to the heart of innovation to conduct a one-day "crash course" fabrication training. The session will be held August 27 starting at 9 a.m., and will be hosted by Audio Design at its retail location in San Jose, Calif. The one-day class is intended to attract professionals who want to learn skills and techniques that they can implement to improve their work, but who can’t leave their businesses for the typical three-day course.

San Jose is known as the Capital of Silicon Valley, as it features some of the most prolific tech companies in the world within and around its borders. As Audio Design caters to the resulting affluent client base, the company recently took over an adjacent space to effectively double its square footage. The state-of-the-art, larger installation facility is fully capable of serving as a training ground for high-end fabrication.

"We are going to cram a lot of knowledge and hands-on instruction into nine hours," said Jason Kranitz, lead instructor for KPU. "This session is for the tech who can't be gone from the shop for three to four days to do our traditional trainings. But don't think this is an overview class with no detail. We are concentrating the most useful and effective procedures and techniques into one day so that attendees can still go home and put the lessons to work improving work quality and profits."

Among several courses in the day-long session, attendees will improve sanding techniques to cut time while achieving smoother surfaces, and learn how to avoid “elephantitis”: the thin, distressed look of vinyl that occurs when the material is overheated and overstretched during wrapping. In addition, attendees will go through the steps of fabrication design, from paper drawings to building jigs through to the finished piece.

The class is intended for working installation professionals with a fair degree of fabrication experience. Tuition is $150 per person, and lunch will be sponsored by Hybrid Audio, which will have one of its award-winning vehicles onsite. Installation professionals can sign up at http://bit.ly/KPU-ADTraining, or call Kingpin University at (503) 582-9135.

Montebello, CA (July 19, 2017) – Epsilon Electronics, Inc. is now shipping its SoundStream Marine and Power Sport line-up for 2017. Product will arrive at dealer showrooms in the coming weeks.

“This marks our second year featuring the Marine and Power sports line-up for Soundstream,” said Paul Goldberg, vice-president, sales & marketing for Epsilon Electronics. “This series is true to our company mission statement of offering consumers quality, products at an exceptional value.”

The 2017 Soundstream Marine and Power Sport products include: speakers, subwoofers, amps and, of course, head units.

These Soundstream products have been fabricated with true marine grade engineering. For example, the circuit breakers for the head units are epoxy-coated to protect the components. To ensure the highest quality the Marine line is produced with no exposed metal or plastic components, making the products truly waterproof.

Not content to simply label their products as “waterproof“, Soundstream took the additional step of having the Marine and Power Sports line certified by International Protection Marketing. All products are constructed with IP65 watertight enclosure construction.

The MHU-325XM and MHU-32 head units are distinguished by their sleek aerodynamic styling as well as a conformal coated printed circuit boards and components. The MHU-32 digital media player is equipped with 32GB USB playback and Bluetooth V4.0. The MHU-32SXM also includes a 3.2” color TFT LCD display with Graphic User Interface. Both these units are now shipping and accepting orders.

The Marine 10” subwoofers are constructed with an injection-molded frame and grill which utilize a Centrex® 814 UV Resistant Polymer. To further protect your investment, they are sealed internally within the frame structure.

The stylish and functional wake tower speakers are available in 6.5” or 8” models. These coaxial speakers exclusively use waterproof materials such as polypropylene-mica cones and a titanium dome tweeter. Additionally, rubber gaskets have been added around the tweeter bridge. They range from 300-600 watts.

Rounding out the line are the MC.65, MCS.80 and MCS.10 premium marine grade speakers. Depending on your preference, you may choose from a 6.5”, 8” or 10” model. Each set of these coaxial speakers come with both black and white grills included, adding to your choices. The electro-magnetic components are sealed internally within the frame structure, protecting your investment.

Customers can locate their nearest Soundstream dealers at www.soundstream.com/where-to-buy.

Integrated Interface and Touchscreen Retain Vehicle Functions and Personalization Settings

Holly Hill, FL - July 2017 – Metra Electronics continues to expand its line of popular TurboTouch kits with the 99-6543HG, designed for Chrysler Pacifica models 2017 and up*. Metra’s new line of TurboTouch kits feature patented Auto-Detect protocol and a patent-pending design for a touchscreen based vehicle interface.

The 99-6543HG kit provides the ability to install an ISO Single-DIN radio provision with pocket as well as an ISO Double-DIN radio replacement. This kit includes the wiring harness and a built-in Axxess touchscreen interface. It is scratch-resistant and painted high gloss black to match the factory finish. Note: This kit does not support surround camera (360) switching at this time.

TurboTouch kits are designed for a fast, seamless installation with no additional programming. The smart interface automatically configures to the vehicle, with no dip-switches or buttons to program. Metra’s popular ASWC-1 technology is already built-in to retain factory steering wheel controls, without the need to purchase this product separately. Retention for most safety features (including backup cameras and sensors), and most of the other vehicle information are also built into the interface. The integrated 4.3 inch color touchscreen and buttons will retain climate control features and most personalized vehicle customizations.

TurboTouch kits are proudly made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastics using injection molding technology to ensure a superior design and fit. The 99-6543HG is now in stock and shipping, available to authorized Metra Dealers and Distributors.

*Please visit http://www.metraonline.com/part/99-6543HG to see specific and up to date vehicle applications, download the product sheet and view instructions for this part.

More about the new line of TurboTouch kits can be seen at MetraTurboTouch.com. 

Montebello, CA (July 21, 2017) – The Soundstream Pro Audio line-up is now in stock and in the process of shipping to dealers. This line-up includes: speakers, tweeters, amplifiers and a five-way electronic crossover, providing premium performance.

“We are very excited for our customers to have access to the Pro line for 2017,” said Paul Goldberg, vice-president, sales & marketing for Epsilon Electronics Inc. “Our pro audio equipment has traditionally had a cult following and we believe this year will continue in that tradition.”

Here is just a sampling of the 2017 Pro Audio products available through the Soundstream dealer network:

SM-800 SM Series Speakers – The 8” model of the SM Series speakers feature interchangeable, multi-colored dust plugs that allow you to change the look and feel of your speakers anytime you want. SM Series speakers are sold in pairs and include the iconic Soundstream spider grill. The SM.800 registers a powerful 300w of MAX power handling and 150W of RMS power handling. Impedance is rated at 4-Ohm.

SPD-400 Pro Audio Tweeters – The SPD.400 is the most powerful of the Pro Audio Tweeters offered for 2017. A key feature of these tweeters are their multi-colored, interchangeable grills which are available in black, blue, red and green. The SPD.400 is rated at 400w of MAX power and 200w of RMS power. Mounting depth is 7.50” and impedance is a powerful 8-Ohm.

SPT-22 Pro Audio Tweeters – These Aluminum tweeters are distinguishable by their distinctive Tarantula grills which come in four interchangeable colors: blue, black, red and green. You can easily and quickly change colors to suit your mood. The SPT-22 pro audio tweeters feature 600w of MAX Power handling, 300w of RMS Power handling with a 1.75" 4-Ohm voice coil.

X3.71 X3 Series Professional Amplifier – The X3.71 is a high powered amp that can produce as high as 7K watts at 16 volts. This unit also provides a 18dB Lo-pass & Subsonic crossover. The X3 series amplifiers are 1-Ohm stable Class D rated. They include a non-regulated MOSFET power supply, up to 16B power and 10V audio input. The X3 series amps are based off of voltage for tuning convenience. In addition, they are monoblock and 16V compatible. The X3 is truly competition ready.

PROX4.1 – Professional 5-Way Electronic Crossover – The ProX4.1 5-Way Electronic Crossover is new for 2017 as part of the SoundStream Professional line. This unit contains 1 flat out and 4-way variable filters. Additional standard features include: level adjustments on all routes, dash mount remote subwoofer levels and a mute key on all channels.

Customers looking to purchase can locate their nearest dealer at www.soundstream.com/where-to-buy.

7/21/17 Elgin, IL – K40 Electronics announced that it will offer two interactive training sessions during KnowledgeFest Dallas, August 11-14, 2017, at the Dallas Convention Center, that will accelerate retailers’ profitability with K40 radar/laser systems.

K40 encourages attendees to reserve their seat early to the training sessions, which are being co-hosted by Jason Kranitz from Kingpin University. “Our sessions are very popular with mobile electronics retailers and fill up quickly,” said Rachel Clark, K40’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Besides offering great installation and profitability insights, our hands-on, interactive classes focus on real-world solutions.”

Two training sessions will be offered by K40 in the Cedars Meeting Room:

Custom Installation Techniques for The Professional Installer

Description:  Stand out from the crowd while boosting your bottom line! Get hands-on experience performing two installation techniques that offer a unique touch and additional labor dollars on K40 installations.

Date: Saturday, 8/12/17

Time: 4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

Don’t Leave Money on The Table! – Quoting Accurately for Profitability

Description:  Learn the labor breakdown and profit opportunities of a custom installed K40 system.  Use this time-tested technique to quote every job accurately, and increase profitability. 

Date: Sunday, 8/13/17

Time: 6:00 p.m.– 7:00 p.m.

 Click here to reserve your seat to the K40 training sessions.

K40 will also be exhibiting its entire product line in booth #406. “We invite both existing and prospective retailers to stop by to see the latest K40 product enhancements and – perhaps more importantly – learn how it makes good business sense to invest in the radar/laser category and the K40 brand,” added Clark.

For information on K40’s entire product line, which offers the industry’s first ticket-free guarantee, visit http://www.k40.com/products

STILLWATER, USA – Stillwater Designs,® the manufacturer of KICKER® Audio products, is announcing the successful registration of another design patent for the iconic L7® square subwoofer, the multi-award-winning subwoofer that further advanced the brand’s thriving bass legacy.

The most recent of the L7 patents was registered to protect the unique look of the subwoofer, and is the third overall assigned to the sub since its inception in 2000. Overall, the L7’s design took an estimated six months and 4,000 hours of labor, utilizing the entire Research and Development department.  

KICKER’s lead mechanical design engineer and L7 design team lead, Kyle Ambrose, described the creative process as highly collaborative.

“After the first draft of the design was created by our industrial designer David Justis, it was brought to the Design Team for review. In the meeting, we got our ideas approved or massaged by (KICKER President and founder) Steve Irby, with input from the Sales and Marketing team. It is my responsibility to make those suggestions happen and get them implemented in the product.”

KICKER’s signature L7 and its square cone moves more air than similarly sized, traditional round subwoofers, creating a louder driver. To ensure that the additional bass is as reliable as it is loud, the L7 subwoofer is packed with innovation, starting with a cast-aluminum basket for exceptional rigidity as well as finned aluminum heat sinks for extraordinary heat dissipation. The woofer’s Blue-Lace™ spider, SoloKon™ 360-degree back bracing, and a laser-etched cone brace combine as a single, ultra-rigid unit to ensure linear cone excursion under stress. The result is increased clarity, higher volume and longer life.

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.

July 20, 2017 -- Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. today announced that the Tech Marketing rep firm has joined Alpine’s aftermarket sales force. Based in Roswell, Georgia, Tech Marketing is representing the Alpine product line in several southeast states.

Six members of the Tech Marketing team are servicing the Alpine product line.  Ron Holtzman founded Tech Marketing in 1980 and now serves as CFO of the company.  President Richie Holtzman is responsible for Georgia, southern Alabama, and southern Mississippi.  Rep Dennis Montgomery covers North Carolina and South Carolina; Steven Paul covers Tennessee, northern Alabama, and northern Mississippi; while Jim Branyon handles specialty markets.  Mark Barber, who represented Alpine for many years at his previous company, has joined the Tech Marketing team as the Vice President of Expeditor and New Car Dealer Sales with a focus on the Alpine Restyle vehicle-specific products.

The Tech Marketing members share a passion and commitment to the 12 volt aftermarket and are well known in the industry.  All together, the men have a total of 164 years of combined experience in the consumer electronics industry. 

“The Tech Marketing team has extensive experience in the 12 volt aftermarket industry, and we look forward to working with them as they represent Alpine products among our retail partners in the southeast,” said Mike Anderson, Assistant Vice President of Sales, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.

The Tech Marketing team can be reached through their main office at 770-377-3818, via e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,%20">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or through their website at www.techmarketingse.com.

07/19/2017 - Coral Springs, Florida -- NAV-TV Corp. has announced the release of the M.O.S.T HUR 31. The M.O.S.T HUR (head unit replacement) 31 is a M.O.S.T. fiber optic radio replacement interface that allows for the seamless installation of an aftermarket radio into select 2010 to 2016 Porsche vehicles.

The Interface is 100% plug-and-play and maintains all factory features, including fade, balance, gain, bass, treble and surround sound features.*1 It digitally interfaces with the factory amplifier to ensure premium Porsche sound quality and functionality while requiring no rewiring or additional aftermarket equipment.*2 Setup of the interface requires no computers or special equipment and all setting and adjustments are displayed on the factory dash cluster. Furthermore, the included steering wheel control feature for Alpine, JVC, Kenwood, Pioneer and Sony radios ensures safe operation of the radio without taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel.

Current supported compatibility as of 07/18/2017 for the MOST HUR 31 is:

2011-2016 Porsche Cayenne with a factory MOST fiber optic amplifier and either a CDR31 or PCM3.1 radio

2012.5-2016 Porsche 911 (991) with a factory MOST fiber optic amplifier and either a CDR31 or PCM3.1 radio

Future compatibility for 2010-2016 Panamera, 2014-2016 Macan, and the 2012.5-2016 Boxster and Cayman will be announced shortly.

The M.O.S.T HUR 31 (SKU# NTV-KIT835) is currently shipping and available. Product images and installation manuals may be viewed at https://navtv.com/products/NTV-KIT835/most-hur-31.html   For more information on the M.O.S.T HUR 31 radio replacement kit, or our existing line of over 800 other integration and safety products, please contact your NAV-TV sales representative at  (866) 477-3336  (USA and Canada toll free) or (561) 955-9770 (International), or email our sales staff at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Vista, CA (June 22, 2017) – Directed announces today release of two new firmwares for the 2014 – 2017 Nissan Rogue regular and smart key versions, adding to one of the broadest ranges of vehicle coverage in the industry. One of the key features of these two new firmwares is no longer requiring the customer to give up a key for a key wrap or having to use key2go to clone the factory key.

As part of the complete Directed Experience, Directed firmware solutions provide the widest coverage in the industry, offering the most 3X Lock Start and Remote-Start-Ready coverage with support for 58% of all 2001 to 2016 vehicle models. Directed firmware also supports 90% of all 2007 to 2017 vehicle models. Better performance, wider coverage and exclusive features make Directed the industry’s go-to resource for the greatest selection of firmware solutions.

“If you haven’t had the Directed Experience lately, now is the time!” said Glenn Busse, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Customer Care. “The Directed Experience is a fresh, new, and exciting look at everything Directed has to offer, from systems and firmware, to training, support, and dealer programs. And if you or anyone on your team isn’t completely satisfied with the Directed Experience, please contact us. We are dedicated to making it an experience you’ll never forget.”

These new firmware solutions support remote start, 3X start, security and convenience functions on 2014 – 2017 Nissan Rogue regular and smart key versions. To learn all the details, and to view a complete application chart Please visit: https://www.directechs.com/news.aspx?newsid=67

To learn more about the Directed Experience, go to www.directed.com/experience.

Boston, MA (July 20, 2017) – Waylens, Inc. announced that it has hired long-time sales executive Everett Morss As Director of Major Account Sales. Everett has over 30 years of experience in the consumer electronics industry, including Beltronics, Escort and Cobra branded products.

“As we look to expand our North American retail presence, we felt Everett was an excellent fit. His knowledge and relationships in the industry are wide and deep.” said Waylens CEO Haowei Zhang.

Waylens launched its first product, the Horizon automotive camera system, in 2015 on Kickstarter. Since that time it has grown to be a successful camera technology company with offices in Boston, Shanghai, Austin and Cincinnati.

Waylens recently announced its next series of automotive cameras, Waylens Secure360, at CE Week in New York City. The innovative Secure360 4G camera is the first and only automotive security camera with true 360 degree protection. And, the simple-to-use Waylens Secure app work seamlessly together with the Waylens Cloud to provide a complete 360 security solution for your vehicle.

The Secure360 4G camera looks out for you and your car, so you can relax

• True 360, all-glass, 7-element lens captures with clarity what’s happening in and around your car, giving you complete insight into any event
• Innovative sensor fusion technology combines 3D radar, 3-axis accelerometer, and 3-axis gyro event detection to provide intelligent alerts
• Automatic uploading of event data to the Waylens Cloud keeps event evidence secure even if the camera is stolen or disabled
• Advanced power management keeps the camera alert to events when your vehicle is in park, without draining your battery
• Built-in GPS technology provides location data to help you find your car
• Voice recognition allows hands-free interaction, so you can keep your eyes on the road
• High-speed 4G bandwidth delivers real-time live alerts and live streaming information power

The Waylens Secure app puts peace-of-mind in the palm of your hand 

• Access event data from Waylens Cloud on demand from any location
• Choose from multiple viewing modes of video evidence to see the full story 
• Get event notifications instantly, right on your phone
• Monitor your vehicle in real-time from any location
• Remind yourself of your car’s location

Waylens also offers a WiFi-only version of the camera for drivers who need 360-degree vision and event-capturing but do not require the live alerts and live streaming available with the 4G.

Both the 4G and WiFi versions of the Secure360 lineup are designed with drivers in mind, featuring an elegant, low-profile design that looks at home in any vehicle. The cameras mount low on the windshield to ensure a panoramic view of the interior and exterior driving environment and provide a clear view of the road ahead.

Pricing and Availability:

The Waylens Secure360 WiFi will begin shipping by the end of November 2017 for $249.95. The Waylens Secure360 4G with live alerts and live-streaming will begin shipping during the first quarter 2018 for $349.95. Preordering for both models will begin later this summer.

“As we roll out the Secure360 line of products, I’m excited to work with Everett again,” said Tim Coomer, Vice President. “Everett and I worked together in the past and believe we can build a powerful retail business for Waylens and its partners,” continued Coomer.

Oxnard, Calif. – (July 18, 2017) – SCOSCHE Industries has announced the availability of the first in its upcoming lineup of second-generation Integrated Touchscreen Control Installation Kits, the 2010 - 2014 Chevrolet Camaro ITC 2.0 Installation Kit – Part Number ITCGM01B.

This plug-and-play ITC 2.0 dash kit allows easy replacement of the vehicle's factory stereo to any aftermarket DIN or Double DIN unit. This dash kit is the first of its kind to include a dual, full-color touch screen system to control the vehicle’s air conditioning, as well as other vehicle technology systems and convenience features. The kit requires no complex programming or cutting of any of the OEM wiring in the vehicle during installation.

The ITCGM01B is configurable for single and dual climate controls. The new and improved ITC 2.0 interface features dual, full-color touch screens to provide comprehensive vehicle systems and audio integration. This dash kit has been designed with high-quality automotive grade ABS plastic to match the texture and paint of the vehicle manufacturer’s fascia panels.

Key feature synopsis - 2010-14 Chevrolet Camaro ITC 2.0 Kit DIN/Double DIN In-Dash Kit:
• Fits with double DIN or single DIN stereos.
• Painted and textured to match factory panels.
• Plugs directly into factory A/C harness. No cutting of wires necessary.
• Configurable for single and dual climate controls.
• Dual, full-color touchscreen A/C controller.
• Includes stereo replacement interface.
• Allows factory Steering Wheel Controls to operate most aftermarket stereos, including Sony, Alpine, Pioneer, Kenwood, Clarion and JVC.
*Not compatible with factory navigation equipped model vehicles.
*For vehicles equipped with OnStar module, CAMOSM is required and sold separately.

In the coming months, Scosche will be releasing more of these next generation ITC 2.0 Installation Kits for Mustang, F-150 and more. Dealers/retailers interested in ordering this innovation new product can contact Scosche Dealer Sales at 800-363-4490. The ITCGM01B is $389.99 MSRP.

Clearwater, FL (July 17, 2017) -- The EchoMaster Wall Retail Display is now available to all authorized EchoMaster dealers. This fully interactive display showcases a comprehensive portfolio of EchoMaster products to educate the shopper. Easy to install and mount on a slatwall, the display comes equipped with a selection of best-in-class collision avoidance solutions for any vehicle.

Whether a customer is seeking solutions for reversing the family car, or guiding a fleet of vehicles, the new EchoMaster display features a wide range of trusted safety solutions for any situation:

• Blind spot and lane departure assistance
• Large assortment of front and rear safety cameras in multiple viewing and mounting options
• Front and reversing sensor kits

“We have a very competitive program for our displays that independent retailers will want to take advantage of,” said Herb Brown, vice president of sales at AAMP Global. “We make educating our retailers, and their customers, about the importance of safety, easier than ever.”

For more information regarding display programs, contact your EchoMaster sales representative. Interested in becoming an EchoMaster authorized dealer, contact AAMP Global at 800-477-2267 or by //This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it./">email.

Promotion throughout summer events to support key retailers and independent specialists

LONG BEACH, CALIF., July 17, 2017 (MEDIAWIRE) – JVC Mobile Entertainment announced it is sponsoring two landmark amphitheaters in the state of Washington—Gorge Amphitheater in George and White River Amphitheater in Auburn—both owned and operated by Live Nation. The sponsorship is part of JVC's push to connect with live-music lovers during venue events and channel customers into local retail stores by promoting the JVC brand and products.

Through October, JVC branding will be featured on Gorge and White River signage and concert screens. Brand ambassadors will actively engage concertgoers with giveaways, text-to-win prizes and product displays showcasing the JVC KW-V830BT DVD receiver equipped with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Attendees will also receive bounce-back coupons for product discounts at local CarToys retail stores.

"JVC Mobile Entertainment has always been about the celebration of music," said Hazim Jainoor, brand marketing manager. "We are excited to engage with avid music lovers and connect them to retailers in their area who will help create their ideal listening experience. All independent JVC retailers benefit from promotions like these because of the heightened brand awareness that our collaboration brings. The Pacific Northwest is the first of several planned venue collaborations that will support local car audio specialists."

The KW-V830BT carries an MSRP of $599.95. For more information, visit mobile.jvc.com.

Holly Hill, FL - July 2017 – Metra Electronics will be teaching two vendor training courses at KnowledgeFest in Dallas, TX from August 11-14, 2017. This industry event is hosted by the Mobile Electronics Association at the Dallas Convention Center and features a full schedule of educational training for 12 volt installers. Metra’s Installer Institute, an accredited school for Mobile Electronics, will also be at the show giving information about their school’s programs and continuing education courses. Both the Installer Institute and Metra Electronics will be at booth #316.

“AX-DSP - Upgrade your digitally amplified system without the hassle” will be taught by Jason Anderson on August 12 from 4:45pm to 5:45pm. How do you effectively install aftermarket amps and speakers in vehicles with digital amplifiers? The new AX-DSP from Axxess Interfaces is the solution to this problem that installers have been dealing with for years. The AX-DSP takes the digital signal from OE radios and converts it to a multi-channel analog output, allowing an installer to easily add aftermarket amps while retaining the use of the OE radio controls. Installers no longer have to buy summing devices, processors, or DSP’s, and then spend hours wiring up and troubleshooting. Installers should attend this training seminar at the 2017 summer Knowledgefest event to find out how the AX-DSP can save time, money and headaches in the installation bay. Attendees can reserve their seat for this class online at: http://knowledgefest.org/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=113&Itemid=332.

The second class, “Metra/Axxess 101: Back to the Basics”, will be taught by Juan Lugo on Sunday, August 13 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will cover basic install techniques and topics such as wiring up combo amplified /non-amplified harnesses, initialization of various interfaces, audio adjustments to interfaces, and the use and operation of the new Axxess App and PC updater program. The class will also discuss the new AX-DSP, TurboTouch Kits and various other new products from Metra Electronics. KnowledgeFest attendees can reserve their seat for this training session at: http://knowledgefest.org/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=172&Itemid=332.

Please visit the following websites for more information:

KnowledgeFest event information, schedule and registration: KnowledgeFest.org

Installer Institute’s programs and courses for mobile electronics: InstallerInstitute.com

The new Axxess Digital Signal Processor (AX-DSP) from Metra Electronics: AxxessDSP.com

7-17-2017 -- Beginning this week, Phoenix Gold authorized dealers will start receiving the anticipated DSP8.8 Digital Signal Processor. The very first DSP8.8 was hand delivered last week to Ultimate Auto in Orlando, Florida by AAMP Global’s Team Phantom member, Mike Eckley.

“We’re passionate about the DSP8.8 and the opportunity to bring an innovative audio product to the market, all while being able to leverage our Team Phantom street team and their continuous engagement with our customers. The ability to have them moving full speed for this big of a launch is incredibly impactful,” explains Herb Brown, VP, Sales.

With their expertise in all things AAMP, Team Phantom’s onsite trainings have become invaluable in the product education for AAMP’s U.S. customer base. With over 75 combined years of industry experience, the team brings a rich knowledge and passion for the aftermarket mobile electronics industry which AAMP and its retail partners have been able to tap into and harness.

The team has been so impactful, that it has expanded to two additional territories this year. Team Phantom is now made up of Mike Eckley (Florida), Ricky Ross (Southeast), Jason Denton (Mid-Atlantic), Steve Rogers (Upper Midwest), Kevin Allen (Texas), and Mike Hall (Pacific Northwest). With the team visiting retail customers in the signature Team Phantom showcase trucks, they’ll continue providing unmatched customer centric training, marketing and sell-through support for AAMP’s seven Power Brands.

Phoenix Gold’s DSP8.8 will be shipping this week to authorized Phoenix Gold dealers with an MSRP of $900.00. 

Features:
• 8-channel high level inputs with signal sense turn-on • 6-channel low level inputs • WiFi™ module included for connectivity • Real time DSP tuning via graphic user interface controlled by iOS, Android, Mac and Windows PC apps • Aux input (high level for external Bluetooth™/NAVI or 3.5mm) • USB input for uncompressed audio streaming • 240 bands of parametric EQ adjustment (30 bands per output channel) • DRC: multi-function, dash mountable remote control for volume, sub level, EQ preset and illumination included
• 8-channel 4-volt low level outputs • 6 selectable user memory presets