8/10/2016 -- Elettromedia has begun shipping the Hertz H8 DSP processor. Taking ideas and the design of the Audison Bit Ten and Bit Ten D, the processor will include analog and digital inputs that can all be controlled through its specially designed software via computer.

The H8 DSP inputs will include the following features:

-          4 High level of low level inputs

-          1 auxiliary input

-          Optical digital input that will accept a signal at a sample rate up to 96/24bit

Any source can be selected through the DRC HE remote.

The H8 DSP  will consist of 8 channels of pre out analog outputs that will have a independent 31 band equalizer for each channel.

An added feature that is not found on their current processors is the UCS (User Control Set). This allows the installer to wire the H8 DSP to get a signal and automatically switch to one of its stored memories (Mem A or Mem B). For example, the passenger seat belt sensor can trigger the H8 DSP to switch to Mem B of that tune is set for driver + passenger.

7-19-2016 -- Toshiba Electronics Europe has introduced a new, 49W-per-channel power amplifier IC for automotive audio applications. The4-channel TCB501HQ provides high output power and low distortion, and detects output offset voltage.

Similar to high-end hi-fi audio systems the IC integrates a current feedback system. This prevents sound quality degradation at wide bandwidths, improving sound consistency and the listening experience.

Conventional offset detection during sound reproduction is particularly difficult to manage. To address this, the TCB501HQ integrates a newly developed, full-time offset detection circuit. It also detects output DC offset voltage caused by leakage from the input capacitor and other sources, even during sound reproduction. Additional embedded protection circuits include thermal, overvoltage, output to VCC, output to GND, output to output protection and a short circuit detection function.

Housed in a HZIP25-P-1.00F package, the TCB501HQ also features built-in mute and standby functions, a high-side switch driver and 6V operation.

The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)™ - owner and producer of CES - the global stage for innovation - has announced the official call for CES 2017 Innovation Award entries. The annual competition honors outstanding design and engineering across 28 consumer technology categories, including - but not limited to - wearable technologies, vehicle intelligence, smart home and virtual reality.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early and can submit entries from August 8 through September 16. The first 200 applicants will receive a $200 early bird discount. Honorees will be announced at CES Unveiled New York on November 10 and the winning products will be on display January 5-8 at CES 2017 in the Innovation Awards Showcase at Tech West.

Each product category has an expert, three-member judging team composed of an independent industrial designer, an independent engineer and a member of the trade press. Entries are judged on engineering qualities, aesthetic and design qualities, use/function and user value, unique/novel features and how the design and innovation directly compare to other products in the market.

 DETAILS: Honorees will receive additional Innovation Awards benefits, including use of the Honoree logos on marketing assets and product packaging, exposure on CES.tech, listing in the January/February issue of It Is Innovation (i3) and an Innovation Awards Honoree trophy.

 For full contest rules and to submit online, visit CES.tech/innovation. Questions should be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

8/2/2016 -- Rostra has introduced its latest LED lighting offering in the form of its 260-2070 7-inch LED headlamp replacement.

An ideal solution for upgrading the forward-facing lighting on various classic/hot rod vehicles as well as modernizing motorcycles, Jeeps and heavy-duty trucks, this lamp is in stock and available for immediate shipment. Shipped in a clamshell packaging which can stand upright on its own on a shelf or hang from a peg hook, these lamps can fit well into any showroom.

The product is constructed from a die-cast aluminum housing and rugged, abrasion resistant UV-protected lens. The sealed lamp provides vehicle owners with a simple way of replacing aging halogen assemblies with state of the art LED lighting technology. The built-in three-pin H4 connector allows for easy vehicle retrofitting while 9-volt to 32-volt operation covers a wide range of passenger car and truck, motorcycle and commercial vehicle applications.

Easy to Install PAC Modules Integrates Navigation, HDMI Connectivity, and Back-up Camera with Existing Factory Radio

CLEARWATER, FL - (August 8, 2016) – As factory in-car audio and video systems get more advanced, the ability to integrate an aftermarket radio increases in difficulty so PAC, a Power Brand of AAMP Global, is offering a new series of integration modules that make upgrading easy, and without the need to completely remove and replace the original radio. Today, PAC released the Ford FIT-FD11, Chrysler FIT-CH11, and Volkswagen DB-VWSERIESHD which all works with the vehicle’s existing audio system to provide users with iGO's Primo NextGen route guidance navigation, HDMI connectivity for smartphone mirroring, back-up camera input, and more.  Each module is designed for quick installation utilizing the factory wiring without any cutting, splicing, and programming.

“We’re taking popular vehicles equipped with large touch screens and expanding their capabilities,” said Brett Riggs, general manager of Integration Products for AAMP Global.  “Within minutes, our retailers will be able to give their customers advanced navigation, smartphone connectivity via HDMI input, and the convenience and safety associated with a reverse camera.” 

The FIT-FD11, FIT-CH11 and DB-VWSERIESHD upgrade kits include: 

• iGO Primo NextGen Navigation: The modules offer the latest mapping information from iGO Primo NextGen with turn-by-turn route guidance to virtually any destination in the country.  It includes more than 17 million points of interest (US/Canada), 3D building and topography view modes, and 2D/3D/Smart zoom features for easy to follow graphics
• HDMI Connectivity: Each system lets users connect a smartphone or other device equipped with an HDMI output for mirroring content directly onto the factory display (while parked) 
• Reverse Camera Input: For safety and convenience, the module includes a reverse camera input, compatible with most aftermarket back-up cameras available today.  Users will be able to view images from a connected back-up camera (sold separately) when the vehicle is shifted into reverse
• OE Back-up Camera Retention: The system is also designed to retain the factory back-up camera (when equipped) without any changes to the feature
• USB Charging: The integrated USB connection supplies the necessary power to let users charge their power hungry devices
• System Compatibility:
  • Ford vehicles with the SYNC2 MyFord Touch 8-inch system (FIT-FD11)
  • Volkswagen vehicles with 5.8-inch touch screens (DB-VWSERIESHD)
  • Chrysler vehicles with the Uconnect 8.4-inch touch screens (FIT-CH11)

The FIT-FD11 and FIT-CH11, are now available for a suggested price of $1,499.99.

The DB-VWSERIESHD will be available at the end of August with a suggested price of $1,199.99. 

Ford FIT-FD11 Applications:

2013-2015          C-Max (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2011-2016          Edge (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2013-2015          Escape (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2011-2016          Explorer (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2011-2016          Flex (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2013-2016          Focus (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2013-2016          F-Series (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2014-2016          Mustang (8” MyFord Touch screen)

2011-2016          Taurus (8” MyFord Touch screen)

Chrysler FIT-CH11 Applications:

2011-2014 Chrysler 300 (Uconnect 8.4-inch Touch screen)

2011-2014 Dodge Charger (Uconnect 8.4-inch Touch screen)

2011-2016 Dodge Journey (Uconnect 8.4-inch Touch screen)

Volkswagen DB-VWSERIES Applications:

2015-2016 Golf/GTI (with 5.8-inch Touch screen)

HAUPPAUGE, NEW YORK – AUGUST 8, 2016 -–VOXX Electronics announced CarLink is now available for all cars in the aftermarket. When combined with a remote start system, CarLink offers today’s most advanced convenience and security solution allowing access to a vehicle without the use of a transmitter. When paired with the smartphone app, CarLink transforms a smartphone into a virtual transmitter, instantly giving remote access to a vehicle and a direct connection to OE-style safety and convenience services. 

“Remote start as we know it today has remained unchanged for over 20 years, providing users with a simple and convenient way to heat up or cool down their vehicles with the use of a transmitter.  The introduction of CarLink has reinvented what remote start systems can now do by transforming your smartphone into a virtual transmitter.  Never have to worry about being without access to your vehicle again.  CarLink provides peace of mind by having a virtual transmitter within your smartphone at all times so that you and your car are always linked no matter where you are,” said Aron Demers, Senior Vice President, VOXX Electronics Corporation.

Once CarLinkBT, a Bluetooth module (ASCLBT) is installed with a compatible remote start and/or factory keyless entry the CarLinkBT Bluetooth Basic Service delivers access to the vehicle without the use of a transmitter. CarLinkBT communicates with our smartphone app to lock/unlock and start your vehicle (within Bluetooth range – approximately 75-100 feet). Users will also have access to the CarLink Insurance Discount Program for potential money saving insurance discounts with up to 19 different insurance carriers. Those interested in connecting even further can upgrade to CarLink Cellular (ASCL5) Basic Service to transform their smartphone into a virtual transmitter giving remote access from virtually anywhere in the world with cellular coverage.

Upgrading to the CarLink Cellular (ASCL5) Premium Service provides users with today’s most desired safety and convenience features at one low price.  Access the additional suite of services included within the CarLink Cellular Premium Service directly from the smartphone app:

• E-Call Service – provides 24/7 access to make a one-touch call a dedicated Emergency Response call center in the event of an emergency.
• Roadside Assistance – provides users with a dedicated Emergency Call Center running 24/7 to assist you if you break-down, run out of gas, get a flat tire…just about anything.
• Stolen Vehicle Assistance – Helps to locate your vehicle, and share its location with the local authorities to assist in vehicle recovery.
• Driver Safety includes our unique driver distraction Text Blocking App to reduce texting and driving while vehicle is in motion, the ability to set (up to five) Geo-Fences sending alerts when a vehicle enters or exits pre-determined zones, and
• Speed Alerts sending a notification if the vehicle should exceed a predetermined speed threshold.
•  Location Services – includes On-Demand Vehicle Location to notify you of real-time vehicle location, as well as access to Trip Maps to view the path vehicle has traveled when enabled.
•  Driver Scoring – provides reports to help improve driving habits and assist in driver coaching

The CarLinkBT module will now also be included with the Company’s recently introduced, new Prestige PROCORE remote start.  Prestige PROCORE is a “one-module” solution allowing dealers to build any style of remote start by focusing on customized features based on what is most important to their customers – without stocking multiple complete kits.

The CarLinkBT Module (ASCLBT) is available now for an MSRP of $69.99 with a one-time fee of $7.99.  No monthly or annual fees.

The CarLink Cellular Hardware (ASCL5) is required with either a Cellular Basic Service fee of $59.99/year, or a Cellular Premium Service fee of $119.99/year.

The Prestige PROCORE with CarLinkBT (APSFCBT) is available now for an MSRP of $349.99

For more information about CarLink please visit: www.voxxelectronics.com  

8-4-2016 -- Diamond Audio, an industry leader in high-end mobile audio products “rocked the midway” at the 2016 Custom Sounds Texas Heatwave event held recently at the Travis County Expo Center in Austin, TX.

Diamond Audio exhibited at this year’s Texas Heatwave with commanding presence as it showcased its complete line of new Motorsport Series products designed and manufactured for marine, all-terrain, and recreational applications. “It is important for Diamond Audio to reach out to consumers and Texas Heatwave provides us that opportunity to demonstrate how LOUD and CLEAR our latest Motorsport Series products can perform and it made a lot of positive impressions to those visitors that came through our booth all weekend long”, states Jeff Peters, Brand Manager for Diamond Audio.

In addition to showcasing the Motorsport Series product line, Diamond Audio also featured its entire line of HEX PRO, HEX, Micro, Diamond Elite, and Diamond Series mobile audio products mounted on active display boards.

The show-goers were able to listen and hear the numerous speakers and subwoofers on display and experience first-hand the power and attention to detail of Diamond Audio’s amplifier lines. The display boards are a part of this year’s Diamond Audio dealer merchandising program that is offered to their Authorized Dealers. Supporting the Diamond Audio factory team at the event were Kane Naghwai and John Kennedy from A&W Distributors based in Dallas, TX. “Diamond Audio is an important brand to A&W Distributors so we jumped at the opportunity to work the event and show support to our participating Diamond Audio dealers and customers”, adds Kane Naghwai.

The Texas Heatwave midway was rocked courtesy of the jaw-dropping performance of Diamond Audio’s “SPLoudspeaker ice-chest” that took high far-field performance to another level! Designed and built by Diamond Audio’s own Wayne Messina Jr., this custom-built cooler features eight HXM8 Motorsport series coaxial speakers driven by a MICRO4V2 model amplifier delivering a total of 640W RMS power! An internal battery supplied the power to the amplifier while music was streamed through Diamond Audio’s Bluetooth receiver (DABTR10) and Diamond Audio’s RGB LED remote light controller (DARGB8A) adjusted all the HXM8 speaker’s integrated RGB LED lights.

“The SPLoudspeaker ice-chest garnered so much attention and it was fun to share with the our customers on how it was built and how to get the most performance out of Diamond Audio products whether it is applied into a cooler or any type of vehicle or motorsport”, states Wayne Messina, Jr. To obtain more information about Diamond Audio, please contact our sales and support staff at 213-261-4161 or visit us online at www.diamondaudio.com.

EDMOND, Okla. — Petra Industries partnered with the Oklahoma Blood Institute to host a blood drive on July 28 at their corporate office in Edmond, OK.

Petra team members lined up and donate blood for those in their community who will need it most. The 17 people that lined up throughout their busy workday helped to save 51 lives in our community.

“I consider donating blood giving someone the gift of life, and I feel like it’s a great way to help out those in need,” said Petra Team member Austin Chappell. “People all around Oklahoma are in need of blood, so if I can give them another chance at life by making a simple blood donation, I’m going to unreservedly do it.”

Community involvement has been at the bedrock of the Petra’s culture since its founding more than 30 years ago. So whether it is hosting the annual Hope in One Charity Golf Tournament, raising money for Petra’s in-house financial assistance program, the Big Heart Alliance, providing paid time off for employees to volunteer, or hosting a blood drive—Petra invests in the wellbeing of their community.

“Petra thrives because of our incredible team members and the great community in which we live. That’s why it is so important for us to give back,” said Tate Morgan Petra President.  

For more information about Petra Industries visit www.petra.com and for more information about the Oklahoma Blood Institute visit www.obi.org.

08/04/2016 - Coral Springs, Florida -- NAV-TV Corp., a leading manufacturer of OEM integration and safety  products for the automotive aftermarket, announces the release of the FORD 4" UNI CAM "KT2" Rear View Camera and Video input safety interface for ALL current model Ford and Lincoln vehicles with a 4-inch color monitor. The KT2 is capable of activating a rear view camera input in one, or multiple vehicles, utilizing the same hardware. In addition, it is being launched at a 25 percent lower dealer price point versus any single-use solution on the market.

In a single use application, the KT2 enables an aftermarket rear view camera to be displayed on the factory 4-inch monitor automatically while in reverse. It also expands the capability of the factory color monitor to add an extra video input and enables viewing of the rear view camera in any gear. For multi-vehicle use, the KT2 enables rear view camera integration only. The unit comes pre-programmed with a single use and can be reloaded via a pay-per-use downloadable license file available in single, 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 activations. Additional Activation License files are immediately available upon purchase, eliminating shipping time and costs. Each KT2 hardware interface is capable of activating a rear view camera in 768 different vehicles before it has to be replaced.

The FORD 4" UNI CAM "KT2"  interface is available and shipping now exclusively through NAV-TV and Automobility Distribution in Canada . For information on the KT2 rear view camera and video input solution, or the company's existing line of over 750 other integration and safety products, 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.

Daytona Beach, Florida – IASCA Worldwide’s Director of Operations Moe Sabourin recently visited its Affiliate in Indonesia for a week’s worth of training and competition judging in the country’s capital city of Jakarta.

In a city of 10 million people, IASCA Indonesia affiliate Mediaaudio.id hosted a four-day training seminar including two days of IASCA Judge’s and Competitor Training for Sound Quality at the Hotel Santika in the heart of the city.

More than 50 attendees were present for the training, with 30 attendees participating in becoming certified as IASCA Indonesia Judges.

Along with the training was the introduction of the all new IASCA Sound Quality Reference CD set; attendees followed the training with each section highlighting the evaluation tracks on the disc. As the final production run of the CDs was not yet complete, the production company produced CD-Rs specifically for the training so that Indonesian Judges and competitors could experience the new CD set.

Over 35 competitors participated in the Sound Quality competition on the Friday following the training seminars. The competitors’ systems were evaluated using the new IASCA Sound Quality Reference CD and it was an instant success.

"Although the main purpose of the trip was for the training, the buzz was all about the new CD" said IASCA Director of Operations, Moe Sabourin "After the IASCA Judges/Competitors training and the Arc Audio training, attendees were outside in their vehicles tuning with the new CD preparing for Friday’s competition.”. Sabourin continued to say “Everyone we spoke with had high praise for the quality of the CD’s engineering and tracks used. Orders for the new CD in the region have already topped 400 and growing daily! This is definitely a turning point for IASCA Sound Quality competition and a huge movement forward for awareness of aftermarket car audio.”

Plans are already under way for an IASCA car audio system tuning CD set to compliment the new reference CD.

For more information on IASCA Worldwide and its affiliate countries, visit http://www.iasca.com or contact Moe Sabourin at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

A growing list of DEI part numbers is now available at more than 4500 AutoZone stores 

Avon Lake (August 2, 2016)…DEI, the leading brand for automotive thermal protection, is proud to announce the availability of two new thermal protection products at AutoZone® stores nationwide.

DEI’s Titanium Protect-A-Sleeve with LR Technology and Reflect-A-GOLD are now available at more than 4500 AutoZone stores joining DEI’s flagship thermal wrap product - Titanium Exhaust Wrap with LR Technology™ in the 2” x 50 ft. length.

The newly added Titanium Protect-A-Sleeve with LR Technology provides thermal protection for wires, lines and cables from the damaging effect of direct and radiant heat; up to 1800°F direct heat, and 2500°F radiant. It is available at AutoZone in the ½” ID x 4 ft. length (part #010065).  

The material used in DEI’s Titanium Exhaust Wrap and Protect-A-Sleeve is composed of pulverized lava rock extruded into fibers and woven into a proprietary tight weave to provide a titanium-like strength and longlasting durability. It has a cool carbon fiber look that works well in any vehicle – show, race or daily driver; and provides protection of sensitive components at risk of heat soak.

Reflect-A-GOLD is a metalized polyamide polymer backed by a high temperature pressure sensitive adhesive used to reflect heat on firewalls, air boxes, air induction tubing, bulkheads, engine covers, floors, seat bottoms and other area’s needing thermal protection. Lightweight and low profile, Reflect-A-GOLD resists UV degradation and can be trimmed to size. Reflect-A-GOLD is available at AutoZone in a 12” x 12” sheet (part #010066.)

For more information about DEI’s thermal protection products available through AutoZone call DEI at 800-264-9472, or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To keep up with the latest new thermal performance products from Design Engineering, Inc.™ (DEI), like us on Facebook, or follow on Twitter. For more information about AutoZone, go to www.autozone.com.

Multiseat Stereo™ provides precise audio staging for every seat; will debut at KnowledgeFest

SUN VALLEY, CALIF., August 3, 2016 (MEDIAWIRE) – Audiofrog announced it will debut the first multichannel audio processing platform developed and optimized specifically for the automotive aftermarket. Multiseat Stereo™ transforms the listening experience for every passenger in the vehicle, providing immersive sound in every seat. The introduction will take place at the annual KnowledgeFest trade show and conference, August 20-22 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas.
Audiofrog’s Multiseat Stereo is made possible through a collaboration with PerfectSurround, maker of an award-winning multichannel upmixing process in use by top film, broadcast and recording studios in over 50 countries. PerfectSurround translates simple stereo into 5- or 7-channel audio with no phase artifacts, enabling sound engineers to create the same immersive and believable audio experience for every seat in a theater. Audiofrog has contributed extensive automotive system design and tuning expertise to incorporate additional features and controls that adapt the studio technology to the automotive environment.
“A traditional aftermarket stereo system can sound great in one seat, but it can’t provide great sound for every seat,” said Andy Wehmeyer, president of Audiofrog. “Optimizing it for the driver means passengers get an experience that’s only worthy of an apology. Multiseat Stereo is able to simultaneously give the driver and passenger a focused stage and a more believable sense of space. It’s not just Multiseat Stereo. It’s better stereo. Thank you to the team at PerfectSurround for this opportunity.”
The development of Multiseat Stereo also signals the beginning of a product line expansion for Audiofrog. The company plans to introduce digital signal processors with Multiseat Stereo and complementary amplifiers that also include DSP in 2017.

For more information, contact Andy Wehmeyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.audiofrogusa.com. 

Expanded Partnership Brings Interfacing Solutions to Retailers Across the South

RESEDA, Ca. (August 2, 2016) – Crux Interfacing Solutions announced that it has reached an agreement with DOW Electronics, a leading Consumer Electronics distributor in the South, for distribution throughout DOW’s 11 state territory in the Southern United States. This agreement extends the distribution of Crux by DOW into four new states and allows DOW to stock the product at six distribution center locations.

Specializing in automotive OEM integration for the digital era, CRUX Interfacing Solutions provides an array of products based on proprietary research. As the interfacing demands of today's OEM systems morph towards software-driven products, CRUX works to anticipate the rapidly changing needs of the Cross-Product industry, with their distinctive approach towards the integration of audio communication concepts. Besides Interfaces for aftermarket Radio Replacement and feature retention, the Crux Beeline Series offers Bluetooth Connectivity Kits that work seamlessly with OEM systems on a wide range of automobiles.

Rich DeSclafani of Crux Interfacing Solutions stated “The increase in territory for DOW Electronics was a no brainer for us. DOW Electronics is a world class company whose reputation speaks for itself. Being named the 2014 and 2015 ME Awards Distributor of the Year and being a finalist again this year is a testament to the commitment they have to this industry. We are extremely excited to strengthen our partnership with DOW Electronics, a company that aligns itself with success. This addition helps strengthen our presence on the East Coast while cutting shipping times and allowing DOW Electronics the freedom to service their complete territory.”

“This is a great opportunity for DOW, and we are very excited to bring Crux to all of our retailers,” stated Dave Elkin, DOW vice president of sales. “Crux offers installers great products that simplify their job by managing the complex integration with OEM systems. We are very excited to be able to extend our agreement with Crux.”

The full line of Crux products are available for online ordering and available to be shipped anywhere in DOW’s 11 state territory. The products are also available for pick up at DOW Electronics’ Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, New Orleans, and Tampa locations.

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

8-2-2016 -- Memphis Audio will be at KnowledgreFest 2016 in Dallas, Texas, showcasing the NEW Memphis products. 

Attendees can visit booth #426 to participate in a live demonstration of the company's 2016 product line in its listening station. In addition to its car audio line, the company will be publicly showcasing its newest line of side-by-side roof audio solutions – Memphis Xtreme Tops. These tops are hand built in the USA and are designed to provide the most versatile, best sounding audio solution for side-by-sides in the industry. A demo vehicle will be displaying the products for attendees to experience. 

All visitors will receive access to exclusive show specials, free swag and a chance to win $1000 of Memphis cash only available at Knowledgefest. As an ME Platinum Partner, the company is offering these specials and swag to the industry professionals who take the time out of their busy schedules to attend the event.

On Sunday August 21st from 5:30pm-6:30pm National Sales Manager Shawn Spedding will conduct a dealer training: Memphis Audio Presents – Improving Your Margins & Sharpening Your Selling Skills. With Amazon, Wal-Mart, and the economy trying to erode margin, it’s more important than ever to maximize profit with every sale. Attendees can learn the tips and tricks to add-on sales, top-down selling, and see what the NEW Memphis is doing to help then make more money. The first 25 to register for the training will receive a FREE GIFT courtesy of Memphis Audio.

Memphis will also host an exclusive after hours party following its training on Sunday, Aug. 21st, packed with food and brews and booze. Attendees may stop by for an exclusive preview of the company's 2017 product line at the event. The event is open to all attendees but only VIP dealers will receive the VIP treatment at the event for being part of the Memphis team. Stop by booth 426 to get your exclusive invitation to the event.   

8/3/16 Elgin, IL – K40 Electronics announced that it will offer two interactive dealer training sessions on K40 remote radar detectors and laser jamming products – including the new Laser Defuser Optix™ - during Mobile Electronics’ KnowledgeFest trade show and conference being held August 20-22, 2016, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas.

Offering some of the industry’s highest vendor margins, K40 sees the 20th anniversary of KnowledgFest and its “Shift” theme as an ideal opportunity for dealers to shift their focus to maximum profitability. “With auto and aftermarket accessory manufacturers focusing on safety and driver’s assistance, K40 speed protection products are the bottom-line difference maker for mobile electronics retailers,” said Rachel Clark, K40’s National Sales Director. “And they keep these profits in their pocket with nearly no warranty returns,” added Clark.

Two training sessions covering “Product-Profit-Partnership: The K40 Difference” will be offered by K40:

Sun., August 21, 2016 - 4:30pm - 5:30pm - Outside Trinity Exhibit Hall

Mon., August 22, 2016 - 9:30am - 10:30am - Outside Trinity Exhibit Hall

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

K40 will also exhibit its entire product line in booth #416 where the new Laser Defuser Optix, one of the smallest laser jammers on the market, will be highlighted. “Optix is approximately the size of a slim automotive key fob or USB flash drive, so it can be installed into grilles and other tight spaces,” 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

Vista, CA (July 22, 2016) – Directed has released 3 million tons of new firmware, giving Directed the broadest range of vehicle coverage available.

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 2016 vehicle models. Better performance, wider coverage and exclusive features make Directed the industry’s go-to resource for the greatest selection of firmware solutions.

And that firmware really adds up. If you calculate the weight of all the vehicles covered by these new firmware solutions (that are currently on the road), you’d get an astounding 3,000,000 tons of vehicle coverage!

“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 over 5 different makes and 13 different models of popular vehicles. To learn all the details, go to www.directechs.com.

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

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

As Clarion’s exclusive distributor, Petra Industries will provide authorized traditional 12V dealers access to Clarion’s extensive line of marine-grade products.  

Cypress, Calif. August 2, 2016 – Clarion Corporation of America, a leader in consumer and commercial mobile electronics, announced that Petra Industries has been appointed as the exclusive distributor of Clarion’s marine systems and accessories for the traditional 12-volt retailer channel in the United States. Clarion will continue selling directly to boat builders, marine retailers, and e-commerce accounts.

While traditional 12-volt retailers are principally focused on selling and installing car audio and entertainment systems and accessories, many also offer sales and installation of marine audio and entertainment products not just during the boating season but throughout the year. Through Petra, authorized 12-volt retailers will now have access to Clarion’s extensive and purpose-built marine product line, including award-winning source units, speakers, amplifiers, remotes, and accessories.

Recognized by the industry for their benchmark durability and reliability, every Clarion marine system and accessory endures a battery of character defining tests. By replicating prolonged UV exposure, simulating the humid saltwater environment and rigorously testing for thermal shock to imitate quick changes in temperature, Clarion ensures that its marine line-up can withstand the rigors of the harsh marine environment season after season.

“While our purpose-built marine audio and entertainment product line is a favorite among many boat builders across the United States, we see significant potential in servicing the marine aftermarket through 12-volt retailers,” stated Paul S. Lachner, President of Clarion Corporation of America. “By relying on Petra’s tremendous logistics expertise and longstanding reputation for supplying products to the 12-volt retail channel, we are now making it possible for 12-volt dealers across the country to gain access to our award-winning marine products, allowing them to offer the very best in marine entertainment products to their customers.”     

Much like Clarion, Petra is committed to bringing an extraordinary experience and value to their customers. The addition of Clarion’s marine product line is in pace with Petra’s vision to provide its customers access to top brands and a superior level of satisfaction. 

“We are very pleased to be partnering with Clarion to support the 12-volt dealer base with great marine audio products,” stated Tate Morgan, Petra President. “Our commitment to unparalleled customer support combined with Clarion’s best-in-class performance in marine audio and entertainment products provide 12-volt retailers a terrific opportunity to profit from a market that’s a natural fit with their existing car audio business.”

Clarion’s marine systems and accessories are available for purchase immediately through Petra Industries. For more information, visit www.petra.com/clarion-marine or www.clarionmarinesystems.com.   

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® will once again to attend KnowledgeFest 2016, August 20-22 at the Hilton Anatole Resort and Convention Center in Dallas.

The Stillwater, Oklahoma company will offer product trainings both Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m. The KICKER training team will offer an in-depth lesson on how to use the digital-signal-processing (DSP) functions of KICKER ‘s premium IQ-Series amplifier line. New KICKER powersports and marine products will also be explored during the training.

In addition to KICKER sales executives in booth 401, members of KICKER representative firms David Lee Marketing (Edmond, Okla.) and Santa Fe Sales (Lenexa, Kan.) will also be available to answer questions throughout KnowledgeFest. 

TEMPE, Ariz. – August 1, 2016 – Rockford Fosgate has announced the launch of new Power Series audio kits specific to Harley-Davidson motorcycles, model years 1998-current. The audio kits include speakers, amplifiers, and installation accessories. The full line is shipping now with retail prices ranging up to $999.99 MSRP for a complete vehicle specific audio kit.

“Rarely is anyone completely satisfied with motorcycle stock audio equipment, especially when riding on the open road,” said Jake Braaten, Rockford’s V.P. of Product Development & Engineering. “A reason many don’t upgrade their systems is because they don’t want to have to modify their bike in order to add new components. Our new motorcycle speakers have been designed as a direct fit premium quality audio solution with ease of installation in mind. These components deliver the audio experience that people expect from Rockford Fosgate, but require no modification when installed in factory locations. Great sound with relatively no effort!”

The new Power Series audio kit options include a wire harness which works for 1998 and up Harleys that includes mounting brackets and wire connections. All kits also come with new bike-specific grill assemblies.

Available Power Series Audio Kit options include:

Power Series Kit for Road Glide® & Street Glide® (Model Years 2014+):

• RFKHD amplifier installation kit; includes mounting plate, heatsink, and wiring kit for installing compact Punch and Power series amplifiers
• TMS65 75-Watt 6.5-Inch speakers (1 pr.)
• TM400X4ad 400-Watt Class-ad 4-Channel Amplifier

The TMS65 speakers fit all locations of the bike and include three sets of grilles for installation in Road Glide, Street Glide, and Tour-Pak speaker locations in 2014+ models.

Power Series Kit for Road Glide (1998-’13):

• RFKHD amplifier installation kit; includes mounting plate, heatsink, and wiring kit for installing compact Punch and Power series amplifiers
• TMS6RG 75-Watt 6.5-Inch speakers (1 pr.)
• TM400X4ad 400-Watt Class-ad 4-Channel Amplifier

Power Series Kit for Street Glide (1998-’13):

• RFKHD amplifier installation kit; includes mounting plate, heatsink, and wiring kit for installing compact Punch and Power series amplifiers
• TMS6SG 75-Watt 6.5-Inch speakers (1 pr.)
• TM400X4ad 400-Watt Class-ad 4-Channel Amplifier

Power Series Tour-Pak Option for Road Glide and Street Glide (1998-’13):

• TMS5 65-Watt 5.25-Inch speakers (1 pr.)

“The RFKHD amplifier installation kit’s cables have been upgraded to provide the necessary current and voltage required for the amplifier and the heat sink provides extended thermal time under demanding situations, which are common for tight installation areas such as on a motorcycle,” added Braaten. “Also included are mounting brackets for Street Glide and Road Glide model bikes as well as speaker adapter plugs that allow the kit to work with 1998-2013 model Harley-Davidson motorcycles. All wiring is pre-terminated and is designed for simple plug and play installation.”

Braaten added that the TMS5 full range coaxial speaker is designed for direct fitment applications in 1998-2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the Tour-Pak locations. “This speaker directly replaces the existing factory speakers using the factory mounting hardware and speaker connectors,” explained Braaten. “It features a compact Neodymium motor structure, as well as an ultra-efficient 25mm dome tweeter with integrated phase plug for crisp clear highs even at highway cruising speeds. It is made water/weather resistant, and requires no modification of the factory location and comes with new grille assemblies.”

SWI-CP2 is Quickly Configured via DIP Switches and ControlPRO App for PC, iOS, and Android

CLEARWATER, FL – July 28, 2016 – Retaining the steering wheel controls of a vehicle when upgrading to an aftermarket radio can be a complex and timely procedure depending on the interface being used. PAC simplified that process with the release of the ControlPRO 2, SWI-CP2 programmable steering wheel control (SWC) interface module. The advanced SWC unit is compatible with today’s most popular vehicles from GM, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Toyota, Honda, VW, Hyundai, and more. This includes vehicle models that run on more sophisticated electronic systems such as CAN bus, GMLAN and Class II, LIN bus, and I-Bus. It can be configured through its integrated DIP switches or a PC connection utilizing the ControlPRO PC application. Additionally, a separate ControlPRO app is also available for iOS and Android devices to further simplify the set-up process.

“The SWI-CP2 saves a significant amount of installation time which results in increased revenue for the shop,” said Nathan Wincek, senior product manager of integration products for AAMP Global. “Setting the DIP switches or ‘flashing’ the device via a PC connection to configure the module to the vehicle and radio takes only seconds with no additional steps to follow.  Using the SWI-CP2 for retaining steering wheel controls is a winning proposition for the installer, shop, and also the customer.”

SWI-CP2 Configuration and Installation Options:

• DIP Switches – Located on the side of the module, the DIP switches make configuration fast, easy and reliable, eliminating the need to follow complicated button-press procedures.
• ControlPRO iOS and Android Apps – Compatible with iOS and Android devices, the ControlPRO app contains a library of vehicle and aftermarket radio configurations.  Users only need to input the year, make, model of the vehicle, and radio manufacturer to obtain the correct setting and wiring information for their specific installation.
• ControlPRO PC App – The special ControlPRO PC application makes configuring the module even quicker.  Installers simply key-in the same vehicle and radio information, and quickly “flash” the device.  With the use of the PC app, the module can be further customized with settings such as dual function button programming options or complete reconfiguration of all steering wheel buttons to the customer’s exact request.  The PC software is available for download at aampglobal.com/appdownloads

The PAC SWI-CP2 steering wheel control interface is now available for a suggested retail price of $99.95. 

Click here to see an overview and demo video of the SWI-CP2 or log on to the AAMP Global Youtube page.