Rosa Sophia
MAY 2016: HOLLY HILL, FL – Metra Electronics has announced additional innovative radio kits for 1999 – 2005 BMW 3-Series; 2006 BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible; and 2001 – 2006 BMW M3 (for factory switch panel with separate openings).
Part number 95-9310B is for the 5-switch panel and features ISO DDIN radio provision with painted matte black components that relocate the factory climate control and switches. Part number 95-9311B is for the 1-switch panel.
Both kits components include:
- Radio trim panel
- Back up housing
- Radio brackets
- Climate and switch panel housing
- Climate bracket
- (4) #8 x 1/2” Phillips screws
- (2) #8 x 3/8” Phillips screws
- (2) Panel clips
Wiring and adapter connections are sold separately. Wiring harness part number 70-8590 and adapter part number 40-VW10 is for non-nav models. For nav models 02-06, use wiring harness part number 70-9003 and adapter part number 40-EU10.
Spots 2 and 3 switched places in the latest voting update for both retailers and installers. Absolute Electronix moves up 5 spots to break into the Top 10.
Retailer Standings (Industry votes only; highest to lowest)
Rank | Retailers | % Vote |
1 | Musicar Northwest – Portland, OR | 9.5% |
2 | NVS Audio – Linden, NJ | 5.1% |
3 | Soundscape Car Audio – Plano, TX | 5.1% |
4 | Sound Depot and Performance – Gainesville, FL | 4.2% |
5 | Prestige Car Audio & Marine – Metairie, LA | 3.9% |
6 | Cartronix – Valparaiso, IN | 3.7% |
7 | Kingpin Car & Marine Audio Inc – Wilsonville, OR | 3.7% |
8 | GNC Customs – Goshen, IN | 3.5% |
9 | Mobile Toys – College Station, TX | 3.3% |
10 | Absolute Electronix – Rockville, MD | 3.1% |
11 | Al & Ed’s Autosound – Los Angeles, CA | 2.8% |
12 | Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA | 2.7% |
13 | Cartunes – Atlanta, GA | 2.5% |
14 | Driven Mobile Electronics – Chantilly, VA | 2.4% |
15 | Stereo King Oregon – Portland, OR | 2.4% |
16 | Dr Dashboard – Evansville, IN | 2.2% |
17 | Explicit Customs – West Melbourne, FL | 2.1% |
18 | Sound Wave Customs – Virginia Beach, VA | 2.1% |
19 | JC Audio – Jackson, TN | 1.9% |
20 | Westminster Speed & Sound – Westminster, MD | 1.9% |
21 | Driven Audio Ltd. – Abbotsford, BC | 1.8% |
22 | Radios Knobs Speakers and Things – Pontiac, MI | 1.8% |
23 | Elite Audio – Spartanburg, SC | 1.7% |
24 | Foss Audio & Tint – Tukwila, WA | 1.6% |
25 | JML Audio of St. Louis – Fenton, MO | 1.6% |
26 | Ocala Car Audio – Ocala, FL | 1.6% |
27 | SRQ Customs – Sarasota, FL | 1.6% |
28 | Stereo Solutions – Redding, CA | 1.6% |
29 | Industry Auto Designs – Las Vegas, NV | 1.4% |
30 | Tip Top Customs – Morris, IL | 1.4% |
31 | Audio Solutions StL – St. Louis, MO | 1.3% |
32 | Sound FX, Inc. – Lewes, DE | 1.2% |
33 | Autosound Lab – Fresno, CA | 1.1% |
34 | Blvd Customs of Lakeland – Lakeland, FL | 1.1% |
35 | Extreme Audio – Mechanicsville, VA | 1.1% |
36 | Greg’s Custom Audio, Video & Car Stereo – Pikeville, KY | 1.0% |
37 | California Audio – WVC, UT | 0.9% |
38 | The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO | 0.9% |
39 | Audio Designs & Custom Graphics – Jacksonville, FL | 0.8% |
40 | Sound Auto – Hamilton, NJ | 0.8% |
41 | Tunes-N-Tint – Lakeland, FL | 0.8% |
42 | Sound Solutions – Gulfport, MS | 0.8% |
43 | SoundsGood Auto – Coquitlam, BC | 0.8% |
44 | Distinctive Car Toyz – Pleasantville, NJ | 0.7% |
45 | Adrenaline Autosound – Clayton, NC | 0.6% |
46 | Audio Expert Car Stereo – Clearwater, FL | 0.5% |
47 | Auto Trim Design – Amarillo, TX | 0.4% |
48 | Dreamworks Motorsports – Roxboro, NC | 0.4% |
49 | The Sound Shop – Indian Trail, NC | 0.4% |
50 | Cypress Auto Sound & Tint – Cypress, CA | 0.1% |
Installer Standings (Industry votes only; highest to lowest)
Rank | Installers | % Vote |
1 | Matt Schaeffer – Safe & Sound Mobile Electronics – Chantilly, VA | 12.0% |
2 | Carlos Ramirez – NVS Audio – Linden, NJ | 4.7% |
3 | Miguel Vega – Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN | 4.4% |
4 | Chris Ott – Amplified Autosports – Tampa, FL | 4.2% |
5 | TJ Carlson – Kingpin Car & Marine Audio – WIlsonville, OR | 3.4% |
6 | Bryan Piper – Resonance Auto Craft – Corpus Christi, TX | 3.2% |
7 | Brent Leavitt – Low Notes Garage – Boise, ID | 3.1% |
8 | Christerfer Pate – Mobile Toys Inc – College Station, TX | 3.1% |
9 | Mike Schwitz – Sound Connection – St. Joseph, MN | 3.0% |
10 | Barry Barth – Prestige Car Audio & Marine – Metairie, LA | 2.9% |
11 | David Cruz – Soundscape Car Audio – Plano, TX | 2.7% |
12 | Jeremiah Mojica – GNC Customs – Elkhart, IN | 2.6% |
13 | Nicholas Frazier – Innovative Concepts – West Springfield, MA | 2.5% |
14 | Steve Coogle – Discount Audio – Louisville, KY | 2.5% |
15 | Aaron Garcia – Perfectionist Auto Sound and Security – Anchorage, AK | 2.5% |
16 | Andrew Emelander – GNC Customs – Goshen, IN | 2.5% |
17 | Charles Brazil – First Coast Auto Creations – Jacksonville, FL | 2.4% |
18 | Scott Miller – Explicit Customs – West Melbourne, FL | 2.4% |
19 | Tim Baillie – HzEmall – Surrey, BC | 2.4% |
20 | Jeff Cantrell – JC Audio – Jackson, TN | 2.2% |
21 | Warren Williams – Hi-Tech Car Audio – El Cerrito, CA | 2.2% |
22 | Erick Markland – Markland Designs – Lithonia, GA | 1.9% |
23 | Dan Macilwain – Sound Advantage – Rochester, MI | 1.8% |
24 | Daniel DiCampli – Windward Audio – Kaneohe, HI | 1.8% |
25 | David Kosakowski – Total image – McKees Rocks, PA | 1.6% |
26 | Matt Cropper – Stereo King – Portland, OR | 1.6% |
27 | Mike Sandoval – Sound Warehouse – Salt Lake City, UT | 1.6% |
28 | B.J. Curcio – After FX Customs – Stamford, CT | 1.6% |
29 | Tyler Wilson – Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA | 1.4% |
30 | Adam Perkins – Sound Wave Customs – Virginia Beach, VA | 1.3% |
31 | Brandon Green – The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO | 1.2% |
32 | Cj Silvey – Foss Audio and Tint – Puyallup, WA | 1.2% |
33 | Jason Stone – Stereo Solutions – Redding, CA | 1.2% |
34 | Andrew Evens – Industry Auto Designs – Las Vegas, NV | 1.0% |
35 | John Schumacher – Audio Solutions StL – St. Louis, MO | 1.0% |
36 | Bryan Turvaville – Auto Trim Design – Amarillo, TX | 0.9% |
37 | John Cage – Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA | 0.9% |
38 | Aaron Markwell – Godspeed Rides – Sarasota, FL | 0.8% |
39 | Vinny Tullo – VIP Customs – Earlysville, VA | 0.8% |
40 | Alan Hogan – Baileys Audio – Lake Charles, LA | 0.7% |
41 | Michael Oechsner – Mobile Edge – Lehighton, PA | 0.7% |
42 | Rob Miller – JML Audio of St. Louis – Fenton, MO | 0.7% |
43 | Brandon Douglas – Adrenaline Autosound – Clayton, NC | 0.7% |
44 | Alain Sainvil – NVS Audio – Linden, NJ | 0.6% |
45 | Jon Schmitz – Mach 1 Audio – Washington, MO | 0.6% |
46 | Dan Castro – The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO | 0.5% |
47 | Colton Wadley – Pro Audio – Provo, UT | 0.3% |
48 | John Phillips – Stereo One Carbondale – Carbondale, IL | 0.3% |
49 | Jonathan Moore – Dreamworks Motorsports – Roxboro, NC | 0.2% |
50 | Sam Lee – Audio Xcellence – City of Industry, CA | 0.2% |
U.S. drivers can find, route to, reserve and pay for parking at lots, garages and meters directly from the dasboard
Nashville, TN – May 18, 2016 –INRIX, Inc., a leading provider of dynamic connected car services worldwide, and Parkmobile, the leading provider of on-demand and prepaid mobile payments for on- and off- street parking and mobility solutions, announced a strategic partnership at the annual International Parking Institute (IPI) conference to jointly develop an embedded, end-to-end parking solution for the auto industry. The partnership will bring together availability, reservations and payments for both on-street and off-street parking into a seamless in-car navigation experience.
“The ecosystem of mobile and parking solutions is complex and fragmented. To date, the industry has not consolidated all the services, capabilities and parking inventory into a single solution. Through our coordinated development efforts with INRIX, we will deliver a holistic parking solution the auto industry can deploy quickly and efficiently into the connected car. We strongly believe our partnership with INRIX will contribute to realizing Parkmobile’s vision of improving the quality of people’s lives through convenience, efficiency and immediacy,” said Jon Ziglar, CEO of Parkmobile.
Atlanta-based Parkmobile is the largest provider of mobile payments for on- and off-street parking and mobility-related services for municipalities, universities, commercial operators and transit facilities in the U.S. Parkmobile’s solutions are available in 35 of the top 100 U.S. cities, including Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, Fort Worth, Indianapolis and Houston. More than four million people use Parkmobile’s services over 27 million times per year, making it the most widely used mobile parking solution in the country.
“An end-to-end parking solution is a game changer for the auto industry, and Parkmobile is a key component in ensuring INRIX is the go-to-market provider,” said Alex Israel, Vice President and General Manager – Parking at INRIX. “The entire industry – from automakers to parking suppliers to drivers – will benefit from INRIX’s extensive ecosystem of parking services.”
INRIX launched the industry’s first dynamic off-street parking service in 2013, followed by the first integrated on-street parking solution in June 2015. In August 2015, INRIX acquired ParkMe, a leader in parking location, availability and reservations worldwide. The company was recently recognized by SBD for its comprehensive and accurate parking data in the U.S. and Europe. INRIX Parking currently includes street-level parking information in over 40 cities worldwide, and an off-street parking database with more than 29 million spaces in over 90,000 locations spanning 4,000 cities in 65 countries. INRIX is the preferred provider of parking information and services to leading automakers, including Audi, BMW, Lexus and Porsche, as well as transportation agencies and drivers around the world.
EDMOND, Okla. — Petra Industries, a leading brand in consumer electronics accessories, held Petra Partner Meetings on Tuesday May, 17 and Thursday May, 19 at their headquarters in Edmond, Ok.
During two days of intensely focused meetings 48 vendor partners took the opportunity to meet with individual members of the Petra Sales teams to discuss business objectives and explore market opportunities. “The way Petra organizes and manages the meetings is extremely beneficial,” said Lorex Vice President, Steven Gold. “Petra’s sales team really understands their customers so we’re able to discover new opportunities in the market.”
Meetings with more than 25 of Petra’s top sales leaders were held in 20-minutes blocks to engage in meaningful dialog, exploring opportunities with Petra’s immense customer base and study new product lineups. “It’s a great way to get unfiltered feedback from the customer perspective,” said Intracom CEO Michael Thiel. “Petra’s Partner Meetings help us gain a clear understanding of how our products are received and what we can do to our serve our customers better.”
This dedicated one-on-one time is mutually beneficial to Petra and their vendor partners as it gives each sales leader time to explain their accounts fit into the market and their merchandising plans. “This was a great opportunity for our vendors to share product strategies with members of the sales team and our sales team to give insight into what our customers would like,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President. “This was our first Petra Partner meeting in 2016 and we’ve had incredible feedback and interest in another round of meetings planned for the fall.”
Meeting attendees included representatives from Allsop, Atdec, ATT, BenQ, Canon, Chamberlain, Core Brands, Garmin, Gemini Sound, Giant, Gibson, GPX, IC Intracom, ihome, IK Multimedia, JVC, Kanex, Knoll, Lifespan, Lorex, Magellan, Magic Chef, Maxell, Mizco, MobileEdge, Olympic, OmniMount, Panasonic, PC Treasures, Pelican, QFX, Relaxus, Schneider Elextric, Sennheiser, SoonerAlarms, Speck, Spectra, Stanley Mounts, Surecall, TEACm Thrustmaster, TracFone, Trident, Uniden, UPG, Verbatim, WeBoost and zNitro.
“Petra’s Partner Meetings are a great opportunity to build relationships face to face and ultimately drive more business,” said Mizco International Sales Managar Scott Cortellletti.
Both days began with a welcome by Laura McNew, Vice-President of Merchandising and concluded with a reception at Pub W. For more information about Petra Industries visit www.petra.com.
Clearwater, FL(May 23, 2016) – EchoMaster has announced the arrival of the VS-331 camera switcher. The VS-331 camera switching module allows users to view up to three individual cameras to enable sight of key areas on a vehicle, particularly useful for reversing, changing lanes, or turning.
There are three triggers that initiate the cameras for viewing, the first is turned on via the left turn indicator signal, the second by the right turn indicator signal, and the third via the reverse gear.
“The VS-331 camera switcher is an easy to install device, which gives drivers enhanced situational awareness and can reduce or even eliminate blind spots, resulting in a safer driving experience,” said Shaun Findley, vice president of Safety, Connectivity, and Audio at AAMP Global.
The EchoMaster VS-331 is now available with a suggested retail price of $58.99. For further information on the range of EchoMaster safety automotive products, please visit www.echomaster.com.
About EchoMaster: Headquartered in Clearwater, FL, an AAMP Global Power Brand, EchoMaster delivers high quality vehicle safety products for the real world, these include cameras, monitors, DVR recorders and parking sensors. Thriving on innovation, EchoMaster’s products enable safer driving and heightened awareness on the roads.
Mobile Electronics, May Issue, Real World Retail, May 1, 2016 -- In any given field, knowledge is power. The more you know, the more power you have to serve and influence others. Such was true of many people throughout history.
Leonardo Da Vinci was a man of great fame during the late 1400s. He was a painter, sculptor, musician, mathematician, inventor, writer and astronomer, among other talents. Many historians refer to Da Vinci as the prime example of a "Universal Genius," otherwise known as a "Renaissance Man."
Another example that fits this description is U.S. founding father Benjamin Franklin, credited with discovering electricity, inventing the bi-focal and co-writing the declaration of independence, among other achievements.
While it's most common for so-called "geniuses" to receive this title, a "Renaissance Man" can be found in most professions, with successful men and women who develop knowledge in multiple areas in an attempt to achieve greatness. Such is true for JC Motorsports, a one-stop-shop specializing not only in 12-volt products and services, but aftermarket automotive services as well.
After concluding its first year of sales with gross of $300,000, JC Motorsports followed the path it set forth by continuing to sell both 12-volt products—like car stereos, amps and speakers—and automotive products typically sold at maintenance shops like truck accessories, tires, wheels and lift kits. The shop also provides window tinting and graphic wrap services, which can produce high profit margins.
Today, the store generates $1.5 million in sales annually, despite being located in a region that's seen dramatic business changes in recent years. Operating out of Egg Harbor City, N.J., only about a half-hour drive away from Atlantic City, JC Motorsports has had to overcome the hurdle of a fluctuating economy due to the problems associated with casino closures. Not to mention the $2 billion dollar resort that recently closed due to bankruptcy, after only being open for two years.
Thanks to strong remote start sales on the 12-volt side, and an effective combination of aftermarket automotive offerings, the company has grown its staff to eight employees (six full-time, two part-time) and a building that owner Joe Chiarolanza (JC), built from the ground up with 7,200 square feet of space (6,000 of that dedicated to the installation bay, which can house up to 12 vehicles at once).
By pushing its company slogan, "If you want it, we got it!" the shop attracts a fair amount of its customers through strong radio advertising and word-of-mouth. Although walk-ins are welcome, the shop books the majority of its business by scheduling appointments. Located next to highway 30, which sees around 12,000 vehicles pass by per day, the store has its fair share of walk-in traffic as well.
Despite the effectiveness of his operation, JC can't claim to have always had it all figured out. That's especially true given the state in which he left his parents’ car after attempting his first install.
Read the rest of the story CLICK HERE
Montebello, CA May 16, 2016 – Precision Power is now releasing its 2016 Black Ice Amplifiers. These amplifiers are the newest generation of amplifiers in the Black Ice series family.
Over-compensated high headroom power supplies are capable of producing more than conventional power gain with 2ohm loads. Additionally, double-sided PCB’s with all surface mount technology enhance the quality of your listening experience.
The Precision Power Black Ice Amplifiers contains the following specs:
- 2-ohm Stereo, 4 ohm Bridged full Range Operation
- 1-ohm Stable class D Monoblock operation
- Direct Short, Thermal, & Overload circuits protect amplifier
- 200mV-6V High Level or Low Level RCA Input
- Tri-Mode Capable (2/4/5 ch. Models)
- Variable 12dB High, Low, & Subsonic Crossovers
- Variable 12dB Band-Pass Crossovers (2ch & 5ch)
- 12dB Bass Boost Increases Low Octave Harmonics (monoblock)
- Direct Wire 4ga Power & 12ga Speaker Terminals
- Dash Mounted Remote Gain Control (5ch. & 1ch.)
For further product info: http://precisionpower.com/products/amplifiers/black-ice/
NAV-TV Corp. has announced the opening of a new warehouse in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Salt Lake City warehouse will serve as a hub for product distribution for authorized NAV-TV dealers, drastically reducing shipping time to West Coast, Central and Mid West accounts.
Shipping hours have been extended as a result of the new warehouse and all orders received by 7 PM EST (8 PM EST for Overnight shipments) will be shipped the same day.
"The additional Utah warehouse and extended shipping hours are important steps to improving our position and efficiency in the US market. NAV-TV is committed to further streamlining our product availability and dealer delivery networks while aggressively developing new and revolutionary products. We are pleased to announce this next step in our plan for continued growth and support of our dealer base," stated NAV-TV CEO, Moni Melman.
For more details and information on the new NAV-TV Salt Lake City warehouse, or for information on our existing line of over 700 integration and safety products, please call NAV-TV at (866) 477-3336 (USA and Canada toll free), (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..
Ford Motor Company President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Fields to Deliver Opening AutoMobility LA Keynote Speech
LOS ANGELES (May 16, 2016) – ANSA Productions, owners and operators of the Los Angeles Auto Show (LA Auto Show®), announced that they are combining LA Auto Show Press and Trade Days with their four-year-old auto-tech conference, Connected Car Expo (CCE), to form the four-day pre-show event, AutoMobility LA. This is the culmination of a five-year effort to evolve the show’s press and trade days into a bona fide trade show, designed exclusively for the new automotive industry. The four-day event will continue to bring together the entire “new mobility ecosystem” – comprised of automakers, tech companies, designers, developers, startups, investors, dealers, government officials, analysts, etc. – to redefine and unveil the future of transportation.
Preceding the 10-day LA Auto Show consumer event, AutoMobility LA will occur from November 14-17, at the Los Angeles Convention Center and includes the Technology Pavilion – a new 50,000-square-foot building being constructed to accommodate double the auto-tech exhibits over last year’s CCE. Leading automakers and technology giants alike are already signed on to make major announcements during AutoMobility LA, including Mark Fields, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company, who will deliver the opening AutoMobility LA keynote on Tuesday, November 15.
Since 2012, the LA Auto Show’s Advanced Tech Showcase and subsequent CCE have introduced more than 100 new companies to the traditional auto industry. It has featured hundreds of expert speakers, been the stage for dozens of significant technology announcements and facilitated countless business deals. In 2014, it was voted “best car tech/connected car trade show” by Auto Connected Car News. In 2015, CCE doubled its number of exhibitors over the previous year, saw a 95 percent increase in attendance and achieved a 73 percent increase in the number of technology stories, as a result of the conference.
Several of CCE’s exhibitors received significant funding following the show. Most notably was the $500 million investment from General Motors in Lyft, which to date, is the most significant partnership between an automaker and ride-sharing service.
“For years, we’ve been at the epicenter of the changing automotive industry, creating a setting for some of the largest partnerships such as that between General Motors and Lyft,” said AutoMobility LA and LA Auto Show President and Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Kaz. “We’re excited to continue to connect brands, whether established or start-up, with influential people and provide engaging experiences with the world’s leading companies.”
The AutoMobility LA schedule will encompass four days of networking, three days of press conferences and two days of learning opportunities (presentations by a diverse range of experts). A full list of panel topics and speakers to be announced in the coming months. A preliminary schedule can be found at http://www.laautoshow.com/automobility.
Technology Pavilion exhibitor highlights include but are not limited to companies such as ATMO Auto Power, Continental International, Garmin International, Mocana, QNX and whiteCryption. Returning sponsors include Global Automakers, KPMG, Mojio, State Farm and Pirelli.
AutoMobility LA will feature panels, high-level presentations by executives, technology exhibits, automaker displays, networking events and breaking news conferences that will examine all aspects of the rapidly evolving automotive and new mobility industry. AutoMobility LA will also feature more than 50 world and North American product debuts over the course of the show.
Nearly 25,000 entrepreneurs, disruptors, programmers, designers, automakers, government officials and more are expected to attend this year’s AutoMobility LA. It will kick off on Monday, November 14, with a networking reception at 5 p.m. in the Technology Pavilion followed by the annual Kickoff Party at 7 p.m. Exhibit areas at the L.A. Convention Center will be open on Nov. 16 and 17 only.
As a lead-up to the show, Mojio and its key partners will be hosting a 36-hour hackathon taking place on the morning of Saturday, November 12. Developers, designers and entrepreneurs will ideate, create and pitch connected car apps and services that harness Mojio’s open platform and partner APIs. Winners of the second annual challenge will be announced on Monday evening at the opening reception of AutoMobility LA.
Also during AutoMobility LA and featured during LA Auto Show’s consumer days, will be GO, an all-new destination that will highlight automakers’ and newcomers’ latest smart mobility devices and apps that are redefining personal mobility. Located inside the L.A. Convention Center, GO will feature everything from e-kick bikes to hover-boards to wearables and more.
The LA Auto Show name will continue for the public attendance days, as it has for the past 109 years. The public show will run from November 18-27, 2016.
To register for AutoMobility LA, please visit: http://laautoshow.com/join (starting July 2016).
For additional information on Automobility LA and the LA Auto Show please visit: http://www.automobilityla.com/ and http://laautoshow.com/.
STILLWATER, USA – KICKER is set to attend the "Doin’ The Dunes" sand-sports event, presented by Stillwater Powersports, May 13-14 at Little Sahara State Park, approximately four miles south of Waynoka, Oklahoma.
KICKER will start the event with a party Friday night at 8 p.m. at the KICKER XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle) tractor-trailer and its mega-watt Boom Room. To cap off the evening, a group night ride is planned.
Saturday is full of activities, including drag racing in the morning, followed by a group ride, big-air competition and show-n-shine. After the awards presentation and a RZR raffle, there will be live music and a final late-night group ride. The event also includes an obstacle course and several food vendors.
KICKER will show off several exciting rides during the event. Featured vehicles hauled to Little Sahara in the KICKER XRV include a decked-out Polaris® Ranger complete with KICKER Powersports amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers. A customized KICKER Jeep® will also be on display, equipped with VSS™ (Vehicle-Specific Solutions) audio upgrade products.
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.
AAMP Global Expands Its OE Accessory Program with the Introduction of a Fully Integrated Multi-Camera Camera System for Select Silverados
Clearwater, FL (March 16, 2016) – AAMP Global – Global manufacturer of vehicle safety products, and Power Brand of AAMP Global, EchoMaster, introduced IntelliHaul, a multi-camera towing assist system, integrated into 2014 -2016 GM Silverado 1500 and Silverado Heavy Duty OEM infotainment systems. AAMP Global has partnered with General Motors to launch the system as part of their Aftermarket Accessory line.
Whether reversing, driving or parking, this fully integrated, multi-camera solution gives visibility into common truck blind spot areas. Built with trailering in mind, the three camera system, with optional fourth, and customized user interface, integrates seamlessly into the truck’s factory infotainment screen. Utilizing six screen modes, smart technology enables camera activation based on driver behavior; left and right turn signals and placing the truck in reverse activate camera views on the vehicle’s infotainment screen. The system alternatively allows for manual activation by the driver.
System Includes:
- Two Side View Mirror Cameras (with vehicle specific, custom engineered camera pods that replace the plastics on the factory mirrors)
- Four Camera Switching Interface with Custom Mounting Bracket
- Wire Harness
Optional Add-On
Expand field of vision without adding bulk to a truck’s body.
The IntelliHaul system includes two Stealth Side View Mirror Cameras designed to discreetly mount to the truck’s exterior mirrors.
“We are extremely pleased to expand upon AAMP Global’s Accessory program to include General Motors with the IntelliHaul camera system,” said Scott Forst, Senior Vice President of Sales, AAMP Global. “Safety continues to be a concentration through the industry, and we feel these emerging technologies coupled with AAMP’s core competency of OE integration builds an entire new product category with a robust product road we are calling integrated safety. The IntelliHaul system is a prime example of this and we could not be more excited to launch with a partner like General Motors.”
IntelliHaul will be available in April 2016 on 2014-16 Silverado 1500 and 2015-16 Silverado 2500HD/3500HD with tow mirrors, and continue to expand to cover more vehicle applications with future releases.
The i109-WRA features the largest Apple CarPlay screen in the aftermarket
Torrance, Calif. (May 12, 2016) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the i109-WRA 9-inch Apple CarPlay touch screen system for 2011-up Jeep Wranglers. The product features the largest touch screen system in the aftermarket for Apple CarPlay.
“The i109-WRA is our first Restyle Dash System compatible with Apple CarPlay,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and General Manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “We are excited to deliver the popular Apple CarPlay platform to Jeep Wrangler owners through our unique 9-inch screen system.”
Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay is the smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in the car. You can make and receive calls, access text messages, play music and get directions optimized for traffic conditions, all in a way that allows you to stay focused on the road. Apple CarPlay features Siri voice control in addition to working with touch screen controls. Corresponding audio, driving directions, and phone calls are played through the vehicle’s speaker system. With Apple Maps, Apple CarPlay can predict where the user most likely wants to go by using destinations from recent e-mails, text messages, contacts, and calendar entries. Users may also set destinations through a simple, conversational command to Siri (ex: “Take me to Joe’s house”). Apple CarPlay uses a Lightning connector and is compatible with iPhone 5 and later, and iOS 7.1 and higher.
i109-WRA Apple CarPlay System for Jeep Wrangler
The i109-WRA is Alpine’s first model to offer Apple CarPlay compatibility in the 9-inch screen size. It brings Apple CarPlay and a 9-inch screen to the Jeep Wrangler, both of which are not available as factory options. The i109-WRA is compatible with the 2011-up Jeep Wrangler and has a WVGA screen with 800x400 display resolution.
The i109-WRA comes with a dash bezel that replaces the entire Jeep Wrangler OEM radio area, creating a factory-like fit and finish surrounding the 9-inch screen. Dedicated hard keys on the bezel provide direct access to the phone, music and maps through Apple CarPlay. These features can also be accessed through Siri voice control. A vehicle specific wiring harness is included for plug and play installation. In addition to Apple CarPlay, the i109-WRA has an AM/FM tuner with RBDS (Radio Broadcast Data system) program display and one aux AV input source. Three (2V) preouts allow for additional amplifiers to be installed.
Additional Features
The i109-WRA retains select factory features like steering wheel control through the supplied iDatalink Maestro module. An optional rear view camera system can be added to the i109-WRA using the dedicated camera input (camera systems sold separately). The i109-WRA is compatible with the Alpine TuneIt® App, a free smartphone app that provides customized sound tuning. Users can easily adjust a wide range of sound settings including time correction, parametric EQ, crossover frequency, preset EQ modes and more. The settings are made through the app and uploaded to the i109-WRA for immediate sound customization.
Availability
The i109-WRA is available now for $2,500 SRI. Visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – May 12, 2016 – Mobile Electronics magazine today announced the Top 50 Retailers, sponsored by Sony, and the Top 50 Installers, sponsored by K40 Electronics. The Top 50 award is the first component of the magazine’s annual Industry Awards competition. Recipients of this award have the honor of being considered the premier mobile electronics retail outlets and installation technicians in the U.S. and Canada, according to the magazine.
“As magazine editor, you get to see how hard these individuals work to perfect their craft and present themselves as problem solvers and dream fulfillers,” said Solomon Daniels, editor-in chief of Mobile Electronics and awards administrator. “In turn, the retail stores have become the authority on vehicle-specific solutions for autosound enhancement, security and safety. I’m very proud to announce these awards and present certificates to the winners.”
In addition to the Top 50, award recipients are eligible to compete for the next phase of the Industry Awards, which through industry and consumer voting narrows the list to 12 retail and installation finalists. The “Top 12” would then submit judging materials to be considered for Retailer of the Year and Installer of the Year. These final awards will be announced at the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards celebration during the KnowledgeFest trade show and conference in Dallas, August 20-22. For more information, visit www.meindustryawards.com.
Tim Baillie – HzEmall – Surrey, BC
Barry Barth – Prestige Car Audio & Marine – Metairie, LA
Charles Brazil – First Coast Auto Creations – Jacksonville, FL
John Cage – Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA
Jeff Cantrell – JC Audio – Jackson, TN
TJ Carlson – Kingpin Car & Marine Audio – Wilsonville, OR
Dan Castro – The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO
Steve Coogle – Discount Audio – Louisville, KY
Matt Cropper – Stereo King – Portland, OR
David Cruz – Soundscape Car Audio – Plano, TX
B.J. Curcio – After FX Customs – Stamford, CT
Daniel DiCampli – Windward Audio – Kaneohe, HI
Brandon Douglas – Adrenaline Autosound – Clayton, NC
Andrew Emelander – GNC Customs – Goshen, IN
Andrew Evens – Industry Auto Designs – Las Vegas, NV
Nicholas Frazier – Innovative Concepts – West Springfield, MA
Aaron Garcia – Perfectionist Auto Sound and Security – Anchorage, AK
Brandon Green – The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO
Alan Hogan – Baileys Audio – Lake Charles, LA
David Kosakowski – Total image – McKees Rocks, PA
Brent Leavitt – Low Notes Garage – Boise, ID
Sam Lee – Audio Xcellence – City of Industry, CA
Dan Macilwain – Sound Advantage – Rochester, MI
Erick Markland – Markland Designs – Lithonia, GA
Aaron Markwell – Godspeed Rides – Sarasota, FL
Scott Miller – Explicit Customs – West Melbourne, FL
Rob Miller – JML Audio of St. Louis – Fenton, MO
Jeremiah Mojica – GNC Customs – Elkhart, IN
Jonathan Moore – Dreamworks Motorsports – Roxboro, NC
Michael Oechsner – Mobile Edge – Lehighton, PA
Chris Ott – Amplified Autosports – Tampa, FL
Christerfer Pate – Mobile Toys Inc – College Station, TX
Adam Perkins – Sound Wave Customs – Virginia Beach, VA
John Phillips – Stereo One Carbondale – Carbondale, IL
Bryan Piper – Resonance Auto Craft – Corpus Christi, TX
Carlos Ramirez – NVS Audio – Linden, NJ
Alain Sainvil – NVS Audio – Linden, NJ
Mike Sandoval – Sound Warehouse – Salt Lake City, UT
Matt Schaeffer – Safe & Sound Mobile Electronics – Chantilly, VA
Jon Schmitz – Mach 1 Audio – Washington, MO
John Schumacher – Audio Solutions StL – St. Louis, MO
Mike Schwitz – Sound Connection – St. Joseph, MN
Cj Silvey – Foss Audio and Tint – Puyallup, WA
Jason Stone – Stereo Solutions – Redding, CA
Vinny Tullo – VIP Customs – Earlysville, VA
Bryan Turvaville – Auto Trim Design – Amarillo, TX
Miguel Vega – Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Colton Wadley – Pro Audio – Provo, UT
Warren Williams – Hi-Tech Car Audio – El Cerrito, CA
Tyler Wilson – Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA
Absolute Electronix – Rockville, MD
Adrenaline Autosound – Clayton, NC
Al & Ed’s Autosound – Los Angeles, CA
Audio Designs & Custom Graphics – Jacksonville, FL
Audio Expert Car Stereo – Clearwater, FL
Audio Solutions StL – St. Louis, MO
Auto Trim Design – Amarillo, TX
Autosound Lab – Fresno, CA
Blvd Customs of Lakeland – Lakeland, FL
California Audio – WVC, UT
Cartronix – Valparaiso, IN
Cartunes – Atlanta, GA
Cypress Auto Sound & Tint – Cypress, CA
Distinctive Car Toyz – Pleasantville, NJ
Dr Dashboard – Evansville, IN
Dreamworks Motorsports – Roxboro, NC
Driven Audio Ltd. – Abbotsford, BC
Driven Mobile Electronics – Chantilly, VA
Elite Audio – Spartanburg, SC
Explicit Customs – West Melbourne, FL
Extreme Audio – Mechanicsville, VA
Foss Audio & Tint – Tukwila, WA
GNC Customs – Goshen, IN
Greg’s Custom Audio, Video & Car Stereo – Pikeville, KY
Industry Auto Designs – Las Vegas, NV
JC Audio – Jackson, TN
JML Audio of St. Louis – Fenton, MO
Kingpin Car & Marine Audio Inc – Wilsonville, OR
Mobile Toys – College Station, TX
Musicar Northwest – Portland, OR
NVS Audio – Linden, NJ
Ocala Car Audio – Ocala, FL
Prestige Car Audio & Marine – Metairie, LA
Radios Knobs Speakers and Things – Pontiac, MI
Sound Auto – Hamilton, NJ
Sound Depot and Performance – Gainesville, FL
Sound FX, Inc. – Lewes, DE
Sound Solutions – Gulfport, MS
Sound Wave Customs – Virginia Beach, VA
Soundscape Car Audio – Plano, TX
SoundsGood Auto – Coquitlam, BC
Spokane Audio Video Experts – Greenacres, WA
SRQ Customs – Sarasota, FL
Stereo King Oregon – Portland, OR
Stereo Solutions – Redding, CA
The Car Audio Shop – High Ridge, MO
The Sound Shop – Indian Trail, NC
Tip Top Customs – Morris, IL
Tunes-N-Tint – Lakeland, FL
Westminster Speed & Sound – Westminster, MD
TORRANCE, CALIF. – May 11, 2016 -- Rydeen Mobile Electronics will be exhibiting once again at this year's 4th Annual Pacific Northwest Consumer Electronics Expo (http://www.pnwcee.com). The industry event is being held on May 17th from 9 AM to 8 PM at the SeaTac DoubleTree by Hilton just 3 miles from Seattle's SEATAC International Airport.
This event features leading Consumer Electronics manufacturers in mobile and home electronics and last year featured over 100 manufacturers. "This will be a terrific opportunity to expose our products at first hand to those retailers who do not usually attend SEMA or CES. We will have promotions available specifically designed for the 12-Volt Specialist and enable them to enter this profitable and fast growing category quickly," said Bob Goodman, director of sales & marketing for Rydeen. "With the growing emphasis on Driver Awareness and Vehicle Safety it is important that retailers, distributors and even among car dealerships to create awareness within their selling areas that the solutions we offer are available as an aftermarket and dealer option."
Rydeen Mobile will showcase for the first time its Mobile Showroom (Nissan NV cargo van) capable of demonstrating our latest product offering, emphasizing in its Advanced Vehicle Technology series. Making its debut at the Expo will be vehicle specific wireless camera solutions for the most popular pickup trucks. Also, there will be a full array of products on display focused on Driver Awareness and Vehicle Safety. Rydeen will be participating in a Roundtable discussion of Vehicle Safety and Driver Awareness to be held at 9AM (Training Room #2).
Versa Shield protects starters and other components from the damaging effect of heat soak.
Avon Lake, Ohio (May 4, 2016)…Constructed of an aluminized heat reflective material backed with a high temperature rated glass fiber insulation barrier, the new mini DEI Versa Shield™ protects starters and other components from failure due to heat soak. Capable of reflecting radiant heat up to 2000°F and direct heat up to 500°F, this innovative thermal product installs easily and can be trimmed to size.
Its convenient hook and loop closure design allows the shield to wrap around the starter and attach in minutes. Most starters will not require removal. Simply wrap the starter with the aluminized side out, trim length to fit and secure the edges by pressing the black loop material sewn into the material into the sewn in strip of black hook material.
Developed with a universal design to fit most mini sized starters (5.25” wide x 16.5” long) the shield is also ideal for multiple components where heat can affect performance—master cylinders, distributors, fuel pumps and more.
LONG BEACH, CALIF. – May 9, 2016 (MEDIAWIRE) – Kenwood USA announced the kickoff of the eXcelon X Rewards promotion for 2016. The program, which runs from May 1 to July 30 and is open to eligible KENWOOD eXcelon specialty retail outlets, incentivizes sales staff to sell select KENWOOD products to earn points toward electronic gear and prizes.
A total of 40 SKUs qualify for the eXcelon X Rewards program, consisting of head units, amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers. All new-for-2016 CD and multimedia receivers are part of the promotion, including the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™-equipped DNX893S and DDX9903S, and the smartphone friendly, single-DIN KDC-X998.
The company will also work with SiriusXM, combining the "2 Ways to Save" promotion with eXcelon X Rewards. Staff members receive additional points when selling a SiriusXM SXV200 or SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner with one of 14 qualifying eXcelon SiriusXM-Ready head units. In addition, consumers will receive a tuner rebate and a three-month subscription to SiriusXM’s “All Access Package.”
The SiriusXM “All Access” package gives listeners access to SiriusXM in the vehicle, including Howard Stern, every NFL, MLB®, and NBA game, every NASCAR® race, plus NHL® games and PGA TOUR® coverage, as well as access outside the vehicle to listen to SiriusXM on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at siriusxm.com.
The eXcelon X Rewards are part of KENWOOD's ongoing efforts to provide specialist retailers with topline products that maintain profitable margins through highly selective distribution.
"We want our retailers to know that our dedication to specialist retailers has never been stronger," said Rob Sutton, director of sales for KENWOOD. "The X Rewards program, as well as our sales incentive trips, recognize retailers and their staff members who value the relationship as much as we do."
Qualifying retailers can register for eXcelon X Rewards, log points and redeem prizes at www.kenwoodxrewards.com.
Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.
MAY 9, 2016: HOLLY HILL, FL – Metra Electronics has announced its radio installation kit for GM Full-Size Trucks/SUV’s models 1995 – 2002.
Part number 95-3003G features an ISO DDIN radio provision with a few cuts and modifications to the factory dash panel. It is painted and textured to match the factory dash. Kit components include the ISO DDIN trim panel and radio brackets.
Applications include:
- Cadillac Escalade 1999-2000
- Chevrolet C/K Pickup 1995-2000
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500 1999-2000
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (Commercial) 2001
- Chevrolet Suburban 1995-1999
- Chevrolet Tahoe 1995-1999
- GMC C/K Pickup 1995-1998
- GMC Sierra 2500 1999
- GMC Sierra 3500 1999-2000
- GMC Sierra Classic 1999-2000
- GMC Sierra HD 2001-2002
- GMC Suburban 1995-1999
- GMC Yukon 1995-1999
- GMC Yukon Denali 1999-2000
Be sure to use the proper wiring harness, part number 70-1858 or 70-1859 for amplified models. Use part number 40-GM10 antenna adapter.
Clearwater, FL (May 6, 2016) – AAMP Global has introduced the FC-CUE42 Reverse Camera Kit designed for select 2013 – 2016 General Motors vehicles. The kit comes fully equipped with all the parts needed to properly integrate a reverse camera into late model General Motors Lacrosse, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC makes (see applications list).
With a focus on integration, this solution allows drivers to add this important safety feature to their vehicles while still retaining the factory look and feel. The dynamic parking lines follow (bend) the movement of the steering wheel to display the vehicle’s trajectory while on reverse. The plug-and-play design and the license plate mounted camera allows for easy integration without any permanent modification to the vehicle.
FC-CUE42 features include:
Interface
- Compatible with 8- and 4.2-inch screens
- Back-up camera input with auto switching
- Two video inputs for additional cameras with manual switching
- Plug-and-play installation (no splicing of factory wires)
- Dynamic (bending) guidelines that turn with the steering wheel to help align the vehicle's trajectory while in reverse
Camera
- 170 degree viewing angle
- Two brackets for license plate or lip mounting
- IP67 Waterproof rating
- Optional reverse guidelines
- Optional mirror image, for front view mounting
Vehicle Applications:
2014-2015 Buick Lacrosse
2013-2015 Cadillac ATS
2014-2016 Cadillac CTS
2013-2016 Cadillac SRX
2013-2016 Cadillac XTS
2015-2016 Chevrolet Colorado
2014-2016 Chevrolet Impala
2014-2016 Chevrolet Silverado
2015-2016 Chevrolet Tahoe
2015-2016 Chevrolet Suburban
2015-2016 GMC Canyon
2014-2016 GMC Sierra
Oklahoma City, OK, May 5, 2016 -- DD Audio is celebrating 30 years of bass "domination" by taking dealers on a journey through the world-renowned 9500 Series evolution.
From the beginning, DD has continually worked to improve our designs to keep up with the newest technology and the ever changing styles of music flowing through our veins. This comprehensive list documents each model’s highlights, changes, and improvements.
With each new model DD Audio was able to push new limits, and thus, continually increase the performance and durability of the product.The company has learned over the years, and each lesson has helped pave the way to its newly released 9500 ESP subwoofers.
5/6/2016 -- Audiofrog retailers, and soon-to-be Audiofrog retailers, can now benefit from affordable showcase solutions by AVIDWORX. The Audiofrog M3-3 Imageworx sound stage features branded wall art, an onboard video monitor, a wireless video system that also tracks user traffic, and switching for four speaker pairs. AVIDWORX will work with retailers to configure the system to showcase the right number of AV receivers, amps and subs.
Retailers who sign on with the program will be eligible for rebates of over 15 percent of the total system value, plus a volume incentive rebate program from Audiofrog to help recoup their investment.
“Audiofrog is a visionary startup that is quickly gaining a great reputation for sound and build quality,” said Marcel Newell, president of AVIDWORX. “Andy (Wehmeyer) and his team have a lot of experience in this industry, and are eager to share that experience with others. They know that retailers are looking for unique lines to set them apart.
“By working with us to develop a line of distinctive AVIDWORX sound stages, they are also committed to helping retailers create a great customer experience to support and differentiate their product. We’re excited to be a part of their plans for moving forward.”
Andy Wehmeyer, head of Audiofrog, said they were excited to launch the program.
“We’re super happy to be working with the AVIDWORX team on these displays,” he said. “The displays sound great, and we are firm believers in the power of a great demo at the point of sale.”
More details, and the program application, are available online at www.avidworx.com/audiofrog/. The program has not yet officially launched but will be taking orders soon. Check back to the website for more details.