Dania Beach, Fla., August 1, 2019 - SounDigital USA introduces new models under Ground Zero brand during KnowledgeFest in Dallas, TX. The GZCS 100MB, GZCS 200MBL-LHD and GZCS 200MBR-LHD are the perfect solutions for Mercedes-Benz owners.

The GZCS 100MB is a 4" 2-way speaker system, featuring an amazing midbass with aluminum cone and aluminum cast housing. The tweeter is a 1" silk dome tweeter that guarantees a precise and smooth response.

The GZCS 200MBL-LHD (Driver Side) and GZCS 200MBR-LHD (Passenger Side) are 8" woofers with pressed paper fiber cone, neodymium motor and start playing as low as 40 Hz.

"We're very happy to bring Ground Zero car specific solutions to U.S. consumers," said Diogo Ianaconi, CEO of SounDigital USA. "Customers are looking for plug and play solutions and great ways to improve the sound quality of their vehicles. We believe these are the perfect solution."

The GZCS 100MB (MSRP $550.00), GZCS 200MBL-LHD (MSRP $450.00) and GZCS 200MBR-LHD ($450.00) are a great addition to the Ground Zero line-up.

For more information or to become an authorized Ground Zero retailer, contact your local Ground Zero representative or email SounDigital USA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Increased demand nationwide for AudioControl’s best-in-class aftermarket car audio and OEM interface solutions results in expansion of the 12-volt team  

Seattle, Wash., August 2nd, 2019 – AudioControl (audiocontrol.com) makers of innovative high-performance audio solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets has announced that Matthew Palumbo has been appointed National Trainer and Sales Specialist for the company’s aftermarket car audio division. Palumbo brings over 15 years of valuable experience in the mobile electronics industry to his new role at AudioControl.

Palumbo hails from the Seattle area and has been employed at a 12-volt retailer in the region called Mobile Music for over 15 years, where he worked as a technician, a shop manager and then store manager. “AudioControl feels like a perfect fit for me, I am excited to start this next phase of my career with such a prominent manufacturer,” Palumbo said. “AudioControl does such an amazing job of reacting to market trends, designing and manufacturing new products in a timely fashion that truly help retailers close sales. I am very much looking forward to working with 12-volt dealers across the US.” Palumbo worked with the AudioControl product line extensively at Mobile Music. 

"Because of our continued growth and aggressive product development at AudioControl, we needed to add a dynamic and energetic 12-volt specialist, someone who has been totally immersed in our industry, to help us implement our training and sales strategy" Stated Chris Bennett, National Sales Director - Mobile at AudioControl. "Matthew fits the bill perfectly, we are excited to have such a talent join us here at AudioControl."

Please stop by and meet Matthew Palumbo at KnowledgeFest Dallas, August 9th -11th in AudioControl Booth 625.

KNOWLEDGEFEST TRAINING SCHEDULE
AudioControl will be offering training seminars at Knowledgefest Dallas on Friday, August 9th, (1:45 pm - 2:45 pm) in Meeting Room: C146 and Saturday, August 10th, 4:45 pm - 5:45 pm in Meeting Room: C155 Click here to Reserve Your Seat

AudioControl is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative high-performance audio solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets since 1977. Based in Seattle, WA, AudioControl offers premium quality home theater and whole-house entertainment products, distributed audio amplifiers for commercial applications and a legacy of outstanding car audio processors, amplifiers and OEM interface solutions sold and installed worldwide by qualified professionals. For more information visit   or contact AudioControl at +1 425-775-8461 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Oklahoma City, Okla., July 31, 2019 -- DD Audio is again attending KnowledgeFest Dallas, August 9-11, 2019 at the Dallas Convention Center where they will be located at Booth #633. DD Audio is proud to help KnowledgeFest, presented by MEA, round out their year-long celebration of 25 Years of Industry Service by attending the Dallas event which features the extremely popular Industry Awards Banquet.

At this year's event, DD Audio is teaming up with Ohio Generator and JY Power to present a two-part technical training session titled, Do You Have the Power? These sessions are aimed at demystifying how to properly address a vehicle’s charging system when designing, quoting, and building a high-performance audio system. Part 1 with Co-Host Ohio Generator focusing on High Output Alternators will take place on Friday from 1:45pm to 2:45pm, in room C154. Part 2 with Co-Host JY Power will focus on Lithium Batteries and takes place on Saturday from 6pm to 7pm, in room C145. Don’t miss out on these power-packed sessions.

In addition to the training sessions, when attendees visit the DD Audio booth they can get an up-close look a 2016 Mercedes AMG GT built by Pyramid Custom of Ft. Worth TX featuring a custom sub-stage with two custom-built 1500 Series Power Tuned 6 Inch Subwoofers running on a single DM1500a D Series Monoblock Amplifier, all wired with Z-Wire Speaker and Power Cable. The beautiful AMG GT will perfectly demonstrate that no matter the ride, there’s room to Upgrade Your SoundTM.

DD Audio representatives are eagerly awaiting KFest Dallas 2019 and the chance to meet new and returning shop owners, installers, manufacturers and mobile electronics professionals. Attendees are encouraged to visit with them at booth #633, the DD Audio training sessions or wherever they may find them over the weekend. DD Audio always welcomes questions, ideas, and feedback.

Visit https://mea-events.as.me/ddaud30 to sign up for DD Audio training.

August 1, 2019 -- Naturally one of the biggest states in The USA will also have one of the largest shows in The South, Texas Heatwave. DS18 was there in full force as one of the leading and largest vendors of the event holding over 100 ft of space and 4 tents showcasing manufacturer and customer demo vehicles for the public to come see! These demo vehicles were brought so they can feel some serious DS18 BASS through their bodies! Show goers and car enthusiasts alike traveled from all over the world so they wouldn’t miss one of the longest running events in the South. Texas Heatwave has been running for over 30 years so we at DS18 felt privileged to be part of such an awesome event!

DS18 has a multitude of vehicles that spectators could enter to feel what high powered and high intensity bass feels like. These demo vehicles break 160db easily with up to 30k watts of power and literally vibrate everything near them, violently. These vehicles were designed to show exactly what DS18 equipment can do in professionally installed SPL setups. Team DS18 showed up in strong force with many southern team members coming out to show all their support and DS18 equipped custom rides by giving demos all day long, showing off equipment, and competing in the lanes.

The show was filled with amazing custom rides from huge monster trucks to fully tricked out minibikes. DS18 products were scattered throughout the show in these outstanding vehicles and we at DS18 are extremely happy to be part of everyone’s build no matter how big or small. Heatwave with DS18 was amazing and we thank all our supporters for the tremendous DS18 turnout. We truly count you all as part of our DS18 extended family! See you next year!

www.memphiscaraudio.com

Phone: 800-489-2300

Time is running out to qualify for your free all-expense paid trip to Memphis Tennessee to visit home of Memphis Audio! Memphis sales representatives are traveling the country with scratcher tickets in hand packed with amazing prizes and discounts that will set your shop of for success along with a chance to win this exclusive trip.

Three lucky winners along with their guest will be flown to Memphis where they will receive the VIP treatment in the home of the Blues and the birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Memphis will also invite dealers to participate in a dealer round table and get to know the staff and family behind one of America’s oldest family owned 12-volt audio brands.

“I am very excited that we are able to have some fun with our partners and offer this special trip to bring some of them into town for a behind the scenes look at our business and to learn more about how we can better serve them,” said Arthur Fulmer III owner of Memphis Audio.

A qualifying order is required to be entered to win this exclusive trip. Contact your local Memphis audio sales representative or the Memphis home office at (800) 489-2300 to learn how you can qualify for dozens of amazing discounts and prizes and to be entered to win this exclusive VIP trip to Memphis! The grand prize Trip to Memphis drawing will be held on August 11th live from KnowledgeFest Dallas.

In This Role, Waijman Will Manage all International Sales, Overseeing the Sales Team on Existing Accounts and Prospective New International Accounts

OXNARD, Calif., July 31, 2019 – BOSS International Group, a leader and innovator in 12 Volt aftermarket audio/video products and portable Bluetooth products with brands BOSS Audio Systems, Planet Audio, SSL, and NYNE is proud to announce it has recently named Jose Waijman as International Sales Manager. In this role, Waijman will manage all international sales, overseeing the sales team on existing accounts and prospective new international accounts.

“Jose is a well seasoned veteran with more than 30 years experience in international sales for both mobile and home electronics,” said Doug Kern, B.I.G. vice president sales and marketing. “He was also with B.I.G. for several years heading up all sales for Latin America, so he is very familiar with our company, products, and strategy.”

Waijman added, “As the company continues to grow both domestically and worldwide across all brands and markets, we need to continue to foster our current relationships, as well as sow the seeds for new ones. I am looking forward to the opportunity to help take B.I.G. to the next level internationally.”

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

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

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

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

Premium Sound Deadening Brand Debuts at KnowledgeFest Dallas

DALLAS, TEXAS -- July 22, 2019 -- 12-volt industry icons John Schwartz and Bryan Schmitt partner to launch a premium brand of sound deadening products called SoundShield. The flagship product is a 4.5mm thick, triple-layer damping sheet with a flexible butyl rubber, high-tac adhesive base, a heat-rejecting foil center and a high-tech, waterproof closed-cell foam top layer. The sheets easily install on vehicle sheet metal and panels prone to vibration and transfer of road noise. SoundShield products are intended for 12 volt installation specialists and interior fabricators to aid in premium, finished-quality results of an automotive interior and sound system. The products debut at the MEA KnowledgeFest in Dallas, TX on August 9th.

Both company founders come from other well-established, self-made companies. Schwartz is the CEO of 2010 & 2015 ME-Mag Retailer of the Year, Perfectionist Auto Sound & Security in Anchorage, AK. Schmitt is the President of ME-Mag 2017 Accessory Vendor of the Year and three-time category finalist, Mobile Solutions USA. Both are regular presenters at industry trade events and mentors to many retail shop owners. The two have collaborated on business ideas and forward-looking industry initiatives over the years and the partnership with SoundShield is a natural evolution of their relationship.

“I’m so excited to partner with Bryan on SoundShield. He is one of the most respected people I know. I met Bryan in 2009 at a trade show and I knew we would be great friends," Schwartz said. "I think the Perfectionist Auto Sound & Security name I’ve worked hard to elevate completely matches the values of the Mobile Solutions brand. We both espouse integrity and high quality in the work we do, as well as that represented by independent specialists around the country. We want 12-volt technicians and interior fabricators to love SoundShield as much as we do.” Among the technical accolades, Schwartz noted the retail-to-consumer margins with SoundShield are also fantastic.

Since January 2019 the pair have been developing the SoundShield brand to serve the independent 12-volt specialist by researching and sourcing the highest quality automotive sound damping and absorption products in the industry. They’ve not only considered the technical aspects and installation-friendly design, but created stunning retail packaging and thoughtful profit margins to bring added labor dollars into the business of its dealers. “We are very much dedicated to highlighting the value of specialty installation and SoundShield products simply add to that effort," Schmitt said. "John Schwartz is an amazing marketing mind and an all-around business inspiration with all he’s accomplished, so I could not be more pleased to partner with him in SoundShield. We believe we have something very special to bring to market.” The company says retailers selling upscale interiors and high-end audio upgrades are the ideal audience for SoundShield partnerships.

SoundShield will debut its flagship damping sheet technology at MEA KnowledgeFest in Dallas, Texas, August 9-11, 2019. They will be co-located with the Mobile Solutions booth #523. SoundShield products will be distributed out of their Dallas, Texas warehouse which has its own dedicated staff. Shipping times are within one to three days anywhere in the continental US. The company is also seeking international distributors.

Founded in 2019, partners John Schwartz and Bryan Schmitt saw an opportunity to elevate the level of installation quality behind the panels of a vehicle interior so that every technician’s visual and audible installation efforts were highlighted without the drawbacks of rattles, buzzes and road noise. Headquartered in Anchorage, AK and with its central distribution facility in Dallas, Texas, SoundShield is dedicated to 12 volt retailers and interior fabrication specialists with the highest quality and most effective automotive sound deadening products available today.

For more information, please visit www.soundshieldusa.com or follow them on Instagram at soundshield.

Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. will attend the upcoming Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) KnowledgeFest show, hosted at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas from Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11.

Alpine’s exhibit will be in booth #801 where staff will be on-site to demo Alpine’s universal receivers, like the 9” iLX-F259 Alpine Halo9 with a customizable interface, the 7” iLX-W650 Receiver and KTA-450 Amplifier PowerStack system, and new navigation systems.

The booth will also feature Alpine’s sound system product line, like the PXE-0850S Advanced Wireless Digital Sound Processor (DSP) and three full sound system lineups: Alpine’s X, R, and S-Series speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers. 

The X-Perience Toyota Tundra® will be on-site loaded with Alpine’s premium X-Series sound system. Visitors can experience the power and detail of their music like never before from the 6”x 9” component speakers powered by three X-Series amplifiers and a PXE-0850S processor for unrivaled sound.

This year, Alpine partnered with Frisco Audio & Tint to load a 2019 Kia Stinger with a full R-Series sound system, including three 10-inch subwoofers and a PXE-0850S (DSP), to display during KnowledgeFest. The vehicle will demonstrate the integration capabilities of the processor to power the R-Series sound system for a “Loud and Fun” music experience. After KnowledgeFest, the Stinger will be used by the dealership for Alpine product demos and sales support.

Alpine will host three training sessions on the 2019 Alpine Product Lineup, with a focus on “Simple” and “Sound” products that will include a guided open forum for industry and dealer discussion. Sessions are Friday, August 9 from 1: 45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m., Saturday, August 10 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, August 11 from 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. 

Alpine’s continued presence at KnowledgeFest is part of an ongoing effort to invest in their 12-Volt independent retailers, so activities such as Alpine’s nationwide X-Perience events will also be discussed at the training sessions.

All KnowledgeFest attendees are welcome to visit the Alpine booth, join the training sessions, and meet with Alpine staff from the sales, marketing, and product planning teams. Attendees are encouraged to visit www.knowledgefest.org and use the “Education Workshops & Vendor Training” link to register for the Alpine training sessions.

Toyota Tundra® is a registered trademark of Toyota Motor Corporation.

Holly Hill, FL – July 29, 2019 – Metra Electronics® has updated phone numbers for the U.S. and international sales team and technical support departments in its 12volt/automotive and home theater divisions. Installer Institute has also updated its main phone number. The previously used 800 numbers will be phased out in the future and only the local numbers will be in use moving forward. Metra’s customers, vendors and suppliers should reference the new phone list below and update their records.

• Metra Electronics - Main Phone (Corporate):        386-257-1186
  Metra 12volt Sales - Phone:                           386-257-2956
  Metra 12volt Sales - Fax:                                386-258-3940
  Metra 12volt - Technical Support:                  386-257-1187
  Metra 12voltt - International Sales:                386-257-2956
  Metra Home Theater - Sales:                         386-255-0234
  Metra Home Theater - International Sales:    386-255-0234
  Metra Home Theater - Technical Support:     386-255-0234
  Installer Institute:                                             386-672-5771

At Metra, 12 volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world.  We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources in developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make dash kits for more vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice” ® for more than 72 years. Our other brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic®, AmmoTenna®, Metra PowerSports®, Saddle Tramp® and Metra Marine®. Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to its division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®.  For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 386-257-2956.

All New RZR® Pro XP delivers class leading audio experience with factory equipped Rockford Fosgate system

TEMPE, Ariz., July 29, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- As the new RZR® Pro XP hits dealerships across the nation, Side by Side (SXS) enthusiasts can experience an industry first in the factory installed integrated off-road Rockford Fosgate audio system.

Rockford Fosgate (www.rockfordfosgate.com), the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is proud to announce its partnership with Polaris to build the loudest, highest performing audio system offered by any manufacturer in the industry. The new RZR® Pro XP vehicles were unveiled to Polaris Dealers at their event on July 28th where they demonstrated the experience created by Rockford Fosgate's specifically tuned and rider-centric audio system.

"When the team at Polaris asked us to develop an integrated sound system that exceeded their expectation to "Live Wide Open", we were eager to accept the challenge," explained Jake Braaten, Rockford Vice President of New Product Development and Engineering. "Now that we have delivered the loudest, highest quality system for RZR enthusiasts, Rockford and Polaris are leading the way for the next generation of audio in off-road vehicles."

This new RZR® Pro XP audio system is Purpose Built for occupants in the seated position to enjoy the best possible sonic experience. With easy to configure stage kits buyers have a logical progression of upgrades allowing them to choose the system path that matches their RZR®. The Rockford system includes the industry's first off-road tuning, designed specifically for the Pro XP platform, which has been optimized to combat wind and motor noise, in order to deliver incredible sound, no matter the speed. Additionally, its Element Ready ™ speakers are designed and tuned using rugged but lightweight materials, and includes a high-power, high-excursion subwoofer that acoustically couples with the cockpit for perfect bass response. 

"In working with the team at Polaris we see that they are as passionate about off-road as we are about our music," said Bill Jackson, Rockford CEO and President. "We both strive to deliver class leading products to enthusiasts of our brands, and I believe that the fact that Polaris recognized this opportunity to give their owners features they demand in vehicles fully equipped from the factory reinforces their position as a market leader."

For more information, please visit rockfordfosgate.com

Setting the standard for excellence in the audio industry, the Rockford Corporation markets and distributes high-performance audio systems for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM market. Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a publicly traded company and manufactures its products under the brand Rockford Fosgate®.

Due to existing ownership changes and a subsequent sale within Sony’s Pacific Northwest car audio territory (Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana); the Sony 12V team will announce a distributor territory realignment effective August 1st. 

Sony 12V is excited and fortunate to extend territory responsibility for the Pacific Northwest to a preexisting and trusted partner in AM Merchandising out of Oakland. AM Merchandising, in partnership with Falcon Sales and Marketing has a warehouse facility in Washougal, Wash and an already well establish sales team serving the specialty independent dealer base in that area.  

Holly Hill, FL – July 25, 2019 – Metra Electronics®, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, is excited to announce that iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems has released a new Tailgate Handle Camera for Ford F-150 (1997-2005) and Super Duty (1999-2007) trucks. This unobtrusive rearview backup camera with a CMOS ¼” sensor provides a sharp, clear picture during the day or night with 0.1 lux night vision. With a wide field of view and defeatable parking lines, it allows the driver to maneuver their larger vehicle with confidence when backing up. The TE-FDFTG is in stock now and iBEAM is one of the few companies to offer a tailgate handle camera for these models.

TE-FDFTG Product Specifications

• Replaces OEM handle
• CMOS ¼” sensor
• Resolution: 400 TV lines
• Field of view: Diagonal 168 degrees, Horizontal 136 degrees, Vertical 100 degrees
• 0.1 lux
• IP69 rated
• Defeatable parking lines
• 26ft. extension cable included
• 3-year warranty

Visit iBEAMusa.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world.  We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources in developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make dash kits for more vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice” ® for more than 72 years. Our other brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic®, AmmoTenna®, Metra PowerSports®, Saddle Tramp® and Metra Marine®. Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to its division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®.  For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 386-257-2956.

Professionally managed distribution network to offer Illusion Audio, Black Hole brands

CAMARILLO, CALIF., July 25, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – Orca Design and Manufacturing, provider of high-end audio systems, components and accessories for the automotive aftermarket, announced it has partnered with the Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA), a member-owned network of mobile electronics distribution companies.

The 12 partners of the organization will have the opportunity to stock and distribute Orca’s in-house Illusion Audio and Black Hole brands, as well as the RC line of amplifiers from the Gladen Audio brand, to thousands of its authorized retailers throughout the U.S. The agreement provides Orca with a broadened base of professional retailers through a professionally managed conduit of progressive distributors.

“I have worked with the team at Orca Design for many years and believe the Illusion Audio product to not only be unique and well-built but extraordinary in sound quality,” said Nate Taliani of Davis Distribution in Newell, W. Va.

“The Illusion Audio products and Gladen amplifiers are extraordinary, but what further impresses me is the training and support Orca will deliver to our customers,” added Josh Eatherly from P&E Distributors in Nashville, Tenn.

Illusion Audio is imagined and engineered at Orca’s corporate headquarters in Camarillo, Calif., and is manufactured in India. The line consists of premium speaker sets such as the iconic Carbon C5 and C6 component sets, and the shallow-mount Carbon C10 and C12 subwoofers.

Black Hole features premium sound-dampening materials that eliminate noise and improve audio system efficiency, as well as OEM-grade tapes and surface protection materials specially designed for automotive installation. Orca is the exclusive U.S. importer for the German-engineered Gladen line of car audio products which includes more than 25 power amplifier SKUs with both MOSFET-based and Class D designs.

“I have known the team at Orca for many years,” said Jim Warren, executive director of the EDA. “While Orca’s passion for sound quality is second to none, they didn’t stop there. They thought deeply about the needs of the installer and their go-to-market strategy is thoroughly thought out. We are happy to finalize this agreement and bring Gladen and Illusion Audio to all of our dealers.”

“Our objective has always been to provide high-quality audio products to the automotive aftermarket, to be sold and installed by proactive, professional retailers,” said Kimon Bellas, president of Orca. “Our partnership with EDA joins two like-minded organizations with the goal of building business through smart, selective distribution and empowering retail and installation professionals with ongoing training and support.”

Orca will showcase the latest Illusion Audio, Black Hole and Gladen products at KnowledgeFest, August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center. For more information on KnowledgeFest, visit knowledgefest.org. For information on Orca products and represented brands, visit orca-design.com.

Started in 2015, the Elite Distributor Alliance consists of a group of mobile electronics distributors that collectively seek to improve the business of EDA distributors, vendors and retailers through a more organized and predictable business environment. For more information, please visit elitrdistributoralliance.com.

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

July 24, 2019 -- The DS18 LTI40AH battery is an amazing investment. Now, with the technology of today you don’t need a lot of excess heavy lead acid or AGM batteries to power all your aftermarket accessories! Lithium technologies has advanced in such a way we can use these powerful small batteries in our vehicle applications daily. From cars, to boats, even ATVs and side by sides can benefit from lithium technology.

Why use lithium? For every ONE of our LTI40AH batteries, you are getting more power than five 100ah lead acid or AGM batteries while saving tons of weight and space! Now with these high-powered, compact, and long living DS18 lithium batteries you can enjoy your music hours with the vehicle off and not have to worry about no start or slow start conditions because of the amazing sheer power each of our batteries has to offer.

The LTI40AH retails for $999.99 and for more info on DS18s LTI40AH visit DS18.com

July 24, 2019 -- Last week ARC Audio of Modesto, CA took an alternative and yet creative direction to announce the coming release of their latest amplifier design, the MOTO720.  

The effort came in response to the upcoming events at the US governments Area 51 military base in Nevada. Marketed as an effort to protect and secure its assets ARC Audio promoted this effort as a relocation of a secret product to be shipped to select dealers in advance of the September 20th invasion. Each of the selected dealers produced an unboxing video for their social media platforms as they introduced the world to the new ARC Audio Moto 720 powersport amplifier. This effort was completed in just a few short days with the help of members of ARC’s inhouse production staff and has been a phenomenal success resulting in 10 individually produced dealer unboxing videos resulting in tens of thousands of views stemming to countries worldwide!

New for 2019, ARC Audio is proud to introduce the all new MOTO720 compact high-power audio amplifier. The MOTO 720 is an ideal amplifier for vehicles and motorcycles alike with its compact design and wide range of flexibility.

This new amplifier delivers more power and features from the compact HD motorcycle-specific chassis of the legendary MOTO 600.4. While it carries the MOTO category name, many ARC Audio dealers find the compact 8-125 by 5.5-inch footprint ideal for under-seat in exotic cars and behind-seat installations in trucks.

The MOTO 720 delivers an impressive 720 watts of power across its four output channels and up to 360 watts when bridged to a single four-ohm speaker. The Load Select switch adjacent to each speaker connection plug allows installers to optimize the power production capabilities for each installation. This flexibility is ideal for side-by-side and automotive applications that use front speakers that need full power at four ohms and a subwoofer that presents a bridged four-ohm load. New speaker terminal blocks integrated to the amplifier chassis replace the removable connectors on the MOTO 600.4 to deliver solid and reliable power delivery in even the harshest of conditions.

Signal connections are made using the same quick-connect plugs that ARC Audio has used for speaker-level inputs on their amplifiers for decades. These plugs have proven their reliability and durability in thousands of installations and are compatible with the wiring in the MPAK kits and the PSM digital signal processor connections. These same input connectors are plug and play to the provided RCA signal input dingles that come with the amplifier. Input level range switches have been added to the front panel to make it easy for installers to switch between high- and low-level inputs. Each pair of channels features an adjustable sensitivity control that allows the amp to make full power with signals ranging from 200mV to 4V in low-level mode or 600mV to 14.0V in high-level mode.

Defeatable high-pass and low-pass crossovers that are adjustable from 50Hz to 500Hz allow each pair of channels to be configured for full-range operation, or use with a subwoofer and accompanying speakers. The high-pass crossover can also be used to optimize the performance of speakers like the MOTO 602 or the MOTO602-HD high-efficiency coaxial speakers.

The amp can be configured to work with a single pair of inputs and knowing the enthusiasm of some of our clients, the amp has a 2-channel bridged mode that delivers 360 watts into a pair of four-ohm speakers.

All the sensitivity, crossover and bass boost adjustments are made by removing the machined aluminum top-panel of the amplifier, so the system is easy to fine-tune once in place in a motorcycle fairing or under the dash of a side-by-side. This same removable top logo panel also prevents water from entering the switches on the top of the amplifiers.

The remote turn-on detection circuit has been upgraded to include options for DC Offset and Signal detection. These options ensure your installer can integrate the amp efficiently into any vehicle without the need for external processors.

Power and ground connections are made using a set of proprietary terminal blocks that will accept 8-AWG cables to ensure reliable performance. The remote turn-on connection moves to a similar dedicated terminal block beside the speaker terminals in this new design.

The MOTO 720 also incorporates a unique microprocessor design that monitors the operation and health of the amplifier across multiple zones. In the event of an issue, the onboard microprocessor will flash a sequence of lights displaying a unique code to identify faults in the installation or system component failure such as a damaged speaker or short-circuited speaker cable. An internal fan is controlled by the microprocessor to ensure the amplifier stays cool and sounds great in even the hottest of weather conditions and volume levels.

While the amp isn’t considered “waterproof”, the main circuit board of the MOTO 720 has two conformal coating layers to prevent damage in high-humidity installations and possible water from events like riding in the rain. The accent panel on the top of the amp has been enlarged to cover the top cover panel gaps, and all of the panel gaps have been tightened to reduce the chance of water drips from getting into the amp. Finally, the upgraded speaker connections blocks feature a sealed design that routes any moisture that enters from the top away from the circuit board. These key design features help make the MOTO 720 an ideal option for Motorcycle, Marine, Powersports and Automotive installations alike.

What separates the MOTO 720 from the ultra-compact amplifiers that many people use in powersports applications is the sound quality. The engineering masterminds at ARC Audio have improved the already impressive S/N Ratio and THD specifications over the already-fantastic MOTO 600.4. Advances in power supply design and components have improved overall efficiency to an incredible 94% while reducing EMI and RFI noise production to ensure audio systems sound great.

The new MOTO 720 may be the talk of the town, but it won’t be shipping until September 1st, 2019! Until then, check with your local authorized ARC Audio retailer to pre-order one of these amazing new MOTO 720 amplifiers and take your mobile audio system to a new level of performance.

For more information visit www.arcaudio.com or contact ARC Audio directly at 209-543-8706

RINGWOOD, IL., July 19th, 2019 – Race Sport® Lighting is eager to announce that Ceasar Olaes (Sales and Marketing Manager) and Ignacio Alyala (Inside Sales) will be providing a training 2019 KnowledgeFest™ event in Dallas, Texas in early August. As a Gold sponsor, Race Sport® Lighting is proud to support the industry by providing an in-depth training session for mobile electronic installers. The training will provide an industry wide market update for the lighting category and what the trends mean for the mobile electronics dealer. The presentation will also cover what the advantages for the dealer who partners with Race Sport® Lighting. Lastly, the training with consist of what lighting products dealers should be selling right now and will deliver the comprehensive product knowledge dealers need to know, to make their next lighting sale.

Race Sport® Lighting’s Dealer's Can Register for Free

Race Sport® Lighting’s dealers can register for KnowledgeFest™ at no cost using Race Sport’s VIP code, available by request by emailing 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.. Once registered for the event, attendees will also need to register online at KnowledgeFest.org for each training session they will attend. Race Sport® Lighting will be at booth #516 from August 9-11, 2019 at the Dallas Convention Center. Additional information about the show, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), is available at KnowledgeFest.org.

Race Sport Lighting is North America’s premier suppliers of automotive lighting, catering to the professionals in the automotive, truck accessory, power sport, 12-volt, and marine markets. Established in 2007, we have become a trusted brand to customers in North America. Providing a consistently high quality product and packing in full service value is our foundation for growth, and the reason we are the brand the professionals use in lighting.

For more information on Race Sport® Lighting or to become an authorized Race Sport® Lighting dealer visit www.racesportinc.com

July 23, 2019 -- DS18 listens to the customers needs, so we have developed a new line of amp that can be used for subwoofers and full range speakers alike! The PRO-Frx amplifiers by DS18 are the solution to using one amp for both kinds of speakers and keep a very compact form. The Pro FRX comes in 1000, 2000, 2500, and 3500 models so you have a variety of power options to drive all your speaker combinations! These amps all come in monoblock configurations and are all 1 ohm stable.

All our PRO-Frx amplifiers come with an optional bass knob, high pass filter, and low pass filter so you can easily set it up for bass, mids, or super tweeters with a few turns of a knob. These small amps are perfect if you need a lot of power in a very small and compact design. Just to put the size to scale, the power pumping PRO-Frx 3500 is only 13.7 inches long and the PRO-Frx 1000 is only 7 inches in length! If you need a small powerful amp for your car, truck, or bike the PRO-Frx line by DS18 is right for you.

They can be found at DS18.com starting at 179.95 for the PRO-Frx 1000 and going up to 349.95 for the PRO-Frx 3500.

Pro Frx 1000

Pro Frx 2000

Pro Frx 2500

Pro Frx 3500

Holly Hill, Fla. - July 23, 2019 – Metra Electronics’ Installer Institute, the nation’s premier school for car audio installation, is excited to announce that another one of their programs is eligible for Title IV funding: the 26-Week Comprehensive Installations Program. This program now offers Federal Student Loans and Pell Grants for those that qualify.

The program’s eligibility allows students to submit a free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the Installer Institute’s federal code, 042742, to determine eligibility for federal financial aid.

“We’re thrilled to receive financial aid for our 26-week program, as it will allow students with financial needs to receive benefits that will help cover a great portion of their tuition. Overall, federal financial aid makes our training programs more accessible to students of all backgrounds who are eager to train for a career in mobile, marine and home electronics. Installer Institute is a legitimate training facility where we focus on real hands-on training and the constant growth of our Industry,” said Monica Anderson, Director of the Installer Institute.

Things to know:

• FAFSA is now available and includes PELL Grants and Federal Student Loans for those who qualify.
• Installer Institute is a recognized, approved and licensed training facility by the Department of Education, Veterans Affairs, Vocational Rehabilitation and accredited by ACCET.
• Private financing is also available.
• Job placement assistance and employee search services are available.
• All programs consist of instructional hours in the classroom, workshops and hands-on training in the install bay and fabrication shop.
• The programs also offer workshops to improve student job skills and education in the process of owning their own business as an installation professional.
• Students will learn the best practices related to the industry and will be prepared to take several industry certification examinations.
• Additional topics covered in these programs are subwoofer enclosure design, vehicle acoustics, integrating with OEM systems, practical installations, security and remote start, leather interior installations, tint, home audio and structured wiring, home automation and control, advanced interior panel design, custom fabrication, fiberglass enclosure design and construction, fabricating with advanced composites, painting, welding and more.
• Accommodations near the campus in Daytona Beach, Florida, are included with tuition, and prospective students are encouraged to speak with an admissions advisor to learn more.
• Continuing Education classes (6 days long) are also available.
• Discounts towards tuition may be offered to Metra Electronics® dealers.

The Installer Institute in Holly Hill, Florida, is accredited by the ACCET, Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training, and has graduated thousands of installers over the past 27+ years. Both MECP and MESA certifications are available through the Installer Institute’s programs. Visit InstallerInstitute.edu for more information or call the school at 386-672-5771.

The World’s Most Advanced and Efficient Amplifiers Now Seamlessly Integrate with SKAA®, the World’s Most Flexible Wireless Audio

EDMONTON, Alberta, Canada, & MUNICH, Germany, July 22, 2019 – Eleven Engineering, Inc. (www.elevenengineering.com), a market leader in semiconductor products for wireless audio for home theater, multi-room, portable, professional, 12 Volt (car, truck, motorcycle, power sports, marine) and gaming applications and developer of renowned SKAA® wireless solutions, is proud to announce that it has entered into a co-marketing agreement with Munich, Germany-based Infineon Technologies AG, an international leader in semiconductor solutions.

Infineon Technologies’ MERUS™ range of advanced audio amplifier solutions enables customers to maximize power efficiency, output power, and audio performance while ensuring the greatest possible design freedom and fast time-to-market. Eleven Engineering products already available which incorporate this technology include Strawberry 3 and Saskatoon “off-the-shelf motherboards”, and the Dillinger Labs Aquarius speakers.

“Eleven Engineering and Infineon Technologies’ MERUS™ team have worked together for years, jointly enabling customer products, and this partnership formalizes a tremendous opportunity for both companies to fully utilize the technology and marketing strengths of the other for years to come,” explained John Sobota, Eleven Engineering CEO and director. “For instance, our Strawberry 3 off-the-shelf motherboard is the complete package, ideal for speaker systems across multiple platforms, whether it be home theater, outdoor, Pro, studio, and DJ. It integrates the Ginseng SKAA semiconductor and the world-class, incredibly efficient MA12070P MERUSTM integrated amplifier IC from Infineon. Now, we will be even better equipped to integrate and market our wireless products utilizing Infineon’s incredibly efficient amplifier technologies from this point forward.”

Sobota continued, “Infineon’s Class-D amplifier topology significantly increases the battery life of SKAA wireless-enabled products, making them more desirable to customers. This benefit is pretty obvious. What’s less obvious is the cost impact of using Infineon amplification. When you can eliminate costly items from the bill of materials such as output inductors, chassis boxes, and dedicated heat sinks, it makes our joint offerings fantastically attractive.”

Infineon Technologies AG is a world leader in semiconductor solutions that make life easier, safer and greener. Infineon offers a unique design platform with high-performance class D amplifier solutions for all power ranges and application requirements from the smallest fully integrated single-chip solutions to highly scalable driver and discrete MOSFET combinations.

“Besides co-marketing opportunities, this partnership allows engineers and managers from both Infineon and Eleven Engineering to be on the ground floor of the other's design and creative processes," explained Jens Tybo Jensen, Infineon Technologies Head of Marketing & Application Engineering, Class D Audio Products. "This will allow one another to help guide the other in certain aspects of the R&D process, in the end ultimately getting the best possible product to market significantly faster than in normal conditions. This is a great partnership on many levels for Infineon, Eleven Engineering, and, more importantly, for all of our customers, benefiting everyone in both the short and long term.”

SKAA is the new wireless HiFi audio standard developed by Eleven Engineering, Inc. SKAA transmitters work with iOS & Android mobile devices, Mac & Windows computers, televisions, and just about any product with a line output, S/PDIF output or a headphone jack. SKAA is also available as a built-in technology not requiring an external transmitter in purpose-designed partner products, which are featured at SKAA.com. In environments laden with heavy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth traffic, SKAA navigates through these hostile environments with best-in-class reliability. SKAA also allows for uninterrupted audio signals that are delivered with the highest sound quality to all speakers without the latency that is inherent in other wireless solutions.

For more information, please contact Rex Whitehead at 480-650-3979 or email //webmail04.register.com/promail/src/compose.php?send_to=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., and please visit  www.elevenengineering.com, SKAA wireless YouTube channel, and Facebook/.

Infineon Technologies AG is a world leader in semiconductor solutions that make life easier, safer and greener. Microelectronics from Infineon is the key to a better future. In the 2018 fiscal year (ending 30 September), the Company reported sales of €7.6 billion with about 40,100 employees worldwide. Infineon is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: IFX) and in the USA on the over-the-counter market OTCQX International Premier (ticker symbol: IFNNY).

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada-based Eleven Engineering, Inc. is a market leader in microprocessors SiPs (System in Package) and modules designed for wireless audio for Home Theater, Multi-Room, Portable, and Pro Audio products. Eleven's XInC2 multithreaded processor was designed specifically for digital wireless audio applications but is also well suited for other realtime intensive microprocessor applications.

Eleven's high-performance wireless audio semiconductors, equipped with XInC2 wireless processor cores, are complete solutions for high-quality digital wireless audio transport. WFD™, Eleven's proprietary wireless audio transport protocol, has a narrow footprint in the radio spectrum, delivering both best-in-class coexistence with WiFi / Bluetooth and unparalleled Quality of Service. 

Detroit, July 22, 2019 – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. will attend the 2019 Toledo Jeep® Fest in downtown Toledo, OH from August 9 – August 11. This will be Alpine’s first year attending the free, Jeep® -only event, located just a few short hours away from Alpine’s new headquarters in Auburn Hills, MI. Over 3,000 attendees are anticipated at this year’s event.

Toledo Jeep® Fest will be the first event with the new Alpine Event Trailer, a 42’ x 8.5’ x 8’ 2019 inTech aluminum trailer designed to elevate the consumer event experience. Visitors can chat with Alpine event staff and experience the latest in-vehicle technology, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned lounge area located in the trailer.

The trailer is pulled by a 2018 Dodge Ram® 3500 SLT Crew Cab loaded with an Alpine Halo9, with 9-inch floating display and smartphone integration Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Both the truck and trailer will be staged near the Alpine booth space, located at Vendor Midway on St. Clair St. from August 10 – August 11 during the All-Jeep® Festival & Park-n-Shine Show.

Alpine’s 80’ x 40’ booth space, located on Adams St. and St. Clair St., will be stocked with the latest vehicle-specific Audio and Video technology, as well as premium sound system upgrades with easy plug-and-play installation built to directly fit Jeep® Wrangler models. All products are available for purchase during the event with special, event-only pricing and free giveaways.

Thanks to Alpine’s event partner Car Stereo One, an installation crew will be on-site, so visitors can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed. The 80’ x 40’ installation space will be located on Jackson St. and Superior St.

Demo vehicles will also be on-site, like Alpine’s 2018 Jeep® Wrangler JKU, “Hellbender,” loaded with the 9-inch X209-WRA-OR Weather Resistant Navigation System with Off-Road Driving Mode and a PSS-22-WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System Upgrade. Hellbender also has a custom-built motorized sled that pulls out from the rear of the vehicle to reveal two custom black Alpine I.C.E. Coolers – perfect for tailgating.

Visitors can see Hellbender at the Alpine-sponsored Parade Staging Zone at the Toledo Zoo and again during the Toledo Zoo Parade on August 10, with a special guest appearance by Toledo Mud Hen mascot, Muddy the Mud Hen. Muddy will ride inside of Hellbender during the parade, shooting Alpine T-shirts out of the customized attached T-shirt cannon. The parade starts at 11:00 a.m. on Summit St. and Monroe St. and ends at Summit St. and Jackson St. Hellbender will be staged at the Alpine booth for the remainder of the event.

Visit Alpine’s booth and enter for a chance to win an Alpine I.C.E. Cooler. The winner will be randomly chosen from the entries and notified via email following the event.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.