Phil Chartier has been recognized as Rep of the Year by Radenso for calendar year 2018.

February 18, 2019 -- In its first year in US wholesale distribution, Phil has been integral with placing Radenso in key accounts in both the New England and Pacific Coast Markets. He joined Radenso in January 2018 during Phase 1 introduction to the U.S Market. He’s helped establish the brand, build a loyal client base and provide outstanding support and expertise. He’s not only a friendly guy who knows his product, he’s always responsive with best practices, tips and tricks with installs. In busy season, you’ll even see Phil under/in a car helping a shop turn wrenches. The diversity that Phil brings to Radenso is unparalleled and we’re honored to have him.

Radenso Radar came to market in summer 2017 when President/CEO Jon Dandrow saw a dire need to push forward a stagnant industry that lacked innovation and customer focus. Three windshield mount SKUs and two custom installed SKUs (one is for Platinum Dealers exclusively) showed that a streamlined product line up, with the best performance, coupled with world-class customer service WAS indeed something that customers were craving.

Phil is the Rep Principal of 12-Volt Specialist Firm based in New England for nearly 10 years. He represents other premium electronics manufacturers along with Elettromedia, Wetsounds, NavTV and more. Originally from Massachusetts, currently living in New Hampshire Phil spends his time off rippin’ some miles on his beloved Road Glide.

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® authorized dealers across the country are already receiving the full 2019 KICKER CX-Series Amplifier line, now shipping. Designed with more power and greater installation flexibility, the new group of six CX-Series Amplifiers offers increased value and “installer-friendliness” to both installers and consumers. The amps, which come with hardware for space-saving vertical mounting, are now available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online.

Adding an 800- and 400-watt option to the CXA mono amp mix, all four bass amps are now one-ohm stable to increase system wiring flexibility. The amplifiers will also include a full-range, RCA pass-through for easy system expansion, as well as KickEQ™ 6dB variable bass boost, 12dB crossover and a 24dB subsonic filter. The amp is also compatible with the CXARC Remote Bass Control to allow fingertip operation from the front of the vehicle while driving.

Increasing the power to both multi-channel amplifiers, each speaker output is stable down to two ohms, and includes a 12dB crossover. Like the mono models, the bass channel on the unique CXA660.5 includes a 24dB subsonic filter and is compatible with the CXARC remote.

Using FIT+™ (Fail-safe Integration Technology-PLUS), KICKER ensures every 2019 CXA amplifier delivers a flexible, noise-free signal. Featuring a best-in-class input sensitivity, KICKER CX-Series Amplifiers now accept input voltages ranging from as little as 250 millivolts to as much as 40 volts, ensuring the amplifiers will work with virtually any factory or aftermarket radio without the additional expense of a line-out converter. A three-second turn-on/turn-off delay is also standard.

Consumers can visit www.kicker.com/2019-CX-amplifiersfor more information.

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. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

KICKER CXA.1 Mono Amplifiers Specifications

Models (at 14.4V)                                            CXA1800.1               CXA1200.1             CXA800.1             CXA400.1                 

Class D Power (watts/ch), 1 Ohm mono      1800 x 1 +/-10%        1200 x 1 +/-10%          800 x 1                  400 x 1

Class D Power (watts/ch), 2 Ohm mono      1800 x 1                      1200 x 1                     600 x 1                  300 x 1

Class D Power (watts/ch), 4 Ohm mono      900 x 1                        600 x 1                      300 x 1                    150 x 1

Length (in./cm)                                              14-3/8, 36.4               12, 30.6                    8-1/8, 20.6             8-1/8, 20.6                                                            

Width (in./cm)                                                 6-3/4, 17                     6-3/4, 17                6-3/4, 17               6-3/4, 17

Height (in./cm)                                                2-3/8, 5.9                    2-3/8, 5.9               2-3/8, 5.9             2-3/8, 5.9

Common to All Models

Frequency Response: 25-200Hz

Signal to Noise Ratio:  >95dB

Input Sensitivity:  High Level 1V-40V, Low Level 250mV-10V

Crossover:  Low-pass (variable) 50-200Hz @12dB/octave

Subsonic Filter:  24dB/octave, High-Pass fixed @ 25Hz

KickEQ™ Bass Boost (end panel):  Variable 0-6dB, centered @ 40Hz

CXARC Remote Control available on all models

KICKER CX-Series Multi-Channel Amplifiers Specifications

Models (at 14.4V)                              CXA660.5 4-Ch. w/ Sub Ch.                        CXA360.4 4-Ch.

Class D Power (watts/ch) 2 Ohm stereo                    90x4                                                                  90x4                                                                                                                                     

Class D Power (watts/ch) 4 Ohm stereo                    65x4                                                                   65x4

Class D Power (watts/ch) 4 Ohm bridged mono      180x2                                                                   180x2

Class D Power (watts/ch) 2 Ohm mono channel     300x1                                                                     NA

Class D Power (watts/ch) 4 Ohm mono channel     150x1                                                                      NA

Sub Channel Crossover                                            Low (Variable) 50-200Hz @12dB/octave              NA

Active Crossover Type                                              Amp 1-2:  High-passHi/Lo/Off

Active Crossover Response                                      Variable 10-200Hz @12dB/octaveVariable 50-200Hz @ 12dB/octave

Signal-to-Noise Ratio                                                >90dB>95dB

Length (in./cm)                                                           14-1/8, 35.7                                                           12-1/2, 31.7

Width (in./cm)                                                            6-3/4, 17                                                                      6-3/4, 17

Height (in./cm)                                                          2-3/8, 5.9                                                                     2-3/8, 5.9

Common to Both Models

Frequency Response:  full range 10-20kHz (CXA.5 sub ch. 25-200Hz), +0/-1dB

Input Sensitivity:  High Level 1V-40V, Low Level 250mV-10V

Subsonic Filter:  24db/octave, High-Pass fixed @ 25Hz (CXA.5 sub channel only)

KickEQ™ Bass Boost (end panel):  Variable 0-6dB, centered @ 40Hz (CXA.5 sub channel only)

CXARC Remote Control capable

Auckland, New Zealand – Fusion®, a worldwide leader in marine audio entertainment, announced today the release of two new additions to its industry-leading range of marine audio entertainment products, the Signature Series six- and eight-channel class-D marine amplifiers. Adding to the company’s existing line of monoblock, four- and five-channel Signature Series Amplifiers, the new six-channel 1500 Watt and eight-channel 2000 Watt amplifiers deliver an impressive power rating and are designed to suit all audio installation requirements. To complement the complete entertainment package, Fusion has also launched a line of high-quality performance RCA cables.

The result of world-class design and engineering, the extremely powerful Signature Series Amplifiers are built with Class-D amplification for higher efficiency and output, a rigid aluminum heat sink, a subsonic filter, variable low and high pass crossover filters, and are 2 Ohm stereo stable and includes variable bass boost, behind a stainless-steel front panel with a stylish mirror finish. Ensuring low current draw from the battery while delivering increased power, the highly efficient Class-D design makes the Signature Series perfect for any boating environment.

“We are excited to broaden our range of products with the release of the six- and eight-channel Signature Series Amplifiers and our new RCA cables,” said Chris Baird, managing director, Fusion Entertainment. “We are well known for our award-winning marine stereo’s, and have invested heavily in delivering innovative, high-quality products and solutions that provide our customers a superior listening experience across the entire audio chain. The announcement of the additional Signature Series Amplifiers and performance RCA cabling is a further commitment from the brand to deliver the ultimate audio experience from the kickdrum to the eardrum.”

Carrying Fusion’s True-Marine accreditation, these amplifiers are protected by an industry-leading three-year warranty. Ensuring cleaner, clearer, enhanced audio signal for the best sound quality, Fusion’s new range of RCA cables and connectors feature directional, shielded twisted pair cable providing superior noise rejection. The connectors are also gold-plated to prevent corrosion.

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

For more information on Fusion’s Signature Series Amplifiers, RCA cables or its entire line of audio products, please contact 623-580-9000 or visit www.fusionentertainment.com.

Fusion designs and engineers an exciting range of mobile entertainment and related products throughout America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. Fusion is New Zealand based with significant sales operations sited in New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom and United States of America.

Fusion® is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd, trading as Fusion Entertainment. All other brand and product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify products or services of, their respective owners.

February 14, 2019 -- Sony, a longtime supporter, and contributor to the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) and of KnowledgeFest events has announced training events at the upcoming KnowledgeFest - Long Beach event. Sony continues its support through a Diamond ULTRA Sponsorship, retailer-focused training, and a prominent booth space where several team members can show retailers new products, offer tips on increasing their profit and answer technical questions.

“Our sponsorship of and team commitment to these events is important to us. We always value getting in front of our retailers to train them, and we love showing them new ways to grow their profit,” said Anthony Tozzi, Distribution Sales Manager.

Sony will be showing examples of the XAV-AX7000 High Power CarPlay and Android Auto deck that they showed at CES. Retailers will be able to sit and listen to it power its XS-GS1631C three-way components, XS-GS1621 coaxial speakers, and two XS-GSW101 subwoofers, with no external amplifiers, in its demo 2018 Subaru Impreza show vehicle in the booth.

National Trainer Kris Bulla will lead four training sessions focused on critical subjects that retailers will be able to use immediately in their stores.

Sony training sessions for KnowledgeFest - Long Beach are:

2/23 - How to maximize your profit with Sony Car Audio Products

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM, Seaside 3A

2/23 - Sony High-Power Head Units – How to Sell and Install Them Properly

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM, Seaside 3A

2/24 - Sony GS Speakers and Amplifiers – How to Make More Profit

4:45 PM - 5:45 PM, Seaside 3A

2/25 - How to maximize your profit with Sony Car Audio Products

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Seaside 3A

Sony won Vendor of the Year in 2018 at the MEA Industry Awards and took the Top Vendor: Autosound & Video award as well. These awards, voted on by the industry, are the result of the hard work of the Sony support team through its valued Distribution Partners, and the excellent retailers they service.

For questions, please contact Anthony Tozzi at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Kris Bulla at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Car Pays Homage to Richard Petty’s Record-Setting Daytona 500 Win

Torrance, Calif. (Feb. 14, 2019) - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has partnered with Petty’s Garage on a 1981 Buick Regal. The Buick is a replica of the race car that was driven by “The King,” NASCAR legend Richard Petty, when he captured his historic seventh Daytona 500 win in 1981. Petty’s win set a record that still remains unbroken today.

Petty’s Garage replicated the Buick for their partner, General Tire. While the Buick’s styling stays true to the original race car, Petty’s Garage invited Alpine to supply a premium audio system for the car. Although it’s unusual to have an audio system in a race car, the Alpine system will be used as entertainment when this replica car is at consumer events. The 650-watt sound system is based around the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 9-inch AV Receiver with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, which is featured in a custom installation in the dash. A pair of R-S65.2 6.5-inch R-Series Coaxial Speakers are installed in the doors, while R-S69C.2 6x9-inch Component Speakers are mounted in the rear wall. An R-W12D4 12-inch Subwoofer is in a custom enclosure in the left rear of the trunk, and the system is powered by a PDR-V75 5-Channel Amplifier.

The Buick features General Tire G Max RS tires, custom paint in Petty Blue and Day Glow Orange, and other Petty’s Garage components. Petty’s Garage, an authorized Alpine retailer, is a high-performance speed shop owned by Petty and based in Level Cross, NC.

The Buick was unveiled on February 8, 2019 as part of the Daytona Beach ARCA race, one of the events at the Daytona International Speedway leading up to the annual Daytona 500 race this Sunday, February 17. Race fans can see the car and its Alpine system while the vehicle is on display in the General Tire booth at the speedway’s Fanzone. General Tire will also take the car to various consumer events throughout the year.

Buick is a trademark of General Motors Corporation. CarPlay is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.

Founded in 2008, Petty’s Garage is a high-performance speed shop owned by “The King” Richard Petty.  Headquartered in Level Cross, North Carolina, Petty’s Garage occupies the legendary Petty facility that produced winning stock cars for more than 50 years. Petty’s Garage specializes in performance upgrades, parts, restorations, luxury personal builds, custom builds, engine builds, tuning, paint and body, exhaust upgrades, brake systems, custom interiors, tires and wheels, custom fabricated projects, and corporate builds. For more information on Petty’s Garage, please call 336-498-3745 or visit www.pettys-garage.com.

Alpine Electronics, Inc. is an automotive electronics manufacturer that provides consumers and leading automakers with audio, video, navigation and driver assistance products. The company specializes in system integration solutions with innovative vehicle entertainment and information technologies. Alpine’s R&D and manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe and North America ensure that all products address the real-world requirements of drivers in each market. The company is committed to developing safe, comfortable and eco-friendly automotive electronics products. Alpine Electronics, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of ALPS ALPINE CO., LTD.

For information about Alpine’s aftermarket products, visit www.alpine-usa.com and these social media channels: Facebook: facebook.com/AlpineUSA, Instagram: instagram.com/AlpineUSA and Twitter: twitter.com/AlpineUSA.

Sales, product, and distribution pro heads up firm specializing in growing Canadian independent mobile electronics retailers’ businesses.

February 14, 2019, Elgin, Ill. – K40 Electronics, a premier manufacturer of award-winning, high-performance police radar/laser detector systems, announced today the appointment of The Graham Advantage Group, Inc. of Alberta as its manufacturers’ representative in the Alberta and Saskatchewan provinces. The rep group has decades of experience specializing in the 12-volt industry.

“I am excited to be working with the K40 team of professionals that share the same hands-on approach to customer service, dealer trainings and genuine excitement for the 12-volt industry,” said Brian Graham, Operations Manager of The Graham Advantage Group, Inc. “With a high margin product that will never go OEM and the training and support K40 offers its dealers, this is a must-have core offering every retailer can build their business around.”

“This is a complimentary relationship…the synergy of our strengths will deliver a level of unparalleled service to mobile electronics retailers in Canada,” said Rachel Clark, K40’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Established in 1977, K40 Electronics offers a full line of driving protection solutions for every vehicle and driving style. Canadian retailers interested in joining an exclusive group of authorized dealers should contact Brian Graham at 403.852.0447; K40’s international sales team, Rachel Clark or Lynette Tomlinson at 800.323.6768; or visit K40’s dealer inquiry page. 

Continues to Innovate Solutions to Support Independent Retailers

TAMPA, Fla. (February 13, 2019) – DOW Electronics, the leading Consumer Electronics distributor in the South, announces an enhancement to their successful Smart Services program. The membership program now includes courier service around the six DOW Electronics locations.

The Smart Services program is a monthly membership that covers DOW’s Smart Ship and Smart Courier services. Retailers pay a monthly fee of $50, and all 12Volt and custom integration orders are eligible for free shipping. The Smart Courier services was added to the program this week and is included at no additional cost. Courier services are available for same day deliveries up to 25 miles from a DOW Electronics location.

John Yodzis, president and ceo, stated, “DOW is continually reviewing ways to enhance our services to keep independent retailers competitive. Our Smart Services program is a great way to simplify your shipping costs and save you money. We believe the addition of Smart Courier is a great win for the dealer that needs a part that day and doesn’t want to lose time and money running out to pick it up.”  

Added Dave Elkin, senior vice president, sales and product management, “Our shipping policy is geared towards providing the best experience for our customers - consistent cost for easy job quoting, customers can order as needed while saving time and money, and now same day delivery with the Smart Courier service. Our goal is to be a leader in the 12Volt and Custom Integration industries, providing innovative solutions for our customers.”

To learn more about DOW Electronics and for full details of the Smart Services program, please visit www.DOWElectronics.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

About DOW Electronics:

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., DOW Electronics is one of the largest independently owned and operated electronics distributors servicing independent retailers in the Southern United States for 60 years. With six locations serving Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, DOW Electronics focuses on providing consumer electronics that enhance the customer experience.

The Company’s 2019 Focus on This Channel Kicks-Off at the Long Beach KnowledgeFest

Torrance, Calif. (Feb. 12, 2019) -- Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has announced activities in support of its 12-volt independent retailers. Alpine’s Brand Business Unit is responsible for the company’s aftermarket sales and has made heavy investments towards supporting its independent retailers.

“We value our independent retailers and applaud them for their passion and dedication to the 12-volt industry,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The addition of new employees, demo vehicles, and in-store displays represent a significant investment into this channel, and we look forward to using these assets to partner with our retailers to help them grow their Alpine business.”

Investment in People, Vehicles, and Displays

Since 2018, Alpine has hired eight new employees in the Brand Business Unit’s Sales department. All eight positions are newly-created, field jobs that had not previously existed within the company. The positions include one District Sales Manager and seven Brand Specialists who strictly service 12-volt independent retailers with product, sales, and marketing support. 

The Brand Specialists oversee six Alpine-owned demo trucks located across the U.S. The vehicles consist of a Ford F-150®, Ram® 1500, Chevy Silverado®, and a Toyota Tundra®, Tacoma®, and 4Runner®. The first three trucks debuted in early 2018, and the three Toyota vehicles were completed last month and are on the road now. All trucks feature the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 9-inch AV receiver with a complete X-Series sound system and are outfitted in a distinctive “Alpine X-Perience” custom vinyl wrap. Alpine has launched an aggressive dealer event schedule for 2019 totaling 200 events of all sizes, and the demo trucks will be featured at many of these events.

Alpine has also implemented an in-store display program. In 2018, 110 displays were distributed to 12-volt independent retailers across the U.S. This year, 50 more displays will be sent to additional retailers. The free-standing displays showcase the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 or iLX-F259 9-inch AV receiver along with various speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers.  

Long Beach KnowledgeFest

A key event for 12-volt independent retailers is the MEA KnowledgeFest. Alpine will have a booth at all three 2019 KnowledgeFest shows, the first one taking place in Long Beach, CA on February 23-25. New products on display at the Alpine exhibit (booth #1306) will include the iLX-F259, the PWD-X5 powered subwoofer with built-in 4-channel DSP amplifier, and the R-Series speakers, amplifiers, and subwoofers. A Ford F-150 demo truck will be on-hand for sound demos at the Long Beach show.

Marketing Pros also recognized as top Mosconi / Gladen rep firm

CAMARILLO, CALIF., February 12, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – When Orca Design and Manufacturing recognized its top independent sales rep firms during its annual awards dinner prior to CES, one of its winners was still yet to be determined. The exclusive U.S. distributor for Focal and North American distributor for Mosconi and Gladen mobile audio products called out its top performers for each brand, in addition to its President’s Award winner, which goes to the best overall performing rep firm. The final award, named after the late Bill McKinley who represented Orca’s brands for 17 years, honors the rep firm with the highest sales during CES.

Marketing Pros, Orca’s longtime rep firm in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas, received the top sales award for its work with the Mosconi and Gladen brands. President Pete Daley accepted the award on behalf of his six-person team which includes founder and industry sound-off legend George “Doc Thunder” Reed, as well as Pete’s wife, Kristin Daley.

Paragon Sales and Marketing, founded by Bill McKinley and now led by Principal Wayne Smedile, received honors for its performance representing the Focal brand in its territory of southern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico and Hawaii. The 20-year company with a staff of five also took the President’s Award for overall top-performing rep firm, giving Paragon two awards on the night.

It was only after CES had concluded that the Bill McKinley award winner was determined, and Paragon was named the recipient.

“It’s a true honor for us to receive recognition from the brands we serve,” said Smedile. “Our goal is always to be an extension of our manufacturers in taking care of retailers, who are just as much our customers as they are the brand’s customers. Orca and Focal have been great partners, giving us the support needed to provide premium service to retailers. We value the relationship and look forward to another year of growth.”

Additional awards went to online consumer electronics retailer Crutchfield for E-Commerce Retailer of the Year, and Seattle, Wash.-based Car Toys for Multi-Store Retailer of the Year.

“We are very proud of the strong, family-like relationships we have with our rep firms and their people,” added Nalaka Adikari, sales director for Orca. “The awards we give each year show our gratitude to them but still can’t possibly reflect the hard work and dedication they put in on our behalf. Congratulations to Marketing Pros, and congratulations to Paragon for getting the first Orca triple crown.”

Orca will exhibit and train retailers at the upcoming KnowledgeFest industry-only trade show, February 23-25, at the Long Beach Convention Center. For more information on the company, please visit orcadesign.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.

February 13, 2019 -- VAIS Technology is hosting two product trainings at the KnowledgeFest 2019 event for the mobile electronics industry in Long Beach, California. As a Platinum partner, VAIS Technology will provide in-depth training sessions for installers, sales and shop owners on their rapidly growing category of satellite radio integration. VAIS Technology will also be at the show exhibiting and promoting their satellite radio integrated solutions.

VAIS Technologies training sessions will cover many of companies integrated products, especially the GSR-UV01 universal “One Box” solution. The trainings will take place at 12:30 pm on Saturday, February 23rd in Seaside room 5a and 10:15am on Monday, February 25th in Seaside room 3B. VAIS Technology customers can register for KnowledgeFest at no cost using VAIS’s VIP code, available from VAIS Technology.

VAIS Technology will also be exhibiting at booth #1814. Additional information about the show is available by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), at KnowledgeFest.org or at VAIS Technology, at www.vaistech.com.

Pictured: Model# GSR-UV01. SXV300 SiriusXM tuner required, subscription sold separately by SiriusXM.

Oklahoma City, Okla., February 12, 2019 -- DD Audio will once again be kicking off 2019 by attending KnowledgeFest Long Beach Feb 23rd-25th. The DD team is excited to be on the exhibit floor, booth #1610.

DD feels KnowledgeFest is much more than a simple industry meet and greet. It’s an opportunity for manufacturers, shop-owners, installers and everyone in-between to exchange ideas. The mobile audio industry requires knowledge in the ever advancing technologies, installation trends, and current business tactics. KnowledgeFest brings everyone together with the solitary focus of continuing their education in these areas and more. This is a point of passion for DD Audio and is why they continue to partner with MEA year after year.

DD will be hosting two educational training classes at the event. The first class, “DD Audio, 2019 Product Training” (Saturday, February 23rd, 1:45pm - 5:45pm), will explain what makes DD Audio one of the best brands in the industry to partner with as well as provide an overview of product offerings for 2019. The second class “DD Audio, ESP Subwoofers: Better, Stronger, Louder” (Sunday, February 24th, 6:00pm - 7:00pm), will treat attendees to an in depth explanation of the ESP design features as well live demonstrations of ESP parts in action.

The team representing DD Audio at KnowledgeFest Long Beach 2019 is looking forward to the fellowship that is always present at these events. Attendees are encouraged to visit them at the booth, partake in a DD training or just stop them wherever they can be found as they always welcome questions, ideas, and feedback. 

Click here to sign up for a DD Audio training.

VISTA, Calif. (February 11, 2019) – Directed announced today the expansion of its relationship with the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) as Platinum Partners. Directed also confirmed its plans to exhibit and train at all three Knowledgefest shows in 2019.

“Strengthening our partnership with MEA is a fantastic way to showcase Directed’s industry leadership in product innovation and support,” said Directed CEO Bob Struble. “We look forward to sharing our latest and greatest in Long Beach, Indianapolis, and Dallas.”

This month Directed will be at the Long Beach Convention Center from the 23rd through the 25th. Attendees can experience Directed’s industry leading innovation in  Booth 1614, where they’ll see the latest on the DS4 Digital Remote Start and Security Systems, the Viper SmartStart Pro Connected Car Product, Viper Powersports Security and GPS products, and Directed’s Ignition Interlock business, Alcohol Detection Systems.

Directed’s booth will showcase the “Race the CEO Challenge — V2” – a live installation challenge in a Jeep Wrangler. To highlight the speed and simplicity of DS4 and SmartStart Pro installations, Directed’s CEO Bob Struble throws the challenge flag for Knowledgefest attendees. Participants in the install race will try to beat Bob’s time and compete for prizes. Directed’s Race the CEO Challenge will be available during all show floor hours.

During trainings, Directed Product Specialist Representatives will coach up attendees on the latest technical updates in Directed’s evolving product line. Show attendees can choose from four different timeslots, so there’s no reason to not attend. All training attendees will receive a Directed giftbag full of Directed swag and as an added bonus, Directed will give away Denon headphones and Bluetooth speakers during trainings.

Finally, to show appreciation for visiting its booth, Directed will be raffling off three Denon / Definitive Technology sound systems. Come by the booth for more information.

Training sessions for Knowledgefest Long Beach are scheduled as following:

Saturday, February 23 from 12:30pm-1:30pm in Seaside 3B

Sunday, February 24 from 6:00pm-7:00pm in Seaside 4A

Monday, February 25 from 9:00am-10:00am in Seaside 4A

Monday, February 25 from 10:15am-11:15am in Seaside 4A.

Not a Directed Dealer? Pease visit http://www.directed.com/contact/becomedealer or call 1-800-876-0800 to become a Directed Dealer today!

Directed is a world leader in automotive electronics, the largest North American designer and marketer of consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems, and a pioneer in the connected car space. Its products connect more consumers to their vehicles than anyone else on the planet. Directed markets its broad portfolio (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart®, AstroStart®, Alcohol Detection Systems® and other brands) through leading national retailers and specialty chains. For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Oklahoma City, Okla., February 11, 2019 — It’s 2019! While there are no flying cars or off-world vacation destinations, DD Audio is already seeing an unimaginably strong future for its partners and itself. Domestically, DD Audio is exclusively a brick and mortar brand that doesn’t force its dealers to compete with online marketplaces for sales of its products. Internationally DD Audio only partners with select distributors they feel provide the highest level of technical and sales support to their customers. This business approach has fostered a loyalty and passion that can’t be won with cheap sales gimmicks and two-bit slogans.

Each year more and more shops see the relationship DD Audio has with their dealers; they recognize the mutual respect, appreciation, and trust shared by the two institutions, and want in. 2018 was no exception. With the support of their worldwide dealer network DD Audio was able to realize significant growth in every product category.

As with previous years, DD Audio will be presenting custom commemorative plaques to their Top 10 Domestic Dealers and Top 10 International Distributors of 2018. This year’s plaques were designed and made 100 percent in-house by hand…and some machines…and lasers.

DD Audio would like to thank everyone who had a hand in making 2018 an all-around successful year. Let’s face 2019 with even greater spirit.

Domestic Dealers:

HID Unlimited – Orlando, FL

Lawson’s Car Audio – Augusta, GA

Poptronics Distributors – Baltimore, MD

G’s Audio – Del Valle, TX

The Audio Edge – Bossier City, LA

Advanced Car Audio – Pascagoula, MS

Tweet Shop – Mobile, AL - Third Consecutive Year

Custom Sound Works – Lubbock, TX - Third Consecutive Year

Extreme Soundz – Lumberton, NC - Third Consecutive Year

Distributors:

Burrell Marketing Group NZ LTD – New Zealand

Posi-Lectric – Tahiti

MD Audio – Ecuador

Ellite International – India - Second Consecutive Year

Audio Import Group - Europe - Third Consecutive Year

NCMB – China - Third Consecutive Year

Reference Audio – South Africa - Third Consecutive Year

Autorama – Argentina - Third Consecutive Year

DD Russia – Russia - Third Consecutive Year

Davisa – Panama/Columbia - Third Consecutive Year

February 11, 2019 -- Interstate Electronics in Hazlet NJ was the proud recipient of the 2018 Race Sport Lighting “Mesa Dealer of the Year Award” for outstanding performance, extreme loyalty and integrity. Pictured above are Neil Halprin (Manufacturers Representative), presenting the award to Ed Ketcham (Owner), Fred Opren (General Manager), Juan Rosa (Buyer) along with the rest of the Interstate Electronics sales team. Interstate Electronics’ continued growth and excellence in the lighting category is an achievement deserved and proof of their dedication and hard work throughout the year.

“We are so thankful for the MESA Dealer partners and are excited to honor their loyalty and hard work selling our brand in 2018. Its because of them, Race Sport Lighting continues to be the leading lighting brand in the industry. They understand the quality, service, support, and excitement behind the Race Sport Lighting brand that sets them apart from the competition," says Race Sport Lighting President Steven Jergensen.

Race Sport Lighting is the leading manufacturer of LED and HID lighting technology in North America, and serves the 12-Volt, Truck Accessory, Powersports, Motorcycle, Marine, and RV industries primarily. Founded in 2007, Race Sport Lighting is going on its 12th year leading the way as the Pioneer for the lighting category. They offer the highest quality lighting products to the industry and back it up with award winning customer service and tech support. This reputation has earned them the position of Preferred Lighting Vendor for AAM, MESA and Tint World franchises.

For more information on pricing and becoming a dealer, please visit us online at https://www.racesportinc.com/customer/account/login/or call us at 847-327-0073.

Holly Hill, Fla. – February 11, 2018 – Metra Electronics® is hosting three new product training sessions at the 2019 KnowledgeFest™ event for mobile electronics installers in Long Beach, Calif. As a Diamond Ultra sponsor, Metra is proud to support the industry by providing in-depth training sessions for installers which will outline new audio integration products and dash kits with built-in electronics. The Installer Institute® will also be at the show, promoting their mobile electronics training programs and continuing education courses for existing installation professionals.

Metra’s vendor training sessions will cover many of the new mobile electronics and integration products introduced at SEMA and CES, including the new AX-DSP-X and AX-DSP-LITE from Axxess. The training sessions will also go over the latest dash kits with integrated electronics from Metra’s TurboTactile™, TouchTronix™ and TurboTouch™ product lines. The sessions will take place at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 23, at 4:45 PM on Sunday, February 24 and at 10:15 AM on Monday, February 25. Metra’s customers can register for KnowledgeFest at no cost using Metra’s VIP code, available by request from their sales representative. Metra will be at booth #1010 in Long Beach from 2/23 - 2/25 and will also be at the Indianapolis event in booth #222 from 3/15 - 3/17. Additional information about the show, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), is available at KnowledgeFest.org.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world.  We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources into developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make more dash kits for the most vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice” ® for more than 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 800.221-0932.

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® kicks off the 2019 boating season at the Miami International Boat Show, exhibiting revolutionary tower systems, marine-ready amplifiers, subwoofers and speakers. The show is located at the Miami Marine Stadium Park and Basin, running from February 14-18, and KICKER experts will be on hand to present products and information to consumers.

KICKER’s booth will be located in the Sport Fishing Pavilion (Tent D), booth D139. KICKER marine products will also be available for purchase on-site at El Capitan Sports Center’s booth, D135 next door to KICKER.

KICKER representatives will be discussing its marine offerings with boat manufacturers and interested consumers throughout the week, as well as creating informational, entertaining videos recorded live during the show and then posted on social media.

The KICKER booth and reps will be showcasing powerful KMTC oversized horn-loaded tower cans that generate concert-level volume with exceptional clarity. Every KICKER marine product meets or exceeds ASTM industry standards for salt/fog, humidity and UV exposure.

KMTC Tower Systems mount vertically or horizontally with ease, and its mounting-clamp locking cam/toggle system enables the speaker to swivel 359 degrees without tools – an industry first. They also fit straight bars or curved bars without hassle.

Marine-grade subwoofers and coaxial speakers with LEDs, flat-mount tower systems, water-resistant amplifiers and other marine accessories will be shown through the show’s duration.

Visit www.miamiboatshow.comfor more information. 

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. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Advanced Workshops Presented by Rockford Fosgate Will Feature Hands-On Installation Training for Technicians as Well as Key Product Features and Consumer Benefits for the Sales Team

TEMPE, Ariz. – Feb. 8, 2019 – Rockford Fosgate (www.rockfordfosgate.com), the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is excited to work with store owners, installation technicians, and retail sales professionals attending KnowledgeFest events this year.

Rockford Fosgate will host advanced product and installation workshops in Long Beach, Calif. (Feb. 23-25), Indianapolis (March 15-17), and Dallas (Aug. 9-11) and will provide an extension of those workshops in their exhibit booth on the show floor. Rockford will also have information for retailers on achieving solid everyday profit margins through MAP protected products, ideas for impactful audio demonstrations, and tips on how to attract new customers to their store.

Zach Luke, Rockford Fosgate national sales manager, explained, “Specialty retailers have the unique ability to provide customized service to consumers looking to improve their audio system. During that face-to-face conversation with their customers we hope that sales people and installation techs will convey the benefits of Rockford Fosgate products and demonstrate the quality audio available for all their vehicles, whether it’s a daily driver or weekend toy.”

The advanced workshops to be offered at KnowledgeFest in Long Beach, Calif. are as follows:

Bike Breakdown & Audio Installation

Join Rockford Fosgate for an advanced workshop featuring a bike breakdown and hands-on audio installation on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. You'll get in-depth information on the electrical wiring, fairing speaker installation, fitment and install of the bag-lid speaker kit, radio flashing, and system tuning. 

Achieving Superior Sound Quality

Whether your install is going on the road or on the water, we have the technology, the tools, and the tricks to set you apart from the crowd. Join Rockford technicians for this advanced training session where we'll talk gain overlap, dynamic power, differential inputs, CLEAN, and many more installer-friendly features to save you time and make you more money.

Dates and times for each workshop in Long Beach, Calif.:

Bike Breakdown & Audio Installation

Saturday, February 23, 1:45pm - 2:45pm Seaside 1

Monday, February 25, 10:15am - 11:15am Seaside 1

Achieving Superior Sound Quality

Sunday, February 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm Seaside 1

Workshops for the Indianapolis and Dallas events will be announced at a later date.

For more information on KnowledgeFest, please visit www.knowledgefest.org.

For more information on Rockford Fosgate, please visit www.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 or distributes its products under the brands: Rockford Fosgate(R) and Renegade. For more information, please visit: www.rockfordfosgate.com and www.renegadecaraudio.com.

Torrance, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2019) - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. today announced the hiring of two new employees in its Brand (aftermarket) Business Unit. Members Dan Sparks and Colin Vargo have joined the company in two newly-created, field positions for the Sales department.

“We are pleased to have Dan and Colin join us and welcome their efforts in directly supporting our 12-volt independent retailers,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “Their positions are brand-new jobs that had not existed before and represent Alpine’s significant investment towards growth in the aftermarket.”

Dan Sparks joins Alpine in the new role of District Sales Manager for the North Central states, which encompasses 11 states covered by three independent sales rep firms. Sparks is based in Toledo, OH and brings over 35 years of experience in the 12-volt industry. He has held positions ranging from sales, installation, store management, sales manager, independent rep, and rep principal. Sparks was an independent rep for 22 years and represented Alpine for the last seven years, where his company was twice named as Alpine’s Rep Firm of the Year. Sparks reports to Marco Bregenzer, Senior Regional Sales Manager for the Central U.S.

Colin Vargo has been hired as a Brand Specialist for the metro New York/New Jersey area. In this new role for the region, he will provide Alpine sales, marketing, and technical support for independent 12-volt specialists. Vargo will also capture Voice of the Dealer and Voice of the Customer information that will be fed back to Alpine headquarters to help shape future products and programs. He has over 20 years of experience in the 12-volt industry and most recently represented Alpine as a sales rep in the mid-Atlantic area for an independent rep firm. Vargo is based in Roebling, NJ and will continue to collaborate with the rep firm to support the Alpine brand among authorized retailers.

Real Performance Marketing officially joins the Wet Sounds team.

Houston, Texas -- February 1, 2019 -- Sounds Inc., the recognized leader in innovative design and manufacturing of the world’s best performing and most rugged audio and lighting components adds to their arsenal of sterling sales rep-firms.

Wet Sounds is extremely pleased to announce, they have teamed up with Real Performance Marketing (RPM) to service the Southeast territories. RPM states, “We have followed the growth of Wet Sounds over the years and are excited to represent Wet Sounds in the Southeast.”

Robb Bagnall has 22 years of Car Audio experience with ten years in retail, seven years as the owner of his own shop in Wilmington, and five years as a Sales Representative - including three years as the President of SMS. He will be covering North and South Carolina territories as well as Eastern Tennessee and Eastern Georgia.

Scott Hochmuth started in Car Audio in 1982 and in Powersports in 1989 giving him several decades in both industries. Scott opened Real Performance Marketing at the beginning of 2016 focused on Powersports but has been expanding into the fast-growing Powersports Audio market. His territory will cover central and western Georgia and Tennessee as well as Alabama and Mississippi.

For any inquiries regarding products or specific coverage of Real Performance Marketing, they can be reached at (706)386-3550

Wet Sounds is without a doubt, the leader in innovative design and manufacturing of the world’s best performing element-proof audio and lighting components. Specializing in marine-grade audio has set our quality standards so high that our products can be used virtually anywhere. Since developing the world’s first true wake board boat tower-specific HLCD speaker system we have grown to create and build; audio and lighting components that can be utilized on the water, off-road, on road, residentially and more. Over-engineering our products to exceed standards is in our DNA and we feel that quality and performance value should never be sacrificed.

Auckland, New Zealand – Fusion®, a worldwide leader in marine audio entertainment, announced today that the Apollo RA770 has won a Pittman Innovation Award in the Electronics Category. This latest award follows on a successful launch resulting in an NMEA Product of Excellence Award in the category of Multimedia Entertainment, an NMMA Innovation Award in the Entertainment category at the 2018 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) and an honorable mention in the DAME Design Award in the category of Marine Electronics.

The annual Pittman Innovation Awards recognize the most innovative new products for the sailboat market. Award winners are selected by a team of Sail Magazine editors in four categories: Safety and Racing, Cruising, Electronics and Systems.

The Fusion RA770 is the flagship product of the new Apollo Series, epitomizing creative design and technological brilliance. The world’s first purpose-built marine entertainment system with a one-piece glass touchscreen display, built-in Wi-Fi streaming, Digital Signal Processing Technology (DSP) and PartyBus capabilities, the RA770 takes marine audio entertainment to the next level. Featuring a brilliant, optically bonded, full-color LCD display, the RA770’s one-piece glass touchscreen makes locating the correct button a thing of the past. Now users can simply tap the screen to pause and play, or swipe through a playlist to find their favorite song. The stylish display blends perfectly with modern glass helms and is an attractive addition to any steering station.

“We are very pleased with the reception that the Apollo Series has received in the industry,” said Chris Baird, managing director, Fusion Entertainment. “Our design team has dedicated themselves to re-inventing marine audio entertainment culminating in the recent release of the Apollo RA770. Since being announced, the RA770 has been recognized by the media and awards judges and enjoyed by our customers. We are very grateful for this honor.”

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

For more information on the Apollo RA770 or Fusion’s entire line of audio products, please contact 623-580-9000 or visit www.fusionentertainment.com.

Fusion designs and engineers an exciting range of mobile entertainment and related products throughout America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. Fusion is New Zealand based with significant sales operations sited in New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom and United States of America.

Fusion® is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd, trading as Fusion Entertainment. All other brand and product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify products or services of, their respective owners.