Even More Cameras, Monitors and Kits Round Out the Comprehensive iBeam Product Line for Safety Essentials

Holly Hill, FL - October 2017 – iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, a brand by Metra Electronics, expands its consumer solutions at the 2017 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 31 - November 3. A wide range of front, rear and side view cameras, with many different backup camera options will be showcased on working displays. New consumer vehicle solutions also include video screens, replacement mirror monitors and kits. All of iBeam’s new products will be at Metra’s main booth #11639 in the North Hall. Products specifically for the off-road, powersports and truck accessories market will be on display at booth #35227 in the South Hall. A three year warranty is included with all iBeam products.

Front, Rear and Side View Cameras

iBeam’s massive product line expansion includes 24 new waterproof cameras for consumer applications, including backup cameras with options for active parking lines, LED night vision, or both. Additional options include surface mount, hole mount or behind the license plate cameras, with fixed angle or adjustable designs, wide viewing angles and defeatable parking assist lines. Backup cameras without night vision LEDs are also available in flush, plate or surface mount options.

Video Screens

New color LCD video displays are available in 3.5 inch, 4.3 inch, 5 inch and 7 inch models. The 7 inch screen (TE-7VS) has a dashboard mount base and includes a rear-view camera and secondary input. The 5 inch screen (TE-50VS) and 4.3 inch screen (TE-43VS) are dashboard or windshield mount displays for a rear-view camera and secondary input. The 3.5 screen (TE-35MV) has a single input for the rear-view camera, and it’s multi-view function allows the image to be rotated to match the dashboard or windshield mounting orientation.

Replacement Mirror Monitors with Integrated Color LCD Screen

 A variety of universal replacement mirror monitors offer solutions for any preference or budget, with an integrated color LCD screen. A replacement mirror monitor (TE-RM45) displays a 4.5 inch feed for up to two camera inputs and includes the most widely used windshield mounts. Optional, vehicle-specific mounts are available. This mirror monitor is also available with Bluetooth® 4.1 (TE-BTM45) to integrate for hands free calling, voice dialing and displaying the incoming phone number. This model also streams audio for navigation prompts. The replacement mirror monitor also includes an option for temperature and compass display (TE-CTM45), to show the vehicle’s direction and interior and outside temperatures integrated into the top right mirror monitor.

A cost effective clip-on mirror monitor solution (TE-CM43) clips over an existing mirror and displays a 4.3 inch feed of the rear-view camera when the vehicle is in reverse. It allows for easy, universal installation.

Each of the four mirror monitor models can be purchased as a kit, with iBeam’s butterfly mount camera, flush mount camera, license plate mount camera or heavy duty night vision and microphone camera. See all of the new iBeam products in the 2018 Catalog, which will be released on 10/31/17 at iBeamUSA.com.

Coral Springs, FL (10.27.2017) – NAV-TV Corp., a leading innovator and manufacturer of OEM integration and safety products for the automotive aftermarket, has announced the appointment of Paragon Sales & Marketing as Factory Reps for the territory of Southern California and Hawaii.

“We are very excited to have Paragon Sales & Marketing representing the NAV-TV brand. Their firm came highly recommended from dealers within the territory due to their professionalism, uncompromising support and technical aptitude. We are confident that Wayne and his team will provide excellent service and value to our customers,” stated NAV-TV Vice President, Derek Schmiedl.

“NAV-TV is a good fit for Paragon Sales & Marketing and compliments the premium brands we represent. As “hands-on field reps” we see first-hand the challenges our dealers are faced with when dealing with complex modern vehicle electronics. We are excited to be working with NAV-TV in order to provide the best integration solutions possible that allow our clients to succeed,” stated Paragon Sales & Marketing Rep Principal, Wayne Smedile.

Paragon Sales & Marketing will begin representing NAV-TV in Southern California and Hawaii on November 1, 2017. For more information, or to contact Paragon Sales & Marketing, please email them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® is gearing up for the Midwestspl Finals, held this year at the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia October 28-29. KICKER is a proud sponsor of the 10th annual event, featuring the loudest vehicles in car audio.

KICKER is sending a vehicle-support staff to the event to back JY Power, the lithium-battery manufacturer that continues to impress show-goers with “The Cube” – a 60,000-watt SPL vehicle sporting 40 KICKER elite Q-Class, 15-inch L7® square subwoofers, and more than 160 KICKER coaxial speakers. 

Despite being operational for barely one month, the converted delivery truck has already broken 166 decibels with both doors open, and has appeared on the HBO newsmagazine program VICE.

This year’s Midwestspl Finals features a celebrity appearance by Derek Travis of the Discovery Channel TV show Street Outlaws. Driver of “The Silver Unit” Camaro, Travis will be at the Finals meeting fans and signing autographs.

MWSPL Director and founder Steve Benton describes the Finals as a way to “give back and thank you to the competitors,” waiving the fee for the first class each competitor enters. Each competitor also receives an after-party ticket and free t-shirt commemorating the event.

Fans and competitors can visit www.midwestspl.com/finals online for additional details.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

Now Live, Rockfordfosgate.com Has Been Built from the Ground Up & Includes New Features Designed with the User Experience of All Its Customers in Mind

(EMBARGOED) TEMPE, Ariz. – Oct. 30, 2017 – A company known for producing extreme audio systems for autos, motorcycles, boats, and off-road vehicles needs to have a modern, dynamic website that is personalized to each user. Rockford Fosgate has announced the launch of its new, built-from-the-ground-up website. Rockfordfosgate.com has been designed with the user experience of all its customers in mind. Two-wheel, four-wheel, and marine enthusiasts can now select the audio gear that’s best for their vehicle and musical taste, and then choose whether to make the purchase or find a local authorized dealer. 

“Rockfordfosgate.com is not just useful and incredibly user-friendly, it’s an educational tool, and this new site is designed to deliver a completely modern consumer shopping experience,” said Theresa Anthony, Rockford Fosgate Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “We didn’t want to simply update the existing site, but the goal instead was to tear it down and then create a better all-around environment for on-line shoppers while maintaining all of the technical tools and resources for our dealer partners.”

Easy browsing starts with choosing your vehicle category: MOBILE, MARINE, MOTORCYCLE, AND MOTORSPORT. Simply click wherever you need sound. The audio experts at Rockford have curated recommended systems that are catered to vehicle type to upgrade performance, whether the customer wants more volume, to add bass, or everything a Rockford Fosgate stereo upgrade can give them.

For assistance, users have options tailored to their individual needs including toll free calling, answers via e-mail, or live web chat with one of Rockford Fosgate’s service members. Additional quick view and shopping cart features have also been added to streamline the browsing and buying processes.

Anthony explained that the new site gives on-line shoppers a much easier, faster, and more informative platform to make their purchase. “Because our shopping cart is powered by KIBO, Rockford Fosgate dealers have the opportunity to benefit by fulfilling those on-line orders,” she said.

New features of rockfordfosgate.com include:

• Recommended systems – audio upgrades recommended by Rockford techs that are specific to vehicle type (sedan, coupe, truck, wake boat, yacht, etc). They are a quick way to know what performs best in your vehicle and which products work well together.
• Speaker size look up – enter your vehicle make, model, year, and trim level to see what speakers fit your install.
• Live on-line chat – chat with our technical support team (Monday – Friday; 8am – 5pm MST)
• Video page on the site – quickly view all of Rockford’s installation, product technology, and event videos…no need to go to YouTube to access them.

Anthony concluded, “The new website also showcases what our social community is saying, from Fanatic photos and videos to raving product reviews. We don’t say we’re the best in the business…our customers do.”

For more information and to test drive the new website, please visit www.rockfordfosgate.com.

Available in Flood or Spot Beams, with Additional Options for Marine Cube Lights and Green LED Hunting Lights

Holly Hill, FL - October 2017 – New high output cube lights from Heise LED Lighting Systems®, a brand by Metra Electronics, will debut at the 2017 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 31 - November 3. Options will be available for flood or spot beam cube lights in different sizes and housing colors, and a two-pack option that includes a dual light wiring harness. Green hunting cube lights, undetectable by most hogs and wildlife, will also be showcased.

The new, three inch, high output cube lights are available with four or six OSRAM LEDs with three watts each, for a total of twelve or eighteen watts. These lights are brighter than ever, with 960 raw lumens in the four LED cube light models and 1,440 raw lumens in the six LED cube light models. The end caps are interchangeable for custom color accents and the durable die-cast aluminum housing is dark gray. Heise LED Lighting Systems® is known for durable, torture tested lights with a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lens. These waterproof, high output cube lights use this same sturdy construction and are IP68 rated, with integrated-epoxy encapsulated electronics and stainless 316 hardware. A four LED (HE-MHCL2) or six LED (HE-MHCL3) option with a 90 degree flood beam and white housing is available for marine use.

For hunting, green LED cube light options are available in a 90 degree flood beam (HE-HCL2G) or 8 degree spot beam (HE-HCL2SG). The green LED wavelength is 513 to 534 nm, and is undetectable by most hogs and wildlife. This makes the lights ideal for hunting vehicles, ATVs and side-by-sides.

All of Heise’s new products will be at Metra’s main booth #11639 in the North Hall. Heise’s off-road, powersports and truck accessories will be on display at booth #35227 in the South Hall. Marine grade lighting products will also be showcased the same week at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, at booth #4191 inside the Sailfish Pavilion at the Broward County Convention Center.  Visit HeiseLED.com to download the latest Heise catalog, which will be released on 10/31/17.

RESEDA, Ca. (October 25, 2017) – Crux Interfacing Solutions announced today that it is releasing two new Bluetooth kits for 2006-2013 GM Vehicles. The new BTS-GM1X is available now and the BTS-GM1R will be shipping soon. Both kits will be on display at SEMA in the North Hall at the CRUX Booth #11726

Rich DeSclafani from Crux stated “We are excited to be releasing 2 great new Bluetooth kits for GM vehicles. In the GM1X we a have focused and simple high quality A2DP streaming interface that offers a quick and easy installation. With the GM1R you have a full feature hands free kit that provides high quality A2DP streaming and handsfree phone operation both features controlled by the steering wheel controls.” 

PRODUCT LINK  BTS-GM1X

• A2DP Streaming through all vehicle speakers
• Maintains the use of the factory XM radio
• Pauses BT audio streaming when a call is received then goes back to BT audio streaming when you hang up
• Quick and easy installation at the XM tuner location. No need to remove the radio
• Hear Navigation App voice prompts from the factory speakers

      COMPATIBILITY:

  GM-LAN 29 BIT

10-25-2017, Mobile Electronics -- Growth is interpreted differently by business owners the world over, and that’s because it’s different for everyone. While one business may wish to expand, another might want to stay small. Over the years, each business picks up various strategies that work well for them.

Mobile Toys, Inc. in College Station, Texas expanded in unanticipated ways, increasing space, diversifying product and adding staff. “Three years ago, we opened up our own upholstery shop,” said Chris Pate of Mobile Toys. “We brought in our own stitcher and sewing machines. We expanded our offerings to dealerships for aftermarket leather kits and are able to do more custom interiors and repairs,” he added, noting that this was an entire segment of their business that they were unable to do before. At their second location in Bryan, Texas, the company has a 600 square foot space dedicated to special upholstery.

“From there we got into doing hot rod interiors, which went hand-in-hand with our work,” Pate added. “Since then, we started to do truck accessories. We can do everything you want on a vehicle. We just don’t do paint and body.”

While Mobile Toys expanded, Tunes-N-Tint of Lakeland, Fla. has consolidated its business to increase effectiveness in certain areas. Meanwhile, Sound Wave Customs in Virginia Beach, Va. has expanded in terms of staff, going from a skeleton crew of three or four team members to a staff of eight, including owner Ethan Blau.

Each business has come across its own set of challenges, but each continues to grow thanks to the implementation of strong business strategies.

Tight Rope

Finding good employees is one challenge stores in the 12-volt industry are continually struggling with. Pate stated that the most challenging part of expanding Mobile Toys, Inc. was finding qualified people who could do the work.

“Getting into lifts, rims and tires and truck accessories, you’re not just putting a radio on a truck,” Pate said. “You’re doing lifts, rims and tires. You could hurt someone or kill someone. You have to be thorough and find people who can do it right. That’s one of the biggest tasks we have. We have more insurance because of it. It’s not easy finding qualified employees who do the job right.”

Mobile Toys provides a wide range of services including truck accessories, wheels and rims, tires and lift kits on trucks, LED lighting, custom headlights as well as installations of light bars and more. To do all this, the team needs to be diverse and well-trained. Mobile Toys now has 10 employees.

Discovering a need for additional team members is something that happens over time, according to Blau of Sound Wave Customs. “I’ll use my kids as an example,” Blau said. “One minute they are born, they’re an infant, and the next thing you know they are five or six years old. You can relate to that in business. The more your name gets out there, the busier you get. We have to handle that workload. We have a big building, 6,300 feet. It takes that many employees to do stuff.”

At one point, Tunes-N-Tint had two locations, but owner Joe Cassity chose to focus on only one store to keep from being stretched too thin. “We've consolidated our Lakeland stores down to one, but expanded our offerings,” he said. “This has allowed us to increase revenue while decreasing overhead. By keeping our staff members cross-trained it allows us to control costs, mitigate time off issues and deal with what can sometimes be a roller coaster business.” Cassity also noted that managing all the social media and digital platforms can also be challenging.

Another challenge can be encouraging customers to return to the store. Blau stated the number one goal at Sound Wave Customs is ensuring a positive customer experience. “I get great reviews, from Google to Yelp, to Better Business Bureau, Facebook—it just grows. The store grows, we bring in a new line or change the showroom,” Blau said. “I’ve revamped the layout of the store twice in four years. Even returning customers are like, ‘Wow, you’re always doing something new!’” Keeping things fresh is also strategic in that it helps encourage growth and expansion in the long run.

Scheduling is also a challenge, according to Pate, who stated that it can be difficult to schedule jobs and to ensure that staff members aren’t already scheduled for something else. “The margins on rims and tires and lifts and truck accessories are far less than car audio,” Pate added. “That can be a challenge, too, especially because of the Internet.”

Read the rest of the story HERE.

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® announces a booth filled with world-class custom vehicles and a non-stop schedule of celebrity appearances at the 2017 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. KICKER will be located in the Las Vegas Convention Center’s North Hall, booth #11861.

Featured in the KICKER booth this year is a handcrafted 1957 Ford Fairlane created by Kindig-It Design. The stars of Velocity Network’s Bitchin’ Rides, Dave Kindig and his team made this ground-up restoration, which has qualified as a candidate for the 2017 GoodGuys Custom Rod-of-the-Year.

In addition to the Kindig Fairlane, award-winning shop SIC CHOPS built a 1951 VW Beetle to be featured in the KICKER booth. The Beetle has a full, elite KICKER Q-Class audio system with five channels of active control, including the L7QB8 aluminum subwoofer enclosure and full Bluetooth® control.

KICKER has packed the booth with celebrity signings this year. Starting Tuesday from 1-2:30 p.m., fans can meet James Torrez, star of NFL Network’s Tackle My Ride and owner of Demented Customs in Hobbs, N.M. After that, Dave Kindig and KevDog from Kindig-It Design and Bitchin’ Rides meet their fans from 3-4 p.m.

On Wednesday, the stars of Discovery Channel’s Street Outlaws will be at the KICKER booth. These renowned drivers and fabricators will meet their fans, take pictures and sign autographs from 10-11:30 a.m., beginning with Farmtruck and AZN.  From 1-3 p.m., Chuck “Death Trap” Seitsinger, “Daddy Dave” Comstock and Tina Pierce meet and greet from 1-3 p.m. 

Then Thursday from 10-11:30 a.m., Mod Kids USA racers Mason Prater and Mia Chapman stop by the KICKER booth to meet Modified-Kart racing fans.  Finally, Street Outlaws stars Justin “Big Chief” Shearer, Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington, Jeff Lutz and Shane “Blackbird Vega” McAlary will be signing autographs from 1-3 p.m.

Powersports partner SSV Works™ will unveil a custom Polaris® GENERAL™ in the booth, with a massive audio system exceeding 3000 watts of power. The side-by-side’s system includes KICKER marine and powersports speakers and amplifiers, four L7QB8 subwoofer enclosures and four slim CompRT® 10-inch subwoofers. A closer inspection also reveals an SSV Works under-dash subwoofer enclosure, custom kick-panel pods with KICKER all-weather 6.5-inch speakers, an SSV Works cage mount with KICKER speakers, and a direct-fit dash kit with SSV Works MRB3 Bluetooth controller.

The KICKER VSS™ (Vehicle-Specific Solutions) Chevy® Tahoe will also be in the booth as the focus of audio demonstrations using vehicle-specific gear. The amplifier from the VSS PowerStage™ upgrade is designed to integrate seamlessly with the factory radio and speaker system, increasing power by 50 watts per channel.  The amp’s digital signal processor and 200-watt powered subwoofer are acoustically optimized for the Tahoe’s cabin space.

Several elite builders throughout the show have chosen KICKER audio gear in their SEMA projects. Elite builders like the Ring Brothers, Kindig-It Designs, Classic Car Studio and RMD Garage are among more than 80 world-class vehicles that feature KICKER audio gear in their builds this year.  Full event details are available on the SEMA Show web page at www.semashow.com.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

10-25-2017 -- Wet Sounds Inc. will be exhibiting a new line of products at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas Oct. 31-Nov 3. Highlighting this year’s show will be the release of the MC -1 Marine Media Center System. The MC-1 has 4 Zones of Independently controlled audio output with 4V Signal RCA Outputs and built in power. Other features include Bluetooth streaming, Auxiliary input, USB input, along with AM/FM/Weather Band tuner with RDS. The MC-1 also has full Pandora and Spotify control. The WS-MC1 comes with the main display (MC-MD), black box (MC-BB) and 8 ft extension cable to connect the MC-BB and MC-MD, along with wiring harness and mounting hardware.  

Wet Sounds Inc. will also feature the fully restored “Nightmare" 1950 Cadillac, a copper/black matte classic build that will be a show stopper along with a 1967 Lincoln Continental Convertible. Both vehicles will feature the latest in Wet Sounds High-Performance Marine Audio products. In tow will be two matching tow boats featuring a  Tige RZX2 and Malibu 23LSV both fully loaded with the ultimate Wet Sounds Marine Audio systems.

Wet Sounds is teaming up with Discovery Channel’s Diesel Brothers as HeavyD and Diesel Dave will be signing autographs and taking photos in the Wet Sounds’ booth Thursday November 2nd at 3pm.

Located in booth #11677 Wet Sounds Inc. is eager to show off and be loud and clear as the leader in high-performance audio.  Wet Sounds personnel will be on site and ready to offer personal demonstrations of all our products.

For more information on Wet Sounds Inc. visit www.WETSOUNDS.com or call 877-938-7757.

Douglasville, Georgia – October 18th, 2017 – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. is now shipping a new line of vehicle specific plug-in harnesses that add ANY Excalibur 70 series remote start with an OmegaLink bypass module. This initial launch will cover the majority of domestic vehicle applications. They are also released a new v1.3 firmware for their Excalibur remote start line.

The new line of OmegaLink plug-in harnesses are compatible with all Excalibur 70 series remote start systems combined with an OL-BLADE-AL64 or OL-MDB-ALL interface module. Installers can now take advantage of the timesaving features of plug-in systems without sacrificing features. For example, the AL-1870-3DB 2-way remote start/alarm can be installed in 2011-17 Dodge Caravans in under 30 minutes with only 1 hardwire connection to the vehicle for flashing lights. Just connect siren and shock sensor to complete the system. In record time, the vehicle would be equipped with full keyless entry, sliding door control, rear hatch control, remote start, low and high temp auto start, low volt auto start, run timer with on demand run-time extender, low vehicle battery alert, full security, long range remote, and every other feature a 70 series has to offer.

Omega also released a new v1.3 firmware for all Excalibur 70 series remote start systems. It brings a bundle of enhancements and feature upgrades for the 2017 remote start season. We’ve added latched output settings for Aux channels and upgraded our low temp auto-start to have three selectable temperature thresholds. While we were at it, we added high temp auto-start capability, also with three selectable thresholds, for any vehicles carrying sensitive cargo. Aux channel activation and multicar selection can now be performed with one hand on all 2-way controllers making access easier while carrying things to your car. We’ve also added a new “lock without arming” feature for on-demand keyless entry only. This is ideal for recreational vehicles or any situation where lock control is desired while the vehicle is occupied. One of many features designed to help dealers expand their application coverage to new market segments beyond passenger vehicles.

Last, but not least, all 70 series 2-way controllers have significantly increased battery life with new intelligent power management technology. Excalibur v1.3 firmware can be downloaded and installed on any earlier version 70-Series Excalibur unit using our xOS technology at www.omegaweblink.com. Since all Excalibur Remote Start units are flashable, you can always keep your inventory up to date, and eliminate obsolescence.

For information on becoming an Omega Dealer in the US, email us at /Users/Mike/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/HAYBZWL5/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..

CAMARILLO, CALIF., October 25, 2017 (MEDIAWIRE) – Orca Design and Manufacturing, exclusive U.S. distributor for Focal car audio products, announced it has begun shipping a new amplifier aimed at the motorcycle enthusiast market. The FDP Sport combines large-scale power, system flexibility and a small chassis size to meet the needs of riders who value high-performance audio on their motorcycles.

“There is a ton of technology in the FDP Sport,” said Nalaka Adikari, sales director for Orca. “We designed it here at our headquarters in Camarillo, and worked closely with Focal to ensure that it wouldn’t just be another small-footprint amplifier with overstated power. When we say it will do up to 1,000 watts, we mean RMS, not peak.”

Designed for motorcycles and applications where space is at a premium, the FDP Sport measures just over five inches by eight inches with a height of just over 1 1/2 inches. Its hard-anodized casing provides a stylish look for custom installation while resisting scratches. Beneath the casing, conformal-coated circuitry protects against the elements, and a Class D amplifier manages four high- or low-level inputs, and distributes power through two, three or four channels.

Power output is the most significant feature of the FDP Sport. In four-channel configuration, it outputs 175 watts RMS per channel at four ohms, and increases to 250 watts RMS with a two-ohm load per channel. Bridging two channels provides 500 watts RMS at four ohms. Audio quality is controlled with a set of flexible high-pass and low-pass crossovers, with each pair of channels having its own crossover and level setting.

The FDP Sport includes plug-and-play harnesses to easily integrate into most Harley-Davidson audio systems. In addition, its included power and ground cables require no extensions to reach the battery, and two sets of mounting feet allow for different placement configurations.

MSRP for the FDP Sport is $960.00, and it is now available at authorized Focal retailers. For more information, visit focal-america.com.

October 24th, 2017 -- Houston, TX -- DriveAssist Technologies, supplier of safety and convenience products for the automotive aftermarket, will be debuting its initial lineup at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, October 31 - November 3. The company will be located in booth #11633 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center along with its parent company, Cybcar America.

Lift-EZ Power Liftgate System
"ADAS" Advanced Driver Assistance Systems is the fastest growing category in the Automotive Aftermarket industry. DriveAssist's parent company Cybcar America brings 10 plus years of history supplying leading edge products that seamlessly integrate into the vehicles design said Bob Goodman, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. DriveAssist has been working diligently to insure our portfolio of products are not only easily integrated but offer category leading performance and reliability to our customers and end users alike".

IQ Mirror with iGO Primo™ Mapping
"Available, beginning in November, are the following categories of products for a wide variety of vehicles. Lift-EZ (Power Liftgate systems) IQ Mirror (8" LCD Smart Mirror) SideSpotter (OE and Universal Blind Spot systems) StealthVue (Vehicle Specific DVRs), RearVue (Universal Camera and Monitor solutions) NAV+ (Plug & Play Navigation systems, Connected Car Head Units) and coming in January 2018 a Universal Full Screen Rear View Mirror Monitor with DVR", added Goodman.

Honda Civic Connected Car Head Unit
"DriveAssist presents a unique opportunity for 12 Volt Specialty Retailers and Expeditors alike. The nature of the products, many are vehicle specific, dictates a specialized reseller channel for DriveAssist and we will not be selling to online retailers and only a few markets will be served by a Distributor. To accommodate our resale partners we will offer an aggressive Freight Policy including many items shipping at no charge and others available with deeply discounted "Expedited Shipping". This enables us to service direct accounts quickly and with little or no additional cost. This along with our Lifetime Warranty makes DriveAssist a true value proposition". Manufacturers Representatives have been retained for most markets and we have began discussions with high profile 12 volt specialists and expeditors in the United States and Canada", says Goodman.

Las Vegas, NV, October 20, 2017 – Audiomobile will be participating in the Car Audio Retailer Specialty (‘CARS’) 2017 Expo,in Studio 1, at the new “W Las Vegas”. The Expo is designed to facilitate bringing like-minded audio brands together with upscale, specialty 12-volt retailers who are seeking brands that are focused on delivering relevant, high-performance, products and solutions and protection from margin-erosion, that so many retailers now are having to cope with. The Expo will run Tuesday, October 31 – Thursday Nov 2nd from Noon till 8 pm each evening. Invitation info and details can be found at www.Facebook.com/Audiomobileusa.

Audiomobile will be joined at the Expo by Tru Technology, the highly regarded boutique US amplifier manufacturer, as well as Eton, the famous German loudspeaker company, best known for having produced some of the finest car audio component systems ever, including the original Diamond ‘Hex Series’ as well as building for other upscale US brands. 

Matthew Overpeck, VP of Sales and Marketing, commented; "We opted to move this year to the beautiful, new W Las Vegas, to be in closer proximity to the LVCC, which is just one-stop away from the Westgate Hotel (via the Las Vegas Monorail, at the SLS Station). This venue also offers Retailers a far more intimate and relaxed alternative experience to the hustle and stress of the Convention Center atmosphere and provides a relaxed setting and comfortable environment to learn and discuss more profitable business opportunities.

Audiomobile will debut the new Elite 7 and Neo motor Stealth 8 (just 1.3-inch deep) world-class midbass drivers, as well as debut their new “SoloPass” line of custom, low-profile, vehicle specific enclosures, which have been specifically engineered to work with their formidable subwoofers, as well as tuned to work with their “MCAR” (Modular Coupled Acoustic Radiator) technology drivers. Overpeck added; “This is fully consistent with our solutions-based, high-performance products and the company’s philosophy to offer retailers a more personalized, business-focused interface experience, where upscale retailers can learn and develop insights that deliver significantly greater, long-term strategic benefits for them and their business.”

Retailers who are interested in learning more about this opportunity are welcome to call Audiomobile at (702) 221 - 1977, or to contact the company at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,
to schedule a meeting during the show.

10-23-2017 -- Car Audio Competition organizations dBDRA (dB Drag Racing Association), MECA (Mobile Electronics Competition Association) and IASCA (International Autosound Challenge Association) once again joined forces to produce a unified finals event at the Kentucky Exposition Center, October 14-15, 2017.

The event overall was once again a great success, with SQ and SPL competitors from across the country. IASCA saw yet another increase in competitor attendance, achieving some of the highest competitor attendance numbers since becoming part of the Unified Car Audio Championship effort in 2012.

“Every year, IASCA’s competitor attendance continues to grow” said Moe Sabourin, Director of Operations for IASCA Worldwide “We’re already planning for a larger space for 2018, along with MECA and Db Drag once again. Running out of space is a good problem to have and we’re looking forward to making it even better for all competitors next year.”

To view the results of the IASCA North American Championships (INAC) at the Unified Car Audio Championship, go to http://events.iasca.com/US_/00000577.html 

For more questions or information regarding the event, please contact Moe Sabourin, Director of Operations: Tel 386-322-1551, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

10-23-2017, Atlanta, GA – Concluding a fantastic season at this year's incredibly well-attended Car Audio Championship in Louisville, KY, Hybrid Audio Technologies and Audiotec Fischer (Brax, Helix, and Match brands) wishes to extend its gratitude and congratulations to the Hybrid Audio Technologies and Audiotec Fischer-equipped vehicles that earned more than 30 Top-Three placements in IASCA and MECA.

MECA had its best attended SQ Finals in their history, and the competition was fierce. Among the achievements of Hybrid Audio Technologies and Audiotec-Fischer-equipped vehicles, was Marsha Beeler with a Championship in MECA’s Stock class, using Hybrid Audio Unity and Legatia speakers in the factory door and dash locations, respectively. John Mileham, traveling from California, earned Runner-Up in MECA’s Extreme class, using Legatia SE front stage and Clarus subwoofers. Tim Smith and Robert Corwin, using Brax amplifiers and Helix DSP Pro MK2 processor, took a 1-2 sweep in MECA’s Modified class and Robert Corwin also earned the MECA SQL Best of Show and IASCA 1-Seat Triple Crown.

In IASCA’s highly contested Pro Division, Rick Nichols with a new install featuring Unity amplifiers, Clarus Subwoofers, Legatia SE front stage, and Helix DSP PRO MK2, won Runner-Up. Larry Ng, traveling from California, earned Runner-Up in IASCA’s Pro/Am Division and Cornell Moody earned a Championship in the Amateur Division using a Legatia SE front stage. In IASCA IQC, three Championships were earned by Larry Woolacott in Expert, Robert Corwin (Install by Audio Specialists), Anthony Davis, and Larry Chijner, with a 1-2-3 sweep in Pro Custom. And finally, Bramouse Muhammad from Wisconsin and Steve McIntyre, who traveled from Washington State, with a 1-2 sweep in the Street Stock division.

Team Hybrids’ captain, Scott Welch traveled from California to support the team throughout the weekend, as did Scott Buwalda, founder of Hybrid Audio Technologies. “Since inception in 2005, Hybrid Audio Technologies-equipped cars have continued to dominate in organized competition. Combined with the efforts of our Brax and Helix competitors,” said Scott Buwalda “there was a veritable sea of maroon jerseys bearing the Hybrid Audio Technologies logo at the awards ceremony. Among all of the other accolades and achievements, I am elated by a few notable competitors using our Unity speakers and amplifiers. This finals represents the first event where fully-equipped Hybrid Audio Technologies cars were competed, from front stage speakers, subwoofers, to amplifiers, and said vehicles achieved a great deal of success.”

For more information about Hybrid Audio Technologies visit hybrid-audio.com and Audiotec Fischer at audiotec-fischer.us.

Memphis Audio is heading to Las Vegas for SEMA 2017

10-23-2017 -- Memphis Audio has will be making its SEMA debut in booth # 11664 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. With over 50 years in the mobile audio business, this will mark the first appearance by Memphis on the show floor at the SEMA show.

“We’ve always been proud sponsors of multiple vehicles at the SEMA show. With all the excitement around our complete line of powersports solutions and our Memphis Xtreme Audio UTV Roof line (MXA Tops) we couldn’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase our audio solutions to the audience at SEMA,” said Nick LoMonaco VP of Memphis Audio.

Memphis will be displaying its MXA Top line of side-by-side specific audio solutions. The tops are hand-built in the USA out of lightweight aircraft grade aluminum and featuring marine grade Memphis Xtreme Audio speakers, amplifiers and Bluetooth solutions. Each top comes equipped with front and rear light bars and are digitally cut to vehicle specific dimensions to bolt directly to the factory roll cages of most major brands of side-by-sides. In addition to the MXA Tops, Memphis will showcase their full line of compression horn speakers, soundbars, LED lighting and bolt on powersports speaker accessories. 

Memphis is welcoming all dealers at the show to stop by the booth for show discounts, specials and Memphis swag.

For more information, visit www.memphiscaraudio.com or call at: 800-489-2300.

Class-leading Power-Handling in Low-profile Subwoofers

Las Vegas, NV – (October 22, 2017) – Audiomobile has begun initial shipments of its newest car audio subwoofers – the “GT2” Series. Based on proven DNA of the GTS “21” series subwoofers, the GT2 series (or “2K” series) subwoofers utilize an array of performance technologies, including use of the company's proprietary, 6-spoke, low-profile, frames, with integral radial venting, as well fully machined motor, featuring multi-layer SVC design, resulting high-excursion, with superb power-handling – 400 watts RMS (800 watts ‘musicpower’).

Designed for use in both small sealed or reflex enclosures, as well as with the M-CAR (Modular Coupled Acoustic Radiators), pre-tuned radiators, the GT2 series subwoofers build upon the documented performance of the stellar ‘GTS’ series, in providing high-excursion, in micro enclosure applications. Key Features include:

• Proprietary, low-profile, powder-coated, 6-spoke radially-vented frame
• Attractive, Monochromatic black motor, basket and suspension parts.
• Full-size motor, features no rear-axial motor-vent, reducing enclosure depth
• Premium “CLS” Kevlar reinforced, composite laminated sandwich cone
• Shallow mounting depth of 4.25” for GT2 2010 and 5.1” for GT2 2012

The GT2 series have Klippel verified 11.9 mm of one-way linear Xmax, making it one of the longest excursion, low-profile subwoofers available. This rare combination of long- Xmax, with modest depth, while performing optimally in enclosures as small as .40 cubic foot, represents a remarkably formidable performance envelope.

In addition, the high-performance suspension features a 25 mm premium SBR rubber surround, 8” flat-spyder, with ‘in-line’ lead wires, to allow over 2-inches of peak to peak excursion provided by the unique motor. This powerful, compact motor, featuring large diameter 145 mm 20 cm magnet and a precision, CNC-machined motor. The MSRP on GT2 series is $229.99 and $249.99 respectively. The GT2 2010 is now shipping, while and the GT2 2012 is scheduled to ship in early Spring.

Retailers who are interested in learning more are invited to contact Audiomobile at (702) 221-1977, or checkout the latest on Facebook.com/Audiomobileusa.
Contact:
Matthew Overpeck; VP of Sales and Marketing
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(702) 221 - 1977

Holly Hill, FL - October 2017 – Metra Electronics is expanding the product line of its new brand, Metra PowerSports, by adding can speakers and micro-amplifiers, which will debut at the 2017 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 31 - November 3.

Metra is launching more than a hundred new products at the show, but these speakers and amplifiers represent an all new category for the manufacturer. SEMA attendees can see these new products at Metra’s main booth #11639 in the North Hall or at booth #35227 in the South Hall, which will feature off-road, powersports and truck accessories. These products will also be showcased the same week at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, at booth #4191 inside the Sailfish Pavilion at the Broward County Convention Center.

Waterproof 6.5” Can Speakers with RGB Lights

The new Metra PowerSports 6.5” Can Speakers with RGB Lights are designed for whatever the marine or off-road customer can throw at it. The UV protected, high temperature ABS provides a durable housing by employing a dual wall design. The waterproof speakers are IPX6 rated to handle water, dust and all the elements, while still delivering great sound performance. They are constructed from polypropylene and the tweeters are PEI (Polyetherimide). A passive 3” radiator offers a more robust sound by making these speakers more bass responsive. The impedance is 4 ohms with a 6dB passive crossover, frequency response from 60Hz to 20 KHz and a sound pressure level of 90dB. As an added feature, the speakers include RGB lighting that can be connected to Heise and Metra PowerSports RGB Controllers (MPS-RGBC-4). The speakers offer four mounting size options for extra versatility, and can be rotated for optimal sound positioning. The speakers, part number MPS-65CSRGB, are sold as a pair with a one year warranty, under the Metra PowerSports brand.

Micro-Amplifiers for Powersports Applications

Metra PowerSports is also introducing two new micro-amplifiers that are designed for harsh environments. With an IPX6 rating, these compact amplifiers are designed to get wet and not miss a beat. There are two models; a 4-channel (MPS-AMP60X4) that outputs 60 watts per channel and a 2-channel (MPS-AMP100X2) that outputs 100 watts per channel. Both amplifiers are bridgeable to provide more flexibility and designed to fit into smaller applications.  The gain frequency is from .2 volts to 5 volts with a frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 KHz. The chipset technology is full range class D using IR control chips.

The input side of the amplifiers has an 8’ cable with an IP68 connector that is designed to plug directly into the Metra PowerSports Bluetooth Controller (MPS-BTK sold separately). For use without the MPS-BTK, the amplifiers come with a pigtail that allows the user to connect any radio or Bluetooth controller with an RCA output. The power cables are 8’ long with a waterproof fuse holder to reach any battery location, whether it be in a side-by-side, ATV, UTV, boat or motorcycle.

Power Output:

RMS Power Output (MPS-AMP60X4):

60 Watts RMS x 4 Channels @ 4 ohms

90 Watts RMS x 4 Channels @ 2 ohms

180 Watts RMS x 2 Channels @ 4 ohms

RMS Power Output (MPS-AMP100X2):

100 watts RMS x 2 channels @ 4 ohms

150 watts RMS x 2 channels @ 2 ohms

300 watts RMS x 1 channel @ 4 ohms

Fusing:

MPS-AMP100X2:

30 Amp (Dual 15 Amp Fuses)

MPS-AMP60X4:

40 Amp (Dual 20 Amp Fuses)

Visit MetraOnline.com/catalogs to download the latest Metra PowerSports catalog, which will be released on 10/31/17.

Arlington, VA, October 23, 2017 – The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) mourns the loss of its dear friend Jim Barry who passed away Friday night at the age of 71. Following a distinguished career in journalism, Barry served as CTA’s Digital Answerman for the past 22 years, showcasing and explaining technology products to consumers via television and radio appearances along with newspaper interviews across the country.

“Jim was a remarkable person who was dedicated to and passionate about our industry. As a tireless media spokesperson, he helped introduce millions of consumers to the latest tech innovations,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “Jim was respected by everyone he worked with including manufacturers, retailers and the media and made many friends along the way. Jim also was a respected journalist who covered our industry in a thoughtful and insightful style. Along the way, he helped mentor many of our staff, educating them and igniting their passion for our industry. The entire CTA family will miss him dearly.”

Barry served as a judge for the Consumer Technology Hall of Fame since the inception of the program in 2000. A strong industry advocate and historian, he contributed his industry expertise as well as his personal relationships to the judging process. Barry also served as an Innovation Entrepreneur Awards (IEA) judge each year since the program began in 2012 and was a frequent contributor to CTA’s publications including i3 and Digital America.

Prior to his roles with CTA, Barry had a long career in journalism including holding positions as editor of Dealerscope Magazine and editor of Video Magazine where he covered many of the industry’s most important product introductions including the VCR, DVD and Digital TV, to name a few. He also started the Contract Publishing Division of Crosby Vandenburg Group in Boston creating and producing custom magazines for ESPN, WGBH, Massachusetts Hospital Association and others.

A proud native son of Ridgefield Park, NJ, he lived in and embraced Boston as his adopted hometown and was an avid supporter of the Boston Red Sox. Barry is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kate Barry and their two daughters, Moira Rose and Fiona.

LiftLab features a dozen installed lifts to facilitate lift inspector training

Cortland, New York (Oct. 17, 2017) – The Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) officially opened its new headquarters and LiftLab in Cortland, New York, on Oct. 12, with a grand opening celebration attended by ALI members, lift inspectors, suppliers and other guests from the vehicle lift and workplace safety industries. Growth of ALI lift safety initiatives like the ALI Lift Inspector Certification Program drove the need for a larger multipurpose facility.

The new 8,500-square-foot headquarters at 3699 Luker Road is more than four times larger than the organization’s previous Cortland office. It includes 3,475 square feet of renovated office and conference space, as well as a modern classroom that complies with nationally recognized examination requirements for up to 20 participants. What really differentiates the facility is its new LiftLab. ALI member manufacturers have provided and installed 12 vehicle lifts in the expansive LiftLab area. 

They range from the smallest motorcycle lift to the most common two-post style, all the way up to heavy-duty inground and mobile column lifts. This is the only facility in North America that brings together such a wide range of operational lifts from various manufacturers and makes them available for hands-on industry training. 

“Through the generous support of the ALI member companies that produce North America’s certified vehicle lifts, we are able to facilitate opportunities for candidate lift inspectors, product safety engineers and others to come to a single location to examine two-post, multi-post, scissors, inground, mobile column and low-rise lifts,” says R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman, ALI president. “This will enable lift inspector candidates to more expediently meet the requirements of the ALI Lift Inspector Certification Program, which will help address increasing customer demand. At the same time, we can improve the technical skills and knowledge of the experts charged with testing and certifying future vehicle lifts.”

The following lifts are installed in the ALI LiftLab:
• Light-duty two-post surface-mounted lift, 10,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Light-duty low-rise frame-engaging lift, 10,000 lbs. rated capacity.
AUTOMOTIVE LIFT INSTITUTE, INC.
P.O. Box 85 Cortland, NY 13045
Ph: (607) 756-7775 Fax: (607) 756-0888
• Heavy-duty two-post surface-mounted lift, 16,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Set of four wireless heavy-duty wheel-engaging mobile units (mobile column lifts), 54,000 lbs. total rated capacity.
• Heavy-duty inground lift, 60,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Heavy-duty scissors lift, 30,000 lbs. rated capacity, equipped with wheels-free device.
• Heavy-duty two-post surface-mounted lift, 15,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Light-duty scissors lift, 9,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Heavy-duty four-post surface-mounted lift, 14,000 lbs. rated capacity, equipped with wheels-free device.
• Light-duty motorcycle lift, 1,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Light-duty inground lift, 10,000 lbs. rated capacity.
• Set of four wireless heavy-duty wheel-engaging mobile units (mobile column lifts), 74,000 lbs. total rated capacity, along with set of four high-reach supplementary stands.

ALI is dedicated to the safe design, construction, installation, service, inspection and operation of vehicle lifts used in automotive and heavy-duty vehicle repair shops throughout North America. It sponsors several national lift safety standards, including the ANSI/ALI ALCTV Standard for Automotive Lifts – Safety Requirements for Construction Testing and Validation, ANSI/ALI ALIS Standard for Automotive Lifts – Safety Requirements for Installation and Service, and ANSI/ALI ALOIM Standard for Automotive Lifts – Safety Requirements for Operation, Inspection and Maintenance. ALI also offers third-party certification programs for vehicle lifts and lift inspectors.

It was established by nine lift manufacturers in 1945 and had its office in New York City until relocating to Indialantic, Florida, in 1993. ALI moved its headquarters to Cortland in 2005 and has since grown from two employees to eight as the organization has expanded its safety-focused activities. Membership has also grown. There are now 21 member companies and six non-member firms producing ALI certified gold label lifts.
Through its Lift Inspector Certification Program, ALI qualifies, tests and certifies vehicle lift inspectors. There are 465 ALI Certified Lift Inspectors and a total of 842 individuals from around the world currently participating in some stage of the certification process. In 2014, ALI expanded its membership beyond North American-based lift manufacturers to include an associate class. ALI Associate Class membership is open to companies with at least one ALI Certified Lift Inspector on staff. There are currently 268 associate class members.

ALI offers a wide range of vehicle lift safety training materials including printed copies of all the safety standards, the new Lifting It Right online training course, new Automotive Lift Safety Tips Card and Safety Tips Poster, the annual Vehicle Lifting Points guide, and uniform warning labels and placards. 

For more information about ALI, visit www.autolift.org or call (607) 756-7775. You can also connect with ALI on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LiftInstitute, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LiftInstitute, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/LiftInstitute.