8-30-2017 -- Fortin has announced a new Immobilizer bypass solution for Nissan Rogue models. the solution is available for 2014 through 2017 models, supports smart takeover with no time restriction and is standalone remote starter ready. 

The module will manage the remote starter functions. Aftermarket remotes (RF kits) can be installed to control the vehicle. In some cases, stand alone remote starters can also be combined with 3X lock remote starter functions. 

For more information, visit Fortin.ca. 

8-30-2017, Mobile Electronics -- I hope you enjoyed last month’s article looking at the manufacture and design of loudspeakers. I also hope you reviewed the previous article where Andy provided some basics on audio for us. This month we move forward with Andy showing us the basic necessities of tuning. Hold on, though, this ride might be a little shaky. Andy goes after things that I have heard said many times, and things that I have said before. What I suggest is keeping an open mind and be willing to learn from this industry veteran.

Let’s see what Andy is sharing with us this month.

Andy Explains

I’m going to commit heresy right here at the beginning so we can get beyond it as quickly as possible. This is really easy. Understanding why it’s easy isn’t so easy and I’ve provided some of those explanations in a previous article and in countless Facebook and forum posts.
System tuning isn’t really optimizing, it’s troubleshooting. If it was about optimizing, then we’d all be able to provide pretty good performance by just hooking stuff up. Anyone who’s serious about autosound knows this isn’t the case. This isn’t about taking what you have after it’s hooked up and making it a little better in 20 minutes. This is about a realization that once the product is hooked up, the job is only partially completed. Tuning a system isn’t an add-on or an extra service we provide for our favorite customers, just like programming an alarm for a particular car isn’t an option.
I hear the following statement all the time after listening to cars when I visit shops: “Not bad for the twenty minutes I spent,” and it makes me want to drown myself in the bathtub. What if you were demoing a recent security system installation for the guy from the company that makes that system and at the end of the demo in which nothing worked properly and several features weren’t enabled, you said, “Not bad for the five minutes I spent programming it”?
This isn’t about doing a better job. This is about finishing the job.
If you only have 20 minutes to finish a job in which you’ve spent a week making panels, upholstering them, adding lighting and accents, running wires and arranging them for FB photos, you’ve spent two hours shooting, then two things need to change: 1) you need to bill more time to finish the job and 2) you need a more efficient and predictable process for tuning. That’s what this article is about.
Before we go there, I want to talk about a couple of other statements I hear too often. The first is, “sound is subjective”. This is often proffered by people who, in a discussion about audio principles and their application, are suddenly out of their comfort zone and are looking for a quick exit. The idea that some customers prefer more high frequency content or more bass, a well-defined image or more spaciousness at the expense of image definition doesn’t mean there are no rules. A stereo system is, by design, supposed to do specific things and in order for it to work, some stuff just has to be right. Once you get those things right, changing the system performance for your customer’s preference is straightforward.
The second statement is, “I listen to everyone and I use all of those tips and tricks when I tune.” This is dangerous if sound quality, speed and predictability are important. If you’re an enthusiast working on your own car, then experimentation is part of the fun. Experimentation on a customer’s car is just a money pit.
Tips and tricks are tools. Many of them work, but they don’t all work in every situation. Knowing when to deploy them is important. What if you had one of those giant Snap-On tool boxes and all that was inside was a set of screwdrivers? You know how to use screwdrivers so you bought those. You’d have a lot of other drawers to fill. What if a bunch of people from every tool manufacturer and even some DIY guys give you a new tool every time they stop by. Every time someone gives you one and says, “this one is magic, you should try it to see if it works,” you put it in the drawer. Then, when you encounter a situation in which your screwdrivers don’t do the job, you start pulling other “magic” tools you don’t understand  out of the box to try them? Is that a process designed for success? Is success even likely?

Tips and tricks, shortcuts and workarounds are good for experts. You have to know when to use them and what they do or else they’re just a barrel of monkeys likely to make a big mess. The usefulness of tools depends mostly on the user’s understanding of what they’re for and how to use them. If the guy who gives you one can’t explain why it works and when to use it and you don’t know either, then it isn’t a tool. It’s a monkey.

Read the rest of the story HERE.

Another Record-Setting KnowledgeFest® Dallas

Year-Over-Year Growth Continues for Each Event

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – August 30, 2017 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today final figures for its recently completed KnowledgeFest education conference and trade show in Dallas. The event was another record-setter for MEA with year-over-year growth for each event. KnowledgeFest Dallas 2017 had more than 1,300 attendees, 55 exhibitors occupying more than 60,000 square feet of exhibit space, 40 hours of educational workshops and 60 hours of vendor training and finishing with a celebration of our industry’s accomplishments at the annual Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.

To accommodate the event’s growth, KnowledgeFest Dallas moved to a bigger venue, the Dallas Convention Center and Omni Dallas Hotel. Additionally, growth of new product categories such as driver assistance and safety products were well represented and offered installing dealer’s new revenue opportunities. New tech companies are finding the KnowledgeFest show floor and available training time an affordable way to bring their products to market with the mobile electronics specialist. New for this year’s event was the “Accelerate your Business” keynote, business owners’ night school and manufacturer tours and training on the exhibit floor.

“We are demonstrating to our attendees and exhibitors that KnowledgeFest is dedicated to the mobile electronics specialist, the installing dealer. For MEA, it’s a niche market comprised of not only veterans and survivors, but new businesses being created by young entrepreneurs,” remarked Chris Cook, president of MEA. “The educational programming and vendor training unique to KnowledgeFest adds value to the attendees’ and exhibitors’ experiences.”

KnowledgeFest is growing. For 2018, MEA announced a third KnowledgeFest at the Long Beach Convention Center. The west coast and especially southern California has historically been a strong market for mobile electronics; and, many vendors’ US headquarters are in Southern California. Interest from vendors looking to make a strong statement to dealers in this market is high. Advance space selection for Long Beach is strong and MEA anticipates having to expand exhibit space.

For more information on the most recent event in Dallas, go to www.KFest.me to review the education and manufacturer training descriptions, pictures from the event and information about the exhibitors.

MEA brings the KnowledgeFest education conference and trade show experience to three regional locations: Indianapolis in the east, Dallas central, and new-for-2018 Long Beach on the west coast.

2018 KnowledgeFest Dates:

• Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 23-25, 2018
• Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 16-18, 2018
• Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 17-19, 2018

About the Mobile Electronics Association

Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.

Torrance, Calif. - August 29, 2017: Rydeen Mobile Electronics announced the promotion of Ruben Torres and Jordan Shahriary as regional sales managers effective immediately.

Ruben Torres has been with Rydeen for five years and most recently working in the position of inside sales coordinator. Torres has been promoted to the position of Eastern Regional Sales Manager.

Jordan Shahriary has been with Rydeen for nearly two years in the capacity as the National Product Trainer.  In addition to the product training position, Shahriary is assigned as the Western Regional Sales Manager.

Both Torres and Shahriary report directly to Mike Northup, Director of Sales and Marketing for Rydeen Mobile Electronics. “I look forward to working with both Ruben and Jordan in managing our sales representatives and sales with all of our customers throughout North America including Canada” states Northup.

Jordan Shahriary stated in response to the new position, “I am looking forward to the challenge. If I do not take good care of my customers, then my competitors will”.  On a similar note Ruben Torres stated, “I am genuinely excited about working with our sales reps and customers in this new role. My goal is to make the eastern region stronger with Rydeen.”

Both Ruben and Jordan recently completed a successful two-week road trip around the MERA Knowledge Fest in Dallas using the Rydeen van while working with our Rydeen sales representative, Alan Wojtas.

​Dallas, TX (8/14/2017) - Bernie Sapienza joins American Road Products as Managing Partner after the company secures investment capital for growth.

Sapienza will be responsible for channel development and strategic initiatives as a member of the leadership team as the company secures investment capital for its strategic growth of automotive aftermarket safety products, which included its recent acquisition of Pearl RearVision. The RearVision product is a first-of-its-kind innovative backup camera system that is solar powered and uses the driver’s cell phone to display high-quality video. The product also features an advanced object detection alert system to warn a driver when backing up.   

"This is an exciting time for aftermarket vehicle technology driven by the safety category" said Bernie. "American Road Products has made a significant investment to become an industry leading manufacturer and distributor of some of the most innovative automotive products to hit the road".  Mr. Sapienza most recently helped launch Como Audio, a Boston-based start-up. Previously, he spent several years engaged in the nationwide roll-out of HD Radio as Vice President of Business Development following a long stint at Tweeter Home Entertainment as Vice President/General Merchandising Manager. 

American Road Products showcased several new relationships recently at KnowledgeFest in Dallas, Texas. Along with its Pearl RearVision and ReverseGuard manufactured products, it is distributing commercial fleet products such as OmniView360, Reviver digital license plate and Verizon Auto Share digital key technology.

"We are pleased to have Bernie join the team" stated Steve Witt who will now be leading the company's Fleet Solutions initiatives including installation services and maintains a similar role for InstallerNet. InstallerNet has been providing installation services for American Road Products for the past seven years and their relationship recently expanded to include logistics and customer service to support its channel partners and installing dealers. American Road Products will also be responsible for distribution of InstallerNet partner offerings to its trained and certified installation network.

Oklahoma City, OK, August, 28 2017 -- DD Audio announces the expansion of its D Series amplifier lineup with the addition of the D4.60. The D4.60 is a mini chassis, one-sided control amplifier designed to make space constrained installations a breeze.

This next-gen full-range digital amp delivers 4 x 60 watts of continuous power into 4 Ohm loads and 4 x 85 watts into 2 Ohm loads. In bridge mode, the mini-D turns into a strong 2-channel amp, delivering up to 200 watts per channel. It also features a conformal-coated PCB for added moisture and dust protection in harsh environments; making it perfect for motorcycles, UTVs, and boats.

All wiring and controls are located on one side for ease of hook-up in fairings, dashes, under seats, behind seats or in consoles. Low-level inputs, high-level inputs, pass through RCAs and selectable LP/FULL/HP crossovers make the D4.60 ideal for a simple to complex system design.

D Series Design Features:

• Continuous Power: 4 x 60 Watts @ 4 Ohm / 2 x 170 @ 4 Ohm
• MOSFET POWER SUPPLY AMPLIFIER
• DOUBLE SIDED THROUGH HOLE PCB
• CONFORMAL COATED PCB
• VARIABLE 12dB/Oct CROSSOVERS
• PASS-THROUGH OUTPUT
• HIGH-LEVEL INPUT SIGNAL SENSE TURN ON
• 2-WAY PROTECTION: SPEAKER SHORT, THERMAL (D4.60)

Clearwater, FL - (August 28, 2017) – EchoMaster and PAC, Power Brands of AAMP Global, are introducing a new multi-camera interface, MCI-GM51, for select 2014 - 2017 GM trucks and SUVs with 4.2” and 8” screens. MCI-GM51 is an integrated safety solution from PAC giving the ability to add up to four EchoMaster cameras on a vehicle to enhance awareness of surroundings, enabling a safer and more informed driving experience.

Whether driving, parking, towing, or transporting, adding safety cameras eliminate those blind spots and provide additional driving support. Safety cameras can make parking much easier - with visibility of blind spots, one can maneuver into almost any space with ease.

With MCI-GM51, you can add blind spot, rear, front, trunk, tailgate, or roof mount cameras – your multi-camera viewing solution can be customized to best meet your driving needs. If you are using your vehicle to tow, you can check on your load to make sure it gets to your destination safely.

When adding blind spot cameras, the vehicle’s turn signals automatically trigger the side lane change assistance cameras making it easier to see around your vehicle when changing lanes to aid in collision avoidance.

With backup cameras, putting the vehicle in reverse will automatically display what is behind the vehicle improving your rear vision to help you reverse with confidence. If the vehicle is equipped with a factory backup camera, the multi-camera interface will give you the ability to override the factory backup camera for multi-camera viewing options to give you the viewing solution you want.

On an 8” factory screen, you can access a touch screen GUI that gives you the control to switch between your camera views manually, creating a responsive, customized and seamless viewing of your blind spots.

PAC recommends EchoMaster cameras when equipping a multi-camera viewing solution to assure that you have a trusted safety solution. 

To see camera options, check out the EchoMaster Website.

MCI-GM51 is a plug-n-play interface - simplifying and saving time in the installation process. The interface features a low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) digital output displaying quality video from the cameras to the factory screen to give you the information you need for a more informed driving experience.

MCI-GM51 is currently available at a suggested retail price of $599.99, which includes the integration module, a power adapter harness, a camera input and power harness, installation accessories (NVH kit and cable ties), and the instruction manual. Cameras are sold separately from EchoMaster. 

Vehicle Applications

MCI-GM51 is compatible with the following vehicles with 4.2” and 8” screens:

2015-2017 Chevrolet Colorado

2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado

2015-2017 Chevrolet Suburban

2015-2017 Chevrolet Tahoe

2015-2017 GMC Canyon

2015-2017 GMC Sierra

2015-2017 GMC Yukon

To see additional application information, check out our site PAC Website.

Firstech announces release of DroneMobile Feature for Google Home and Google Assistant

August 25, 2017 – (SEATTLE. WASHINGTON): Firstech, makers of aftermarket remote start and security solutions, has announced the launch of the new DroneMobile voice control feature for Google Home and Google Assistant.

DroneMobile is a connected car solution that gives drivers the ability to lock/unlock, GPS track, and remote start their vehicles using their smartphone. In 2016, Firstech expanded the DroneMobile app to work on wearable devices such as the Apple Watch and Android Wear.

DroneMobile users that have an active subscription will be able to enable the DroneMobile voice control feature via the Google Assistant app, which is available for Android and iOS. Once enabled, users will be able to use voice commands to lock, unlock, and track the location of their vehicle. For the time being, remote start features have not yet been enabled through voice control as a safety precaution. Firstech plans on releasing updates in the near future to safely implement remote start.

Earlier this summer, Firstech released the DroneMobile skill for Amazon Alexa devices. The company is also currently in development for Apple’s Siri, which would make DroneMobile compatible with the “Big 3” of voice control solutions.  

“Hands-free voice control remains a top priority for Firstech’s development of DroneMobile,” comments Firstech’s managing director, Jason Kaminski. “Working with Alexa and Google Home opens the door for countless opportunities for DroneMobile to integrate with hundreds of other cloud-connected products.”

DroneMobile solutions are available exclusively at authorized retail locations across North America. To request more information, or to find an authorized dealer near you, please visit www.dronemobile.com.

Lane departure warning, blind spot detection help drivers avoid trouble.

8-23-2017, IIHS -- Lane departure warning, a technology designed to address an often-fatal type of crash, is preventing crashes on U.S. roads, new research from IIHS shows. A separate study shows that blind spot detection also is yielding benefits when it comes to preventing lane-change crashes.

The studies are the latest in a series by Jessica Cicchino, IIHS vice president for research, that evaluates different crash avoidance features by looking at data from police-reported crashes (see "Crashes avoided: Front crash prevention slashes police-reported rear-end crashes," Jan. 28, 2016, and "Rearview cameras reduce police-reported backing crashes," Nov. 17, 2016). Police reports include information on the circumstances of a crash, making it possible to look specifically at the types of crashes that particular technologies are designed to address, rather than just looking at crash rates generally. Cicchino's previous studies found that front crash prevention with autobrake cuts the rate of front-to-rear crashes in half and that rearview cameras can prevent about 1 in 6 backing crashes.

The studies are the latest in a series by Jessica Cicchino, IIHS vice president for research, that evaluates different crash avoidance features by looking at data from police-reported crashes. Police reports include information on the circumstances of a crash, making it possible to look specifically at the types of crashes that particular technologies are designed to address, rather than just looking at crash rates generally. Cicchino's previous studies found that front crash prevention with autobrake cuts the rate of front-to-rear crashes in half and that rearview cameras can prevent about 1 in 6 backing crashes.

Results of the new study indicate that lane departure warning lowers rates of single-vehicle, sideswipe and head-on crashes of all severities by 11 percent and lowers the rates of injury crashes of the same types by 21 percent. That means that if all passenger vehicles had been equipped with lane departure warning, nearly 85,000 police-reported crashes and more than 55,000 injuries would have been prevented in 2015.

The analysis controlled for driver age, gender, insurance risk level and other factors that could affect the rates of crashes per insured vehicle year.

A simpler analysis that didn't account for driver demographics found that lane departure warning cut the fatal crash rate 86 percent. There weren't enough fatal crashes to include them in a statistical model that controlled for demographics. In the simpler analysis, the rate of all crashes was 18 percent lower for vehicles equipped with the feature, and the rate of injury crashes was 24 percent lower.

"This is the first evidence that lane departure warning is working to prevent crashes of passenger vehicles on U.S. roads," Cicchino says. "Given the large number of fatal crashes that involve unintentional lane departures, technology aimed at preventing them has the potential to save a lot of lives."

Read the rest of the story HERE.

RESEDA, Ca. (August 23, 2017) – Crux Interfacing Solutions announced that it is releasing the SOOGM-15V Interface for ClassII GM vehicles. The SOOGM-15V is available now and currently shipping. The SOOGM-15V is the next interface after the hugely successful SOOGM-16V Crux Interfacing displayed at KnowledgeFest in Dallas. 

Rich DeSclafani from CRUX stated “The new SOOGM-15V improves upon our rock-solid GM Radio Replacement interfaces. This kit combines everything needed to change the radio in older Class II GM vehicles. We have simplified the installation down to one single plug n’ play module that does everything. From an installation, cost and feature perspective these interfaces are the best choice when changing the radio in these vehicles.”

PRODUCT LINK  SOOGM-15V

SOOGM-15V FEATURES:

• ONE SINGLE PRE-PROGRAMMED & 100% PLUG N’ PLAY MODULE DOES EVERYTHING
• No vehicle or computer programming needed, no additional connections, three products in one sku (SWC,RR,ANT ADPT)
• Retains factory features in select GM Class II vehicles while functioning with an aftermarket radio
• Pre-programmed to retain factory Steering Wheel Controls
• Retains OnStar, factory Rear view camera and chime functions
• Adds Forced Front view camera while in motion using the SOURCE DOWN or AM/FM button on

the steering wheel controls on select vehicles

• Supports Bose, non-Bose and Y-91 audio systems
• EIA color coded wiring for easy installation
• Includes Antenna Adapter

SOOGM-15V COMPATIBILITY:

Class II GM VEHICLES:

EDMOND, Okla. — Petra Industries, the consumer electronic industry’s accessory authority, has added Design Engineering, Inc. to its list of vendor partners. With its Boom Mat and DEI brands, Design Engineering offers a wide selection of car audio accessories including wire sleeves, self-fusing tape, thermal tuning products and sound-absorbing insulation material.

DEI, formed in 1995, is recognized in the automotive aftermarket as a major supplier of thermal and acoustic high performance products developed for multiple markets including automotive, powersports, marine, industrial and aeronautics. DEI’s Boom Mat brand of acoustic products dominates the automotive aftermarket and is continuing to gain recognition on a global level. Utilizing proprietary materials and processes, Boom Mat has over 100 products designed to improve sound quality, reduce or redirect vibration, protect components against hot or cold temperatures, or reduce unwanted ambient or exterior noise. Trusted by world class car builders, Boom Mat continues to innovate new products to revolutionize acoustic control

DEI engineers constantly work to identify new areas where they can improve, innovate and bring new products to market rapidly. This is demonstrated with their Fire Tape™ that is made of non-adhesive silicone rubber that is waterproof and remains flexible in heat and cold. The tape sticks to itself and seals without any adhesive—no more sticky mess! Also the Moldable Sound and Moisture Barrier from Boom Mat conforms to the shape of an automotive chassis, or can be applied with a heat gun for more intricate areas. This barrier is ideal for custom fit or unique places and is easily removable for repairs or service.

“Partnering with Design Engineering is a great opportunity for us to expand our range of car audio products,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President.

For more information about Petra, Design Engineering or any of Petra’s other 20,000 products, visit http://www.petra.com/

Torrance, Calif. - August 22, 2017 - Rydeen Mobile Electronics has announced the addition of DAS Companies of Palmyra, Penn. as a distributor of the Rydeen branded products. Specialty Marketing of Mechanicsville, Va. remain as an exclusive Rydeen distributors for the Virginia and Washington DC territory. Additionally, Specialty Marketing is authorized to distribute both Rydeen and RoadGear products for territories including Pennsylvania, Upstate New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland.

Specialty Marketing has been distributing the Rydeen products for over seven years, one of the oldest distributor for the company.

“We look forward to the additional market representation in Mid-Atlantic region with the addition of DAS,” said Phil Maeda, President and CEO of Rydeen Mobile Electronics.

Rydeen is currently looking to further expand distribution in Michigan, Chicago, Minnesota and the Pacific Northwest.  Any interested distributors should contact Mike Northup, Director of Sales and Marketing at 310-787-7880.

8-23-2017, STILLWATER, USA – This weekend KICKER^® will serve as the title sponsor of Ocean City Jeep^® Week, August 24-27 at the Ocean City (Md.) Convention Center.

Located in front of the Convention Center entrance, KICKER will pair with the Exotic Sound and Tint (Salisbury, Md.) booth and have staff on hand to answer questions, install audio equipment and Jeep accessories.  Next to Exotic Sound, KICKER will feature a new show truck featuring products from its yellow line, designed by the KICKER Special Projects Team. The booth will also have a genuine Hauk Designs Ford^® Bronco, with a custom sound system installed by Sounds So Good Car Audio of Waynesboro, Pa.

New for this year, KICKER will bring the XRV (Xtreme Recreation Vehicle) to OC Jeep Week. The XRV is a rolling showroom, complete with a full line of KICKER audio gear and the 20,000-watt “Boom Room” with a wall full of 15-inch, Q-Class L7^® subwoofers.

The Hauk “Search-and-Rescue” Ford Bronco designed by Hauk/SSG will also be in the KICKER booth. The all-terrain Bronco is fitted with tracks (instead of wheels) and a full KICKER audio system, including a KMC20 source unit, a five-channel CX-Series amplifier, CS-Series speakers and a CompVX™ 10-inch sub.

Hauk Designs of Velocity Channel’s Road Hauks will also be showcasing its completely customized semi, dubbed “The Viking.” The ’94 Peterbilt^® features a massive KICKER system exceeding 5,000 watts and designed by Sounds So Good Car Audio.

Several events are planned for the show. Each day will begin at 7 a.m., with 250 Jeepers cruising the Ocean City sand at the Beach Crawl. This is the only time all year Ocean City permits Jeeps on the sand. Mud and obstacle courses are planned daily, as is a Kids Zone, Vendors Row and more. A Show N’ Shine is also planned for Thursday and Friday.

Full event details are available on the OC Jeep Week web page, www.oceancityjeepweek.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.

Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC. Ford is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. Peterbilt is a registered trademark of PACCAR Company, Inc.

System includes TREMEC® MAGNUM transmission with choice of four gear ratios

Cookeville, TN (August 17, 2017)…American Powertrain, the world’s largest TREMEC dealer, is now introducing the next generation Pro-Fit 6-speed system for 1968-82 C3 Corvettes. The system looks like the original 4-speed transmission with the correct shifter position in the factory console.

Designed as a complete kit, it features an American Powertrain customized TREMEC® MAGNUM 6-speed transmission that offers a choice of four different gear ratio combinations; all that will shift smooth as silk, a new crossmember, driveshaft, trans mount, offset shifter mechanism, calibrated speedo drive, Speedo cable, reverse light harness, 6-speed shift pattern plate, and mounting hardware.  The transmission is rated at 700 lb./ft. and will shift up to 7,000 RPM.

American Powertrain’s DOM steel driveshaft, built with an exclusive billet face flange yoke, will make installation a five minute job, even in the narrow tunnel of a classic Vette. Options are available to upgrade to an aluminum, chromoly or carbon fiber driveshaft.

The price for the 6-speed Pro-Fit Kit for C3 Corvettes starts at $4,395, transmission included. Bellhousing is sold separately. All Pro-Fit kits are covered by American Powertrain’s two year warranty and includes free extended hours tech support.

For more information visit www.americanpowertrain.com. To speak with one of American Powertrain’s highly qualified technicians, call 931-646-4836. During weekends and holidays, call 423-773-9789.

Montebello, CA (August 18, 2017) – Epsilon Electronics, Inc. is set to debut the Malibu wireless earbuds under the Soundstream brand next month. These earbuds will initially be sold exclusively at U.S. Microsoft Store Locations and Microsoft.com.

Malibu represents another foray for Soundstream into the Consumer Electronics (CE) Market. The Street Hopper by Soundstream is also available at Microsoft Stores and Microsoft.com. Key features for these earbuds include a color matched charging capsule with built-in lithium ion battery which allows you to charge the earbuds up to 3 times in one charge. Also included are 3 sets of inner-ear tips and a USB 2.0 to Micro-USB charge cable.

“The Malibu earbuds represent Soundstream’s continuing commitment to Consumer Electronics,” said Epsilon Vice- President, Sales & Marketing, Paul Goldberg. “These earbuds define the perfect combination of elegance and functionality.”

To learn more about Soundstream products including the entire 2017 catalog visit www.soundstream.com.   

STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® and longtime distributor partner NTC Group (Selangor, Malaysia) have announced the inaugural class of the NTC Technical Training Center (NTTC), KICKER’s first organized, global training endeavor.

The NTC Technical Training Center is an invitation-only, 12-day class, dedicated to enhancing the skill sets of Chinese distributors and 12-volt business owners.

“The curriculum covers everything from bookkeeping to social media, merchandising, product knowledge and marketing,” said Chet Weddle, KICKER International Sales Manager for the Asia/Pacific region. 

NTTC features a complete KICKER sound room and retail store environment, where each product line is thoroughly explained. The students are given an opportunity to hear and experience the differences in each product for themselves.

“They start with signal, finish with sound, and cover everything in between,” Weddle said. “They are modifying what they learn for their business model, then taking it to their retail establishments. We’re creating a hierarchy of knowledge.”

When training internationally, overcoming language barriers is an ongoing challenge. The inception of NTTC serves as a significant stride to overcome this issue.  A curriculum was created specifically to service business in a Chinese culture, taught in their native language.

“We’re trying to find a better way to do business in China,” Weddle explained “When you get to a dealer, a one-hour training can become a two-and-a-half hour process because of the translation. It’s very difficult.

“We discussed if can we develop a facility within their environment. We (KICKER) can be a big part of that now, because we’ve invested in the NTC Group for 30 years, and in China for 20 of those. They’re taking these students and teaching them how to do business, and KICKER is the main staple of that business, using what NTTC teaches them.”

Heading into Remote Start Season, Firstech is excited to revamp over 80% of the company’s lineup of remote kits.

August 11, 2017 – (SEATTLE. WASHINGTON): Firstech, makers of Compustar, Arctic Start, and DroneMobile, is announcing the launch of the company’s new lineup of remote kits for controlling a remote start or security system. The new lineup of Compustar and Arctic Start remote kits highlights the company’s focus on 2-way remote technologies.

Firstech’s flagship brand, Compustar PRO, will be headlined by the new PRO G15 and PRO R3, both of which feature Firstech’s “Digital Spread Spectrum Technology” and up to 2 miles of range. Each of these remote kits is equipped with 2-way confirmation, a feature that Firstech is committed to adding to every remote start customer’s purchase.

“Since Firstech was founded in 1995, our company’s specialty has been 2-way technologies,” shares Firstech’s Managing Director, Jason Kaminski. “Firstech was the first company to release a 2-way remote with 1 mile of range, and also the first to release an IPX-7 waterproof 2-way remote. Our 2-way technologies have been a critical point of differentiation from our competitors, both aftermarket and OEM, and we look forward to continuing that legacy with our updated lineup.”

In addition to Firstech’s updates to Compustar PRO, new 2-way remote kits have been added to Firstech’s core brand, Compustar PRIME, and also Arctic Start. Details regarding each of these individual kits will be released at Knowledgefest 2017 in Dallas, Texas on August 11th, 2017.

All Firstech remote start and security systems are upgradeable, meaning that customers with legacy hardware will still be able to add these new remote kits to their existing systems.

Firstech’s new lineup of remote kits is scheduled to ship in early September 2017, and those interested can view the company’s corporate catalog at www.firstechllc.com.

TEMPE, Ariz. – August 16, 2017 – Rockford Fosgate (www.rockfordfosgate.com) has announced a new line of motorsports audio solutions specific to Polaris® General™ side-by-sides. The five options (Stages 1-4 & Rear) will be shipping at the end of August.

“Much like our Polaris Ranger® and RZR® kits, our new General kits are designed to provide high performance audio for the back country and twisted trails while out in the elements,” explained Jake Braaten, Rockford Vice President of New Product Development and Engineering. “We keep the installation simple by offering very efficient plug-and-play kits designed to fit factory locations perfectly by utilizing precise 3D scanning so there is no loss of storage or cabin space.”

GNRL-STAGE1 is a stereo kit for select Polaris GENERAL™ models, and includes:

• Direct connect wiring harnesses for GENERAL models
• System is Element Ready™ to withstand harsh outdoor environment
• PMX-2: Punch Marine Compact AM/FM/WB Digital Media Receiver 2.7-inch display
• RFGNRL-PMXDK: Installation Kit for Dash
• MSRP: $349.99

GNRL-STAGE2 is a stereo and front lower speaker kit for select Polaris GENERAL™, and includes the same components at GNRL-STAGE1 With the following additions:

• Speaker & sub enclosures integrate with no loss of passenger/cargo space
• RM1652B: Prime Marine 6.5-inch Full Range Speakers - Black (Pair)
• RFGNRL-FSE: GENERAL 6.5-inch Front Speaker Enclosure (Pair)
• MSRP: $699.99

GNRL-STAGE3 is a 400-watt stereo, front lower speaker, and subwoofer kit for select Polaris GENERAL™, and includes the same components at GNRL-STAGE1 and GNRL-STAGE2 with the following additions:

• RM110D2B: Prime 10-inch Dual 2-Ohm subwoofer black
• RFGNRL-FWE: GENERAL 10-inch front subwoofer enclosure
• TM400X4ad: Power Marine 400 Watt Class-ad 4-channel amplifier
• RFGNRL-K8: 2-Seat or 4-Seat Amp Wire Kit
• MSRP: $1,699.99

GNRL-STAGE4 is also a 400-watt stereo, front lower speaker, and subwoofer kit for select Polaris GENERAL™, and includes the same components at GNRL-STAGE1, GNRL-STAGE2, and GNRL-STAGE3 with the following additions:

• RM1652W-MB: Prime Marine 6.5-inch Rear Speakers in Enclosure - Black (Pair)
• PM-CL3B: Punch Diecast Clamp for Polaris Lock & Ride® roll cage - Black (Pair)
• RFGNRL-RSW16: Rear Speaker Harness
• MSRP: $2,199.99

GNRL-REAR Add-on Rear Speaker Kit for use with GNRL-STAGE2 and GNRL-STAGE3 Kits includes:

• Direct connect wiring harnesses for GENERAL models
• System is Element Ready™ to withstand harsh outdoor environment
• RM1652W-MB: Prime Marine 6.5" Rear Speakers in Enclosure - Black (Pair)
• PM-CL3B: Punch Diecast Clamp for Polaris Lock & Ride® roll cage - Black (Pair)
• RFGNRL-RSW16: Rear Speaker Harness
• MSRP: $599.99

For more information on Rockford Fosgate, please visit www.rockfordfosgate.com.

Douglasville, Georgia – August 16, 2017 – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. is introducing a new line of vehicle specific plug-in harnesses that add ANY Excalibur 70 series remote start with an OmegaLink bypass module. The initial launch will cover the majority of domestic vehicle applications. They are also releasing a new v1.3 firmware for their Excalibur remote start line this week.

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 is also releasing a new v1.3 firmware for all Excalibur 70 series remote start systems this week. 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 3 selectable temperature thresholds. While we were at it, we added high temp auto-start capability, also with 3 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 our 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 using our xOS technology at www.omegaweblink.com.