12-31-2016 -- Memphis Audio is introducing a brand new series of amplifiers and component speakers. These new offerings by Memphis are branded the SixFive Series, named after the year Memphis Audio was established. 

The SixFive Series speakers and amplifiers are the best performing product offering Memphis has ever created. These amplifiers are wrapped in a sleek angel hair finish with a gloss black panel boasting 7 selectable lighting options to match any interior. All terminals are side-loaded to make installation simple. Setting up the amplifiers is a breeze thanks to the easy access magnetic top control panel. To maximize the capabilities of the amplifiers, Memphis recommends pairing them with an optional wireless bass knob which can be mounted anywhere without the need for messy wires. 

Amplifiers are available in a variety of mono and full range options and feature DSP technology with 24 and 48dB crossover slopes. The new component speakers the VIV60C features a double layer composite fiber cone and an aluminum housed silk tweeter. The attention to detail in terms of construction, paired with the crossover, produce some of the purest sound from any speaker in its class, according to the company.  Both the SixFive series amplifiers and speakers had their debut at Memphis Audios National Sales meeting at Memphis headquarters in December to a resoundingly positive response.

“I’ve been around Memphis products all my life, these by far are the most impressive performing products we’ve ever put the M-badge on,” said Memphis tech support specialist Ellis Mathis. At unveiling Memphis VP Nick LoMonaco stated “Memphis has a goal of moving forward and pushing the limits of product performance. The SixFive Series is an example of our dedication to 12 volt audio and our desire to give our dealers the best products possible to help them grow their business.”  Independent 12-volt specialists seem to agree with the statement as the SixFive Series product line has thoroughly impressed reviewers in initial test reports and real world applications.

The public will get their first glimpse of this new line in booth 5021 at CES 2017.  Memphis will have its products on active demo in the show hall so show attendees can experience the new Memphis in person. 

12-31-2016 -- 2016 has seen its fair share of huge news stories in the 12-volt industry, with all of them available in Mobile Electronics magazine. But none of them topped the readership of the January 2016 issue, which was read over 5,000 times with over 170,000 impressions on the digital edition. In addition to the digital issue, Mobile Electronics magazine mailed out monthly to over 13,000 industry professionals.

The issue featured a preview of CES, Real World Retail: Prestige Car Audio and the number one read story of the issue, Behind the Scenes: Audiofrog. Check out the whole issue HERE or go straight to the Audiofrog feature HERE.

The top honors for the most viewed news on the Mobile Electronics magazine website www.ME-Mag.com was the announcement of the [click title to view] "Mobile Electronics Magazine Announces Industry Awards Top 50" with over 9000 views.

The top product news story for 2016 was [click title to view] "ADS Announces the industry's first VW/AUDI remote start solution with integrated bypass technology at KnowledgeFest" with over 2500 views.

Check out the current "December 2016" issue [HERE].

December 27, 2016, Daytona Beach, Fla. -- In response to requests from SBN participants that has been resonating for years, the IASCA 2017 Season Kickoff, will take place at the Daytona International Speedway.

Held in conjunction with the Spring Turkey Run Car Show March 24 – 26, 2017, the event features over 15,000 spectators and more than 3,000 custom and classic cars from all eras. A host of planned activities and celebrity appearances include “Horny Mike” from hit TV show “Counting Cars” along with several others from the custom car industry. As it has over the last 30 years in its former venue, IASCA will produce the Sound Quality and SPL competitions, joined by MECA Sound Quality and SPL, and the dB Drag Racing Association’s SPL competitions.

“Hosting the Auto Sound Competition Kickoff at the Daytona International Speedway is something our members and participants have been asking for, for quite some time” says Moe Sabourin, Director of Operations for IASCA Worldwide “Being able to join in with one of the largest custom and classic car shows in the country makes it even better and will give our competitors so much more to see and do; it’s going to be a very exciting weekend.”  IASCA President and SBN Founder Paul Papadeas commented, “Bringing the auto sound competition experience to a consumer driven event like the Turkey Run is huge. Over fifteen thousand car enthusiasts attend. These people continually invest in their rides and are now showing more interest for In-Car Entertainment and Safety Accessories.”

Papadeas continues, “The IASCA mission is two-fold. On one hand we work to proliferate consumer awareness and on the other we encourage 12 Volt Manufacturers and Distributors to host, stimulate and educate retailers with sales and marketing methods while having a little fun. We’ve suggested that suppliers stimulate industry attendance by offing “show special discounts and terms” exclusively on site. "Both trade and consumers need the education that these events offer but now event production must be approached differently; one size does not fit all. Our industry’s demographics and product offerings have changed. We must respond to that which best serves our industry’s needs. Intermingling consumers and industry members in one venue can be most effective if you present the event to the respective participants independently. Sharing the show floor to both factions simultaneously is less productive. Opening the show floor to the public in a festive manner for one evening is sufficient to peak consumer interest. It’s my personal goal to collaborate with industry proponents to establish the means to produce an event that serves both factions." 

Online pre-registrations for the IASCA Season Kickoff, featuring competition registrations for IASCA, MECA and dB Drag Racing will open January 1st, 2017 on the IASCA website at www.iasca.com/store.

For more info on registrations, host hotels and competition formats, visit the IASCA website at www.iasca.com or contact the IASCA office at 386 322 1551.   

Las Vegas, NV (December 27, 2016) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics, manufacturer of vehicle safety and driver assistance products announces a partnership with Automotive Data Solutions. This new partnership will deliver new safety products compatible with iDatalink Maestro audio interface products from ADS.

The Maestro PS1 is a parking assistance system that can be installed as a standalone, audible assistance system or a fully integrated audio-visual system when installed with a Maestro RR radio replacement interface and compatible aftermarket radio. In the standalone mode, Maestro PS1 can be installed in a variety of applications: (1) as a rear sensor add-on (2) as a front sensor add-on, (3) with the Maestro PS2 4-sensor expansion pack as front and rear add-ons. In all cases, the Maestro "PS1" chime speaker accessory is required and sold separately.

"We are excited with this product development and manufacturing relationship with ADS", said Phil Maeda, founder and CEO of Rydeen, "We are eager to support and bring to market advanced safety systems that consumers are demanding," Maeda continues. While the Maestro PS1’s standalone applications are quite versatile, its true power is realized when installed with a Maestro RR interface and a compatible Alpine, JVC, Kenwood or Pioneer radio. This combination offers customers with older vehicles or lower trim packages a way to add technology comparable to the best factory systems available today.

"ADS seeks partnerships with leaders in their product category," said Frank Barassi, President of Automotive Data Solutions. “Rydeen is at the forefront of advanced safety systems and getting these systems into the Maestro ecosystem has been one of our top priorities.”The Maestro PS1 parking assistance system and PS2 sensor expansion pack will be available to order from existing distribution partners in early 2017. Retail prices to be announced.

12-27-2016 -- Massive Audio has begun shipping its new Nano "BLU" Series amplifiers, featuring Bluetooth. The four CTA Certified models include the BL1 Mono Block, BLX2 Two Channel, BLX4 Four Channel and the BLX5 Five Channel.

NANO “BLU” amps are only 4.25” W x 1.6” H and range from 6.5" to 10.86" L. All four models feature Efficient Digital Platforms, Built-In OEM Line Converters, Line Out, up to 9 Volts In, Auto Turn On (no turn on wire needed) with 12V out and support a USB plug which accommodates the optional UBT1 Bluetooth Dongle for audio streaming.

All Nano "BLU" Amps use Nickel Plated RCA inputs and circuit boards are sprayed for water resistance and everything gets shielded in a rust proof aluminum housing with a Blue back Lit logo. Each model supports a "Docking Port" to plug in an optional custom matching 4 Farad "BLUX" Capacitor.   

To see these amps in person, visit the Massive Audio Booth at CES 2017: BOOTH 5806 NORTH HALL, LOS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER JANUARY 5th – 8th 2017

MSRP

$399.95 BL1         800RMS x1                          1600W @ 1Ω                      6.75” x 4.25” x 1.6”
$299.95                 BLX2      120RMS x2                          480W x1 @ 4Ω                   6.50” x 4.25” x 1.6”
$399.98                 BLX4      120RMS x4                          480W x2 @ 4Ω                   8.50” x 4.25” x 1.6”
$549.98BLX5      120RMS x4 +600W x1 @ 4Ω / 2Ω                                10.86” x 4.25” x 1.6”

For more information please contact Massive Audio: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our Website: http://www.massiveaudio.com

DECEMBER 20, 2016: HOLLY HILL, FL – Metra continues to offer exclusive radio replacement solutions with the new 99-9109B dash kit for the Audi A3 2006-2013. The new design allows for the installation of both DIN and DDIN radios, without the need for a metal mounting sleeve. 

This dash kit is made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastics using injection molding technology to ensure a quality design and fit. See this Audi A3 kit and more on display at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas from January 5th to the 8th in North Hall booth # 5211.

12-21-2016, Mobile Electronics -- There are plenty of marketing campaigns and techniques designed to attract new customers. But once those customers arrive, make their purchase and leave, how can they be enticed to return?

A first impression is the beginning of everything and the first step in customer retention. Upon entering a store, everything that’s seen is compiled in the mind to create the customer’s first impression—shop presentation, initial interaction with sales staff, whether the customer’s needs are anticipated and more.

Marcel Newell, founder of retail design company, AVIDWORX, noted the importance of the first impression as well as “putting forward a professional appearance and backing it up with friendly and professional customer service. You need to win that customer’s trust to make the first sale,” he said. After that, their trust has to be retained, so by the time the customer leaves the store, they have enjoyed their experience and have fond memories. Boosting customer retention means considering a number of different factors and applying logical techniques that keep customers coming back.

Method 1: Shop Presentation

Upon entering the shop, the visitor formulates a first impression based on what they see and whether or not they are greeted in a friendly manner. Jon Kowanetz of Handcrafted Car Audio in Chandler, Ariz. has been in the industry for 19 years. He stressed the importance of authenticity and being genuine with customers. “I think the biggest thing I’ve learned that relates to customer retention is authenticity. Honesty and integrity, doing what you say you’re going to do, do your best work, and always be pushing the limits,” he said.

How the shop looks—whether it’s cluttered or clean, for example—will stick in the customer’s mind. The first impression is the basis for everything that follows. “If anything goes wrong, and it sometimes will when you’re dealing with cars and technology, a happy customer is a lot more likely to give you the benefit of the doubt and a fair chance to make things right,” Newell said. “In fact, most studies show that it’s not the mistakes that matter to customers, it’s the way you handle them.”

With more than a few buying options to choose from, it’s important to make the customer want to come back by giving them a positive shopping experience, according to Newell. Interactions with customers give salespeople a chance to showcase the benefits of other products. “They may not buy today, but you’ll have given the customer something to think about and a reason to come back.”

Method 2: Forge Connections

Ensuring the customer knows how much you care is an essential aspect of boosting customer retention. Newell recommends checking in with customers who’ve made purchases. Ask them how things are going and whether they’re enjoying the product. Also inquire about their shopping experience. Was it positive? Do they feel any aspect of their experience could’ve been better?

“Post-sale, you absolutely need to keep in touch,” Newell advised, stating that an initial email should be sent to thank the customer, along with any information regarding warranties. Included in that first email should be an invitation to take a survey.

“The survey is another way to intercept unhappy customers before they do anything else that could hurt your reputation, as well as a good way to recognize the efforts of your staff,” he explained.

“After that first email, you need to send them regular emails from your store, at least once a month. Let them know about upcoming sales and promotions, new products, and the advantages of the other technology and products that you sell.”

If something negative occurs, it’s important to see what can be done to fix the issue. “We do recommend calling back customers, especially the bigger ticket customers that have more invested financially and emotionally in your products and installations,” Newell said. And if there’s a problem, fix it right away. “Customers are more loyal to the business that go the extra mile to fix things than they are to the businesses that don’t make mistakes.”

Anything that needs to be rectified should be taken care of as soon as possible. Due to the many outlets for sharing concerns and reviews on the Internet, it doesn’t take much for a customer to post and share their disappointments. “They have Yelp, they have Google, and they can have a huge amount of influence on others,” Newell said of unsatisfied consumers. “It takes years to build a good reputation, but a few unhappy customers can destroy it overnight.”

Kowanetz advised shops to do what they can to stay in front of people and keep them coming back. “We’ll do car, bike, and truck shows and invite all our past customers to check out our work,” he said. “We have special deals on those days and manufacturer demos. We find the bulk of our clients are enthusiasts, so they’re not getting it because they need it, but because they enjoy it. They like being kept in the loop on new things and we keep them part of the community and coming to our events.”

Collect customers’ email addresses and send them a newsletter. Hosting an event can be a great way to thank customers and encourage them to come back to take part in vehicle demos or for a chance to win a prize. When a shop is able to successfully demonstrate how much they care, the customer forms a happy memory and is more likely to return.  

Newell also advised owners and managers to ensure employees are consistent when picking up the phone. “Use a standard greeting like, ‘Thanks for choosing King Audio, the leader in mobile electronics. This is Marcel speaking, how can I help you today?’ It makes your customer interactions more professional.”

This also sets the stage for positioning the brand, another essential aspect of customer retention.

Read the rest of the story HERE.

Two-day event to cover installation and selling strategy for radar

WILSONVILLE, ORE., – December 20, 2016 (MEDIAWIRE) – Kingpin University (KPU), producer of training programs for mobile electronics sales professionals and installation technicians, announced it has partnered with K40 Electronics to conduct a pair of two-day, hands-on courses to teach custom installation and selling strategies for K40 systems, along with broader techniques that can be applied to any vehicle installation project. The sessions will be held February 27-28 and March 1-2, 2017, at the KPU campus in Wilsonville, Ore. With the K40 sponsorship, attendees pay a discounted rate of $199, which includes hotel accommodations, daytime meals and a welcome dinner.

K40 Electronics, located in Elgin, Ill., has produced advanced radar and laser detection systems since 1981. In addition to its popular portable models, K40 specializes in custom-installed systems that integrate into the vehicle dash while providing complete protection from police radar and laser-based speed detection systems.

"We're very excited about this partnership," said Jason Kranitz, head trainer at KPU. "K40 is a strong believer in empowering retailers, and the company’s willingness to offset most of the cost of this training is a demonstration of their dedication to the mobile electronics industry. Custom radar detectors are part of a growing revenue opportunity for specialty retailers as the safety and driver assistance category gains traction among consumers. It is a product category that allows for a lot of creativity in placement and installation, which builds profitability for any store."

The first day of training will focus on understanding the customer base for radar detectors and learning proven strategies to close sales. Attendees will also see systems in action, using speed detection equipment on open roads to fully understand how K40 systems detect radar and laser. The day concludes with an in-depth presentation of custom installation and product placement techniques.

The second day of the course will show attendees unique fabrication tips to visually integrate radar components to achieve an OEM appearance. The class will then broaden out to cover several elements from KPU’s 4-day Advanced Trunk course, including use of materials, integrating with OEM design and wrapping techniques.

"We encourage sales professionals to attend these training courses as well, because understanding the complete picture, from product presentation to finished product demonstration, is essential for everyone involved in the sales process," added Kranitz. "If we are asking customers to spend a significant amount of money on a product we recommend, we need to present a cohesive, fulfilling experience from the sales floor to the installation bay."

Prospective attendees can view a detailed course offering and description and reserve a course session at kingpinuniversity.com. For more information, contact Kingpin University at (503) 582-1315 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or an authorized K40 representative at (800) 323-6768. 

12-19-2016, Business Insider -- Google announced it was spinning out its self-driving car unit into an independent company called Waymo on Tuesday.

The tech giant has been working on autonomous technology longer than anyone in the game. It first announced the project in 2009 under Sebastian Thrun, a Stanford professor lauded as the founder of the self-driving car.

The concept of building a robot car was so bizarre at the time it prompted Fiat Chrysler to launch a peculiar attack ad in 2011:

"Hands-free driving, cars that park themselves, an unmanned car driven by a search-engine company? We've seen that movie. It ends with robots harvesting our bodies for energy."

Well, times have changed. Now Fiat Chrysler supplies Pacifica minivans for Waymo. Major automakers like General Motors and Ford are also investing in self-driving cars.

But even though Google has been in the self-driving car space longer than anyone else out there — before it was even considered a legitimate space like it is today — it's getting lapped by the competition.

Google may know what it's doing when it comes to refining self-driving car technology, but it has been totally lost when it comes to bringing a product to market.

Read the rest of the story HERE.

EDMOND, Okla. — Petra Industries has partnered with StreamSmart to help customers cut the cord to keep access to television shows without cable. 

No matter how much money cord cutters save there is always that unhappy feeling of missing that one show, sporting event or movie. StreamSmart aims to solve this problem. Their receiver gives users a platform with access to movies, TV shows, live sports and more, all in HD, with no extra monthly fees and their custom user interface ensures ease of use. StreamSmart’s products also come with free lifetime technical support and software updates to ensure their customers are satisfied for years.

“With the continual growth and popularity of cord cutting, StreamSmart offers an easy to install, all-inclusive solution,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President.

For more information about StreamSmart products and all of Petra’s Cord Cutting options, visit www.petra.com.

12-20-2016 -- Scosche is now shipping new aftermarket stereo installation kits and speaker adapters. Dash kits include those for 2015-Up Kia Sedona and 2016-Up Kia Sorento. 

KA2420DDB and KA2418DDB both feature:

• Double DIN
• OEM matched matte black finish
• Automotive-grade ABS plastic panel construction 
• Includes screws for mounting brackets to panel

DASH KITS
These new Custom Kit, Factory Fit dash kits from Scosche allow for easy installation of an aftermarket head unit, according to the company. When combined with other Scosche installation components like interfaces, harnesses, antenna adapters, speakers and sound system hardware, provide a total vehicle car audio solution.

SPEAKER ADAPTERS

There are adapters for both domestic and import vehicles. They are custom engineered to precisely fit the various vehicle’s speakers shown and are made of high-quality plastic.

Learn more at Scosche.com

DECEMBER 2016: HOLLY HILL, FL – Metra is first to bring specialty replacement dash kit solutions to the aftermarket industry for multiple popular Chrysler applications, including the Dodge Durango & Dakota, the Dodge Caravan & Town and Country, as well as the Jeep Wrangler.

These specialty kits are designed as either an entire radio panel replacement, or conversion kit, for the fitment of a modern DDIN radio in applications that would otherwise not have space for a modern DDIN radio. The need to custom fabricate/fiberglass and paint in order to deliver a DDIN solution is eliminated by the kit.

The 95-6542B is the solution for the Dodge Durango 2001-2003 and Dodge Dakota 2001–2004. This kit includes templates for the dash modifications required to modify the factory dash panel.

The 95-6539B for the Dodge Caravan and Town & Country model years 2001-2007 allows for the installation of a DDIN radio through replacement of the factory radio panel. Blank plates and stickers are included to accommodate multiple trim levels. Most importantly, no custom work or cutting of the factory bezel is required.

Jeep Wrangler, for model years 2003-2006, has an answer in the 95-6541, and allows for the installation of a DDIN radio through replacement of the factory radio panel. No custom work or cutting of the factory bezel is required.

See these specialty Chrysler kits on display at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas from January 5th to the 8th in North Hall booth # 5211.

Avon Lake, OH (December 14, 2016) -- DEI recently introduced a new product brochure at the 2016 SEMA Show. The full color brochure features 18 all new parts, and nearly 60 new part numbers.

A few products featured in this brochure include: DEI’s protective Easy Loom™ Split Sleeves for protection of wire, hoses and cables, Boom Mat pre-cut Interior Heat and Sound Control Kits, and the DEI Form-A-Shield™ that can withstand direct temps up to 1800°F; making it a heat barrier for direct contact to hot surfaces.

This year, DEI introduced EXO Series™ Sleeving designed to protect wires, hoses and cables positioned near heat sources such as exhaust systems and headers. Made of 304 stainless steel mesh, the encapsulating DEI Fire Sleeve™ creates an air gap to provide abrasion resistance.

Also new is DEI’s Heat Reflective Arm Band to be worn over the shoulder of a Go Kart driving suit for protection against heat from hot exhaust pipes. All products featured in the new product brochure are Made in the USA and developed at the company’s headquarters in Avon Lake, OH.

To receive the 2017 DEI New Products Brochure, call 800-264-9472, or send an email requesting the brochure at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. more information about Design Engineering and its full line of heat and sound control products visit www.DesignEngineering.com, or view this video from the 2016 SEMA Show.

DECEMBER 2016: HOLLY HILL, FL – Metra announces double DIN radio upgrade for Chevy Corvette owners, model years 1997-2004, with the new DP-3021B. 

This large dash kit replaces the factory dash panel to accommodate DDIN installations. Metra has built a replacement dash panel that reaches from the center console, and up the center of the dash, creating a new opening for an aftermarket double DIN radio. Provided instructions and installation template provide the help needed for the minor sub dash modifications required. No custom work or cutting of the factory bezel is required. It is painted stretch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish.

This new dash kit is made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastics using injection molding technology to ensure a superior design and fit. See this kit and more on display at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas from January 5th to the 8th in North Hall booth # 5211.

RESEDA, Ca. (December 14, 2016) – Crux Interfacing Solutions announced that it is releasing the RVCMB-78O OBD Backup Camera Programmer for Mercedes-Benz vehicles from 2007-2016 with the Comand NTG4 and NTG4.5 Radios.

Rich DeSclafani from CRUX stated “We are really excited to have new products being released every week leading up to CES. The new advanced OBD line of products is expanding constantly and we will be working tirelessly to keep bringing new and innovative solutions to our dealers.”

All our new products will be on display @ CES 2017 BOOTH #7709

PRODUCT LINKà  RVCMB-78O

RVCMB-78O FEATURES:

• Plug & Play activation via the OBD II port
• Easy and time-saving 30-second coding procedure
• No dealer coding required

RVCMB-78O COMPATIBILITY:

MERCEDES BENZ

with Comand NTG4

03/2007 – 02/2011 C-Class (W204)

09/2008 – Up CLC-Class (CL203)

09/2008 – Up GLK-Class (X204)

03/2010 – Up SLS (C197)

Arlington, VA, December 12, 2016 - The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)™ launched an enhanced online resource for the Mobile Electronics Certified Professional (MECP) Program. Improvements to the redesigned MECP.com include "easy-to-find" information about certification, testing centers and a consumer resource explaining the benefits of using MECP-certified technicians, according to the organization. Additionally, with the launch of the new site, employers will now be able to easily access a career center.

MECP, owned and operated by CTA, is the only nationally recognized credential that certifies mobile technology installation technicians and sales people on automotive information technology, entertainment, navigation, safety and security systems.

"CTA is thrilled to announce these added features and functionalities to our MECP program, all designed to enhance and grow this important program," said Ellen Savage, vice president of membership programs, CTA. "The MECP program seeks to produce a higher level of professionalism in the mobile electronics installation field. Using an MECP technician provides peace of mind that the technology in the vehicle is installed or serviced by a qualified industry professional."

Highlights to the new MECP.com include:

• MECP Certification - The site provides information about every level of certification and allows users to order study guides, identify test center locations and register for exams.
• Career Center - Whether someone is an MECP-certified professional looking for a job or an employer looking to hire a certified professional, the career center allows users to post their resumes and browse jobs, connect with professionals and recruit the best talent.
• Main Hub - The hub offers MECP information related to professionals;employers, including the value of MECP professionals and sample job descriptions to help hire MECP professionals and educate employees; and vehicle owners, such as the new technologies available for older vehicles, in a mobile-friendly format.

    Visit the new MECP.com website today.                            

12/14/2016, STILLWATER, USA – Long-time KICKER specialist employee Steve Outhier has retired from the company. 

Outhier is calling it a career after 23 years of immersing himself into the Stillwater Designs® framework, spinning the KICKER® message and bringing an award-winning sound to cars and trucks around the world. Outhier officially retired from full-time work on Nov. 28, but will remain on contract with the company through the first of the year to assist during the Consumer Electronics Show and the transition to 2017.

Gregg Allman’s Duane, Bowie’s Ronson, Joe Cocker’s Leon, Sir Elton’s Olsson – Outhier was exactly that to Stillwater Design’s founder and friend Steve Irby for most of his working career, beginning in the ’70s as the lead guitarist to Irby’s blistering keyboards in the regionally successful rock-band Moses. That relationship eventually led to Outhier’s hire in July 1993 as the Advertising/Public-Relations Manager for Irby’s flourishing mobile-audio and electronics company, once again taking the spotlight when called upon to get the KICKER word and image to the media and consumers.

“As a bandmate with Steve (Outhier) in the early ’70’s, I knew he was a music connoisseur, in tune with great sound,” recollected Irby. “And a gearhead!  That’s the perfect combination for working at KICKER.”

Outhier concurred.  “We knew each other in college, and music brought us together. That love of music – playing it, listening to it, working on gear to reproduce it – has always been a constant.

“It’s more than 40 years now; seeing a friend’s dream grow from his garage to where we are today, and getting to share in the adventure, has been a lot of fun,” Outhier continued.  “Hard work? Sure. But mainly a lot of fun.”

Outhier led creative on KICKER ad campaigns and yearly catalogs during those years, putting a face on what was already one of the 12-volt industry’s top subwoofer and speaker brands. In 1993 he fine-tuned the message for KICKER’s original Solo-Baric® subwoofer, which used a single driver in a compact sealed box replicating a pair of subs performing in an isobaric enclosure. Then in 2000 he headed up the manufacturer’s appearance through the unveiling of the iconic Solo-Baric L7 square subwoofer (“20% more bass than its round counterpart”). 

Since 2003 he served as the director for KICKER’s Product Planning team, assuring the manufacturer’s output goes from inception to store shelves every product cycle. He also headed up the process of gaining the numerous patents for KICKER’s products and technologies.

“The music store I went to as a kid had listening booths where we would listen to new records and do our best to learn the words and music,” Outhier said.  “We spend hours there. Why they put up with us is anybody’s guess, but I think they saw we truly loved the mysteries we found hidden in those grooves. Working here at KICKER with good people who share that love, and having the opportunity to contribute to more kids uncovering those same (musical) mysteries, is a great way to spend the years.”

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.

12-12-2016, Entrepreneur -- Start with an understanding that "the right people are worth everything."

Starting a business -- or even getting involved as a professional -- when you’re young can be intimidating. You might have knowledge about business from school, books or practical advice from sources online, but there’s a big difference between understanding business fundamentals on paper and gaining wisdom through actual experience.

By the end of your career, you’ll have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and hundreds of lessons, but there are some lessons that you should learn early on -- ideally before you turn 30.

1. The right people are worth everything.

It’s almost impossible to build a successful business by yourself. Even if you’re a solo entrepreneur, there will be mentors, partners, vendors and peers alongside you helping you achieve your long-term vision. So, recognize how valuable other people will open you up to more opportunities, help you keep an eye out for new contacts no matter where you are and make you more discerning in decisions like hiring and long-term deals.

Learning this lesson early will prevent you from wasting time on the wrong people and give you more time to work with the best people you find.

2. You’re going to fail -- and that’s okay.

No matter how much you know or how much you prepare, failure is going to be inevitable for you. Your business may become successful overall, but there will be individual strategies and campaigns that crash and burn, and ideas that fizzle out entirely. Facing failure with the realization that it is, in some contexts, unavoidable, makes it. easier to accept.

You can view it as a lesson and an opportunity to improve, rather than an end point or a sign that you should give up entirely.

Read the rest of the story HERE.

12-12-2016 -- VAIS Technology has announced the latest addition to its factory radio plug n play SiriusXM tuner kits. The #GSR-M01 kit and #GSR-M01 tuner kit is designed to work with select 2015, 2016 and 2017 Mercedes vehicles not equipped from the factory.

Dennis Hopper, VP of Sales states, "VAIS continues to validate all vehicles not equipped from the factory with SiriusXM tuners". Mercedes is our latest solution covering most models including several 2017 models". See application guide on www.vaistech.com for details.

VAIS Technology is a source that offers plug n play SiriusXM units that work through the existing factory radio. VAIS Technology now offers Toyota, Ford, Porsche, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat, Scion, Subaru, GM and now Mercedes.