Industry trends and strategies for growth considered.

North Andover, MA – May 23, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) hosted a leadership conference last week in Orlando to discuss its newest KnowledgeFest event planned for May 15-17, 2020 at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center. Companies represented included MEA Partners: Alpine, Cerwin Vega, DS18, InstallerNet, JL Audio, JVC, Kenwood, Focal, Rostra, Sony, VAIS Technology, VOXX, all of which will be exhibiting at the Orlando event. Seventy-five percent of the exhibit space is pre-sold. Leadership discussed growth trends and opportunities for KnowledgeFest, met with Visit Orlando and received tours of the host hotel, the Rosen Centre, and the convention center exhibit hall.

The group acknowledged that KnowledgeFest plays an important role in educating retailers and provides value for all their employees through its workshops and manufacturer-sponsored training. Now with the new KnowledgeFest Orlando event drawing attendance from the east coast, exhibiting manufacturers can support training for retailers nationwide.

KnowledgeFest is the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. The addition of a fourth event in Orlando brings KnowledgeFest to a coast-to-coast nationwide audience. Combining an exhibit floor with dealer education and manufacturer training, KnowledgeFest delivers a tremendous value for the entire industry.

Other topics that were discussed at the conference included strategies to grow MEA’s retailer membership, mobile industry trends and challenges facing today’s mobile electronics specialists. "We had many of the top leaders from our industry in the room,” said MEA President, Chris Cook. “We appreciate the many actionable ideas they contributed to help us grow membership and improve the quality of service delivered to consumers.”

Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:

• August 9-11, 2019 - Dallas, TX
• February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
• March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
• May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL

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, regional trade-only industry events 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. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 21, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced last weekend’s KnowledgeFest™ Indianapolis event had a strong showing from both retailers and manufacturers.

In its fifth year, the 2019 event held at the downtown Indiana Convention Center boasted a sold-out show floor with 50 exhibitors and 60,000 square feet of exhibit space. There was a strong showing of new exhibitors from new companies. New product categories offered new business opportunities for retailers, while the wide-open market with Indianapolis at its center presented exhibiting manufacturers with an opportunity for business development. Most key companies from the 12-volt specialty industry had a presence.

“We had great turn-out from dealers for Friday’s ‘Beer & Business” kick-off,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “Exhibitors reported strong traffic over all three days of the event. Even before the close, many expressed they were extremely satisfied with the event. After onsite space selection, we left Indy with strong booth sales for next March’s Indy KnowledgeFest. We’re coming back! My message to 12-volt manufacturers is this: ‘If you weren’t in Indy this year, be there next year! Don’t write-off this market.”

With 20% year-over-year growth in Indy over the past five years, MEA reported attendance totaling more than 1000 with more than 775 retailer and distributor attendees.

“MEA thanks Davis Distribution for its awesome support of our Indy event,” said Cook. “Working with their manufacturer partners, all did an exceptional job helping to drive retailer attendance and business.”

KnowledgeFest 2019 concludes with its Dallas event: August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center.

2020 KnowledgeFest Dates:

• Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 7-9, 2020
• Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
• NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
• Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 21-23, 2020

About KnowledgeFest

KnowledgeFest is now coast to coast. Its four regional trade-only events cover the eastern, southeastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.." style="color: #000000;">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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®, regional trade-only industry events 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.

Attendees will also benefit from extensive training on the groundbreaking DM-RTA as well as a tricked-out Honda S2000 demo car

Seattle, WA, March 11^th, 2019 – AudioControl (audiocontrol.com) makers of innovative high-performance audio solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets is bringing excitement and education to the 2019 Knowledgefest, March 15^th-17^th at the Indiana Convention Center. AudioControl will be highlighting innovative new car audio products plus a sporty Honda S2000 demo vehicle featuring a stunning sound system. On display will be the groundbreaking DM-RTA, a precision audio calibration tool that enables installation technicians to provide their customers with the best possible sound quality tailored to their listening preferences. Knowledgefest attendees will also see the new AC-BT24 Bluetooth Module, providing wireless connectivity and streaming to AudioControl’s D-6.1200 amplifier, DM-RTA and digital signal processors, as well as their full line of premium OEM upgrade solutions.

Five Star Car Stereo YouTube Live Show

Dean Beyett and Fernando Lopez will be broadcasting their popular YouTube Live show from the Knowledgefest show floor sponsored by AudioControl. The Clearwater, Florida-based show has amassed 90,000 followers and growing, bringing valuable insights along with some levity to the world of car stereo. Dean and Fernando will do a show on Friday and another on Saturday, bringing viewers an exciting look into the world of Knowledgefest and everything aftermarket car audio. Exact show times are TBD, so stay tuned and subscribe here.    

Course Description

The launch of AudioControl’s new DM-RTA has enabled dealers to deliver the best sound possible while simplifying processes for technicians and cutting installation time with this new, game-changing all-in-one test tool. AudioControl's Director of Mobile Audio, Chris Bennett, will be showing the features and benefits of having the DM-RTA available and making sure you have the know how to use it properly. Come and learn about AudioControl’s unique approach to making new and innovative products that continue to deliver the five pillars of great products: Price, Power, Performance, Unique Features and the Best Warranty.

Training Seminar Schedule

AudioControl Training will be held Friday, March 15^th 12:30pm (Meeting Room: 125) and Saturday March 16^th at 4:45 pm (Meeting Room: 124). Those interested in attending can contact Chris Bennett at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or register directly at the Knowledgefest website. AudioControl’s training seminar at Knowledgefest is already receiving a lot of industry attention, so early registration is recommended.

NEW PRODUCTS FROM AUDIOCONTROL

High-Performance OEM Integration

From active line output converters to signal processors and amplifiers, AudioControl has long led the way in providing sophisticated solutions for OEM audio upgrades. OEM integration represents a vital opportunity for every mobile electronics specialist, and AudioControl solutions deliver superb sound for nearly any application and are easy to install.

DM-RTA

The AudioControl DM-RTA is a sophisticated yet compact audio analyzer containing powerful analysis software designed to provide installers with the features of a fully functioning Oscilloscope, Voltage Meter, Real Time Audio Analyzer (RTA), SPL Meter and Polarity Checker. Because installers are often on-the-go and in cramped spaces when building a car audio system, the DM-RTA was designed to be light weight, compact and durable. Input/output options are staggering, including balanced XLR inputs, phono and RCA style unbalanced inputs as well as speaker level inputs designed to make OEM audio system interface a snap. Digital audio output options include Optical, COAX and USB. The DM-RTA is powered by a 5-hour rechargeable battery so that it can be effortlessly deployed anywhere.

AC-BT24 Bluetooth Module

The brand new AudioControl AC-BT24 Bluetooth streamer/programmer has been designed to give installers intuitive, wireless control over AudioControl’s DM-Series processors, DM-RTA and D-6.1200 amplifier while also enabling users to stream high-quality music from their mobile devices.

Honda S2000 Demo Vehicle

AudioControl will be showcasing a 2000 Honda S2000 demo car built by Ata Ehdaivand, owner of Absolute Electronix in Rockville, MD. The audio system features a Sony RSX-GS9 high-resolution digital media receiver mated to an AudioControl DM-608 DSP processor with AccuBASS^®, two AudioControl LC-4.800 amplifiers driving Gladen Aerospace 3-way front speakers and one LC-1.800 amplifier driving four AlumaPro 8-inch woofers. The installation also features Stinger wire and Dynamat sound deadening material.

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 11, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced KnowledgeFest™, in its second year at the Long Beach Convention Center, marked another success:

• Attendance grew to more than 1500 attendees, including more than 900 retailer and 100 distributer attendees;
• The number of exhibitors increased to 53; occupying more than 70,000 square feet of exhibit space;
• 30 Hours of educational workshops; and
• A record-setting 68 hours of manufacturer trainings.

“Attendance-wise, this year in Long Beach our audience of mobile specialists was on par with last August’s KnowledgeFest Dallas, which is our long-standing flagship event now in its tenth year,” stated Chris Cook, MEA president. “This year’s increase in the number of exhibitors maxed-out the Long Beach show floor in its present configuration. We have room to expand for next year, and we’re planning some interesting new things to take advantage of that space.”

This weekend, March 15-17, KnowledgeFest sets its sights on Indianapolis. The Friday through Sunday event at the Indiana Convention Center brings its industry-recognized educational and training program and trade show floor to the Indy marketplace.

“2019 marks our fifth year in Indy. Yet, some in our industry still sell the Indy market short,” according to Cook. “KnowledgeFest Indy continues to grow with year-over-year growth. Attendee pre-registration is up more than 30 percent this year. Indy covers the market east of the Mississippi: the east coast and near east—cities, such as Pittsburgh and Cleveland. It's dealers from these markets who don’t show up for CES but are coming to Indy. There are manufacturers who recognize the value. After several expansions, our 2019 show floor is sold out.”

Kicking-off Indy, after a full day of educational sessions and manufacturer trainings, the show floor opens Friday at 4 PM for “Beer & Business”. This business-first event provides dealers and vendors with a relaxed setting to meet, see first-hand new products and do some business.

KnowledgeFest 2019 concludes with its Dallas event: August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center.

2020 KnowledgeFest Dates:

• Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 7-9, 2020
• Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
• NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
• Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 21-23, 2020

About KnowledgeFest

KnowledgeFest is now coast to coast. Its four regional trade-only events cover the eastern, southeastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.." style="color: #000000;">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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®, regional trade-only industry events 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.

MSC AMERICA announced today that they have added a new product category to an already impressive lineup.  

MSC and Mobile Solutions of Canada have been appointed as the exclusive Distribution Partner to STINGER LASER/RADAR SYSTEMS for North America. For over 25 years Stinger has been engineering and designing radar detectors, laser detectors and laser shields, specializing in speed trap protection systems tailor-made for high performance vehicles. Jason Digos- Vice President of MSC America stated- “The team at MSC is excited to offer the most technologically advanced speed trap detection system available today”. MSC will be hosting a brand introduction and training at Knowledgefest in Long Beach, CA on Saturday February 23^rd at 12:30pm in the Seaside 7 training room. Special guests will include Jim and Tom De Wilde from Stinger HQ! The training will cover an introduction to the brand, product overview along with how to present and excite clients on the idea of high end radar/laser protection systems. "This will be the most interactive hands-on training ever done in this category. We are not just going to tell you about our performance, we are going to show you!” says Digos.  

The new STINGER lineup will  be on display in the MSC booth #406 on the Knowledgefest show floor as well as prominently featured in all 3 of the MSC demo vehicles. Be sure to check out the stealth mounting possibilities of the new Fiber Laser and  HD+ Radar Antenna featuring Patch Array technology.

For questions please contact : Jason Digos at (480) 372-2929 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. For the Canadian Market contact- Chris Van Ry (403) 828-8191 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

MSC America and Mobile Solutions of Canada are the exclusive distributors for Audiotec Fischer (BRAX, Helix, Match) from Germany, BLAM Audio from France and STINGER from The Netherlands. MSC America is headquartered in Mesa Arizona. The Mesa facility houses sales operations, training and technical support for the U.S. Market.

Mobile Solutions of Canada is Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta.

Oklahoma City, OK, January 28th, 2019 -- DD Audio is proud to announce the immediate release of The Z4 Subwoofer. The new Z4 is an 18 lens grade 52 neodymium open motor design. By increasing the surface area of the voice coil, size of the magnetic gap, and its heat dissipating abilities, the Z4 is able to be driven just as hard as the Z3, but with increased long-term high power handling. The USA steel motor parts are machined in DD Audio’s hometown of OKC, and all the moving parts are USA made from the finest materials and manufacturing methods available. The Z series is DD Audio’s highest performing subwoofer line, designed specifically for precision, with competition in mind. Using the strongest motor on the planet, the Z series has won every major Sound Quality and Sound Pressure Level contest, in every variant, all over the world. The Z4 is for pros who know how to take advantage of the higher energy and improved handling. Everything but the frame has been upgraded to further eliminate loss of energy, better manage magnetic field distortion, and improve stress handling.

Like the Z3 and the MiniZ in the current lineup of Z subwoofers, the Z4 has been designed with distinguishing characteristics. Due to its open motor structure, the Z series experiences an increased benefit from cooling channels machined into the pole piece, resulting in a higher volume of airflow redirected to the voice coil. The pillars surrounding the pole have been extended to allow for increased excursion and longer coil windings. The magnetic configuration changed slightly to make use of the very high iron content steel to increase the flux energy that crosses the gap. The new Z4 is the most powerful Z that DD Audio have ever made.

Learn more at http://ddaudio.com/ddz

Oklahoma City, OK, January 16th, 2019 -- DD Audio is proud to announce the immediate release of the CC6.5a Component Speaker System. By combining elements from our legendary A and B Class speakers DD Audio redesigned every component in the CC6.5a set to work together to deliver a powerful listening experience. The cloth dome CT28 tweeters provide exceptionally smooth highs. They feature machined aluminum housings with vented backs for an extended frequency response and superb voice coil cooling. The CX02 crossover networks are utilize Mylar capacitors and segmented air-core inductors to maintain power and thermal efficiency. In addition to these premium features, selectable tweeter levels were provided for fine high-frequency tuning. The cast aluminum frame and aluminum cone combined with soft rubber dustcap and surround allow the CC6.5a mid-drivers to efficiently produce the perfect mix of mid-bass and upper mid-range tone. Their voice coils feature a double slit former and copper pole caps to reduce inductance, for TRUE TO THE SOURCE ® sonic precision. All of this results in a component set designed to bathe listeners in tonal luxury. Upgrade Your Sound TM today with the CC6.5a Component Speaker System.

Begin the New Year with hope for your future and the future of your business.

What have you done today to make your business better for tomorrow? Your business need not be defined by what you did yesterday. Don’t let past mistakes define your future. Learn from, then let go of the past. It really should be defined by what you do today and then strive to repeat those successes going forward. It may be hard to make such bold statements when you remember your past failures. Learning from your own past takes reflection and will serve to produce wisdom that only comes when you have truly experienced failure.

Analyzing Your Past
Take a hard look at your... Read the rest of the story HERE.

Holly Hill, FL – December 27, 2018 – Metra PowerSports^® announces new lighting brackets and harnesses designed for mounting and integrating four Heise LED cube lights into a wide-range of Polaris^® ATVs and UTVs. For drivers who want additional off-road lighting for their ATV or UTV, adding Heise 3-inch cube lights will be much easier with this kit. The mounts use OEM hardware and have steel construction with a durable sand grit powder coating. Vehicle-specific wiring harness adapters are also available to make installation easier and maintain the high and low beam operation, utilizing the factory headlight switch. The brackets fit any of the Heise LED 3-inch cube light products, allowing for white, green hunting, or RGB light color options.

The MPS-RZHB1 Fits:

2016-2017 Polaris General 1000
2014-2016 Polaris RZR XP 1000
2014-2016 Polaris RZR XP 4 1000
2015-2016 Polaris RZR 900
2016 Polaris RZR XP TURBO
2016 Polaris RZR XP 4 TURBO

The MPS-RZHB2 Fits:

2012 Polaris RZR 4 XP 900
2012 Polaris RZR XP 900 EFI
2014 Polaris RZR 4 900
2014 Polaris RZR 900
2013 Polaris RZR XP 900 EFI
2013 Polaris RZR XP 4 900 EFI
2013 Polaris RZR 4 XP JAGGED X
2014 Polaris RZR S 800
2014 Polaris RZR 800

The MPS-RZRH1 plug and play harness is compatible with OEM halogen headlights and has Delphi 3-Pin to a pair of Deutsch 2-Pin connectors for separate high and low beam connections. The MPS-RZRHLH1 plug and play harness is compatible with OEM LED headlights and has a pair of left and right Delphi 4-Pin to Deutsch 2-Pin connectors for separate high and low beam connections that are specific to the driver and passenger side.

Additionally, 37 new motorcycle audio and lighting accessories by Saddle Tramp™ will be added to the Metra PowerSports website. All of these new products will be on display at CES in the Metra Electronics booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 8 - 11, 2019. New product catalogs will be available to download at MetraOnline.com on January 8, 2019, with additional product announcements leading up to CES.

Holly Hill, FL – December 27, 2018 – Metra Electronics^® announces 37 new motorcycle audio and lighting accessories from Saddle Tramp™ that will be on display at CES 2019. The accessories are designed specifically for a wide range of popular Harley-Davidson^® models, offering OEM-quality upgrades for brighter lights and adapters to retrofit and mount new audio systems. Headlight trim rings also fit additional motorcycle models by Indian and Yamaha. Metra’s Saddle Tramp brand was first introduced in 2016 under the Metra PowerSports division and has now grown to include its own catalog, consisting exclusively of motorcycle accessories.

Harley-Davidson LED Signal Lights and Accessories

Saddle Tramp has designed three products with extra bright LEDs to replace factory turn signals and brake light indicators for a wide range of Harley-Davidson models. The BC-1157AW and BC-1157RD fit all Harley-Davidson models with 2” bullet style front turn signals and the BC-1156RD fits models with 2” brake/turn signals. These lights are sold as a pair and use Generation II brighter and flat-style LEDs. For 2013 and earlier models, Saddle Tramp load equalizers (BC-HDLE1 and BC-HDLE2) may be required to stop hyper flashing when replacing LED turn lights. Models with 3 ¼” housing require the BC-1157RING adapter ring.

Harley-Davidson V-Rod Headlights

Saddle Tramp’s 7” oblong oval shaped replacement headlight retrofits Harley-Davidson V-Rod style headlights to provide eight bright CREE LEDs and a projector lens. They are available in two styles, constructed with high-quality materials and rated IP67 for long-lasting performance. The headlights are designed specifically for Harley-Davidson 2002-2017 V-Rod VRSCAW, Muscle and VRSCDX models only. Available in chrome (BC-HDHLR2) or black (BC-HDHLR1) reflector styles.

Motorcycle Headlight Housing and Trim Rings

Saddle Tramp has engineered 5.75” headlight housing buckets and 4.5” fog and turning signal light housing mount buckets to fit Harley-Davidson models, available in chrome or black. Visor style headlight trim rings with a classic 50s profile are also being introduced in chrome or black for 5.75” and 7” headlight sizes, fitting a wide range of Harley-Davidson models. The 7” trim ring extends forward giving the headlight a classic "frenched" style from the 1950s, which recesses the headlamp for an added depth appearance.

5.75” Headlight Housing: Black (BC-HDBUC2) or chrome (BC-HDBUC1) fits select Harley-Davidson Dyna models and more

4.5” Fog/Turning Light Housing: Black (BC-HDBUC5) or chrome (BC-HDBUC6) fits select Harley-Davidson Sportster, 883 and 1200 models and is sold in pairs.

5.75" Trim Ring: Black (BC-HDTRIM1) or chrome (BC-HDTRIM2) fits select Harley-Davidson Sportster, 883, 1200 and Dyna models.

7” Trim Ring: Black (BC-HDTRIM3) or chrome (BC-HDTRIM4) fits select fits Harley-Davidson 1983-2013 Touring, 2012-2014 FLD, 1994-2014 FLHR, 1986-2014-FLST Models

Harley-Davidson Tail Lights and Accessories

Saddle Tramp has designed eight different replacement LED tail lights for Harley-Davidson to provide bright, fast-acting visual alerts. A low-profile chopped fender edge light in a red (BC-HDTL1) or smoke (BC-HDTL2) lens color fits Harley-Davidson Sportsters with a chopped rear fender. For select Harley-Davidson Dyna, Softtail, Sportster and Touring models, a LED tail light with turn signals is available in red (BC-HDTL3) or clear (BC-HDTL4) lens colors, replacing the factory rear tail lamp. For select Touring and Dyna models, a layback, angular style low-profile tail light shaped to complement the rear fender is available in red (BC-HDTL5) or smoke (BC-HDTL6) lens colors. A contemporary style red brake and running light with white license plate LEDs tail light is available in red (BC-HDTL7) or smoke (BC-HDTL8) lens colors. Brake strobe flasher modules which allow the tail light to flash/strobe multiple times and then remain lit until the brake is released are also available for incandescent bulbs (BC-HDBLF) or LED conversion (BC-HDLEDBLF).

Harley-Davidson Lower Fairing Speaker Adapters

New Saddle Tramp adaptors allow the installation of left and right speakers at the lower fairing to provide additional sound directed at the rider, giving a better audio experience. The adapters are designed for a wide range of Harley-Davidson^® models and work with the OEM hardware, installing easily with no modification required. Left and right speaker pods are included.

BC-HDLSP-1: Fits 6.5” speaker pods for Harley-Davidson 1994-2013 models with vented lower fairings
BC-HDLFP: Fits 6.5” to 6.75” speaker pods for select Harley-Davidson Touring, Electra Glide and Road Glide Ultra models
BC-HDLFSP-1: Fits 6.5” speaker pods for Harley-Davidson 1983-2013 Touring FL Models

Harley-Davidson Saddlebag Lid Speaker Adapters

Motorcycle audio upgrades replacing the factory speakers will be easier with four new styles of saddlebag lid speaker adapters. The Saddle Tramp adapters are made of ABS plastic, work with the OEM hardware and are sold as a pair with gaskets included.

BC-HD365-1: Each lid fits three 5.25” speakers for Harley-Davidson 1994-2013 Touring and 1994-2012 Ultra Classic, Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King models
BC-HDD6X9-1: Each lid fits two 6” x 9” speakers for Harley-Davidson 1994-2013 Touring and 1994-2012 Ultra Classic, Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King models
BC-HDD6X9-2: Each lid fits two 6” x 9” speakers for Harley-Davidson 1994-2013 Touring and 1994-2012 Ultra Classic, Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King models
BC-HDD6X9-14U: Each lid fits two 6” x 9” speakers for Harley-Davidson 2014-up* Touring, Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide and Ultra-Classic models

Harley-Davidson Amplifier Mounts
For audio system upgrades, Saddle Tramp has designed vehicle-specific Harley-Davidson mounting brackets to fit Metra PowerSports^® micro-amplifiers, which may also fit other micro-amps. The mounting brackets feature durable steel construction with UV powder coating and are available in four different options.

BC-AMP01: Fits all Harley-Davidson Touring models with hard saddlebags
BC-AMP02: Fits 1998-2013 Harley-Davidson Touring Street Glide Models with batwing fairing
BC-AMP03: Fits 1998-2013 Harley-Davidson Touring Street Glide models with batwing fairing
BC-AMP04: Fits 2015 and Up* Harley-Davidson Road Glide models

All of these new products will be on display at CES in the Metra Electronics booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 8 - 11, 2019. The new Saddle Tramp catalog will be available to download at MetraPowerSports.com on January 8, 2019. *Visit MetraPowerSports.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific information.

Now Shipping, the Affordable and Element Ready PMX-BTUR Remote Control Allows

Users to Adjust Volume, Track, Play, and Pause on Android® or Apple® Mobile Devices

TEMPE, Ariz. – December 17, 2018 – Enthusiasts who use a mobile device as their source are going to love this remote’s compatibility due to its Element Ready design, which makes it perfect for any weather or riding condition.

Rockford Fosgate (www.rockfordfosgate.com), the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is proud to announce the launch of the PMX-BTUR universal Bluetooth® remote control. It’s designed for use on automotive, marine, and SXS steering wheels, or motorcycle handlebars like the Road King® that utilize a mobile device as the source for the audio system. With an MSRP of only $99.99, the PMX-BTUR is now shipping.

“The PMX-BTUR allows the user to adjust Volume, Track, Play, and Pause on Android® or Apple® mobile devices,” explained Jake Braaten, Rockford Vice President of New Product Development and Engineering. “The Bluetooth® 4.0 Smart Ready receiver quickly and easily pairs with your mobile device using an easy one-button pairing control. Two options are included with the remote…a bezel for hand-held control, and a bezel for mounting with a Velcro strap that easily secures the remote to the steering wheel. IP67 Water Intrusion, Salt Spray, and UV Compliant, it’s the ideal remote for marine or SXS enthusiast.”

Additional features and specifications for the PMX-BTUR include:

• Easy One Button Pairing
• 10 Meter Bluetooth® Range
• Compatible with Android 5.0 and Above, iOS 8.0 and Above
• Up to Two Years of Standby Time
• Hand-Held and Steering Wheel Options Included
• LED Pairing Indicator (Green)
• LED Low Battery Indicator (Red)
• FCC, IC, RCM, CE Certified
• 1 Year Warranty

For more information on the PMX-BTUR Bluetooth® universal remote control, please visit rockfordfosgate.com.

About Rockford Corporation

Setting the standard for excellence in the audio industry, the Rockford Corporation markets and distributes high-performance audio systems for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM market.  Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a publicly traded company and manufactures or distributes its products under multiple brands: Rockford Fosgate(R), CrimeStopper, and Renegade. For more information, please visit: www.rockfordfosgate.com, www.crimestopper.com, and www.renegadecaraudio.com.

Las Vegas, Nev. – (October 29, 2018) SCOSCHE® – (pronounced skōsh/skohsh) Industries, innovators of award-winning consumer technology, powersports, car audio products and accessories will be introducing new products across the board at the upcoming SEMA and AAPEX Shows in Las Vegas, Nev. Visit us at SEMA in Booth #11717, North Hall of the Convention Center, and at AAPEX in Booth# 5542, Level 2 at the Sands Expo Center, for a demonstration of these and other innovative Scosche products.

The MagicMount™ Charge Direct Fit Qi-Wireless Charging Solutions join the Scosche range of MagicMount Pro Charge Wireless Charging window, dash and vent-mounted options. We’re adding to the growing line of Direct Fit vehicle make- and model-specific options, which now includes Toyota Tacoma and Tesla 3, as well as a universal version. The Universal version was selected by TWICE for a 2018 Very Important Product (VIP) Award.

The MagicMount Charge Direct Fit combines the latest (and safest) Qi Wireless Charging technology with the #1 U.S. mount brand. It provides up to 10W of charging power, supports Apple and Samsung Fast Charge, and holds your device securely with powerful, 100% device-safe Neodymium magnets. Qi-Certified for compatibility with current and future Qi-enabled devices, the Direct Fit includes advanced safety features such as foreign object detection.

Building on the success of the BaseClamp and TerraClamp lines of powersports mounts, Scosche will be debuting their latest addition, Terra2Clamps . Built from heavy duty resin and rust-free stainless steel hardware, Terra2Clamps, come in two sizes, which can be adjusted to accommodate a range of diameters from 1 to 3.5 inches. Designed to securely mount everything from a phone to a fire extinguisher to ATVs, UTVs, PWCs, boats, bikes and motorcycles, Terra2Clamps are adaptable, adjustable and affordable.

As the innovator of in-dash vehicle integration products, Scosche introduced the first generation of Integrated TouchScreen Control (ITC) installation kits in 2012. T his year we are excited to introduce the first kits to include a dual, full-color touchscreen system to control the vehicle’s HVAC, as well as other vehicle technology systems and convenience features. The kit requires no complex programming or cutting of any of the OEM wiring in the vehicle during installation.

The latest Scosche ITC line is comprised of: The Integrated Car series kits contain touch panel control or Digital Display Retention Interfaces. The Link Series Interfaces offer all information necessary to keep the vehicle fully operable when the radio is upgraded to an aftermarket model, including steering wheel controls retention. The Link+ Series adds features like amplifier retention, reverse camera retention, and/or USB retention. Amplifier add-ons for select European vehicles allow you to keep your SKU mix in check, so you stock the right balance of interfaces and amplifier upgrades. Follow us on: Instagram (@scoscheinc) and @scosche on Twitter, Facebook, GOOGLE+, Pinterest and LinkedIn for the latest news on all of the company’s award-winning consumer tech and car audio products and accessories.

Las Vegas, Nev. – (October 29, 2018) SCOSCHE® – (pronounced skōsh/skohsh) Industries, a leading innovator of car audio, powersports, and consumer technology products will showcase their products in no less than 24 show vehicles at this year’s SEMA Show. SEMA attendees are invited to visit Scosche in the Las Vegas Convention Center, North Hall at Booth #11717 to see our latest car audio installation solutions, newest powersports mounts line, Direct Fit Qi-wireless charging solutions, and mobile accessories for most domestic and imported vehicles.

Scosche’s headline vehicle this year is a unique 2018 Jeep JL Rubicon , built by the pros at Rockstar Garage of Southern California . It is supported by a host of top automotive aftermarket companies including:
Performance enhancements : Battery by Odyssey; Intake by K&N; Tuner by SuperChips; and Exhaust by MagnaFlow
Protection : Front and rear high-clearance bumpers by Gen-Right Offroad; and Sliders by Rockslide Engineering.Suspension: Shocks by Fox: 3.0; and 2.5” Lift by Rock Krawler. Lights : Pods and Rock Lights by GG Lighting. Wheels and Tires: Addict 2: Wheels by KMC; and 37” Extreme Country Tires by Dick Cepek. Recovery: Zeon S-12 Winch by Warn; and Fair Lead by Factor 55. Miscellaneous: Bantam 8 Switch Control System by sPOD; CO2 Air System by PowerTank.; Electric Cooler by Dometic; and Rooftop Tent by CVT. The Jeep wouldn’t be complete without road-tested Scosche products, including: MagicMount™ Pro Window/Dash Device Mounts, the Revolt Dual Charger, and EFX Installation Wiring. "The Scosche Family is excited to present this year's product line-up at SEMA!

We have over 200 new products represented in vehicles throughout the show in our Brand Ambassadors’ and Industry Partners’ booths. Visit us at the Scosche booth #11717, and check out one (or more) of the two dozen, fully modified show vehicles loaded with Scosche gear."
– Kas Alves, Executive Vice President, Scosche Industries

Visit Booth, #90060 In South Hall Upper level, to see the RSG build of Scosche’s 2018 CanAm X3 rs Turbo R, with a custom UTV Wolfpack roll cage, lighting by GG Lighting, KMC Machete wheels, Micky Thompson Baja Claws tires and more. This is also a great opportunity to see
Scosche PowerSports mounts in use on the vehicle. Scosche’s two headline vehicles from the 2017 SEMA Show, supported by top automotive aftermarket companies, will be back for 2018! The updated 2017 Camburg Racing built Scosche Toyota Tacoma TRD will be on display
at the DECKED exhibit, in the Silver Lot #61022 . Scosche’s 2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali, which has been rebuilt into a massive
Overland vehicle, will be on display in the Titan Fuel Tanks exhibit in the Silver Lot #62002. In addition to our four show vehicles, look for Scosche products that feature in the project vehicle builds of 20 of our automotive industry partners throughout SEMA. There’s something
for everyone and every interest, from a rugged, hard-working, yet still great-looking, array of trucks, to some seriously well-equipped (and seriously fun) UTV and ATV vehicles. Scosche products look good in every vehicle, as you will see – from the best of American muscle – the new Dodge Demon, to the refined European power of Porsche and BMW.

Visit Scosche at the AAPEX Show – Booth# 5542, Level 2, Sands Expo Center, Oct. 30 – Nov. 2. Follow us on: Instagram (@scoscheinc) and @scosche on Twitter, Facebook, GOOGLE+, Pinterest and LinkedIn for the latest news on all of the company’s award-winning consumer tech and car audio products and accessories. And also visit our company Press Room on Scosche.com.

SiriusXM to Acquire Pandora in All-Stock Transaction Valuing Pandora at $3.5 Billion

Both SiriusXM and Pandora Brands, Products, and Services to Continue
Complementary Transaction Adds Largest U.S. Audio Streaming Platform to SiriusXM's Strong in-Car Presence
Pandora to Benefit from SiriusXM's Scale, Industry Expertise, and Financial Resources
SiriusXM to Benefit from Pandora's Mobile Strength, Digital Presence, and Ad Capabilities
Investor and Analyst Call Scheduled for This Morning at 8:30 AM ET

There are many ways to learn new strategies and absorb knowledge during lectures and trainings. Continually putting these tactics into practice as you study new processes is essential for personal and professional growth.

Not knowing how to do something can leave you feeling less than adequate. That feeling is compounded when it’s your job to know it. Knowledge truly is the power behind your success, and there are many ways to learn. If you are like most of us, learning is a result of just figuring it out on your own and using every available resource to find a solution to your problem. Taking the solitary approach can be satisfying, but you may have to endure several mistakes before you find what works best. This takes time and money and depending on your situation, may cause others to doubt your ability. And, you won’t get the benefit of learning from the mistakes of others. Regardless, if you’re attempting to learn something new at a lecture, class, or training, or trying to find a better way with your current process, knowing how best to absorb knowledge will help you reach your goals.

Listening

Learning by hearing allows you to pick up the experience of others and put into practice what you have heard, or to learn from their past mistakes. Hearing someone tell their story helps you relate personally, although just hearing it may not be enough. If the presenter is less than descriptive, you may be left to your own interpretation of what you have heard when implementing this newfound knowledge. This can lead to mistakes that leave you less that satisfied.

Seeing is Believing

Seeing how it’s done is the next step after listening to an explanation. A visual representation can make all the difference. While hearing may leave you wondering, when you see it done step-by-step, you have a better chance of figuring it out for yourself. Watching video representations of a process will get your further down the road of understanding. But seeing may not leave you fully believing. There is still room for some interpretation.

Modeling Others

In my opinion, there’s nothing better than a live demonstration, and modeling what you have seen and heard with the instructor. This allows real-time questions and answers to cement your understanding. Think about the last time you participated in a learning process that was hands-on. You heard the instructor and saw their presentation. Both were most likely helpful and provided a great foundation to let you model the process with the instructor and others who may have provided input. When you left this environment, you were ready to put your newfound knowledge into practice.

Practice Until You’re Proficient

This new knowledge requires practice. Take the time to repeat the process until you feel you have become proficient. Once you have mastered the strategy you’ve learned, you can take some creative license to make it your own. Be cautious in your quest to make it yours. Making it your own should never include shortcuts that diminish the quality. Ensure your modification to what you’ve learned does not sacrifice quality. Your reputation is not something you want to have to rebuild. Remember, your work not only represents your business, it represents our industry.

Passing On What You’ve Learned

Learning from your peers is only the beginning. Now that you have learned from others and added your own ideas, consider passing your knowledge on to others. Passing on what you have learned will help others embrace the perfection you have mastered. When you take time to teach, you will find another level of learning. Teaching is a rewarding endeavor. The peer to peer learning process is the foundation of KnowledgeFest and why so many come to learn and leave the event energized and ready to conquer challenges in their own businesses.

Make every effort to learn something new every day, week and month. Never let your quest for learning be put on the shelf. And make every effort to be part of any learning experience offered. If you have not attended a local dealer or distributor training, or made plans to attend KnowledgeFest, now is the time. Go with a mission and goal to learn what you lack, share the knowledge and become the professional you were born to be.

VISTA, Calif. (February 16, 2018) Directed, a leader in the automotive aftermarket and connected car space, announced today that technology veteran Robert Lacroix has joined the company as Vice President of Engineering. Lacroix will lead Directed’s global engineering team from its Lachine (Montreal), Quebec office. He will help drive Directed’s aggressive growth plans in connected car products and services.

“Rob brings over two decades of innovation and engineering accomplishments to Directed,” said Bob Struble, Directed CEO. “His successful track record of building and managing large technical teams through complex new product launches will ensure that Directed maintains its preeminent market position. I’m thrilled to add Rob to our executive team, and welcome his leadership and vision.”

Prior to joining Directed, Mr. Lacroix led Engineering and R&D activities at Immersion Corporation. He has broad experience in software and hardware systems and new product development as well as specific expertise in wireless and Bluetooth. Mr. Lacroix has over 50 patents granted or pending. He earned his Bachelors degree in Engineering from McGill University.

"I am looking forward to working with the talented engineering team in Lachine to further Directed’s leadership in aftermarket automotive and connected car," added Mr. Lacroix. "The automotive sector is in the midst of great transformation, creating opportunity for innovators.  It’s an exciting time at Directed, and I’m thrilled to join the team and help drive our growth strategy."

Don’t Miss Out

KnowledgeFest is Your Place to Learn and Connect with the Mobile Electronics Community

"These education events are designed provide you with the latest information to help you advance the professionalism and profitability of your business."

If you missed attending CES 2018 then take heart in knowing that you have another chance to discover your favorite brands at KnowledgeFest West in Long Beach, California, KnowledgeFest East in Indianapolis, Indiana and KnowledgeFest Dallas in Dallas, Texas. KnowledgeFest is the only industry event dedicated to the mobile electronics specialist, the installing dealer. These events combine a trade show floor with educational workshops and manufacturer trainings for added value to you, the attendee.

The next event is just around the corner in Long Beach California, February 23-25, 2018. This city is a great destination for West Coast dealers, especially those in the Southern California market. The Long Beach Convention Center is a downtown venue with lots of nearby hotels and restaurants. And February is a great time for manufacturers to showcase their new products and provide the best information and education to sell and install them.

The KnowledgeFest experience is designed to provide you with the information you need to provide that experience. Here's how:

Education

Learning from the best in our industry provides an unequalled educational experience that now occurs three times a year. Make plans to experience the next event in your area. These events combine educational workshops and manufacturer trainings with a trade show floor. No other event provides the quality and hours of training targeted to mobile specialists. These education events are designed provide you with the latest information to help you advance the professionalism and profitability of your business. Employees of MEA member companies attend all KnowledgeFest events free of charge.

The three-day event is packed with more than 40 hours of top-notch educational workshops, great networking opportunities, over 50 hours of manufacturer training sessions, and an exhibit floor on which new products and categories are available to discover. Educational workshops and manufacturer trainings will empower you to deliver exceptional customer experiences and grow your business.

Information

Mobile Electronics Association publishes Mobile Electronics® magazine, the best read for business, sales and installation. Mobile Electronics magazine, our Hotwire e-newsletter and various websites keep you in the know and ready for action. MEA member companies and their employees receive free magazines, e-newsletter subscriptions and access to MEA digital media. Social media sites like the Mobile Electronics Facebook page also offer ways to connect with the industry.

Empowerment

Mobile Electronics Association is the only industry group dedicated to the 12-volt specialist. Our primary focus is help you build your business. The MEA community is comprised of retailers, manufacturers, sales reps, distributors and service providers. The Mobile Electronics Association is committed to growing the mobile electronics industry and ensuring a future for mobile specialists. You can support that through your membership. Become a part of our community. Be empowered. Let your voice be heard and ensure your interests are represented.

Learn by Profession

The education at KnowledgeFest is comprised of three tracks that focus on each area of expertise. For the installer, there is the Technician and Fabricator track. This track provides a balance of the top techniques for making physical modifications to the vehicle as well technical expertise for key topics like remote start and audio upgrades. The Sales and Marketing track will appeal to owners, managers, sales professionals and those responsible for marketing. You will learn tried-and-true processes taught by retailers who use these techniques effectively in their own businesses.

Also, for the entrepreneur there is the Owner and Manager track. This year the focus will be on essential practices that every CEO should live by. Topics will include: a day in the life of a CEO and learning the best way to calculate your true hourly rate. In addition to these business building topics, a special keynote address will help you define what success in your business and life should look like.

Peer Advice, Meet the Makers

KnowledgeFest provides the best networking opportunity in our industry! Talk one-on-one with people with whom you do business (or should be). Participate in your choice of 50-plus product training sessions to get real insight on product characteristics and selling strategies to make you the expert in your market.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a relative newcomer to mobile electronics, KnowledgeFest has something for you. Learn from the experiences of others in our industry who have dealt with both failure and success. Many social activities after hours add fun to the mix.

I challenge you to join us this February in Long Beach for our first KnowledgeFest on the West Coast.

On behalf of myself, and of the entire Mobile Electronics Association team, we thank you for being part of the only industry event dedicated to the Mobile Electronics Specialist, the installing dealer!

Read the story in Mobile Electronics magazine HERE.

LONG BEACH, CALIF., January 16, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE) – Last year, KENWOOD introduced Hi-Res Audio compatibility in its line of multimedia receivers. For its 2018 line which debuted at the 2018 CES, the brand is adding a pair of multi-channel amplifiers as well as two sets of component speakers that are fully capable of reproducing the extended-range audio as it was originally intended. The addition of these models allows KENWOOD to offer an end-to-end, premium audio experience for music lovers and audiophiles.

The XR901-5 (MSRP $650.00) is a five-channel amplifier in a two-inch-high chassis, ideal for under-seat applications. It produces 60 watts RMS from each of four channels with a frequency response of 20Hz to 50kHz at four ohms. The remaining channel provides 400 watts RMS at four ohms to a subwoofer. At less than 1.5 inches high, the XR401-4 (MSRP $450.00) features a four-channel structure that can be reconfigured to two or three channels. Its powerplant provides 75 watts per channel RMS with a frequency response of 20Hz to 50kHz at four ohms. Both models are two-ohm stable and allow for speaker-level or line-level inputs. Their output can be tailored with high-and low-pass filters and a wired remote control.

To complement the amplifiers, KENWOOD’s newest separates are specially designed to fit into most factory locations and still deliver a Hi-Res Audio-compliant frequency response of 25kHz to 48kHz. the XR-1603HR includes a 6.5-inch midrange, while the XR-1703HR features a 6.75-inch design. Both are partnered with a one-inch, silk-dome tweeter with adjustable surface-mount options. MSRP for both models is $600.00.

“With music services like TIDAL™ and Spotify®, which tout higher-bandwidth streaming, more attention is being paid to the Hi-Res Audio category in the vehicle,” said Tony Mercado, marketing manager for the KENWOOD brand. “We feel we are introducing Hi-Res Audio components to our retailers at the right time, giving them products that can really deliver on the experience that customers may have only read about.”

For more information on select models and features, visit www.kenwood.com/usa.