KnowledgeFest Show Coverage: Twice the Gear

From Long Beach to Indianapolis, this year’s February and March KnowledgeFest extravaganza revealedlots of new advancements in technology and product line upgrades in both audio and safety equipment.

Product / Service: Mat’s Pro Audio

Main Features: The Hi-Fi 6150D six-channel amplifier is manufactured in Jupiter, Florida. Channels five and six are overbuilt, allowing the installer to take it down to a one-ohm load. At the one-ohm load, 1,000 watts is available in that pair of channels. The amp can be used for any application. MSRP: About $1,099, with a three-year factory warranty. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Cadence / Oncore XW Series Subwoofers

Main Features: Subwoofers come in 12- or 15-inch, dual-two, dual-fours, built for sealed, ported or infinite baffle enclosures. The product provides 1,500 watts RMS. Fully reconable. Cadence offers lower-cost options sold to dealers and distributors, while Oncore is a dealer-direct line with territory restrictions. MSRP: Costs range from $999 to $1,599. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Directed Viper DS4+ Remote Start and Security

Main Features: The customer can control the product using an app. The system is smart enough to recognize the user’s phone and will lock and unlock automatically. The company is leveraging Bluetooth technologies and adding capabilities with new software that was introduced in January 2019. Another addition is 4G, speeding up response time between the app and the system. Costs vary. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Install Armor

Main Features: First revealed at KnowledgeFest Long Beach, Install Armor will have 22 different pieces available that the technician can use to protect the car from head to toe. The first items available are seat covers and floorboard covers for the driver and passenger side. The pair of seat covers and floorboard covers is $149.99, and can be preordered via www. kingpinuniverity.com.

Product / Service: JL Audio M6 Speaker Line

Main Features: JL Audio’s M6 offers “transflective” LED lighting, using a cone that reflects light from beneath and on top. By attaching up to 32 LEDs, depending on the model, along the frame of the woofer, the cone will illuminate from beneath and shine through evenly without any hot spots. Full RGB available. MSRP: $430 to $650 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Alpine Electronics KTA-450 Power Pack Amplifier

Main Features: This amplifier can easily connect to the new iLX-W650 mechless seven-inch audio and video system. Car- Play, Android Auto, multi-touch swipe control with dual-camera input. This product won the Innovation Award at CES due to the power pack. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: VOXX Universal Seatback Solution Main Features: These dual 10.1-inch touchscreen monitors with built-in Android operating systems will cover any consumer’s tech level, and are preloaded with the Google Play Store, Netflix and Chrome. Hotspot or Wi-Fi capability will allow the user to share content between the monitors. VOXX Link allows those in the front seat to control the system without having to see the monitors. MSRP: $1,499 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: VAIS Technology Universal GSR-UV01 Main Features: VAIS Technology now offers a unit that is flash-programable to any application, with Sirius XM over USB. After hooking it up and plugging in the USB to the factory port, once downloaded, the unit will flash itself to the vehicle. Sirius XM will show up on the factory screen. MSRP: $339, with the tuner. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: AudioControl DM-RTA

Main Features: The DM-RTA is a one-box solution for specialty installers, offering an RTA, high resolution, an SPL meter, a polarity checker, a scope and a voltage meter in one chassis that interfaces with an app. The app can be used on Windows or Mac. A Bluetooth iPad option is also available. The cost is $649. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: DD Audio ESP 6.5

Main Features: The newest edition of the Evolution Subwoofer Package with new basket tooling, the 1506, based on the 1500 platform, is not yet released. The sample was shown at KnowledgeFest Long Beach and is coming soon. MSRP: TBD Ship Date: TBD

Product / Service: K40 RL360DI With Laser Diffusers Main Features: The system is completely integrated into the vehicle, and all the customer sees after installation are two little LEDs. Two controller options are available. If the customer doesn’t want LEDs, K40 has partnered with Maestro RR and Kenwood JVC to offer a display on a radio screen. Coming out soon, K40 is partnering with Mid City Engineering to put data on the instrument cluster of newer Porches and Mercedes. Costs based on installation. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Accele Electronics 360-Degree DVR Rearview Mirror

Main Features: This touchscreen rearview mirror can record in 360 degrees, all around the vehicle, offering the driver multiple views. One camera at the bottom of the mirror records everything, omitting the need for multiple cameras. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: iDatalink Maestro RR2

Main Features: This upgraded product adds built-in Bluetooth. Programming can be done wirelessly, giving dealers the option of programming the device in the field or on-site if needed, using their mobile device. MSRP: TBD Ship Date: May 2019

Product / Service: Cerwin Vega Mobile V Max Subwoofer Main Features: This affordable subwoofer gives customers a flexible, high quality product. Can be easily hooked up in the spare tire area and provides high-quality results with little effort. MSRP: Around $250 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: TFP LED Emblems

Main Features: Grille overlays and LED grille lights allow the consumer to change the look of a vehicle inexpensively. The grille emblem comes in retail packaging, and replaces the OEM emblem. MSRP: Costs range from $99 to $199.95. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Rockford Fosgate Punch Amplifiers Main Features: Punch amplifiers give consumers a range of options depending on the application, and each amp is equipped with Rockford’s propriety circuit called “Clean,” enabling the installer to gain-match the amplifier to a source unit. The circuitry of the amp allows the installer to set it up without the use of external devices such as a scope. A series of LEDs on the amp will let the installer know when it’s been set up properly. MSRP: $199 - $599 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: USA Spec BSM200 Radar Sensor

Main Features: Multi-channel technology means the device is always monitoring, and it can detect other vehicles from any angle—front and back. The system knows when to alert the driver, and when not to. It’s easy to install and has an OBDII connection for accurate speed detection. Additionally, it is the only multi-channel OEM-like system on the market. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Dynaudio Speaker Lines

Main Features: Dynaudio offers three speaker lines from everyday use to competition-grade sound: Esotan, Esotec and Esotar. Available in two- and three-way component systems. MSRP: Prices range. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Author Alarm IGLA Anti-Theft Device Main Features: Author Alarm made their first appearance in the U.S. at KnowledgeFest Long Beach, where they promoted the IGLA. This device uses standard circuit conduits in a door-locking mechanism and is both easy to install and conceal.

Product / Service: Audison Line with TH 1.5 II Violino Softdome Tweeter

Main Features: The user gets more accurate, natural sound with Audison’s line of products, including this tweeter with a 34 mm CCAW single layer voice coil and 38 mm silk dome. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Kenwood eXcelon KFC-XP6902C Component Speakers Main Features: These speakers come as a set, providing solid mid-bass response, rich mids and high-frequency reproduction of sound. 300 watts of peak power and 100 watts of RMS power. Fits Chevy, Dodge, Toyota and more. MSRP: $219 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Metra T-Spec RCA Cables

Main Features: The packaging for these RCA cables have been redesigned for increased attractiveness and displaying in-store, and the quality of the product has also been improved. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Firstech Momento M6 Dash Cams

Main Features: The Momento M6 introduces an application-based system. The user can review the information via phone and share it through social media. The M6 has the same offerings as the M5, with a two-channel set up and a two-year warranty, with a GPS antenna and a 32 GB SD card, but adds the new app and sharing capabilities. MSRP: $449.99 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Morel Virtus Nano Speaker

Main Features: The new Virtus Nano is a very shallow speaker system that will fit in any application. It has a mounting depth of only .67 inches. A component version is also available, in twoway and three-way. Designed for a shallow mount where space is an issue. MSRP: $650.00 - $850.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: MSC America

Main Features: MSC America celebrated their one-year anniversary after launching last year at KnowledgeFest. The company represents Audiotech Fischer for Brax, Helix and Match, as well as Blam speakers. This year they began representing Stinger high-end radar detectors.

Product / Service: Linkswell T-Style Radios

Main Features: With a focus on pickup trucks and SUVs, Linkswell continues to expand product lines. With these Android tablets, users can access Internet, Google, emails and more. Consumers can choose to add navigation, or just download apps in place of navigation software, such as Waze or Google Maps. MSRP: $1,095 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Full Throttle Line of High Performance Batteries

Main Features: Built for automotive applications, these batteries offer a high rate of discharge for car audio. There are about 38 different sizes, ranging in price, depending on the customer’s needs and the application. MSRP: $50 - $800 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Eton RSR-80

Main Features: This new, small piece comes with multi-mount adapters for ease of installation and multiple applications. MSRP: TBD. Ship Date: TBD.

Product / Service: Radenso Radar

Main Features: Available for platinum dealers only, this product includes a five-year ticket guarantee and offers five laser jamming heads and radar. The product is easy to install. Costs vary. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Dynaliner Thermal Insulator

Main Features: This half-inch foam thermal insulator will cut down the heat in a vehicle to almost room temperature, keeping the car cooler to protect the interior, as well as electronic components. Available in three different thicknesses. MSRP: $69.00 to $109.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Maxxsonics Hifonics Alpha Series of Class-D Amplifiers

Main Features: The chassis and amplifiers are 25 percent smaller than conventional Hifonics amps, and more efficient. These are less conspicuous, and smaller so as to install in more confined spaces. MSRP: $199.00 to $599.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: JVC Kenwood, JVC KWM 650 BW

Main Features: This is a JVC brand entry-level CarPlay model with a short chassis, designed for applications in which there isn’t enough depth. This touchscreen product offers all of JVC’s traditional features, plus 13-band EQ for users who may want to tweak the system for improved sound. MSRP: $399 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: SQL Audio Sound Mat / Sound Wave Rubberized Speaker Surround

Main Features: This new brand from Certified Autosound was originally developed to service the installation needs of the company, and became a larger business. The brand debuted at KnowledgeFest Long Beach. The main focus is the company’s sound deadening product. Ship Date: TBD.

Product / Service: Escort iX Ci Radar and Laser System Main Features: The entry-level install system has been redesigned and repackaged. The technology has been upgraded and improved. Escort is offering two different custom install products. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Ground Zero OEM Plug-and-Play BMW Upgrades

Main Features: This line focuses on BMW upgrades including a tweeter that comes with a plug-and-play crossover system designed for late-model systems, along with an eight-inch subwoofer replacement. Requires few modifications. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Sony XAV-AX7000 AV Receiver with High-Power Sound

Main Features: Introduces a higher-power output to a screen unit with CarPlay and Android Auto, an upgrade from the 5000 unit. Offers 180 watts RMS, and ease of integration. MSRP: TBD Ship Date: End of summer 2019

Product / Service: SounDigital Four-Channel Amplifiers Main Features: We’re releasing two new four channels with variable crossovers and high level inputs and upgraded technology. 400.4 S and 800.4 S. Offers 100 watts per channel by four, and 200 watts per channel by four. MSRP: $200.00 - $310

Product / Service: Rydeen BSS2 and BSS1LPB Allin-One Blind-Spot Detection

Main Features: The BSS2 is a behind the bumper solution for blind spot detection. Radar sensors install behind the bumper. The BSS1LPB is an all-in-one solution that comes with a camera built into it. MSRP: $650 - $699 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Brandmotion Radar Blind Spot Detection RDBS-1520 for F-150

Main Features: This product easily attaches to the rear bumper, offering truck-specific radar blind spot detection. The housing blends into the OEM bumper. MSRP: About $1,000.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Crux RFM Camera Safety Integration Line Main Features: Newer cars offer camera safety, but Crux offers upgrades from those OEM systems. All integrated into one harness. The price point is about a tenth of what is offered at the dealership, providing huge savings. MSRP: $300.00 - $320.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Red Tail Telematics GPS Tracking Devices for Fleet and Insurance

w Red Tail’s GPS tracking devices come with options such as selecting driving behaviors, and crash reports. MSRP: $100.00 - $150.00 for hardware, plus monthly or annual plans. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: AAMP Global Phoenix Gold MX Series Amplifiers Main Features: The new MX Series provides compact amps built for vehicles that don’t have a lot of space. An 800-watt monoblock, 600-watt four-channel and 800-watt five-channel are available in the same size chassis for easy OEM integration. MSRP: $399.00 - $429.00

Product / Service: MB Quart Polaris RZR Audio Package Main Features: The powersports kit for 2014 to 2019 RZRs is plug and play and requires no modification to install the system. There are four speakers, eight-inch horn speakers and a ten-inch subwoofer, as well as a mechless powersports radio. The radio kits or just the speaker kits can be purchased separately, as well. MSRP: $2,299.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Race Sport Lighting Terminator Series LED Headlight Kit

Main Features: This kit comes with a two-year warranty, and fanless heat-sync technology. Easy to install. MSRP: Prices range from around $88 to $102. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Harman Infinity All-in-One Mechless Waterproof Stereo Receiver Main Features: Offers the ability to control RGB speakers and accessory LED colors from the unit itself. The KAPPRV515 receives AM, FM, WB and RDS broadcasts, and is Sirius XM-ready. It has Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary inputs. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Focal Utopia M Speaker Drivers

Main Features: The new M-profile cone combines rigidity, lightness and damping to make an ideal speaker driver. The line is offered with an a la carte concept, so the user can choose speaker drivers based on their own vehicle needs. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: DS18 Car Audio ATOM Amplifiers

Main Features: Three models are available: two-channel, four-channel, and one-channel. Each amp has a fully built-in crossover, and can fit almost anywhere. A waterproof version is also available for powersports. MSRP: $99 to $185. Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Zapco HDSP-Z16 V Player and Built-In DSP

Main Features: Zapco’s flagship product is a DSP unit that offers 16 channels—the first 16-channel processor available on the market. MSRP: $2,000.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Arc Audio Amplifier Line

Main Features: These amplifiers come with or without a DSP built-in. The DSP offers full integration panel menus, with the new DSP Pro platform. MSRP: $600 - $1,300 Ship Date: Now shipping.

Product / Service: Hybrid Audio Unity Series

Main Features: The company has introduced a new speaker in the Unity lineup, a shallow six-inch driver with 1.5 inches of depth, making it easy to fit into any vehicle. MSRP: $300.00 - $600.00 Ship Date: Now shipping.