PASMAG - Issue 132 Aug/Sept

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A U G U S T

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S E P T E M B E R

2 0 1 5

CONTENTS FEATURES 58 EURO NINJA Willy Lin’s S3 flies under the radar

74

DUBBLE TROUBLE A rare pair of Corrado Magnums

78

ROCKSTAR REDUX Tanner Foust’s VW Passat drift car

84 AUGHT TWO Clarion Builds’ BMW 2002 restoration

Page

66

SOUPED-UP

ReinART.Design's Widebody Audi R8 AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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info@mdaudio.net For dealers inquires: www.orioncaraudio.com | T: (305) 593.8361 | F: (305) 593.8413 | Toll free: 1-855.475.6048 Miami, FL - USA @orioncaraudioofficial facebook.com/orion.car.audio | twitter.com/OrionCarAudio

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A U G U S T

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S E P T E M B E R

2 0 1 5

CONTENTS tr.

TRENDING 18

HOT EURO CONCEPTS Audi TT Clubsport, BMW Hommage CSL & VW Golf GTE Sport

23

FEATURED EVENT Wörthersee

29

FEATURED EVENT Fitted

33

EVENT SPOTTER’S GUIDE

36

HOT NEW PRODUCTS

MOBILE ELECTRONICS 40 SOUND ADVICE Q&A with Garry Springgay

42

TEST REPORT Axxera AV622BH Head Unit

46 TEST REPORT AudioControl The Epicenter Amplifier

52

GARRY’S GARAGE Project C6 Part 3

56 CABE’S CORNER Building The World’s Loudest VW Beetle

COMPETITION 90 TBG LIVE WINNER Rui Paulo Nascimento’s Audi TTS

92

JACOB’S DRIFT INSIDER Drift Team Profile: Nitto Tire

LIFESTYLE 94 KONIG WHEEL CALENDAR Lexii Kelley & the Konig Oversteer (August)

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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PASMAG (ISSN # 1710-1573) is published 6 times a year by Performance Auto & Sound Inc. 100A-219 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON, M6K 3J1, Canada SUBSCRIPTION RATES: (10 issues) Canada and USA: $24.99 (20 issues) Canada and USA: $34.99 (30 issues) Canada and USA: $42.99 Toll Free: 1 (888) 564-SUBS [7827] Email: subs@pasmag.com www.pasmag.com/subscribe GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO Tim Rutledge PUBLISHERS Blake Breslin & Perry Breslin FOUNDER & SR. VP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Frank Spezzano

EDITORIAL GROUP MANAGING EDITOR Shaun Keenan SENIOR EDITOR Jordan Lenssen ASSOCIATE EDITOR Micky Slinger TECHNICAL EDITOR Garry Springgay

CONTRIBUTORS Beansfotos Raynald Bélanger Kevin Choi Brad Hodgin Shane Hunter Daniel Hyon Chris Kern John Kuitwaard Linus Lam

Jubal Leierer Jacob Leveton Brian Mundy Chris Nicholls Precise Perspective Fardeen Shere Cabe Sipes John Wakely

ART & PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR Queue Gonzalez PRODUCTION & SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Patrick Dinglasan SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Edward Shintani SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Patrick Beltijar GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mike Chan

SALES & MARKETING SENIOR DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Matthew Adolfo DIRECTOR, SALES & MARKETING Justin Hasan AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Randi Bentia SENIOR SALES ASSOCIATE Ken Rule

A D M I N I ST R AT I O N DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Craig Sweetman DIRECTOR, CLIENT SERVICES Richard Robles CLIENT SERVICES Anna Brown Performance Auto & Sound Magazine welcomes unsolicited contributions including stories (typewritten), photos, club news, events, etc. (Forward to PAS, 100A-219 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON, M6K 3J1, Canada) Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40069655 PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NIAGARA FALLS, NY AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. U.S.P.S. # 022-608 U.S. OFFICE OF PUBLICATION: 1855 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY, 14305 U.S. POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CORRECTIONS TO: Performance Auto & Sound, Box 1082, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304 Occasionally, we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies whose products and services might be of interest to our readers.

If you prefer to have your name removed from this list, please write to us at the address below and include your mailing label. For any subscription inquiries, including change of address, call 1 (888) 564-SUBS.

PERFORMANCE AUTO & SOUND Phone: (416) 922-7526 Fax: (416) 964-1836 Toll Free: (866) 737-8805 www.pasmag.com pas@pasmag.com

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SEMA Member

2015-06-09 3:31 PM

ISSUE PREVIEW

DAS GUT JA?

H

allo! Guten tag! We interrupt your usual issue of PASMAG with this special European twist edition. Everything you love about Performance Auto & Sound Magazine is still intact, don’t you worry, we just gathered some killer content from Bavaria and beyond to show our Euro fanbase some love.

For instance, our Trending section kicks off with some amazing coverage of Wörthersee – the largest Volkswagen and Audi show in Europe, 34 years running. We also take a peak at some notable new European concepts and even have a couple pages packed with Eurothemed goodies for you and your ride.

Feature-wise, we’re running a pretty strong line-up. ReinART.Design and Brixton Forged have teamed up to build the R8 of everyone’s dreams. This stylish widebody has been the background on my desktop for a while now. We also dug up a pair of probably the rarest V-Dubs on the face of the planet. A Corrado wagon? What?! There’s even something I’ve been chasing since I saw it unveiled at CES – the Clarion Builds BMW 2002. Get a look at how this modernized classic came together for a great cause.

We’ve got you covered in the Competition section, too. Tanner Foust riled up Formula Drift fans by announcing his return, in a monster Passat no less! Our Sensei of Drift, Jacob Leveton, got some alone time with the car, and made his way through it behind the lens and the keyboard. Look for that and his team profile on the present drivers of Nitto Tire.

And of course, Garry Springgay, our audio workhorse, has been pumping out the reviews. Looking for a new amplifier or source unit? Check out AudioControl’s triumphant return to the amplifier market with its The Epicenter amplifiers and Axxera’s clever head unit, which has got everything and the kitchen sink in it.

Thanks for snagging a copy and enjoy your European holiday. Whether you enjoyed your stay, or would rather write a seething Yelp review, let us know at letters@pasmag.com. We always love to hear from you.

Auf wiedersehen!

MICKY SLINGER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

C O N N E C T MAKING IT EASIER TO STALK US THAN EVER BEFORE!

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F E AT U R E D

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EVENTS

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GUIDE ------------

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HOT TOPICS &

PREVIEWS AUDI TT CLUBSPORT CONCEPT

I

t’s no secret that in 2015, widebody makes everything a little better. With the Audi TT, that’s very much true. Fresh off of its redesign for 2015, the TT received some wide add-on parts, a big wing and some new go-fast technology under the hood. Released to the world at Wörthersee, the inspiration for this car came from the low, wide and finned Audi 90 IMSA GTO of the ‘80s. The Clubsport will be pushing racecar numbers as well, with approximately 600 horsepower and 479.4 lb-ft of torque on tap. Audi says there is “tremendous thrust right from the start” available via its electric

biturbo technology. A six-speed manual gearbox is mated to the 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, which gets its kicks from twin turbos that are having their compressors driven by a 48-volt electric power supply. Got all that?

In simple terms: there’s always boost on tap, at any speed. The TT Clubsport will sadly not see production, but the technology will. “In our TDI engines, we are close to production readiness with this technology,” says Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi Board Member for Technical Development. “We are now presenting it in a TFSI – here too, we are the first automaker in the world to do this.” Future electric twin-turbo S4 or Golf R anyone?

GET THE FULL PICTURE

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AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

2015-06-09 2:42 PM

Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec

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While the aggressive styling of the Genesis Coupe projects confidence, the real stories are its standard 348 horsepower GDI V6, astounding rear-wheel drive dynamics and available Brembo® brakes. Prefer something rally-inspired? The limited Veloster Rally Edition commands attention, taking its design cues and engine from the Veloster Turbo and adding lightweight RAYS® 18-inch alloys and a sportier suspension with upgraded dampers, springs, and stabilizer bar – all tuned for a new level of performance driving, engineered to exceed your expectations.

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C O N C E P T C A R S // H O T T O P I C S & P R E V I E W S

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BMW 3.0 CSL HOMMAGE CONCEPT

THE LATEST TRENDS, FULL THROTTLE

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The BMW 3.0 CSL is without a doubt one of the most successful Bimmers to grace motorsport.

Introduced in 1972 with a little more kick than the CS and a lot less weight, the 3.0 CSL gained the nickname “Batmobile” from its awesome aero kit. Having done a “Hommage” concept in 2011 of the 328 Touring Coupe that came out looking like an aggressive gentleman asking you to “Put up your dukes,” when BMW teased that they were giving the Hommage treatment to the CSL, expectations were high. When they delivered, reactions were about 50/50. What was unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este looked astounding from the rear and side profiles, but a little messy from the front. For the hardcore CSL fans though, everything was there: the hood wind deflectors, rear window spoiler and drawn-back trunk wing. Some were stuck on the color, which can be changed, but the face seemed to get the most

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTE SPORT

concept. Yes, it’s a concept,

needed, you could drive on just

but there’s some pretty exciting

electric power for up to about 31

technology being put to its use

miles with zero emissions.

The cockpit, high-precision

sured us that the propulsion will be

Wörthersee, being the larg-

model. A total of three motors

chassis, lightweight body and

partly electric – because what isn’t

est Volkswagen Auto Group

power this nearly all carbon

aerodynamic downforce all

these days? The CSL also stays

gathering in the world, almost

fiber body. Two of the motors

scream racetrack, which is why

true to the “L” in its name, meaning

always has something for Golf

are electric, while the other

it’s not so surprising to learn

“Leichtbau” or “Lightweight,” by

fans to drool over. Last year it

explodes old fashioned liquid

that the GTE Sport is engi-

using all kinds of carbon fiber and

was their Gran Turismo 6 Vision

dinosaurs, and all three result

neered for maximum on-track

other lightweight composites.

Concept, which was comprised

in around 395 horsepower and

performance.

of every Golf enthusiast’s wild-

a 174 mph top speed. Not bad

est dreams, but would never

for a hatchback! The electric

AWD hybrid Golf with an awe-

’72 CSL, or is its essence a little

see the light of day. This year,

drive units also make this Golf

some power-to-weight ratio?

stinky? Let us know: letters@

VW brought out the GTE Sport

all-wheel-drive capable, and if

We totally are!

pasmag.com.

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Trending-Hot Topics.indd 2

that could be on a future Golf

Would you be down for an

complaints.

Power-wise, BMW hasn’t released any specs, but they have as-

What do you think? Does this homage ooze the essence of the

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

2015-06-09 4:07 PM

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34th GTI MEET

LAKE WÖRTHERSEE DOWN BY THE LAKE, WHERE THE V-DUBS GO STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAUN KEENAN

E

very May since 1981, the idyllic Austrian village of Reifnitz on the southern shore of Lake Wörthersee is transformed by floods of V-Dub disciples and their rides.

Long considered the Mecca for GTI fans, the week-long meet draws more than 200,000 such enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond; and culminates into a frenzy of activity during the main event, which took place from May 13 to 16 this year.

Examples of practically every VW Golf and Rabbit GTI ever made, along with handfuls of Corrados, Sciroccos, Passats and Beetles were on hand for all to check out. The sheer number of pristine-condition Mk1 Golfs in attendance is likely unchallenged by museums the world over, and there were just as many modded versions at Wörthersee.

Some of the rarer models in attendance during my visit included a Golf Country, which is a light off-roading version of the Mk2 Golf, and a W12 Phaeton flexing some VIP style. I could go on and on.

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AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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LONG CONSIDERED THE MECCA FOR GTI FANS, THE WEEK-LONG MEET DRAWS MORE THAN 200,000 SUCH ENTHUSIASTS FROM ACROSS EUROPE AND BEYOND...

The Wörthersee GTI-Treffen is, in fact, Europe’s largest Audi / VW car show, and it has been a longstanding tradition for Volkswagen to bring along some special surprises for the many diehard visitors. SEAT and Škoda are also part of the Volkswagen Group and have significant corporate presences at the Wörthersee meet, but the VWs reign supreme – the GTI in particular – with Audi coming in second.

There is even a life-sized Mk2 GTI carved from stone that cements its position as the important mark – with a plaque bearing the phrase “Den Golf GTI freunden Volkswagen AG, 1987,” which loosely translates to “The Golf GTI, friends of Volkswagen AG...”

The first few meets were attended by hundreds of people, but today that number has grown to the thousands.

It’s important to note that the GTI-Treffen did not start as – nor is it considered – a corporate event. It is, however, extremely important to both brands that they bring out some of their newest and most technologically-advanced hardware.

On the Audi side, in addition to showing off its new R8 LMS and TT Sport Cup race cars, four rings aficionados were able to pore over the latest production models, including the new TTS Roadster and the latest RS models. Not satisfied at stopping there, Audi debuted its stunning TT Clubsport Turbo Technology Concept show car on the morning of May 14. Inspired by the successful Audi 90 IMSA GTO of the late 1980s, the widebody add-ons, big wing and 600-horsepower five-cylinder TFSI engine with electric-assist turbo technology are the things driving dreams are made of.

BOOSTED AND BLOWN UPDATES

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34th GTI MEET

LAKE WÖRTHERSEE

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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F E A T U R E D E V E N T // W Ö R T H E R S E E

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34th GTI MEET

LAKE WÖRTHERSEE

Meanwhile, Volkswagen waited for the crowds to build throughout the day and, after lunch, made its own statement with the world premieres of not one, but two Golf concepts: the Golf GTI Clubsport and the visionary Golf GTE Sport Concept car.

The former is set to become an anniversary model that will go into production next year to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the GTI. It’s being touted as the most powerful production GTI yet. The latter concept, meanwhile, offers a glimpse at where the Golf may be heading in the nottoo-distant future: The GTE Sport boasts a carbon fiber body, newly-conceived cockpit and a revolutionary plug-in hybrid powertrain making close to 400 horsepower via three motors, two of which are electric.

In addition to the world premieres (which included the new European Scirocco GTS by the way), Volkswagen apprentices also answered the call and showed off the Golf GTI Dark Shine and Golf Variant Biturbo Edition. The first is a sporty two-door Mk6 featuring a two-tone color scheme with dark Daytona Grey Metallic paint in the front and a unique R-yellow pearl

MEANWHILE, VOLKSWAGEN WAITED FOR THE CROWDS TO BUILD THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND, AFTER LUNCH, MADE ITS OWN STATEMENT WITH THE WORLD PREMIERES OF NOT ONE, BUT TWO GOLF CONCEPTS: THE GOLF GTI CLUBSPORT AND THE VISIONARY GOLF GTE SPORT CONCEPT CAR. effect in the rear. A modified 2.0-liter TSI engine with 390 horsepower, a carbon air box, specially-adapted intercooler, stainless steel exhaust and ECU tuning are also part of the package. In contrast, the technical highlight of the Golf Variant Biturbo Edition is a 2.0-liter biturbo diesel engine with 237 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque that’s paired with 4Motion fourwheel-drive. We came away

impressed with the whole experience, and can’t wait to return again soon.

Fingers crossed that next time we’ll be around after the sun goes down as that’s when the party really gets started. In the meantime, some more photos from the 34th GTI Meet at Lake Wörthersee will have to suffice. Check out pasmag. com/2015worthersee for the full list.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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MAY 23 2015

FITTED: TORONTO A C O L L A B O R A T I O N O F C U LT U R E

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BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICKY SLINGER, FARDEEN SHERE & PRECISE PERSPECTIVE

W

hether you’re static or on bags, poked or flush, Japanese, Euro or USDM, as long as you’re an enthusiast of the aggressive fitment movement, Fitted is the show for you. Yet again, the event took over the steel buildings of the Brampton Fairgrounds, as well as the vast outdoor parking lot, filling each to the brim. It seems that each year, there are more and more competitors coming out with harder, better, faster and stronger iterations of what they showed the last year.

This is true for both inside and outside and what makes Fitted such a unique event.

See, inside is where all of the competitors park. These are the show-and-shine-ready rides that are being judged all day to hopefully come back with a sweet custom Fitted trophy. Outside is an old-fashioned dirt lot, but it’s packed with unique and noteworthy cars whose owners don’t want to compete – they just want to show-off and hang out. Competition inside, car meet outside. You really can’t go wrong.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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F E A T U R E D E V E N T // F I T T E D

Speaking of competition, Tuner Battlegrounds #TBGLive took place at Fitted once again, and both competitors came out swinging with air bags and flared fenders. The battle between Steve Luangpakdy’s Acura TL and Karine Lajoie Robin’s Mazdaspeed3 was hard fought.

Luangpakdy ended up on top at the end of the day with 66 percent of the popular vote.

His TL also took home Best VIP and gained recognition from Liberty VIP as their newest plate holder.

Fitted’s full title is actually “Fitted Lifestyle,” which adds yet another facet to the show with something for everyone. Showing off their own lifestyle merchandise, Fitted was offering t-shirts, plate frames and other goodies to dress you and your ride.

Across the cement was TBA

(Throttle Brake Apex), who teamed up with Dirty Nails Bloody Knuckles (DNBK) to display both of their new product lines. Tanoshi Design even drove in to offer up their new Work Wheels collab gear, while Eurokracy made the trip to appease their massive Euro fanbase. No matter where you looked, it was hard not to find something of interest. Fitted combines the largest trends in the aftermarket automotive sphere and packs them all into a single event. Vendors, car show, car meet, live DJ, prizes and even poutine come out to play – and so should you. If you haven’t gotten out to a Fitted event yet, you really need to do yourself a favor.

Check out FittedLifestyle.com for news, shops, and upcoming shows for this season.

FILL 'ER UP

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BEST OF SHOW 1. Domenic Gadboys // Subaru Impreza WRX 2. Daniel Ellati // BMW 325i 3. Jonathan Prem // Nissan 240SX (S14) BEST STATIC 1. Matt Brunett // Lexus IS300 2. Mike Howe // Nissan 370Z 3. Jordan Tessier // Mazda Miata (NA) BEST AIR 1. Pierre Olivier Allard // VW Rabbit (Mk5) 2. Derek Wong // Subaru Impreza STI 3. Lu Parente // Audi TT BEST EURO Hatch / Morris Ellati // VW Golf GTI (Mk5) Coupe / Carl Velasco // BMW 325i (E30) Sedan / Joel Caron // VW Jetta (Mk4) BEST JDM/KDM Hatch / Pete Yong // Honda Civic (EF) Coupe / Jazzy Singh // Infiniti G35 Coupe Sedan / Frank Razoto // Acura 1.6EL BEST VIP Steve Luangpakdy // Acura TL BEST ENGINE Brian Requena // Honda Civic (EK) TUNER BATTLEGROUNDS #TBGLIVE Steve Luangpakdy // Acura TL

THERE ARE MORE AND MORE COMPETITORS COMING OUT WITH HARDER, BETTER, FASTER AND STRONGER ITERATIONS OF WHAT THEY SHOWED THE LAST YEAR.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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GET THE FULL PICTURE

INSTAGRAM.COM/PASMAG

APRIL 26 2015

NISSANFEST

EV E R G R E E N S P E E DWAY / M O N R O E , WAS H I N GTO N

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE HUNTER The annual NissanFest was hosted at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Washington on April 26 by Northwest Nissans (NWN) and NWMOTIV.com. Modified and OE Nissans of all years and models from the Pacific Northwest (Oregon and Washington, USA and British Columbia, Canada) were showcased in the Show & Shine area, which was also used as a parking area for all the drift and autocross competitors. This year at NissanFest, drivers competed in the longer 3/8ths style layout to allow the 3/8ths tandem legal cars to compete for top prize. Autocross drivers also competed in a larger format than last year.

This proved to be a crowd favorite! Our northwest contributor, Shane Hunter, was on-site to capture this year's NissanFest event. NISSANFEST.US

MAY 2 2015

TOYOTAFEST QUEEN MARY / LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL HYON The 20th annual Toyotafest was hosted by Toyota Owner’s and Restorer’s Club (T.O.R.C) on May 2 at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California.

Established in 1995, T.O.R.C welcomes owners, drivers and enthusiasts of all Toyota brands, including Lexus and Scion. The primary directive of T.O.R.C. is to promote the preservation, restoration, modification and use of pre-1985 Toyota models. The organization’s goal is to promote and encourage an appreciation of Toyota, its heritage and its future. Contributor Daniel Hyon shows us how well they’re reaching those goals. TOYOTACLUB.ORG

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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See the Night in a

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MAY 3 2015

R I P K E N STA D I U M / A B E R D E E N , M A RY LA N D

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN CHOI The 2015 edition of Panda Junction was hosted by the event coordinators of Tuner Evolution and the “Goonz” of the Los Goonies media outlet. Kevin Choi of KC Image brought us some shots of the craziness that is Panda Junction. Thousands of enthusiasts attended the annual meet and witnessed the vast featured area right by the stadium, which was brimming with tuners in the Top 100 showcase. There was also a notable vendor area of local shops that displayed and sold their latest and greatest products. TUNER-EVOLUTION.COM & LOSGOONIES.COM

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Dirty Nails Bloody Knuckles CSL 3.0 T-Shirt $33 | DirtyNailsBloodyKnuckles.com Wear a different kind of Batmobile.

BMW’s 3.0 CSL “Batmobile” is almost as iconic as Bruce Wayne’s ride and you can wear it with pride when you snatch up DNBK’s new full coverage photo print shirt of the motorsport legend. Each shirt is a high quality and comfortable American Apparel t-shirt. The size/ location of the print may vary slightly depending on the size of shirt.

Clarion NX605 Multimedia Head Unit $899.99 | Clarion.com Clarion’s NX605 double-DIN in-dash multimedia and navigation head unit comes fully equipped with a DVD/CD player, USB connectivity, built-in Bluetooth, Pandora, dual zone entertainment, Clarion Smart Access and SiriusXM. Clarion’s exclusive Intelligent VOICE technology gives users navigation guidance via voice control. Additional features also include real time traffic, social media access and Google app integration.

Axxera AV6995MB Multimedia Receiver w/ 2-Way DualMirror $379 | AxxeraAudio.com Enjoy 2-way DualMirror technology for Apple and Android devices by duplicating the screen of the connected device onto the receiver screen, and controlling it directly from the receiver (Android only).

Smartphones connect via cable or wirelessly. The built-in Bluetooth supports audio streaming with ID3 tag, hands-free calling and phonebook profiles. This unit also features a capacitive touchscreen, AM/FM tuner, parametric 3-band graphic EQ and built-in steering wheel interface.

Hertz Mille ML 2000.3 Mille Legend Subwoofer EllecttroMedia-USA.com | HertzAudioVideo.com The Hertz ML 2000.3 Mille Legend 8-inch subwoofer brings the feeling of a live performance to your car.

Thanks to the massive neodymium magnet and 4-inch voice coil, this extremely compact subwoofer can handle up to 1,400 watts (peak) without dynamic compression. The completely new design is optimized to play in enclosures with reduced boxes, combining reference performance and compact installation.

MTX Audio THUNDER1000.1 Amplifier $399.95 | MTX.com

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HRE

PowerBass

RC103 Wheel

XMA-2200IR Amplifier

HREWheels.com

$219.99 | PowerBassUSA.com

The new Series RC1 debuts with the RC103, which features design cues from the popular HRE street wheel designs, engineered for optimal performance on any track vehicle.

The RC103 is available in diameters ranging from 17 to 20 inches and widths ranging from 8 to 13 inches, along with configurations for center lock vehicles.

The XMA-2200IR is a full-range Class D stereo amplifier with balanced RCA lowlevel inputs that produce 200 watts per channel (800 watts peak) into 2 ohms, while also accepting high-level speaker input via optional adaptor. A built-in electronic crossover offers low-pass or high-pass settings that can dial in the crossover frequency thanks to a precision 40-click variable potentiometer, making system tuning quick and easy.

PASMAG

The THUNDER1000.1 is a Class D monoblock amplifier capable of delivering up to 1,000 watts RMS power into a 1-ohm load. This small chassis, high-power machine is perfect for enthusiasts looking for high power output with a value price tag. The unit includes RCA input, low-pass filter, subsonic filter and bass boost for the ultimate in customized sound.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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Unrivaled Co. Minimalist Vector Automotive Prints $29 to $39 | UnrivaledCo.com These contemporary, minimalist vector-style automotive prints produced by Unrivaled Co. pay homage to iconic European and Japanese cars, as well as vintage wheels, and are a must have upgrade for the automotive enthusiast's home or office.

Snap-on

Whiteline

MICROSCAN III Scanner

Front Lower Control Arm Bushing & Mount for BMW E46

$399.95 | snapon.com The Blue-Point MICROSCAN III scanner (EESC720) features a 4-inch touchscreen that covers all 10 modes of OBD-II, displays and records live data and results with one touch, and resets the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) in less than 30 seconds. It also covers enhanced engine codes on most GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles, and reads and clears ABS codes on select GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. The MICROSCAN III can also read OBD-I codes for pre-1996 vehicle applications on GM, Ford, Chrysler and Toyota (with optional adaptors).

$94.90 | Whiteline.com.au Activate more grip with these front LCA bushings for the E46 chassis and firm up suspension handling by replacing the commonly failed OEM rubber piece. Designed with installer in mind, these bushings come pre-mounted in a durable alloy housing, making bolt-on installation a breeze. Whiteline's Synthetic Elastomer bushings come with a First Owner's Lifetime Warranty.

Oracle LED Headlight Bulbs $199 | OracleLights.com Oracle’s LED headlight bulbs deliver excellent visibility thanks to high-quality Cree LEDs and optimized reflective optics. Simply remove your existing bulbs and replace them with these LED bulbs - plug & play! A built-in fan keeps the LED cool and the fan gets its power from the bulb with no additional wiring. These LEDs only use 28 watts of power through two 14-watt emitters.

ST Suspension XTA Coilovers for MK7 VW Golf GTI

Raceland Audi/Volkswagen Primo Coilover Kits From $499 | Raceland.com After 18 months of development, Raceland is excited to offer their adjustable damping Primo coilover sets for various Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. The 15-way shocks allow for fine tuning of stiffness or softness, while also adjusting ride height anywhere from 1 to 4 inches below OEM settings. Raceland’s larger shock threading allows for quicker, easier adjustments. Available for A3, Golf, GTI, Jetta, CC, Corrado, Eos and Passat models.

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$1,679.99 | STSuspensions.com ST XTA coilovers are engineered by KW and offer adjustable lowering on the MK7 Golf GTI from 10 to 45 mm on the front axle and 20 to 45 mm at the rear. With scaled camber adjustment and adjustable rebound damping, GTI fans are able to increase front camber and adjust ride quality for a more sporty or comfortable feel.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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Upgrade your style,

inside & out.

Unitronic 3-inch Down-pipe for 1.8L/2.0L TSI Gen3 MQB $799.99 | GetUnitronic.com Unitronic’s 3-inch down-pipe for the 1.8L/2.0L TSI Gen3 MQB is constructed of TIG-welded T304 stainless steel tubing and T316 stainless steel flanges. All Unitronic down-pipes are equipped with a 200-cell high-flow metallic catalytic converter and unique V-band fasteners to ensure a leak-proof connection every time.

Upgrade your vehicle lighting with Philips Vision LED Bulbs. Their revolutionary new LED lighting technology gives you brilliant, 6000K light and a unique, new high-tech style for interior and exterior lighting applications.

Plus, thanks to Vision LED’s 12+ years lifetime, once you put them in, you’ll likely never have to replace them again.

To learn more, visit www.philips.com/visionled

Unitronic Stage 2+ Turbocharger Upgrade Kit for 2.0L TSI Gen3 MQB

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5/18/15 3:40 PM

$4,299.99 | GetUnitronic.com Unitronic’s Stage 2+ Turbocharger Upgrade Kit for the 2.0L TSI Gen3 MQB engine is the perfect balance of performance and OEM-like reliability and drivability; boasting a staggering output of 381 hp/377 lb-ft of torque. This complete turn-key, bolt-on Stage 2+ Performance Package consists of Unitronic’s Stage 2+ performance software, genuine IHI turbocharger, carbon fiber intake, intercooler upgrade and 3-inch stainless down-pipe.

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2015-06-09 3:24 PM

SOUND ADVICE

Q&A

WITH GARRY SPRINGGAY

Facebook: garry.springgay

Real world questions from readers like you! Have a question about car audio or electronics? Send it to us at letters@pasmag.com!

Q: Hi there. I am a senior in high school and I hope to get a job in the automotive or audio industry when I graduate. I enjoy the magazine, but I am hoping to see more technical stuff and “how-tos” along with the amazing cars. My question may be sort of dumb, but can you explain what a relay is and how it works? I hear about these things being used all over the place, so I’d like to know more. Thanks.

Ryan P – via internet A: Hi Ryan. Thanks for being a loyal reader. To answer your first question, yes, you can expect to see quite a bit of hands-on stuff in the upcoming issues. Check out “Garry’s Garage” for the Corvette build I’m currently up to my elbows in.

There’s lots of hands-on stuff there that relates to all installations, not just a Corvette.

To answer your main question, a relay is a device that allows a minimal amount of current to control a high amount of current. Basically, a relay is like a SPDT (single pole double throw) switch. An electrical signal is applied to a common terminal and sent out via one of two other terminals, depending on if the relay is energized or not. Instead of a typical handle to operate the switch, a relay uses a coil of wire wrapped around an iron core with a moving armature in the center of it. When you connect power to one end of the coil and ground the other end, the relay moves the armature to make contact from one terminal to the other.

In this way, you can use a very low amount of current to activate the relay coil and switch high current between the relay's output terminals. Relays can also be used in the opposite direction to provide different types of signals to a common output terminal. In this way, a relay can be used to provide both a ground and a positive voltage to a device, depending on if the coil is energized or not.

If you think relays are cool, in a future column I’ll explain how to use a transistor instead of a relay for many applications.

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Website: cogentaudiolabs.com

Q: Hi. I’ve never written to a magazine before, but I have a question that no one else seems to be able to answer with any theory or proof - just opinions. And those are like bellybuttons, everyone has one and they are all pretty worthless. When you install a subwoofer into a vehicle, does it make any difference which way the woofer cone faces? Should the cone face up, or forward, or sideways or what? Which direction is best, and why?

Paulie R – via internet A: Hi Paulie. It may be your first question to a magazine, but it’s a really good one. This topic has been discussed and argued over for decades and there certainly are a lot of strong opinions out there regarding woofer placement.

To give you the short answer, I can tell you that it simply depends on the vehicle. What works in a Mustang might not work in a Mini, and an SUV may need something different still. The reasons for this are fairly complex and go beyond the scope of this column, but it boils down to something called acoustical boundary effect.

When we put a subwoofer in a car and play music through it, the sound waves generated are very long and can easily exceed the maximum dimensions of the interior of the vehicle. Bass is generally thought of as being omnidirectional, precisely because of the length of the sound waves. However, when we fire a speaker at some sort of reflective boundary, the reflections interfere with the original waveform and how they interact makes all the difference. If the distance is such that the reflections reach your ears at the same time as the original sound, that is called constructive interference and can increase the amplitude of the bass we perceive. On the other hand, if the reflected sound reaches our ears with a significant amount of phase shift, it’s called destructive interference, which will reduce the amplitude of the bass. Because of the vast amount of difference in vehicle interiors and reflective properties, this can be difficult to deal with when designing a system.

To overcome this problem when I was in retail, I kept a small subwoofer cabinet with a single 10-inch woofer handy. I would connect that woofer to the shop stereo system, place it inside the car I was working on and listen to the bass. Then I would re-orient it and listen again. In this manner, it was pretty easy to find out the optimum orientation for a specific vehicle, since the reflections would be the same for whatever woofer we used. I actually just used this same technique in my Corvette to determine how the woofer will be finally oriented in my car, which may come as quite a surprise to most readers.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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TEST REPORT

AXXERA AV6225BH

Multimedia Receiver Review From the folks at Axxera comes the all-new AV6225BH multimedia receiver. Built on a double-DIN size chassis, the new head unit boasts a high quality touch screen and something called “DualMirror” - the Dual version of the popular Mirrorlink technology, which allows your head unit’s display to mirror the display of your smartphone.

In addition, the AV6225BH brings Bluetooth connectivity, a high

performance pre-out section and a built-in programmable steering wheel control interface. Perhaps best of all, all this high-tech wizardry will set you back less than 250 bucks!

Features The Axxera AV6225BH is built around a 6.2-inch TFT touchscreen display with 800 x 400 display resolution. A frontmounted USB port provides charging (1amp) connectivity for music and video playback via USB stick and 3.5-mm jack located on the front panel for direct audio input.

The DualMirror technology provides a mirror image of your smartphone's screen (iPhone, iPod or select Android devices) via HDMI. For those not into connecting a cable to your phone all the time, the DualMirror function can also

be used wirelessly thanks to Dual’s DMH25 DualCast WiFi dongle.

With the DualMirror functionality, you can bring all the handy apps in your smartphone to the head unit’s screen. This is an exceptionally good solution for navigation, music and video apps.

On the rear panel of the Axxera unit are the USB charge port and HDMI connector for connecting either your smartphone or the DualCast WiFi dongle. I should mention the rear USB port is for charging only and can’t be used as an additional USB input. However, there is an AV input on the rear panel, as well as two video outputs. A rear view camera is also compatible via rear RCA input. If you are a serious iPod user, it should be noted that the AV6225BH is not designed to connect and control an iPod or iPhone directly, only via the DualMirror method.

Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth connectivity, the AV6225BH provides full phone book support, caller ID and telephone operations, as well as audio streaming with ID3 Tag and control of the player.

AMPLIFIER

MEASURED

SPECS

42

PASMAG

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

Pairing the unit the first time takes only a few seconds. After that, it’s completely automatic, so making hands-free calls safely is a snap.

For those who listen to the radio, an RDS (Radio Data System) tuner is used, which can provide convenient station ID, station genre, and emergency information.

The audio section of the Axxera unit is equally as impressive, with three pairs of high voltage preouts. Then there is a DSP powered six-band graphic / three-band parametric EQ with adjustable Q, subwoofer crossover and level adjustments, and an adjustable loudness contour.

A wireless infrared remote control is also included in the box.

Controls and Ergonomics In terms of everyday operation, the Axxera AV6225BH is pretty easy to use and live with.

The touchscreen is responsive and the icons and menus are clear and logically displayed. Picture quality is excellent and all the menus are in a large enough font size that you don’t need your reading glasses.

PREAMP SECTION

CEA-2006A Power per channel (all channels driven,@ 4 ohms)

18 watts/ch x 4

Max Usable RCA Output Voltage

4.6 Vrms

A Wtd S/N Ratio (ref to 2 V/1 W @ 4 ohms) Amplified output

-63.1 dBA (CD)

A Wtd S/N Ratio ref to full output voltage

-83.0 dBA

THD+N @ 2 V/1 W @ 4 ohms 1 kHz

0.6%

Output Impedance

107 ohms

Frequency Response (-3.0dB)

20 Hz – 20 kHz

Frequency Response (-3.0 dB)

20 Hz – 20 kHz

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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15_PASmag-Q-class-WOOFER-AMP-GEMSEN.pdf

1

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L7™ Subwoofer and IQ-Series Mono Amplifier The foundation for high-end mobile audio

C

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

©2015 STILLWATER DESIGNS

K

Luxury shouldn’t be boring.

L7 is available exclusively at Authorized Q-Class Retailers. See the list at www.kicker.com.

KICKER is distributed in Canada by Gem-Sen. www.gemsen.com

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TEST REPORT

AXXERA AV6225BH

Thanks to direct access menus, adjustments to the audio are done with a minimal amount of fuss and the menus are displayed long enough to do some tuning without constantly getting kicked back to the default screen.

I attempt to use my HTC One Android phone with the DualCast WiFi dongle, but cannot get the connection to stay connected. The dongle’s instructions specifically talk about Samsung phones, and iPhones, so perhaps my HTC One simply isn’t compatible, as may happen due to Android being an open source platform. However, a friend’s iPhone works perfectly.

There are over sixteen million button and screen icon illumination colors available, so dialing in a matching or contrasting color is easy. You also have a choice of three selectable wallpapers.

I did wish for a little larger diameter volume knob, but the smallish one provided does have nice detents and it’s easy enough to use unless you are wearing bulky gloves. The faceplate is fixed in position and has a disc loading slot immediately above the top of the screen.

Multimedia Receiver Review

4 OHM POWER VS THD+N BATT14.4V

THD+N VS FREQUENCY

AMPLIFER MAX FLAT, CD SOURCE - FREQUENCY RESPONSE

PRE-OUT MAX FLAT, CD SOURCE - FREQUENCY RESPONSE

Listening I have to say, I’m quite impressed with the sonics of the AV6225BH in my reference system and it sounds better than I would expect for the price. Music on regular CDs sounds open and natural with good detail and no sense of compression. The sound of the CD section is very similar to my reference home audio player the only real difference I notice is the Axxera is a bit noisier between tracks and during very quiet passages. Audio and video from DVD movies are reproduced excellently as well. I also play a couple of well-worn CDs and the transport has no problem reading them, so the laser mechanism and error correction is good.

The controls operate smoothly and without any digital “zipper noise.” Using a track with an 18-Hz recorded note on it, I notice from the movement of the woofer cones that the unit has good extended 44

PASMAG

axxera.dualav.com

Axxera-Audio

@DualElectronics

Axxera Audio

For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

low frequency output. This should please the bass-heads on a budget out there (you know who you are).

This flat low-end response is fairly uncommon at the lower price points, so kudos to Axxera for paying attention to details like this.

While I might not be able to say it is as good as my $1,200 reference unit, I can say that the differences between them would probably go unnoticed by most average listeners, especially in a car system.

On The Bench In the lab with the AV6225BH connected to my test equipment, the measured specifications prove to be quite respectable, with only

the signal-to-noise ratio of the built-in amplifier measuring a bit lower than I would have liked.

Stereo separation, frequency response, amplifier power and pre-out voltage and impedance all measure very well, which is not surprising based on the way the unit sounds.

Conclusion If you are looking for a new multimedia headunit that offers an array of input sources, great sound and the ability to make full use of the apps in your smartphone, you should check out the AV6225BH. For those of you looking for all those features on a budget, this unit is a no-brainer.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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Built-in Amplifier with DCD™ Technology Delivers incredible power output with minimal heat and current draw!

The + stands for POWER! New, amplified MicroSub+™ & PowerWedge+™

ACP112LG-TW1 12-inch Subwoofer Ported Enclosure 400 watts RMS

ACP110LG-TW1 10-inch Subwoofer Ported Enclosure 400 watts RMS

ACP108LG-W3v3 8-inch Subwoofer Ported Enclosure 250 watts RMS

ACP208LG-W3v3 Dual 8-inch Subwoofers Ported Enclosure 500 watts RMS

ACS112LG-TW1 12-inch Subwoofer Sealed Enclosure 400 watts RMS

ACS110LG-TW1 10-inch Subwoofer Sealed Enclosure 400 watts RMS

© 2015 JL AUDIO, Inc. For more information on all available enclosure models, please visit your local authorized dealer or www.jlaudio.com www.jlaudio.com.

In Canada contact GemSen Distribution at www.gemsen.com

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TEST REPORT

AudioControl The Epicenter 1200

Amplifier Review For the better part of 40 years, AudioControl has been “Making Good Sound Great.” Now, with the new The Epicenter line of subwoofer amplifiers, they are continuing that tradition. Just released, the new Epicenter 600 and Epicenter 1200 amplifiers completely sold out the first production run before they were officially launched!

The Epicenter amplifiers are dedicated monoblock Class D amplifiers designed specifically for subwoofer applications. Retail pricing in the U.S. is $799.99 for the 1200 and $599.99 for the 600.

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

of features. Each amplifier has all connections located along the length of the front and a cleverly conceived anodized aluminum top cover hides the controls and provides style, as well as protection for the connections. The amps come with a dual function wired remote, which provides adjustment for the overall level as well as the amount of bass restoration applied.

AudioControl has also designed The Epicenter amplifiers using an exclusive, solid one-piece chassis.

The benefits are superior rigidity and high technical strength; and the one-piece cast heatsink’s superior thermal characteristics, which allows the amplifier to run “harder for longer.”

The Epicenter 1200 is fitted with three 40-amp fuses and battery power terminals that

FEATURES AudioControl’s National Sales Manager, Chris Bennett, sent over the big brother of the two for review. The Epicenter 1200 is rated to produce 400, 750 and 1,200 watts into 4, 2, and 1-ohm loads, respectively. The chassis is modestly sized for its output capabilities, measuring only 12 x 8 x 2 inches.

Both the Epicenter 1200 and 600 models share the same set

accept 1/0-gauge cables, while the Epicenter 600 will accept 3-AG cables. Both amps have an “all business” look and feel. The speaker terminals offer paralleled pairs of positive and negative connections, accepting up to 6-gauge cables. Both high level and RCA inputs are available, and a pair of RCA outputs allows the “Expansion Bus” function to drive additional amplifiers and control them all with the first one. You can also use the Expansion Bus feature to drive a single woofer with a pair of amplifiers if desired.

On the top of the amplifier are the adjustments and controls, laid out in a very logical and easy-to-use fashion. When it comes to figuring out how AudioControl products work, they provide some of the best written and entertaining owner’s manuals in the audio industry. They’re Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to 2 V output. (CEA-2006A) (1 watt @ 4 ohms)

-84.7 dBA

Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to full output

-110.9 dBA

THD+N at rated power Maximum Efficiency at full 2 ohm power per ch.

Idle Current

MEASURED PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS

TECHNICAL

DATA

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PASMAG

The following power measurements were obtained using industry standard methods. (100 Hz @ 1.0% THD+N Battery voltages shown +/- 0.2 V)

Input Sensitivity (RCA)

Manufacturers Rated Power

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0% THD+N // @ 12.6 V Battery

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0 % THD+N // @ 14.4 V Battery

400 x 1 @ 4 Ω

322 x 1 @ 4 Ω

426 x 1 @ 4 Ω

Maximum Current @ full power, lowest rated impedance Frequency Response (-3 dB)

750 x 1 @ 2 Ω

576 x 1 @ 2 Ω

806 x 1 @ 2 Ω

High Pass Crossover (Subsonic Filter)

1,200 x 1 @ 1 Ω

963 x 1 @ 1 Ω

1,258 x 1 @ 1 Ω

Low Pass Crossover

0.024% 81.8% 2.1 A 160 mV – 6.8 V 123.5 A <17 Hz – 180 Hz 17 Hz – 36 Hz -18 dB/Oct 28 Hz – 180 Hz 24 dB/Oct

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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TEST REPORT

AudioControl The Epicenter 1200

“WHAT REALLY SEPARATES THE EPICENTER AMPLIFIERS FROM ANY OTHER AMPLIFIER IS ITS PATENTED BASS RESTORATION CIRCUITRY.” worth reading even if you already know what you’re doing.

In addition to the usual gain and crossover controls, The Epicenter 1200 also features an output polarity switch — a switch to select the type of input signal that will be used to turn the amp on, the expansion bus switch and, of course, the controls for the Epicenter circuitry.

Before I get to that bit of wizardry, I should mention that the amp’s crossover is a -24 dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley alignment, and there is a Programmable Frequency Match (PFM) subsonic filter with either a 16 Hz or 32 Hz setting.

This filter is -18 dB/Oct. If you are adding the amp to an OEM system without a dedicated amp turn-on wire, you simply set the GTO Signal Sense turn-on to use the input signal to turn things on.

The Epicenter amplifiers also feature a unique blue LED backdrop emanating from the heatsink. The LEDs act as both a subtle sound enhancement when operating, as well as provide light patterns that act as a troubleshooting reference guide for the user. This goes hand-in-hand with AudioControl's MILC (Maximum Input Level Control), a patentpending level-setting circuit that prevents clipping and distortion.

If the incoming waveform is clipping, the LED on the unit will shine forth and let you know. This lets 48

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you adjust to optimize the level of the incoming audio signal.

All of that is well and good, but what really separates the Epicenter amplifiers from any other subwoofer amplifier is the its patented bass restoration circuitry. Without getting all propeller headed, the Epicenter does what other amplifiers can’t.

Rather than simply apply some

Amplifier Review

amount of bass EQ at some frequency, the Epicenter actually reads the fundamental tones in the musical input signal and improves the depth and realism of the bass by adding low frequency information based on the harmonics of the bass in your music. The circuitry has two controls, labeled “Sweep” and “Wide.” Sweep control allows you to select the center frequency of the effect — between 27 and 63 Hz. The wide adjustment provides control of the effective width or “Q” of the filter. Once these are set, you can use the remote level adjustment to tailor the output for whatever you’re listening to.

What this all means is that the Epicenter provides additional low

frequency output that is driven by the music you are playing, rather than just some fixed amount of boost. The result can be startling if you aren’t prepared for it.

LISTENING As luck would have it, I am very familiar with how an Epicenter works, as I used to be an AudioControl dealer back in the early ’90s.

I sold a ton of these things. Now that it’s built right into a good amplifier, it’s just that much simpler to take advantage of.

I connect The Epicenter 1200 to a pair of 15-inch subwoofers that I happen to be testing for another project. The woofers are in a sealed enclosure, so I leave the PFM subsonic filter

4 OHM POWER VS THD+N 100 Hz 14.4 V Batt

2 OHM POWER VS THD+N 100 Hz 14.4 V Batt

1 OHM POWER VS THD+N 100 Hz 14.4 V Batt

MAX FLAT – FREQUENCY RESPONSE

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at 16 Hz and set the crossover to about 80 Hz. To get an idea of just how the amp performs, I turn the Epicenter off for the first bit of listening.

I begin with one of my favorite discs to evaluate subwoofer amplifiers, Essential Yello. Loaded with very deep bass from synthesizers, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good test for any bass system, plus itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun to listen to.

The amplifier proves to be more than capable, and produces a great and tight bottom end. I dig out another favorite disc with incredible bass definition, the Telarc

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AudioControl The Epicenter 1200

TEST REPORT

Amplifier Review

“TUNES LIKE DEEP PURPLE’S RAT BAT BLUE AND LED ZEPPLIN’S FOUR STICKS SUDDENLY SOUND LIKE THEY HAVE BEEN REMASTERED ON MODERN GEAR." CROSSOVER RANGE – FREQUENCY RESPONSE

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SUBSONIC FILTER – FREQUENCY RESPONSE

recording of a band called California Project, who performs the Beach Boys tunes of the 1960s.

Their version of Surfin’ USA has what might be the best recorded kick drum in history. With plenty of power on tap, the amp handles the dynamics of this CD without breaking a sweat.

Now that I know the amp was more than up to the task, I engage the Epicenter circuitry and give the system a real challenge by switching to classic rock tunes that are decidedly lacking modern bass in the recordings.

Tunes like Deep Purple’s Rat Bat Blue and Led Zepplin’s Four Sticks suddenly sound like they have been remastered on modern gear and had the bass we heard live back in the day. These old tunes sound amazing and are so much more enjoyable to listen to. I’ll just say this: if you listen to any music that was recorded

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before about 1980, you need one of these amps.

The benefits of The Epicenter are not only limited to improving old recordings. Everything sounds better, with improved realism and authority, even FM radio. Of course, like with all good things, you can overdo it, but that’s precisely what the remote level control is meant for.

PERFORMANCE/ BENCH MEASUREMENTS CONCLUSION It had been a long time since I played around with an Epicenter and, to be honest, I’d forgotten how enjoyable the thing can be when used properly. By building a quality amplifier with easy system integration and expansion, and combining it with the bass restoration capabilities of the Epicenter, AudioControl has

Mini Amplifier Series

audiocontrol.com @AudioControlInc AudioControl audiocontrolinc

For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

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On the deadly accurate Cogent test bench, I put the amplifier through the usual extensive battery of tests and I’m happy to report that it performs in excess of its published specifications.

I also note the amplifier has fan assisted cooling, but this is one of the quietest I’ve seen. No one will have to worry about fan noise with this one, even if it’s mounted inside a quiet interior.

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APMI-2075 1000Watts

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e g a r a G s Garry’ PROJECT C6

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

STAGE 3: All about the sound

A lot of progress has been made on the Corvette since the last article. The entire car has been treated with Dynamat Superlite and Dynaliner, including the surfaces inside and behind the door panels. I can tell just by closing the door that it’s going to make a huge improvement for interior noise.

The doors originally had thick rubber covers over the large cutouts to install the window regulator – which didn’t cut it – so using the covers as a template, I cut replacements from a 0.4-inch ABS sheet. These were given the Dynamat treatment and secured in place using machine screws and rivet nuts. Since the rivet nuts are aluminum and the screws are stainless, I applied a small dab of anti-seize before installing them. The baffles for the nine-inch Morel Elate TI MW9 mid-bass drivers were cut on my router table from 0.5-inch Baltic birch plywood, painted black and fitted with T-nuts. The baffles mount to the doors using the OEM fasteners and are treated with the same Dynamat products as the rest of the car. Speaker cables were run for the Morel mid-bass drivers and the four-inch Morel midrange speakers that are mounted on the back of the door panels. These wires were then covered in Tech-Flex protective loom and routed inside the passenger compartment, where the amplifiers will be located.

Then it was onto planning the electrical requirements. One of the first upgrades were the OEM battery cables and charge wiring. The battery is located in the right rear corner of the Grand Sport, and the main battery cable runs through the interior of the car – through the firewall to the power distribution box under the 52

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hood. From there, separate cables go to the starter and alternator. Because the Corvette is an electronics-dependent car and has a reputation for strange glitches caused by low voltage, I wanted the best possible cables. For those, I turned to my old buddy, Tony Candela, at CE Auto Electric. Tony built me a set of new cables that fit perfectly and increased the current capability of my main power harness by at least 50 percent. The cables have a very high strand count of oxygen-free copper and are fitted with the highest quality terminals – hand made by a real expert. (If you are thinking about any sort of electrical upgrades to your ride, check out Tony’s website: CEAutoElectricSupply.com)

Removing the OEM center channel speaker to make room for the Beltronics radar detector speaker

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WWW.ARCAUDIO.COM AMPLIFIERS

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SPEAKERS

SUBWOOFERS

PROCESSORS

MOTORCYCLE AUDIO

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age Garryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gar

STAGE 3: All about the sound Part of the "big three" upgrade.

New 1/0 high strand count OFC cables from Candela Auto Electric replace the OEM 2-gauge cables.

Heavy duty battery clamps, too.

Every speaker is secured using machine thread screws.

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To get great sound in your car, some people spend a lot of time and effort creating a good soundstage. By this, I mean the ability to close your eyes and locate where on an imaginary soundstage each performer or instrument is.

This is one of the most difficult and time consuming aspects in building a good system. In my humble opinion, unless you are planning to compete in serious sound quality competitions where staging is being judged, this is a less important design factor. I care far less about the staging and much more about sound quality, so I decided not to focus on custom or esoteric speaker locations. Thus far, the car appears to have plenty of space in the doors for a mid-bass driver and a small midrange. It appears the tweeters will be mounted higher up, possibly in the windshield pillars. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll determine this later on by actually moving the tweeters around and listening to where they work best.

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The rear compartment fully treated with Dynamat and Dynaliner

I don’t need a super loud system and don’t want to take up much of the available space.

Since the car sees occasional track use, everything needs to be very secure and minimal in weight. I also want to keep any significant weight as close to the center of gravity as possible.

I arrived at a basic and logical set of maximum dimensions for the subwoofer enclosure/amp rack. I also took some time to think about how I wanted the finished product to look, so I created a rough sketch to hash out the design and finish. You’ll have to wait for a future installment to see how that turns out. Based on my calculations, I decided to

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Soldered and heat shrunk

fit a single 12-inch subwoofer and a pair of small amplifiers. The equipment list keeps getting smaller. I added these notes to the build plan sheet.

In the C6-gen Corvette, the rear speakers are mounted in the rear portion of the sail panels, about a foot behind your head.

This location detracts from a nice forward soundstage and further degrades the already compromised stereo image. For these reasons, I decided a long time ago that full range rear speakers were completely unnecessary for this car.

In addition to the audio, I plan on adding an Escort radar/lidar detector, front laser

Crimped spade lugs for speakers, ready to solder and heat shrink

scramblers and front and rear proximity sensors. Later, the car will receive a carbon fiber front splitter, so the proximity sensors will help prevent any curb rash. I’ll also add a rearview camera, but instead of activating it from the reverse lights, I will add a separate switch so I can turn it on anytime I want.

For these devices, I made notes on the build sheet about the required harnesses and their location, as well as wire numbers and colors used, recording each one in case I need to troubleshoot later.

Stay tuned as the car gets the new harnesses laid into place and construction of the amp/rack subwoofer enclosure begins!

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CABE'S CORNER

MORE THAN A DAILY DRIVER BUILDING THE WORLD’S LOUDEST BEETLE

Twitter: @cabesipes Facebook: /CabeSipesFanPage Website: www.customaudioreimagined.com

STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY CABE SIPES

J

ust as in any hobby or sport, there are those that are above average and fall into the category of being extreme. In the world of car audio those extremes can be found on the competitive circuit. These circuits are run by many different organizations, and it seems like more and more keep popping up.

Back when I first got into car audio, there were really only three major organizations: DB Drag, IASCA and USACi. IASCA. USACi had sound quality classes, which is a another way of saying perfect sonic reproduction and the feel of being at the live concert while sitting in the car listening to the music. I was drawn more to the barbaric style of DB Drag, which is pretty much insanely loud bass. Nothing above 80 Hz could be played and some of the cars were so powerful, you would literally die if you sat inside it while it burped.

Let me clarify. Basically, you build a monster sound system that can produce huge amounts of sound pressure levels (SPL) in a short three-second burst of bass. That burst of bass you play is called a "burp."

I know it sounds stupid, but once the bug bites you it’s hard to shake, which is why after 15 years of not competing, I am getting back into the lanes. Now, I have looked at what people are building these days and the tricks they are doing to try and achieve the highest SPL, but I did pretty good back

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in the day with my formula and style of building, so I will continue along that path with this build.

I have chosen a 1999 VW Beetle for my build. Why? Well, it sure isn’t for the cool factor, but more to do with the fact I have never seen one compete and the structural strength of the curved body has me intrigued.

It has been proven that the half-arch design of the Beetle is one of the strongest ever made in the automotive world. One of the issues you run into with extremely high SPL vehicles is that the glass and vehicle itself will actually flex. This may be really cool to look at and may even give you some bragging points, but every vibration that car is showing is energy you are losing at the mic. So, to have a vehicle that will not flex under the immense pressure will result in higher SPL numbers.

Also, the mic placement in DB Drags is on the passenger side of the windshield, so if I can manipulate the base wave to ride that curved roof line down into the dash, I should be able to produce some serious numbers.

The vehicle is one thing, but what about equipment? In comes JR from RE Audio and, with his recommendation, I end up with an RE Audio MT 18-inch subwoofer and the RE MT Everest 10K amplifier. This amplifier draws up to 500 amps of current and the sub needs at least nine cubic feet of airspace to play. I am looking at a VW Beetle,

so needless to say the back seats are going to have to go and the electrical system will need to be beefed up.

I can remove the back seats by myself, but for the electrical bits, I called up Mechman Alternators and Xstatic batteries. The guys at Mechman have built me a 400-amp alternator that dropped right in like a dream and was bolted up in 15 minutes. Xstatic set me up with a Model 2000 battery for under the hood and a Model 4000 for the rear, as well as a 16-volt, 10-farad capacitor. After a full day of wiring and over 50 feet of zero-gauge power and 50 feet of zero-gauge ground, the Beetle was hot and ready for an amplifier and some signal.

For the head unit, I’ve chosen a Sony MEX-BT5100 because of its cool SongPal app feature. Normally you would need to build an umbilical cord that goes from the car to a radio outside the car so you can control the volume and play/pause while you’re in the lanes. With the Sony, I can control the head unit remotely via my phone or tablet through the app, which is linked

by NFC and Bluetooth. So far it has worked flawlessly and I have control of the head unit up to 50 feet away from the car.

As of this writing, I am about two hours away from being able to meter the car, but I have tested the electrical system and it is beast! I am at 15.4 volts under the hood and have over 540 amps of current on tap. My goal is to hit 155+ dB in in the Super Street No Wall category, so keep your eyes on the DB Drag website and look for my scores starting in June of the 2015 season.

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EURO

NINJA W I L LY L I N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S S 3 F L I E S UNDER THE RADAR STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS NICHOLLS

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tealth. It’s a useful survival tactic, especially in a world where being spotted can mean big trouble. In the car world, with ever-tightening laws about what you can (and mostly can’t) do, flying under the radar can mean the difference between enjoying your ride and taking potentially expensive trips to the shop to change “undesirable” elements.

The art of stealth is something Willy Lin of Victoria, Australia has mastered. His 2008 S3 Sportback is daily driven, despite modifications that, on closer inspection, would net him a nice yellow ‘defect’ sticker from local police as fast as his car can accelerate.

There’s the custom Milltek exhaust, which is surely one of the only in the world on an S3.

The quad-tip setup (complete with a custom diffuser element to accommodate it) puts out a wicked, highly-timbered sound on full noise.

There are the KW V3 coilovers, which are wound down so low that there’s pretty much zero travel. And that’s before we get to the serious stuff, like the GT3071R turbo, JE forged pistons and Integrated Engineering rods, Wagner intercooler, and Forge Motorsport big brake kit with six-piston front calipers hiding behind iForged TE16 19x8.5-inch wheels, and so on.

Yet for all of this, Lin says he’s never been pulled over. Looking at the car, it’s not hard to see why. The S3 may sit low on its 19s, but their classy gloss black finish paired with an almost unaltered stock S3 (save for a custom Flow Design splitter and updated 8P1 taillights) hardly attracts attention. Also, the Milltek exhaust, while loud enough, isn’t really noticeable unless Lin pins it. One look at the engine bay also shows that he’s gone stealth there, too.

HPA intake and blue hoses aside (which Lin says were only fitted because black ones weren’t in stock at the time), it’s only until you get close that you notice anything is different.

The same goes for the interior. The stock S3 is already a nice place to be, so Lin didn’t mess with it. There’s a P3 voltage gauge that replaces the driver’s side air vent, a subtle Forge shift knob, an Alpine INE-W928E head unit and Audison Bit One controller and that’s it – at least for the visible items a curious police officer might see looking through the driver’s side window. The two Hertz Mille ML 1600.2 6.5-inch bass drivers and two Hertz Mille ML 280.2 tweeters are hidden in the standard enclosures. And the rest... well, you’ll have to open the hatch to see that.

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NINJA

“LIN’S S3 SPORTBACK IS DAILY DRIVEN, DESPITE MODIFICATIONS THAT, ON CLOSER INSPECTION, WOULD NET HIM A NICE YELLOW ‘DEFECT’ STICKER FROM LOCAL POLICE...”

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It’s here that, admittedly, the stealth theme kind of breaks down, as it’s hard to hide this level of magnificence. Sitting pride of place in its custom-built and flocked enclosure is a 12,000watt Phoenix Gold ‘The One’ amp (number three of 100) surrounded by four Phoenix Gold Ti210D2 dual two-ohm, 10-inch subs and the Bit One controller, all of which sit in a custom 10-layer, internally-braced fibreglass enclosure.

The whole lot has been built and installed by Melbourne’s Phatt Audio Concepts, one of Australia’s leading mobile electronics workshops, whose work we also featured in the June/July 2015 issue of PASMAG. The crazy thing about this setup is that it’s actually the second version to go into the car.

“The first sound system we built was fitted with 10 Boston amps and four Boston subs. Then, we changed to the current system when Phatt Audio Concepts told me about the number three of The One amp,” recalls Lin. Why change sub brands? “I always trust the workshop I go to, and I believe in the brands they introduce to me. Phatt Audio builds a lot of show cars for big audio system brands, and when they do nice work on those show cars as well as customer cars or their own cars, you can see and understand their ability. Plus I had my RX-8 build with them too.”

Ah yes, the RX-8. Lin’s previous build was, if you can believe it, the complete antithesis of his current steed. It had a full RE Amemiya kit as well as half of their tuning parts catalog, 19inch TE37s, plus a very noticeable rotor themed install. Lin’s reason for switching to the S3 was all about what is under the hood.

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“After owning two NA cars (Lin’s first build was a BMW E46 3 Series), I really wanted to purchase a turbo car. At the time, I did some research and found that people were moving from Japanese imports to Euro ones, and with it being so much easier to get power from a turbo car, I decided on a VAG

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machine. I was thinking of getting a Mk5 GTI or R32, but after test driving both cars, I felt the GTI had more power than the R32. At the same time, I didn’t want a frontwheel-drive car, so I went to Audi and test drove the 2008 S3. I felt the car was more refined everywhere, so I decided to go for it.”

As for the stealth element?

“The police are getting so strict,” Lin says. “They’re just pulling everyone [with a modified car] over.” Given it’s his daily, it just made sense.

Having said all that, like any good project car, the S3 is not done yet. There’s talk of fitting a third rear-facing sub in the fibreglass enclosure, as well as Recaro airbag seats, plus (possibly) a customized titanium exhaust, more aggressive cams and matching valve springs.

Exterior-wise, Lin might even go Japanese and swap to matte blue gunmetal ZE40s, but whether that happens before or after the mooted widebody conversion is not yet decided. Yes, widebody on a stealth car. But he’s got it thought out already: he’s thinking of basing it on RS4 front fenders and custom-designed rears, which will add the necessary width in a nearly unnoticeable way.

Whether he goes for it or not, this S3 is already a perfect testament to the idea that stealth is sometimes the best way to survive – and even thrive – in a world hostile to your needs and wants.

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ESSENTIALS

2008 Audi S3 Sportback OWNER: Willy Lin LOCATION: Victoria, Australia ENGINE: Audi BHZ/CDLA 2.0L turbocharged I-4

ENGINE ∂ Garrett GT3071R turbocharger ∂ Wagner Germany intercooler ∂ Custom silicone hoses ∂ Forge Motorsport (high-flow blow-off valve, washer bottle cover, alloy oil cap, alloy water cap, oil catch tank) ∂ TiAL external wastegate ∂ REVO (Technik air intake, boost controller) ∂ HPA Motorsports intake manifold ∂ Autotech high-pressure fuel pump ∂ Bosch 044 Motorsport fuel pump ∂ Audi RS4 injectors ∂ NGK platinum spark plugs ∂ Integrated Engineering forged connecting rods (114x20 mm) ∂ JE (9.5:1 compression ratio forged pistons, piston rings) ∂ ARP head studs ∂ APR engine mount

HORSEPOWER: 360 awhp BUILT BY: Phatt Audio Concepts, AudVolks, Auto Racing Technik, Euro Motors, Auto Modelista, Polo Body Works CLUB AFFILIATION: OTO Krew

EXHAUST ∂ Milltek custom quad-tip exhaust ∂ ATP Turbo down-pipe DRIVETRAIN ∂ South Bend Stage 3 Endurance clutch & flywheel ∂ Forge Motorsport Quickshifter WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ I-Forged TE16 wheels – 19x8.5 +47 (f), 19x8.5 +43 (r) ∂ Bridgestone RE002 tires – 225/35 R19 (f/r) ∂ Forge Motorsport (6-piston front calipers, 356x32 mm slotted discs, front braided brake lines) ∂ DBA T2 rear calipers ∂ EBC Yellowstuff brake pads CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ KW V3 coilovers ∂ Super Pro camber top

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EXTERIOR ∂ Custom quad exhaust outlet diffuser ∂ Flow-Design splitter ∂ Audi 8P1 update taillights INTERIOR ∂ Forge Motorsport shift knob ∂ P3 Cars gauges

“I ALWAYS TRUST THE WORKSHOP (PHATT AUDIO CONCEPTS) I GO TO, AND I BELIEVE IN THE BRANDS THEY INTRODUCE TO ME.” WILLY LIN

MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ Alpine INE-W928E head unit ∂ Audison Bit One processor ∂ Phoenix Gold (“THE ONE” Limited Edition #3 amplifier, Elite4 amplifier, T1210D2 10-in. dual 2-ohm subwoofers (4)) ∂ Hertz Mille (ML 1600.2 6.5-in. speakers (2), ML 280.2 tweeters (2)) ∂ Stinger (SPV69 batteries (2), 0-gauge ANL fuse holder, 300 A fuse, 0-gauge main power wire, Expert Roadkill sound deadening)

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SOUPED -UP

BY JORDAN LENSSEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINUS LAM

HONG KONGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BADDEST R8

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ust as a stock is the base to a chef, the Audi R8 is to the automotive connoisseurs at ReinART.Design.

The bespoke automotive performance and styling consultancy has always had one clear objective: to stand out from the rest by working with the best. So, how do you soup a car that’s already filled with a grocery list of goods? The answer is vision and execution.

The Audi R8 needs almost no introduction. It’s one of – if not, the most underrated supercars of the modern era. In stock form, this 2008’s V8 configuration uses the same Le Mans-winning FSI

technology to push a consistent 420 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels, using an evolution of the same intelligent Quattro AWD technology that has been proven on World Rally circuits and over five million production vehicles over the better part of three decades.

From a GT standpoint, the R8 is the perfect specimen: low, wide, with a mid-rear engine layout that’s been developed at the same factory as its R8 LMS racing brethren. It’s a platform so proven that it’s shared by its pricier (and typically more enamored) cousin, the Lamborghini Gallardo.

So when ReinART.Design was anticipating one of their earliest – and arguably most important – builds in the company’s initial stages last year, the R8 seemed like a logical choice to show their – and the R8’s – full potential in elite aftermarket performance and design.

The owner of the car had one simple, but very demanding request: to make it the baddest R8 in Hong Kong.

Many builders would crumble at the intimidation. Hong Kong is the location of some of the most exclusive vehicles in the world and some of the most customized R8s and, let’s face it – this 185 mile-per-hour German missile is not easily improved upon.

Thankfully, ReinART’s creative juices are always flowing and their design house already had a few ideas running through their heads at the request.

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SOUPED -UP

“THE DEEP OUTLET IN THE HOOD FLOWS UP AND INTO A PD ROOF SCOOP THAT YOU’D SWEAR SHOULD’VE COME INCLUDED WITH THE ORIGINAL CAR.”

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“We wanted to build a car that represents the style and design direction of our shop,” company founder Justin Liu says. “We wanted a car that was attention-grabbing, yet classy at the same time.”

“We also knew that in order to stand out amongst the crowd of R8s in Hong Kong, we needed to build something truly unique. We knew we had to go widebody.”

Their choices for R8 widebody kits are about as abundant as federweisser at your local pub, so when Liu and his team were looking at their choices, it could have only gone one of two ways: PPI Design's Razor GTR kit, or Prior Design’s PDGT850 widebody, both coming straight from Deutschland.

The PPI kit matched ReinART’s desire for exclusivity and exotic materials, replacing much of the existing R8 body panels in favor of carbon fiber, but it was Prior Design’s radical recreation of the body lines that swayed the auto group.

“The [Prior Design kit] was aggressive and mean, yet it had some elements that were quite subtle as well,” Liu says.

Playing off the existing bodylines of the R8, the PDGT850 kit transforms the car as an evolution of itself. While the untrained eye may not notice, there are subtle, but obvious cues that bring it into the present and future generation.

Directly up front, the headlamp/intake sections of the R8 remain unchanged and the stock grille locations have been filled with PPI carbon fiber replacements, but on either side, the front portion of the fenders are draped over the bumper and down to the skirt, giving the car a three-dimensional widebody appeal, all the way down to the ground.

Where it meets the front splitter, ReinART decided to forego the Prior Design version and installed an APR Performance carbon fiber lip for a more aggressive outward extension, which wasn’t a straightforward task.

“The APR lip was originally designed to fit the standard R8 front bumper,” Liu says. “Because the Prior Design bumper has a number of installation and design differences, there was actually quite a bit of work to get the splitter fitted properly.”

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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SOUPED -UP

“...THE M53 TARGA IN 20 INCHES; A THREE-PIECE WHEEL WITH GROUNDBREAKING SURFACE MILLED FEATURES THAT MARKED AN INDUSTRY FIRST...”

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The wet finish was matched perfectly to the GT850 carbon side skirts, which billow rearward into the quarter panel intakes for engine, brake and transaxle cooling.

But the subtlest, and perhaps most impressive components of the kit cover the largest areas of the car.

“The hood of the R8 acts as the front fenders as well,” Liu says. “Because it’s a single unit and it’s held down with three latches instead of hinges, getting it all to line up was a very time consuming task. Being a fiberglass body kit, it wasn’t just as simple as bolting everything on, but once we did, it was perfect.”

The result is a flawless finish with zero hood lines, noticed only by the most discerning eyes, but unknowingly appreciated by all.

The deep outlet in the hood flows up and into a PD roof scoop that you’d swear should’ve come included with the original car.

Pulling air in and pushing it down the rear windscreen and over the rear GT850 spoiler, it helps creates a symphony of aerodynamic symmetry that makes this GT supercar an even more potent weapon.

And with greater downforce usually comes greater suspension requirements. But, not wanting to mess with Audi’s honed active setup, ReinART added KW coilover sleeves front and rear, which not only keeps functionality in tact, they lower the car, improve balance and use the factory rubber mounts for an easy fix of an otherwise complicated system. ReinART then installed an HLS2 hydraulic lift system, which saves that carbon front splitter from otherwise imminent curb rash destruction.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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SOUPED -UP ESSENTIALS 2008 Audi R8

OWNER: ReinART.Design BUILT BY: ReinART.Design LOCATION: Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong ENGINE: Audi BYH 4.2L V8 FSI HORSEPOWER: 447 HP (est.)

TORQUE: 342 LB-FT (est.)

ENGINE ∂ TPC Racing intercooler ∂ ECU Tuning Group (ETG) performance tune EXHAUST ∂ Quicksilver SuperSports exhaust w/ matte black tips

Inside, things are kept neat and sleeper.

ReinART.Design custom quilted Alcantara panels cover the dash hood, seats, door cards and the headliner. MAcarbon carries the exterior wet carbon theme inside, which, when paired with the DCT Motorsport custom carbon fiber steering wheel and E-brake handle might seem like a pricy OEM upgrade, is anything but.

With the appearance nearly set, the white and carbon finish needed an exclamation point to set it all off.

“We had an idea and wanted to go with a quality wheel with a quality finish,” Liu says.

To that end, ReinART went to Brixton Forged, a company that, like the Hong Kong-based builders, have been evolving the scene and producing products that have been breaking the mould ever since their beginning just over two years ago.

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“We wanted to create a wheel fit for a super sportscar,” Adam Majcherkiewicz of Brixton Forged says. “We wanted something that was classy, but also had an edge that suited the car.”

Going over a number of designs, the team settled on the M53 Targa in 20 inches; an aerospace grade three-piece 6061-T6 aluminum wheel with ground-breaking surface milled features that marked an industry first, paired with super lightweight step-lip rim halves for the ultimate in weight savings (up to 45%), strength (up to 29%), durability, rebuildability, performance and style.

The proverbial cherry on top (or in this case, the sides) is Brixton’s finishing: the matte black center face expertly matches the carbon fiber treatments, and their 24K gold gloss clear lips and hardware play perfectly off the black and carbon, while not overshadowing the impressiveness of the overall build.

It’s a textbook example of vision and execution from two of the industry’s best.

And sitting behind those thin, split-spoke forged three-pieces?

Brake upgrades on a project of this scale would typically be a nobrainer, but seeing as this is a super sports exotic that can already halt from 100 to zero miles-per-hour in just 4.1 seconds, these factory cross-drilled rotors and six-pots will do just fine.

It goes to show that sometimes the best soups are the ones that simply start with a good stock.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION ∂ KW Suspensions (Audi R8 coilover sleeves (f/r), HLS2 hydraulic lift system) WHEELS/TIRES/BRAKES ∂ Brixton Forged M53 “Super Concave” wheels (matte black center, polished black face windows, 24k gold gloss clear lip, 24k gold exposed hardware) – 20x10 +10 et (f), 20x12.5 +9 et (r) ∂ Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires – 255/30 R20 (f), 325/25 R20 (r) ∂ Audi brakes – 6-piston calipers, 14.4-inch cross-drilled rotors (f), 4-piston calipers 14inch cross-drilled rotors (r) EXTERIOR ∂ Prior Design GT850 widebody (front bumper, rear bumper, bonnet/engine cover, front wide fenders, side skirts, roof scoop, rear widenings, rear wing, rear diffuser) ∂ PPI carbon fiber front grilles ∂ APR Performance carbon fiber front lip ∂ Audi R8 GT taillights ∂ Custom Audi white/ black two-tone paint INTERIOR ∂ ReinART.Design (custom quilted Alcantara dash hood, seat centers/w red stitching and door cards, Alcantara headliner, dash and door cards) ∂ MAcarbon (door arm rests, door handles, dashboard, center console inserts) ∂ DCT Motorsport (custom carbon fiber steering wheel, E-brake handle) ∂ Red seatbelts

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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2015-06-09 10:40 AM

For dealers inquires: www.orioncaraudio.com | info@mdaudio.net T: (305) 593.8361 | F: (305) 593.8413 | Toll free: 1-855.475.6048 Miami, FL - USA @orioncaraudiooï¬&#x192;cial facebook.com/orion.car.audio | twtitter.com/OrionCarAudio

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GERMANYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RAREST OF THE RARE

BY JORDAN LENSSEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN KUITWAARD

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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“[MAROLD] PUT OUT ADS FOR THE PAIR AT AN ASTOUNDING ASKING PRICE OF 3.2 MILLION DEUTSCHMARKS, OR OVER $2.2 MILLION.”

I

n automotive circles, the rarer the model is, the better. But one-of-a-kinds (or in this case, two one-of-a-kinds)? Those are the Holy Grail – the ultimate. If you’re scratching your head at the images before you, you’re not alone. Unless you’ve been scouring VW/Corrado forums, or attended Waterfest’s 20th anniversary show last year, chances are you’ve never heard of these two cars. They are perhaps two of the rarest Volkswagens in existence.

On the inside, they look identical to a Corrado. Outside they look like a wagon, but with a badge up front that’s distinctly non-VW. The two cars drawing all this attention are called the “Corrado Magnum Sport Kombi,” built by Marold Automobil GmbH (MAG) in February and March of 1989.

The Magnum project was VW’s attempt at a larger capacity, shooting-brake version of its sporty Corrado. Production on that car was limited in its own right, but the original plan for the Magnums, according to sources, was to develop as many as 200 models for the European public. When numbers didn’t add up, Volkswagen pulled the plug on the project in 1991 and Marold was left with two ultra-rare Corrado concepts and zero plan.

The vehicles were abandoned by Volkswagen and held by Marold, which eventually put the duo up for public sale. It put out ads for the pair at an astounding asking price of 3.2 million Deutschmarks, or over $2.2 million, which included all the paperwork, technical documents, wind tunnel test results,

construction documents, German TÜV road safety appraisals and even prototype tools.

The cars failed to sell, and disappeared off the map for some time.

That was until John Kuitwaard came across an interesting post in 2007 by VW Vortex forum member “Torsten” that led him to mobile.de.

Being the former VP of the Corrado Club of America (CCA) and owner of a steady stream of Corrados since 1991, when Kuitwaard found out about this unheard-of pair, his interest piqued. “[Torsten] had posted a link on VW Vortex, but it’s funny, I had a friend who also posted saying that I would love to own these cars because he knows how passionate I am about Corrados," he recalls. "I ended up buying them!”

That stroke of luck saved the Magnums from imminent destruction, which could have been just moments away.

“For lack of a better term, [I bought them] from a junkyard in Germany,” Kuitwaard muses.

“I slightly believe that the cars were supposed to be dismantled and crushed. I since found out [from an insider at VW] that the VIN numbers on both cars have even been removed from Volkswagen’s database.”

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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ESSENTIALS “VW OFFICIALS WE APPROACHED HAD NO RECOLLECTION OF THE VEHICLES, DESPITE THEIR OBVIOUS HISTORY AS A PILOT PROJECT FOR THE BRAND.” VW officials we approached had no recollection of the vehicles, despite their obvious history as a pilot project for the brand.

Untangling the web has been an extremely difficult task, but that mystique only adds to the Magnums' cool factor.

After purchasing the cars in 2007, the next step for Kuitwaard was getting his newly acquired gems home, which turned out to be much more difficult than he anticipated. The cars received their European TÜV road certification, but because they are prototypes, they weren’t U.S. legal. “[Originally], I applied to have the cars brought into the U.S. under a 'Show and Display' waiver for cars that aren’t U.S. Legal.

When I finally submitted my application,

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1989 Volkswagen Corrado Magnum Sport Kombi by Marold Automobil GmbH OWNER: John Kuitwaard ENGINE: G60 1.8L supercharged I-4 HORSEPOWER: 160 HP TORQUE: 166 LB-FT

it was denied because they were seen as Volkswagens and weren’t considered ‘special enough,'” he says.

The next alternative? Luckily, Kuitwaard has family in the Netherlands who were able to hold onto the cars. In 2014, he celebrated their 25th birthday, that all-encompassing magic number which makes them a “classic” in the automotive world – and more importantly, an easy reason for him to import them to their new home.

As an OEM enthusiast and meticulous caretaker, Kuitwaard’s Corrado Magnum Sport Kombis made their show debut last year at Waterfest 20 in factory-finish condition for all eyes to see. His plans for them? “Nothing,” he says.

It’s a fitting tribute to what could have been a beautiful reality for the rare sports car.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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ROCKSTAR

REDUX

VW PASSAT MEETS CHEVY V8

STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB LEVETON

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W

hen Tanner Foust walked away from drifting in early 2011, he made it very clear he wasn’t permanently retiring from the sport that he himself acknowledges catapulted his career.

It’s been a long wait, but the popular driver has finally found a way back for three of his favorite Formula Drift events.

This season, he is piloting a Volkswagen Passat, but this particular build is a far cry from the family sedan you can drive off of your local VW dealer’s lot. It is heavily modified for a sport with a rulebook that encourages high horsepower and plenty of creativity.

For this Tanner Foust Racing build, the driver called upon his old friends at Papadakis

Racing for support, involving some of the same fabricators and mechanics that built both of Foust’s Scions, as well as his previous Nissan 350Z that won back-to-back Formula Drift championships in 2007 and 2008.

With only an abbreviated three-event schedule for drifting, Foust didn’t have time to develop a new engine package, so the team looked for a reliable option that could safely put down 700 horsepower to keep up with the rest of the Formula Drift competitors. A high horsepower trend in Formula Drift has led to many leading competitors powering their builds with V8 motors – a trend many attribute to Foust’s former Scion tC drift car, which ran a TRD NASCAR motor.

There are 15 cars on the Formula Drift grid this year using LS-based motors. Only three of them also wear the matching bowtie on the front grill.

For this outrageous Volkswagen, which Foust sometimes refers to as “Frankenstein," the team chose to fit an LS7 engine with a nitrous setup into the car. It pushes about 700 ponies to the rear wheels, even before the 200-shot of nitrous is flipped on. It’s the most powerful car Foust has driven sideways in competition, but it is only around the median power level of the field.

As the car is developed in the future, Foust says he’s hoping to run a Volkswagen fourcylinder, similar to the motor that powers his Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen Beetle rallycross car.

For the Formula Drift car, the Tanner Foust Racing crew stripped down the 2015 Passat chassis, cut the sheet metal, fitted a competition-compliant roll cage made of 1.5inch 4130 chromoly steel, and set to work on transforming the rest of the package.

It’s all business under the hood. The LS7 engine uses a FAST intake manifold and 102-mm throttle body backed by a ZEX nitrous plate just behind the throttle body to feed the nitrous directly into the motor. The engine bay is snaked by the massive eight-into-one ceramic-coated exhaust header that collects in sequential order. This is said to improve exhaust flow and possibly even save a few ponies in efficiency.

Most notably, it gives the car a distinct exhaust note that makes it stand out from the other, similar V8s in the field.

With the radiator relocated to the trunk, the custom AEM intake is routed to the front bumper to suck in cool air. Power is pushed through the Tilton Engineering triple-disc clutch, G-Force GSR four-speed dog box transmission, and Driveshaft Shop aluminum driveshaft to the Toyota Supra rear diff. While many teams on the Formula Drift grid run a quick-change rear end, this build features a beefed-up OEM Toyota Supra differential – a proven component the team says doesn’t need to be over-engineered.

AUGUST // SEPTEMEBER 2015

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"I ALWAYS SAID I WOULD RETURN TO THE SPORT WHEN THE TIME WAS RIGHT – AND HERE I AM," SAYS FOUST. Outwardly, the car looks mean – some of the body panels are mildly modified from the OEM state – with a Rocket Bunny body kit that’s been tailored to fit the Passat chassis.

There are no off-the-shelf options for Passat over-fenders, and the widened track of KMC wheels look better with the over fenders sitting flush with the edges of the wheel lips.

Combine the Nitto NT05 tires sized 255/40 R17 in the front and 295/40 R18 in the rear with matching 17x8- and 18x10-inch wheels with custom RS-R coilovers that lower the ride height and allow for full adjustability, and you’ve got a pretty sick setup.

Spin Imaging has wrapped the car with a custom Rockstar livery displaying the traditional yellow and black colors, and giving the

Tanner Foust's Drift Passat.indd 3

team options for easier replacement in the event of on-track carnage. Apart from the windshield, all OEM glass has been swapped for Lexan. Aside from a front splitter and a pair of carbon fiber hood vents for increased heat ventilation, the Passat still uses more OEM bodywork than not.

In the passenger cabin, the HANScompliant Recaro Pro racing seats have been moved several inches back to help with weight distribution and overall driver feel. Normally, moving the driving position back would be a headache, but since the car is outfitted with a Tilton Engineering 600 series pedal set to operate the drive-by-wire throttle, moving the pedal set back only took a small amount of effort.

2015-06-09 10:43 AM

SOUND DESIGN POW ER

HANDCRAFTED PERFORMANCE SPORTEXHAUSTS

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200x273+6_Inserat JRP_v3.indd 1 Untitled-1 1

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ROCKSTAR

REDUX

Safety is handled by Schroth harnesses, while the Sparco steering wheel is connected via quick-release to the elongated steering column. Instead of the traditional switch panel that controls all engine and chassis functions, a RaceGrade switch panel connected to a pair of MoTeC PDMs (power distribution modules) and the AEM Infinity 10 ECU handle engine start, lights, nitrous controls and all other chassis functionality. Foust

monitors the real-time details on a Plex SDM-500 dash display affixed to the steering column, a trick way to monitor the race car details without hacking apart the OEM dash.

Behind the main roll cage, a relocated Odyssey PC915 battery sits behind the driver's seat, while a dry sump tank and FD-mandated Firesafe fire safety bottle sits behind the passenger seat.

The area where the back seats would normally be is now a metal

firewall, behind which is a radiator and two high-velocity fans, fed by ducting in the rear quarter panel of the car. Two AEM 320-liter fuel pumps sit inside the Fuelsafe fuel cell that takes up the majority of the area that was formerly a trunk.

The APR Performance swanmount rear spoiler is also connected to the chassis in the trunk, providing needed rear downforce.

Overall, the car is designed for reliability. The Passat benefits from the experience and lessons learned from previous builds in the Tanner Foust Racing and Papadakis Racing stables – an impressive pedigree. Foust drove the car a few times prior to the season starting but, after five years away from the sport, he is adjusting to the current style of driving that gets podiums on today’s Formula Drift circuit. The car has operated at 100 percent since the first time it turned over in late March, and development will continue.

We wouldn’t be surprised to see Foust back on the podium in short order, especially with a bespoke build as competitive as this Rockstar Passat.

BBI Project King Kong 996 Turbo B15E Package

distributed by:

Original photo by: Larry Chen • Speedhunters

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Made in USA 2015-06-09 10:44 AM

ESSENTIALS 2015 VW Passat

DRIVER: Tanner Foust BUILT BY: Tanner Foust Racing ENGINE: Chevrolet LS7 7.0L V8 HORSEPOWER: 700 hp (900 hp w/ nitrous)

ENGINE ∂ Papadakis Racing 8-to-1 exhaust header with sequential firing order collector ∂ AEM (custom air intake, 320L fuel pumps (2) ∂ Infinity-10 ECU) ∂ FAST (intake manifold, 102 mm throttle body) ∂ Injector Dynamics ID 850 cc fuel injectors ∂ rear metal firewall ∂ rear-mounted radiator ∂ Odyssey PC915 battery ∂ MoTeC PDM 15 (2) ∂ GP Motorsports Mil Spec wiring ∂ ZEX 200-shot nitrous system DRIVETRAIN ∂ Rear-wheel-drive conversion ∂ G-Force GSR 4-speed dog box transmission ∂ Tilton Engineering triple-disc clutch, bell housing ∂ DriveShaft Shop 4-in. aluminum axles ∂ Toyota Supra differential CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ Chromoly 4130 steel roll cage ∂ RS-R custom coilovers WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ KMC wheels – 17x8 (f), 18x10 (r) ∂ Nitto NT05 tires – 255/40-17 (f), 295/40-18 (r) EXTERIOR ∂ Modified body panels ∂ Rocket Bunny custom body kit ∂ APR Performance swan mount wing ∂ Spin Imaging vinyl graphics ∂ Lexan windows ∂ carbon fiber front splitter, hood vents INTERIOR ∂ Plex SDM-500 dash display ∂ RaceGrade keypad / switch panel ∂ Sparco steering wheel ∂ Recaro Pro seats ∂ Schroth harnesses ∂ Tilton Engineering 600 series pedals ∂ Firesafe fire safety bottle SPONSORS ∂ Rockstar Energy Drink ∂ Volkswagen of America ∂ Nitto Tire ∂ Forza Motorsport ∂ Xbox ∂ NAPA Chassis ∂ ODYSSEY Battery ∂ KMC Wheels ∂ Alpinestars ∂ GoPro ∂ Siemens

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AUGHT

TWO CLARION BUILDS’ I CO N I C R E ST O R AT I O N

STORY BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUBAL LEIERER & CHRIS KERN

I

t’s no secret that some people have really lost touch with the joy of driving. I mean, look at all these people who are stoked for autonomous cars! With technology advancing at the rate it is, the manual gearbox is the least of every gearhead’s worries when it comes to our beloved driving machines. However, when a company that is entrenched in automotive technology starts saying that it is going to build a car that uses good old fashioned driving for a base, and then builds the rest around that, you’re going to crane your neck for a look.

For about the past year, Clari-

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on’s offshoot restoration initiative, Clarion Builds, and its dedicated fanbase of over 200,000 social followers has picked and chosen all of the options for a project car to appeal to all. The chosen car would be a roughed up BMW 2002.

“The ’02 really hasn’t lost its luster,” explains Allen Gharapetian, VP of Marketing and Product Planning at Clarion and head of the Builds program. “They’re still reachable, where we haven’t gone past the stratosphere of classic car prices.”

And, of course, this hunt for the perfect 2002 started where all automotive dreams come true, on – uh – Craigslist. The approach

actually worked out pretty well.

The team had to root through a few bad apples, but Jubal Leierer, Clarion’s Merchandising Manager, ended up finding a rough diamond in the rougher rough.

“We ended up finding one that was perfect for our needs: it was running, it was a fairly straight car, it had a long history of being owned by real enthusiasts,” he says. “There was a BMW mechanic that had owned it for 10 years. He even has one of the BMW Car Club stickers on one of the windows.”

As it was a Craiglist deal, the transaction went down in a restaurant parking lot, but thankfully no one lost any fingers. Right after

acquiring the Bimmer, Leierer and the Clarion Builds photo/video team started photo-documenting the whole thing, which then was posted to Clarion’s social media feeds to start deliberations.

“Our fans really rose to the occasion, like each post would get 600 or 700 comments,” smiles Gharapetian. “We asked if we should keep the U.S.-spec bumpers or go with the European-spec bumpers and 90 percent of the comments were in favor of the European ones. We also asked about fog lights and, again, 90 percent of fans said, ‘Don’t ruin it!’”

Once the parts list had been finalized, it was time to find a shop

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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ESSENTIALS 1974 BMW 2002

OWNER: Clarion Builds BUILT BY: BP Autosound, Coupe King, Diamond Hills Collision, Ireland Engineering, VR Wheels LOCATION: Cypress, CA ENGINE: BMW M10 2.0L I-4 HORSEPOWER: 140 hp TORQUE: 150 lb-ft

that could handle the job. Some shops were super eager to take on the job, but seemed to forget that they were under equipped.

No matter where the team took the 2002, one thing remained constant: whispers about a place called “Coupe King.”

Leierer ended up finding them online, however, they didn’t have a phone number or address listed.

Still under the allure of the mystery shop, an email of intentions was shot off and met by a return message of pretty much, “Are you serious about this? If not, don’t waste our time.” After reiterating how serious they indeed were, the Clarion crew was given the address to the hidden kingdom.

From what I’m told, it’s heaven.

“THIS WASN’T A CAR BUILT TO SOLELY ACT AS A MARKETING BILLBOARD, THIS WAS A HOT-ROD RESTORATION DONE RIGHT” ANDREW ADAMS, IRELAND ENGINEERING PROJECT MANAGER

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“They have a whole warehouse dedicated to projects that are ready to start – shelves of cars just waiting to be restored,” Leierer exclaims. “They have another warehouse that’s just parts and scrap with anything you could ever want for a BMW 2002 or a 3.0 CS – those are the cars they mainly focus on. Then they have a whole separate area that’s just a candy shop filled with beautiful, restored cars, stacked on top of each other.

It’s insane.”

While the car was being torn down and rebuilt by the capable force of Coupe King, another star player in the classic BMW game came on board for the performance aspect. Ireland Engineering cut its teeth in racing E30s and 2002s, and in the years since, have amassed an impressive parts catalog.

“We were a little wary initially, but when we saw the build outline and end goal we jumped right on board,” says Andrew Adams, Ireland Engineering Project Manager.

“This wasn’t a car built to solely act as a marketing billboard, this was a hot-rod restoration done right.”

Ireland Engineering supplied 292-degree cams, rocker arms, connecting rods, carbs, manifolds, header, exhaust and velocity stacks for the engine, as well as sway bars, urethane bushings, strut braces and custom spec coilovers.

Suspension-wise, this little guy has some serious track DNA.

ENGINE MODIFICATIONS ∂ Bosch (spark plugs, ignition wires, coils, battery) ∂ Coupe King (custom E30 in-tank fuel pump, grounding system) ∂ CP Racing custom 89 mm 10:1 CR pistons ∂ Filter King fuel pressure regulator ∂ Ireland Engineering (intake manifold, 292 camshaft, distributor, forged H-beam connecting rods, S14-spec, piston rings, ported & polished head) ∂ K&N custom intake system ∂ Weber DCOE 40 carburetors (2) EXHAUST SYSTEM ∂ Coupe King custom stainless steel exhaust system ∂ Ireland Engineering Stage 2 4-1 header ∂ MagnaFlow (resonator, muffler) DRIVETRAIN ∂ Getrag 245 5-speed overdrive transmission ∂ BMW 320is LSD conversion WHEELS/TIRES/BRAKES ∂ BBS RS wheels – 15x7 +25 (f/r) ∂ Toyo Extensa HP tires – 195/50 R15 (f/r) ∂ Wilwood (Dynapro radial mount 4-piston brake calipers (f), CPB 1-piston brake calipers (r), 300 mm 2-pc. slotted rotors (f), 270 mm 1-pc. slotted rotors (r), braided brake lines) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ Eibach 2.5-in. ID springs (f) ∂ Ireland Engineering (5-in. race springs (r), 22 mm sway bars, urethane bushings, boxed control arms (r)) ∂ Koni adjustable shocks (f/r) INTERIOR ∂ BMW (2012 Oyster color leather, perforated inserts, first generation 2002 retrofit seats) ∂ Coupe King (re-manufactured dash, custom shift boot, custom e-brake boot, rebuilt gauge cluster, gauge pods integrated into center console) ∂ Nardi (shift knob, steering wheel) MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ BP Autosound (custom sealed subwoofer enclosure, custom fiberglass kick panels, custom fiberglass rear deck, custom fiberglass trunk, custom fiberglass center console) ∂ Clarion (NX605 head unit, XC6610 6-channel amplifier, WG2520D 10-in. subwoofers (2), SRG1622S component speakers, SRG6954R rear fill speakers) ∂ HushMat sound deadening ∂ Wirez (4-gauge power wire, distribution blocks) ∂ Xstatic BatCap Power Pack battery SPONSORS ∂ Coupe King ∂ Pandora ∂ TOYO Tires ∂ KONI ∂ K&N ∂ Chris Forsberg Racing ∂ SiriusXM ∂ Ireland Engineering Motorsports ∂ Mothers ∂ Pelican Parts ∂ HushMat ∂ New Century BMW ∂ Lucas Oil Products ∂ Hitachi ∂ Diamond Hills Collision ∂ WIREZ ∂ BP Autosound

2015-06-09 5:11 PM

AUGHT

TWO

“WE ACTUALLY BORROWED ANOTHER 2002 FROM COUPE KING AND SHIPPED IT OVER TO BP AUTOSOUND...”

ALLEN GHARAPETIAN, HEAD OF CLARION BUILDS PROGRAM

BEFORE

When I initially saw the car at CES in January of 2015, I thought the car looked amazing, even though Leierer assured me it was only 90 percent done. Chris Forsberg also gave me a walk-around, as he was to give the 2002 its first shakedown. Forsberg has been sponsored by Clarion for years and the team says there is no one they’d rather have thrash around their pride and joy than The Force.

“We wanted someone to take the car out and really put it through its paces, and we wanted someone who is an authority on performance to really drive it, have fun with it and say, ‘Yes, this is done right,’” Leierer says.

Every single bolt on this car has been removed, sent to be cleaned, re-plated and then put back on the car. I’ve been assured that I can eat off of any component (challenge accepted!), and absolutely no expense has been spared – a comforting thought for whoever the next owner is. That’s right, after the 2002 has done its tour of shows, it will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to charity.

I’d say that this is a happy ending for a tiresome build of a roughed-up, old classic, but this is just the beginning of this little Bimmer’s new life.

When looking for a snazzy set of rollers, the team at Clarion Builds considered many options. They considered going with a larger, flashier set of wheels, but scrapped that thought after realizing just how silly the little 2002 would look. Well, then how about Alpina? Alpina has been making some of the best BMW wheel options out there for about 50 years. Unfortunately, the

high price tag and sheer rarity of a complete set threw some serious weight into the cons column. The comedic 13-inch diameter was the last straw.

Finally, one wheel model came along that everyone could agree on: the timeless BBS RS. You’ll no doubt recognize this wheel, as everyone and their mother has set out to try and duplicate the mesh design since

the wheel went out of production about 15 years ago. Clarion Builds, however, wasn’t after a copy – they wanted the real thing. Before scouring half the earth, they thought it was a good idea to call up their wheel connection, VR Wheels.

“The owner of VR Wheels contacted us back and he actually found a set in a crate in the back of his warehouse,” Leierer recalls.

“They had Japanese writing on them and looked like they had been imported and had just been sitting in a container for the last 10 years. These things are authentic.”

These wheels had quite the adventure, being made in Germany, sent to Japan and then imported to the States to sit in a crate before being rescued by the 2002. The craziest thing is that they were exactly to spec. They were 15x7 inches, with a +25 offset.

The only thing that needed to be done was a 4x100 re-drill to fit on the BMW’s studs.

“The BBS wheels were in fair condition when we received them,” says VR Wheels’ Manager, Andrew Banh.

“All the wheels had minor corrosion and light curb rash, but were all true.”

Here’s what they had to go through to get back to their former glory:

The wheels are split apart and each piece of the wheel (face, lip, barrel) inspected to make sure all parts are true.

Once the wheels are powder-coated, they are then assembled and sealed.

Once given the OK by the repair technician, the faces are then stripped with aircraft remover and media-blasted to bare metal. The faces are inspected again to make sure there are no imperfections.

The faces are then heattreated in an oven prior to powder-coating. Clarion Builds decided to go with a classic silver powder-coat to complement the 2002.

While the wheels are being powder-coated, another repair technician polishes the lips and barrels to a mirror finish after they are media-blasted to take off dust and grime.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find an application that a BBS RS doesn’t look good on. Your search would be even more difficult if you were only to look through BMWs. They look right at home on the 2002. What other wheel could have reflected the timeless and character of this classic anyway?

AFTER Clarion Builds BMW 2002.indd 3

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AUGHT

TWO It would be a little embarrassing if the Clarion Builds project car came out with a less-than-stellar audio installation, wouldn’t it? If it wasn’t obvious enough already, this project 2002 was a labor of blood, sweat, tears and astounding passion, so you won’t find some gaudy fiberglass monstrosity inside.

This audio system is designed to sound great, modernize the car and bolster its class.

When you’re building an audio system, the first thing you want to do is make sure the cabin is as quiet as possible. For this task, Clarion reached out to HushMat, which graciously lined the inside of the 2002, including under the floorboards. The deadening also dissipates heat, which is great for cruising around under the California sun.

Wiring and distribution is the other essential to have a system sounding its best. Wirez stepped up with some high-quality wiring and Xstatic provided its awesome BatCap Power Pack, which is like a battery and capacitor all rolled up into one compact package. That helps with running the electronics, as well as the car itself.

Sitting at the helm is Clarion’s extraordinary NX605 source unit.

Being made in Japan with quality to match was one key deciding factor, but the interface which provides little to no driving distraction hit the nail on the head.

“This year, we added a ton of functionality to it,” explains Leierer. “Now it interfaces with Gmail, with Google Calendar and it’s all voice controlled, which is super important so you’re not distracted while driving.”

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“If you tell the unit, ‘I’m hungry’ it will find whatever is closest,” Gharapetian adds. “It will look into your calendar, see you have a meeting coming up and ask to guide you to it.”

The unit also sounds pretty great, with four-volt RCA outputs relaying a nice, clean signal through an addon amp. Speaking of which, the one for the job in the Bimmer is the XC6610, which is a digital six-channel model. It’s capable enough to run the whole system, which saves on weight and makes the whole install a lot less complex. Plus, it was able to be tucked right down into the spare

tire well. Score!

Providing output is a set of five-way components with some 6x9 back-up in the rear deck.

Obviously, the 2002 was never meant to have this much tuneage built into it, but Clarion Builds didn’t want to cut any holes into the little guy; and enlisted the help of BP Autosound to make custom panels for the new gear to sit in.

“We had [BP Autosound] build custom kick panels up front out of fiberglass,” Leierer says.

“If there aren’t holes in the doors from the factory on classic cars, we avoid that. Each of the panels looks like it

came with the car, but each one took hours and hours to get the lines and curves right.”

BP Autosound also did a custom subwoofer box for the trunk. The enclosure is covered with a beauty board and wrapped in leather, just like the rest of the trunk.

Inside the box lives a pair of 10-inch WG2520D dual voice coil subs, which are beefed-up enough to handle the amp’s power, but also compact enough to fit real nice. The 10inch duo provides some great low-end fill and are topped off with some sweet LED illumination.

A really interesting

addition to this build saga is the fact that BP Autosound had to get its hands on its own 2002 in order to have all the installation ready for tight time constraints.

“We actually borrowed another 2002 from Coupe King and shipped it over to BP Autosound so they could start on all the fiberglass and prep work,” recalls Gharapetian.

“Once the car actually got to them, they literally had 48 hours to get all the work done.”

Must be nice to just have some spare classic BMWs just hanging around...

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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HIGH PERFORMANCE SUSPENSION O F F I CI A L S U S PENSION OF FORMULA D RIFT CANADA

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2014 LIVE BATTLE WINNERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAYNALD BÉLANGER, JOHN WAKELY & BRIAN MUNDY

RUI PAULO NASCIMENTO

2001 AUDI TTS

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Building and dressing up an alreadyestablished sports car like the Audi TTS is no easy feat, but to do it in a way like Rui Paulo Nascimento did to clearly stand PERCENT out from the rest takes vision and, more OF THE POPULAR VOTE importantly, a great deal of execution.

Along with his father being an established rally racer at the wheel of a Ford Cortina RS in 1970, Nascimento has a history of working with vehicles that break the mold, including a 1979 Pontiac Phoenix with a Nova SS block, 1990 Suzuki Swift GTI, and a 1990 RHD Skyline GT-R (R32), among many others. This TTS – while no longer in its black and red form – is a culmination of those years of experience and passion. Inspired by his love for German cars and touring car racing, Nascimento infused his TTS with some DTM inspiration that can be found front to back. It was a reflection of his past, his personality and his deep connection to motorsport – and as you can see with his fighter-plane update, his passion for German engineering has been taken to a whole new level

WINNER

TORQUE MODIFIED 2014: GARNETT B. RICKARD COMPLEX, BOWMANVILLE, ON

ESSENTIALS

cover l Wrinkled oil catch can EXHAUST

(front lip, hood, rear wing) l APR custom

Custom designed stainless steel headers

wing brackets l Nikolas Racing custom

l

4 2 1 racing manifold l 42 Draft 3-in.

ceramic coated downpipe l Borla ceramic

LED taillights l WRAP DESIGN graphics

coated cat-back exhaust) DRIVETRAIN

l

Short shift kit l Spec stage 3 aluminum

metallic fleck INTERIOR Sparco (pedals,

racing flywheel l ECS Tuning Dogbone

shift knob) l Custom black/red leather

ENGINE Bored to 2.0L l Garrett GT28RS turbocharger l Turbosmart BOV l Unitronic

6-piston big brake kit w/ 14.5-in. drilled

stage 3 ECU l ZEX nitrous wet kit l High-

rotors (f) w/ braided stainless steel

multimedia radio l Kicker (1,000 W

flow intake l Integrated Engineering

brake lines (f/r) l Ventilated carbon pads

amplifier, 15-inch subwoofers (2)) l Bose

high-flow induction manifold l EVO intake

(f/r) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION Neo

speakers l iPhone multimedia adapter

manifold gasket l TFSI Redhead ignition

Motorsport racing coilovers l NEUSPEED

SPONSORS Camo Customs, Unitronic,

coils w/ adaptors l 42 Draft billet aluminum

22 mm anti-sway bars (f/r) EXTERIOR

Croftgate, Pirelli, Regula Tuning Germany,

fuel rails l Bosch 880 cc fuel injectors

Regula Tuning 2012 DTM Racing body kit

Spec, ECS Tuning, Lacroix Tuning,

l

NEUSPEED Power Pulley kit l Diverter

valve relocation kit l Polished throttle body

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l

Shifter cable bushings WHEELS /

BIG STOPPA’: Hidden not so discreetly behind these black XXR wheels are a set of Neo Motorsport 14.5-inch drilled and slotted rotors, which are clamped on by giant six-piston calipers of the same make.

carbon fiber DTM mirrors l Audi TT RS

2001 AUDI TTS (2014 SPEC) LOCATION: Rigaud, QC CAR CLUB: Team Street Authority ENGINE: BVP 1.8L 20V DOHC turbocharged I-4 (bored to 2.0L) HORSEPOWER: 395 HP

transmission mount/subframe insert kit

LIGHTWEIGHT GOODS: With motorsport inspiration and performance at the forefront, Nascimento opted for carbon fiber where strength and lightweight matters: his front splitter, hood and rear spoiler are all dressed in wet.

Metallic black paint with cherry red

seats l VAG Performance vent-mount computer control l NRG (custom

TIRES / BRAKES XXR 535 wheels – 18 x

steering wheel, quick release hub) l OSIR

8.75 +20 (f/r) l Pirelli Trofeo racing tires

illuminated shift ring l Xenon interior bulb

– 245/35 ZR18 (f/r) l Neo Motorsports

kit l Dashboard button covers MOBILE ELECTRONICS Pioneer DEH-P9400BH

l

Camo Customs custom 3-in. widebody

Integrated Engineering, Kicker Canada,

l

OSIR vented fenders l Carbon fiber

Wrap Concept Design, SF Autospa

SUBTLE & FUNCTIONAL: Nascimento carried his red/black theme inside, where you’re encouraged to look at the finer details.

An NRG quick release hub, short throw shifter, custom seats and VAG Performance vent-mount display in the left-center pod are just some of the performance upgrades.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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COMPETITION Jacob's Drift

TEAM PROFILE

Facebook: /JacobLevetonDrift Website: www.jacobphoto.com

NITTO TIRE'S 2015 DRIVER LINE-UP

ALUMNI

BY JACOB LEVETON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB LEVETON & BRAD HODGIN

T

here’s no denying that drifting at a competitive level requires the support of a tire company. Over the years, 12 different tire companies have earned a podium finish, with 10 of them earning an event win. Nitto Tire has been one of the biggest supporters of Formula Drift and continues to field one of the strongest teams on the grid. In the past, drivers like Dai Yoshihara, Ryuji Miki, Matt Powers, and Toshiki Yoshioka have represented the Nitto Tire brand, which has seen five event wins and 17 podium finishes prior to 2015. The current roster of Nitto supported drivers have already contributed a few more trophies to the case at Nitto HQ. Here’s a look at the drivers who are drifting on NT05s this season.

AURIMAS “ODI” BAKCHIS

Odi Bakchis has been one of the fastest rising drivers on the circuit over the past few years. After earning his license through the Pro-Am ranks, Bakchis quickly showcased his car setup despite being underpowered. Earning “Rookie of the Year” honors in 2011 and his first podium last year in New Jersey, Bakchis is definitely a driver to watch, but few expected him to come out of the gate as hard as he has so far.

Entering a new partnership with ARK Design for 2015, Bakchis will be splitting time between the ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe and his Nissan S14 that he has piloted for several years. Both cars have well over 700 horsepower, and although the Genesis is closer to 1,000, Bakchis has proven to be competitive in either car. In his first competitive event in the Genesis, Bakchis took home a podium finish in Long Beach, added his first career win in Atlanta and is currently leading the Formula Drift championship race. Should Bakchis remain atop the points table, the championship would be the first for Nitto Tire.

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VAUGHN GITTIN JR.

The former 2010 Formula Drift champion has been looking to regain his championship form of years past. After finishing 2014 in third place, including a pair of back-to-back wins earlier in the season at Atlanta and Miami, Gittin Jr. was likely on the short list of favorites entering the 2015 season. Gittin Jr. didn’t start the season as strongly as he would have preferred, but has enough points to be within distance of his Nitto Tire teammate Bakchis.

Gittin Jr. chose to stay with the 2014 model Ford Mustang RTR to remain competitive while he works to develop the new suspension configuration associated with the 2015 Mustang’s independent rear setup. 2005 marks the eleventh consecutive season that Gittin Jr. has competed in a Ford Mustang, and undeniably he has more seat time each year than most of the FD grid due to all the demos and international events he competes in. We haven’t heard any immediate plans from Gittin Jr. to run the entire world championship schedule, but he’s a strong competitor capable of wining any event he competes in.

“MAD” MIKE WHIDDETT

DAI YOSHIHARA

RYUJI MIKI

MATT POWERS

TOSHIKI YOSHIOKA

New Zealand native “Mad” Mike Whiddett has slowly been planning his return to the Formula Drift grid for the past five years. His 2010 rookie year in FD didn’t quite go as planned, finishing 21st in points with a lot of lessons learned. With some recent success in the FD Asia series and a new Mazda MX-5 chassis built, a return was planned and executed. Delays in shipping his car left Whiddett watching from the sidelines in Long Beach, but a pair of top 16 finishes have him within striking distance of finishing in the top 10 in points overall.

Whiddett has long been known as a rotary car builder and this car would be no different. Pushing over 1,000 horsepower through the quad-rotor twin-turbocharged engine, power is the least of Whiddett’s worries. The 92-inch wheelbase of the NC Miata is much shorter than what many people consider to be optimal and the wider track that Whiddett has built out makes the car even trickier to drive. Oddly enough, Whiddett likes the challenge and how snappy the car transitions from one direction to the other. With a bit more seat time and some chassis development, the car could prove to be competitive.

TANNER FOUST

Arguably the most successful drifter away from the race track, Tanner Foust is one of the most recognizable drivers on grid. After finding success in rally, rallycross and as a television host, Foust has returned to Formula Drift on a limited schedule to enjoy the motorsport that helped launch his career. Although Foust is four seasons removed from his last year of competition and six from his last championship, Foust believes he has the team and driving skill it takes to be competitive.

Due to the limited schedule, the team went with a tried-and-true 700-horsepower built Chevy LS7 motor and an additional 200-shot of nitrous, pushing a reliable 900 horsepower to the rear wheels. The same Papadakis Racing team that built Foust’s previous championship-winning 350Z and his Scion tC1 drift car built this unconventional chassis. Foust’s first two events in Long Beach and Atlanta didn’t go quite as planned, with a pair of top 32 exits, but Foust hopes he can get some seat time in before the season finale at Irwindale. It’s unlikely that this year’s guest appearances will be his last in the series, so we should expect to see Foust back on track next season, possibly for a full championship schedule.

AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

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S SU M T W TH F S SU M T W TH F S SU M T W TH F S SU M T W TH F S SU M

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

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LOCATION: BATON ROUGE, LA MEASUREMENTS: 34B-25-35 HEIGHT: 5'5" ETHNICITY: CAUCASIAN ZODIAC: ARIES CAR: 2013 HONDA CIVIC DREAM CAR: NISSAN GT-R (R34, R35)

DO YOU GET A LOT OF LOOKS DRIVING A CIVIC LOWERED ON 18-INCH LUXURY ABSTRACT WHEELS? All the time! At times I also get the not-so-good kind of look.

I accidentally went over a curb at a car meet, in front of everyone there, and I broke my front bumper. I heard some “ouch” comments, along with laughter, but it rubbed off. Girls already have it rough in the car game!

OTHER THAN THE TASK OF LOOKING GOOD IN FRONT OF A CAMERA, WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? I love riding my dirt bike with my friends, volunteering at an animal shelter and modifying my car. I’m currently saving for headlights and interior modifications.

For Lexii Kelley’s full interview, go to: pasmag.com/calendarmodels/lexiikelley lexiinkelley @_lexiink

Konig Calendar Model_August_September.indd 1

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AFTERMARKET DIRECTORY

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AD INDEX 2Crave MACH ............................................................ 87

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AUGUST // SEPTEMBER 2015

Ad Index.indd 2

PASMAG

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S:7”

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