PASMAG 167 - Euro + Car Audio and Technology 2021

INSIDE: SPECIAL DOUBLE-ISSUE JOHNNY FENG'S I S S U E

167

2014 BMW 328D M SPORT

EUROPEAN UNIONS STYLE // TECH // PERFORMANCE

JASON BALAZE'S

MK1 VW

GTI

+

12TH ANNUAL

CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY

PASMAG.COM

#

TBG LIVE WINNERS

BRANDON RENDON 1998 ACURA INTEGRA ABNER ARGUILLA 1987 ACURA INTEGRA JOHN KODERA 2007 AUDI RS4

UPGRADE GUIDE

PM40069655

R10760

$6.99

ACCESSORIES HEAD UNITS SPEAKERS SUBWOOFERS AMPLIFIERS & DSPS

PRODUCT BATTLE

WINNER!

SOUKASENE THATVIHANE 2017 SUBARU STI

UNLEASH YOUR PERFORMANCE

Make the most out of every drive with true all-season ultra high performance backed by a worry-free 40,000 mile tread life warranty.

Experience exceptional performance for much less than you expect with the Sailun Atrezzo SVA1, available now in over 40 popular sizes.

GOSAILUN.COM Exclusively Distributed by

©2021 STILLWATER DESIGNS

The KICKER Fiat® features a level of audio sophistication never before heard.

Sophisticated, yet tech thatʼs very affordable for your own ride.

Fiat is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

The KEY200.4 Smart Amplifier.

You owe it to yourself to hear an in-car demo.

Visit your nearest Authorized KICKER Dealer.

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

CONTENTS 26 COVER FEATURE

DREAM A LITTLE DREAM

JASON BALAZE’S MK1 VW GOLF

FEATURE

ESTATE STATEMENT

JOHNNY FENG’S 2014 BMW 328D WAGON

34 [ trending ]

22

10

EURO BUILDS TO FOLLOW

HOT NEW PRODUCTS

15

#TBGLIVE WINNERS

ANNUAL COMPETITION

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

PASMAG

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mackin_ind

LONE STAR THROWDOWN COVERAGE STEEL VALLEY COVERAGE

Car Audio & Tech

#12

42 43 44 46

AGGIELAND COVERAGE MECA TUNER BASH + 1X EVENT COVERAGE

CONTENTS

MOBILE ELECTRONICS BUILDS TO FOLLOW

[ trending ]

40

54

KICKER UNMASKED

48

HEAD UNITS

52

SUBWOOFERS

CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY

56

SPEAKERS

BUYER'S GUIDES

58

62

64

66

AMPLIFIERS + DSPS

PREFERRED DEALERS

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

MOBILE ELECTRONICS ACCESSORIES

SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

PASMAG

7

PORSCHE 911 TURBO/TURBO S (992) SLIP–ON RACE LINE (TITANIUM)

As a Turn 14 Distribution customer you have access to the best customer support, real time inventory, nationwide delivery from PA, TX, or NV, flat rate shipping, and the best return policy in our industry. Let us be your competitive advantage.

100% WHOLESALE // 877-7TURN14 // TURN14.COM

ISSUE PREVIEW

PASMAG (ISSN # 1710-1573) Performance Auto & Sound Inc. 115-42 Industrial Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 1Y9

SUBSCRIPTION RATES (1 YEAR) CANADA AND USA:

$24.99

(2 YEAR) CANADA AND USA:

$34.99

(3 YEAR) CANADA AND USA:

$42.99

TOLL FREE: 1-800-667-7223

subs@pasmag.com pasmag.com/subscribe GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO: Tim PUBLISHERS EMERITI: FOUNDER: Frank

Rutledge

Blake Breslin & Perry Breslin

Spezzano

EDITORIAL EDITOR: Adam

Gordon

MOBILE AUDIO EDITOR-AT-LARGE: Bill 12-VOLT SPECIALIST:

FEATURES EDITOR: Ricky

Chu

SENIOR VIDEOGRAPHER: Mikey MANAGING EDITOR:

Braun

Aaron Trimble Dang

Sean Greene

PASMAG EURO IS BACK!

CONTRIBUTORS PJ Miller, John Kodera, Adam Delgadillo, Trent Thompson, Jonathan Babulal, Spoke Photos, Christian Dizon, Ariz Media, Alvaro Romero Ramirez, John Edwards, Faithe Edwards, Dustin Miller, 4th Media, Klifton Keplinger, David Barnhouse, Bill Braun, Travis Chin, Akiko Tsukamoto Liu, Micky Slinger

ART + PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Queue

Gonzalez

PRODUCTION + SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Patrick SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Edward SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Patrick GRAPHIC INTERN: Julia

Dinglasan

Shintani

Beltijar

Neukom

SALES + ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR, AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT:

Randi Bentia

DIRECTOR, CLIENT SERVICES: Richard

Robles

DIRECTOR OF NEWSSTAND SALES: Craig SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR: Anna

Sweetman

Rutledge

Performance Auto & Sound Magazine welcomes unsolicited contributions including stories (typewritten), photos, club news, events, etc. (Forward to PAS, 115-42 Industrial Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 1Y9) Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40069655 Printed in Canada PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NIAGARA FALLS, NY AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. U.S.P.S. # 022-608 U.S. OFFICE OF PUBLICATION 2152 Ridge Rd, Lewiston, NY 14092 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 1-800-667-7223.

PERFORMANCE AUTO & SOUND PHONE: (416) FAX: (416)

922-7526

964-1836

TOLL FREE: 1-800-667-7223

W

ELCOME BACK TO THE PAGES WE CALL HOME, PAS FANS. WE HOPE YOU ENJOYED YOUR SUMMER MONTHS AS MUCH AS WE DID. WHAT AN EVENTFUL YEAR! PASMAG is back with our annual Euro-centric issue, focusing on everyone’s favorite VWs, BMWs, and everything in between. In this special double-issue of PASMAG, not only do you get the Euro issue, but we’ve also included an entire Mobile Electronics Buyer’s Guide and some exciting audio content for our bassheads in the audience.

In addition to the incredibly clean VW you saw on the cover, owned by Jason Balaze of LiquiMoly, we’ve sprinkled in all sorts of Euro car content for you. The Builds to Follow section was filled using some of the most popular builds, as well as some up-and-comers that we think you should keep an eye on. No matter what your preferred style of Euro ride is, we’ve got something for you!

Once you’ve made your way through the Euro content and into the back half, get ready for all

the mobile electronics and audio content you can shake an antenna at. Buyer’s guides for all manner of mobile electronics are available.

Amplifiers and DSPs, head units, subwoofers, speakers, and accessories to tie them all together are all found here!

Thanks as always for picking up the magazine. We hope you find something in here that inspires you to take the next step with your own builds, and maybe one day we can put your build right here in these pages!

ADAM GORDON @gordon.leadfoot PASMAG EDITOR

PASMAG.COM TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS.COM @PASMAG @PASMAG PASMAG @PASMAG

pasmag.com pas@pasmag.com

SEMA Member

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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[ trending ]

T HOEW N

PRODUCTS

SEIBON CARBON

TS-Style Carbon Fiber Hood for 2019-2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback $1,160 | SeibonCarbon.com

The new TS-Style hood features three vents on each side that help with heat extraction while still maintaining a stylish look.

Performance comes from its production process that allows exceptional carbon to resin ratio, creating high product stiffness that leads to extra strength. In other words, the TS-Style hood is lightweight and durable. For a stunning finish, this hood is coated with a sleek, glossy clear coat.

UNITRONIC

Cat-Back Exhaust System for MK7 / MK7.5 VW Golf R and 8V / 8V.2 Audi S3 (2.0L TSI MQB) GetUnitronic.com

ISC SUSPENSION

N1 Coilover Kit for BMW FX8 BMW M2/M3/M4 $984 | ISCSuspension-na.com

The ISC N1 coilover for the BMW M2/M3/M4 is a great solution for street or track use. You may choose from street comfort, street sport, or track valving. The N1 coilover comes standard with a monotube damper with 32-way adjustable damping, preload separate from ride height. Front camber plates are standard, and with a lifetime warranty to the original owner, this is a great option to consider for your next set of coilovers.

This valved cat-back exhaust system features 3-inch T304 stainless steel mandrel bent tubing, high density, high temperature fiberglass packed muffler with acoustic design inspired by the OEM Audi Sports exhaust for the 8V.2 RS3 along with high quality V-band fasteners and T316 stainless steel flanges. Customers will have the choice of polished oval (Golf R specific), polished round, or black round 4-inch slash cut exhaust tips as well. These attributes combined with extensive R&D testing help ensure perfect fitment and maximum performance, while maintaining a comfortable and unobtrusive exhaust tone inside the cabin.

DRESS UP BOLTS

Titanium Widebody Hardware DressUpBolts.com

Dress Up Bolts offers 8 variations of widebody hardware combinations that include different bolt designs and lengths. These widebody hardware combos include one bolt, one washer, and one well nut, so you can select the exact quantity you need for your widebody kit. Dress Up Bolts use GR5 Titanium for its high corrosion resistant properties, and rubber well nuts to seal the holes in your body panels ensuring an easy, protective, and clean finish for your widebody.

AIR LIFT PERFORMANCE FLO-BTS Modular Billet Tanks AirLiftPerformance.com

ORACLE LIGHTING Fiber Optic Dash Kits OracleLights.com

Available in both ColorSHIFT and single-color options, Oracle’s new Fiber Optic Dash Kits are the perfect way to accent a vehicle’s interior in a clean and seamless way. The fiber optic is end-lit by a LED light head. The light travels through the fiber and lights up smoothly along the way for a very clean and understated appearance.

The integrated edge is designed to hold the fiber optic cable tightly without the use of any adhesive.

The single-color kit is available in six options: white, blue, red, green, amber, and ABL.

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PASMAG

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

Take your trunk build to the next level with a billet tank from FLO Airride Mfg., now available through Air Lift Performance. The FLOBTS modular billet tanks are designed for a clean and impressive air management setup. Available in three lengths - 18, 24, and 28 inches - the FLO-BTS tank is designed for customizations and creativity. Machined from high-quality 6061-T6 billet aluminum and featuring threaded end caps with 1/8-, 1/4-, and 3/8-inch NPT port options, arranged in a design that allows for perfect symmetry in hardline applications.

ADVANCED CLUTCH TECHNOLOGY Mod-Twin 225 Clutch Kits for Mitsubishi EVO X AdvancedClutch.com

Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) releases a full range of Mod-Twin 225 clutch kits for the Mitsubishi EVO X. ACT’s new Mod-Twin 225 is a performance breakthrough, resulting in an ultra-durable, customer serviceable, long-lasting clutch with extremely high torque capacity - without the tradeoffs often associated with a twin disc clutch.

Optional components for the Mod-Twin can be combined in any one of ten configurations. The Mod-Twin has three different clamp loads available, alternate friction plates, and a choice of either a sprung or rigid mono-drive hub.

DESIGN ENGINEERING INC

Stainless Steel Heat Shield Pads DesignEngineering.com

WHITELINE

KCA476 - Offset Strut Top Kit for Mk7 VW MQB Platform $385 | WhitelinePerformance.com

Whiteline offset strut tops allow for extra negative camber and positive caster to improve steering response, steering feel, and reduced movement to ensure wheel alignment stability through a high quality spherical bearing. Perfect for the high performance street or track day weapon, providing improved tire life and extra grip during high speed and high load cornering. Provides an additional +0.5 degrees of caster and -1.0 degree of camber.

PROJECT KICS

HEISE LED LIGHTING SYSTEMS

Wide Tread Spacer

RGBW Underglow LED 4-Piece Kit

Mackin-Ind.com

HeiseLED.com

These bolt-on aluminum wheel spacers from Project KICS are available in 11mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, and 30mm versions. Available as simple bolt-on spacers, with PCD conversion spec also available. Two pieces per set. Available as M12xP1.5 and M12xP1.25.

RAYS WHEELS

Gram Lights 57FXZ RaysWheels.co.jp

Featuring grommet holes that provide secure mounting points, the universal pads can be handformed to fit just about any shape, bend or curve.

Available in two sizes, they block heat and protect components better than factory shields. Offering up to a 2,000-degrees farenheit direct-temperature rating, the extremely lightweight pads are made from high-grade, double-sided stainless steel and high-temp insulation. Welded seam edges seal the insulation between the stainless steel sheets.

+ CONSTRUCTION: RCF Cast + SIZE (IN.): 18-20 + WIDTH (IN.): 7.5-11 + BOLT PATTERN: 5x112, 5x114.3, 5x120 + FINISH: Matte Graphite/Machining

Metra’s RGBW LED underglow lighting, the RGBW1-UNDGLED, is designed for all-terrain on powersports vehicles, cars, and more! Choose from 16 million different color options plus a true while color using the Metra RGB smartphone app with pre-built lighting transitions, flash patterns, and more.

This 4-piece package includes two 36-inch and two 48-inch sealed water-resistant LED tubes, mounting hardware, and extension cables, providing a fast and durable RGBW lighting solution. Controller sold separately.

RAYS

Volk Racing TE37SL Black Edition III $918 | RaysWheels.co.jp + CONSTRUCTION: Forged +SIZE (IN.): 18-19 + WIDTH (IN.): 9.5-11

+ BOLT PATTERN: 5x112, 5x114.3, 5x120 + FINISH: Pressed Black w/ rim REDOT

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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E n g i n e e r e d

t o

O u t p e r f o r m

Innovative products for racers and enthusiasts that will exceed your performance needs. Our products are Engineered to Outperform.

X-Digital wideband technology gives these controllers the ability to read and report values that other controllers may miss, which can deliver more optimized engine tuning and a safer overall operating condition.

The controller’s high-speed digital implementation ensures no loss of signal fidelity and full transient response, making it able to identify the slightest fluctuations in AFR and output them in full value.

WHOLESALE INQUIRIES ONLY (626) 839-7150

LAUNCHDISTRIBUTION.COM/AEMELECTRONICS

T HOEW N

PRODUCTS

[ trending ]

KW SUSPENSIONS

Variant 3 Coilovers for Mercedes A-Class Sedans KWSuspensions.com

These suspension kits, which are available with a technical parts certificate, allow a maximum lowering of 10 to 30 millimeters for the AMG A35 4MATIC sedan or 45 to 75 millimeters for the A 250 e plug-in hybrid, and 30 to 50 millimeters for the A180. KW coilovers are available for numerous vehicles and offer much more than maximum lowering within the scope of the technical parts certificate. All suspensions developed by the Swabian suspension manufacturer, KW automotive, improve the vehicle performance and ride comfort.

RAYS GRAMLIGHTS 57Trans-X

RaysWheels.co.jp + CONSTRUCTION: Cast / RCF Cast + SIZE (IN.): 17-18, 20 + WIDTH (IN.): 8-9 + BOLT PATTERN: 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7 + FINISH: Super Dark Gunmetal w/ Rim

Edge DC

SPEC CLUTCHES & FLYWHEELS PROJECT MU Racing Floating Nut II Project-Mu.co.jp

These new lug nuts from Project Mu are as stylish as they are functional.

Project Mu’s signature color is found on both the floating conical seat, as well as the aluminum cap which can be removed for extended studs. Available in M12xP1.5 and M12xP1.25 sizes. Includes a 17 hex key. A four-piece lock set is also available.

SB09A-4 Billet Flywheel for 2013+ Mini Cooper S/Cabrio/Clubman/ Countryman $609 | SPECClutch.com

The SPEC billet flywheel for Mini S and JCW S B48 engines fits the 2013-and-up hardtop and hatch, Cabrio, Clubman, and Countryman models. The 13-pound unit offers a tremendous rate of rev and horsepower gain, infinite rebuild capability, and the highest level of reliability over the OE dual mass flywheel. As with all SPEC billet flywheels, a race bolt kit is included.

VORTECH SUPERCHARGERS

2020 Mustang GT Supercharger System $7,643.99 VortechSuperchargers.com

Vortech Superchargers carries on with their dominant line of centrifugal superchargers adding another 50 state legal complete system for the 2020 Ford 5.0L Mustang GT. No other power adder company takes the Coyote powerplant to the next level of performance like Vortech. Utilizing the venerable V-3 JT-Trim supercharger and an air-to-air charge cooler, the complete system can boost your stock 5.0 GT to 692 horsepower and 584 lb-ft of torque with 7.5-8.5 psi using CA 91 octane fuel.

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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Made in Germany.

Made for you.

www.liqui-moly.com

Engineered for Asian and American manufacturers Special Tec AA oils are not standard motor oils. These oil formulations meet the performance demands of high output and high efficiency modern engines and their required emission systems.

Reduction of fuel consumption low friction coefficient Always best performance high thermal and pressure stability

ERVICE CK IS

-4

The use of this official API seal distinguishes licensed products and confirms that the motor oil meets or exceeds the specifications and requirements of the American Petroleum Institute (API). The user is thereby guaranteed the best quality.

AP

Longer engine life less wear than regular motor oil

SAE 5W-30

Modify | Tune | Compete | Win TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS.COM

TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS

EVENT

[ trending ] ANNUAL COMPETITION

Colorado Springs, CO @hotimportnights

72%

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

JOHN KODERA 2007 AUDI RS4 @fault.kode | /jkodera Photography By John Kodera |

ESSENTIALS LOCATION › Denver, CO ENGINE › Audi 4.2L V8 FSI HORSEPOWER › 400 whp CLUB › Pandagang

@captures.kode

 Engine: JHM (91 octane prototype tune, intake manifold spacers, oil lines w/ 12AN conversion) + Intake manifold flap delete + Mishimoto 19-row oil cooler + K&N air filter + GruppeM intake  EXHAUST: Tubi Rumore exhaust + ECS H-pipe + Custom downpipes  DRIVETRAIN: 034Motorsport (track density engine mount, track density snub mount, street density transmission mount) + Apikol rear differential mount  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: Custom BBS RSii wheels - 19x11 +6 (f/r) + Continental DWS06 tires - 255/35/19 (f/r) + RS803 flat front faces + RS700 concave rear faces + Zinc plated Grade 12.9 wheel hardware + MG Line centerlock hexes + BBS Gold/Black 3D center caps + Brembo brake pads  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: Air Lift Performance (3P management system, air suspension) + KW Suspensions V3 shocks + 034Motorsport (track front control arms, rear control arms) + Hotchkis front and rear anti-roll bars  EXTERIOR: Xpel PPF front end + Custom LED headlights + Philips Xtreme Vision D1S xenon bulbs + 1156 LED DRLs + LED (city lights, underglow) + 40% window tints + Ziza LED license plate lights + Euro spec front bumper + Custom rear bumper w/ shaved sensors and reflectors + Audi DTM carbon fiber front lip + Custom painted (mirror base, B-pillar, rear valence) + JOM clear tail lights  INTERIOR: LED interior lighting + Recaro Pole Position black leather seats + Rennline (chrome fire extinguisher, bracket) + Custom trunk setup w/ false floor + Custom wedge brackets + Euro spec RS4 flat-bottom steering wheel  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Sony AVX-1000 head unit + Uniden R3 radar detector

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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ADDICTED TO DETAILS CORROSION RESISTANT / STRONG / LIGHTWEIGHT / REFINED THE WORLD’S LARGEST SELECTION OF TITANIUM HARDWARE KITS, SIZES, AND COLORS.

DRESSUPBOLTS.COM INSTAGRAM: @DRESSUPBOLTS

Modify | Tune | Compete | Win TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS.COM

TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS

EVENT

[ trending ] ANNUAL COMPETITION

Avena Stadium, Houston, TX @hotimportnights

40%

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

BRANDON RENDON

1998 ACURA INTEGRA RS @lbc.customs | /brandon.rendon1 Photography by Adam Delgadillo

ESSENTIALS

LOCATION › Aransas Pass, TX ENGINE › Honda B20 2.0L I4 HORSEPOWER › 297 whp CLUB › Street Celebrities

 Engine: Honda B20 Vtec engine swap + Garrett turbocharger + Tial external wastegate + HKS blow-off valve + Mishimoto (intercooler, full size radiator) + Custom piping + RC injectors + AEM fuel rail + Upgraded FPR + ARP head studs + Oil catch can + CX Racing AC-friendly manifold + Innovative motor mounts + Blox Racing intake manifold + Walbro 255 fuel pump + Hondata S300 V3  EXHAUST: Tanabe Medallion 2.5-inch exhaust system  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: Enkei RPF1 wheels - 15x8 (f/r) + Toyo Tires R888R tires - 225/50/15 (f), 205/50/15 (r) + Custom tire stickers + Drilled and slotted brake rotors  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: Skunk2 (Pro-ST adjustable coilovers, Pro Stance upper control arms, lower control arms, Pro rear camber arms)  EXTERIOR: Custom Candy Metallic Purple paint + Mugen front lip + Custom (front splitter, side splitters, rear diffuser) + APR GT3 carbon fiber mirrors + Carbon fiber Type R wing + Tinted headlights + Tanaka front tow strap + Carbon fiber oil gas cap  INTERIOR: NRG (Matsuri steering wheel, quick-release, steering wheel hub) + Skunk2 weighted shift knob + K-Tuned extended shifter + Glow Shift (gauge bezel, boost gauge, oil temp gauge)  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Clarion double-DIN head unit + Kenwood 6.5-inch speakers

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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Modify | Tune | Compete | Win TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS.COM

TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS

EVENT

[ trending ] ANNUAL COMPETITION

Sandy, UT @stancecon.tm

33%

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

ABNER ARGUILLA

1987 ACURA INTEGRA LS

@abs_lilredteg Photography By Trent Thompson |

ESSENTIALS

LOCATION › Las Vegas, NV ENGINE › Honda D16A1 1.6L I4 HORSEPOWER › 250 (est.)

CLUB › Team Ultraspeed Worldwide

@t3_car_photography

 ENGINE: DOHC D16A1 bored + ACL engine race bearings + ARP head studs + Nippon racing pistons + Supertech high performance valve spring kit w/ 3 angle valve job + Bisimoto adjustable cam gears + Greddy (Type-S blow-off valve, D-series modified turbo kit, TD05H turbo, Profec-B boost controller, turbo timer) + Osidetiger 360cc fuel injectors + SPA turbo rising rate FMU + Apexi AFCU 5 knob + Boost retard MSD 6 series ignition control + MSD blaster 2 coil + Nology wires  EXHAUST: HKS catback system  DRIVETRAIN: ACT heavy duty clutch kit + Fidanza aluminum flywheel  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: SSR Speed Star Racing Type-X wheels - 15x6.5 (f/r) + Falken Azenis tires - 205/50/15 (f/r) + Wilwood front BBK  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: HeelToe 27mm torsion bars + Tein Medieval Pro full suspension + Cheddas (front and rear camber/toe kit, adjustable race panhard bar)  EXTERIOR: Kaminari wing + Custom hood vent heat extractors  INTERIOR: Autometer (Sport-Comp Monster tach w/ shift light, Sport-Comp boost/vacuum gauge) + Accel air/fuel gauge + Buddy Club harness + Momo race steering wheel + NRG quick-release + Wood grain shift knob  SPONSORS: ImportCulture.com + PureJDM + Hirevz Clothing + Realsh1ft + Oneup Acrylix + Exotic Shine Mobile Detailing + 313 Signworks + Top Ups + CRZZ Designs

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ANNUAL PLAYOFFS BEGIN NOVEMBER! REGISTER NOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO BE FEATURED ON THE FRONT COVER OF PASMAG!

SPOTS REMAIN

FOR OUR 2021 EVENTS! ANNUAL COMPETITION

REGISTER NOW TO COMPETE FOR A PRINT FEATURE!

TBG PRODUCT BATTLES! UPGRADE YOUR RIDE WITH PARTS FROM TUNER BATTLEGROUNDS PARTNERS LIKE DRESS UP BOLTS! REGISTER TO BATTLE ONLINE TO WIN FREE PARTS AND DISCOUNTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR!

20

PASMAG

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

Modify | Tune | Compete | Win TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS.COM

TUNERBATTLEGROUNDS

EVENT

[ trending ] PRODUCT BATTLE

WINNER!

Dress Up Bolts Product Battle (Online Only) @dressupbolts

51%

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

SOUKASENE THATVIHANE

2017 SUBARU STI @carbon_subie | /kho.thatvihane.3 @shutter.studios.david Photography by David Barnhouse |

ESSENTIALS

LOCATION › Yukon, OK ENGINE › Subaru EJ257 2.5L Turbocharged H4 HORSEPOWER › 340 whp CLUB › Team Diverse

 Engine: AEM cold air intake + Cobb (fuel stumble kit, flex fuel kit, Accessport) + Grimmspeed (EBCS, up-pipe) + Tial 38mm EWG + DeatschWerks DW300C fuel pump + IAG (AOS, TGV deletes, fuel rails) + Injector Dynamics ID1050cc injectors + Custom fuel lines  EXHAUST: Tomei titanium cat-back exhaust system  WHEELS / TIRES: RAYS Volk Racing TE37 Saga wheels 18-inch (f/r) + Michelin Pilot Sport AS3 + tires - 265/35/18 (f/r)  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: Fortune Auto 510 coilovers + Cusco (front strut bar, rear cross bar, rear sway bar, rear sway bar brace) + Whiteline LCAs  EXTERIOR: Full carbon fiber kit + Seibon Carbon (carbon fiber fenders, carbon fiber fender caps, carbon fiber trunk) + Vis Racing V2 carbon fiber hood + APR Performance wing + OLM carbon fiber (mirror caps, pillars, window trims, door handles) + OLM (smoked LED turn signals, sequential mirror turn signals) + Kaze carbon fiber roof spoiler + Subispeed (sequential V2 headlights, carbon tail lights, F1-style third brake light)  INTERIOR: Subispeed (carbon fiber steering wheel, climate control knobs) + Bride Zeta III seats + Bride fabric (shift boot, E-brake boot) + Takata 4-point harness + Braum harness bar + Varis carbon fiber shift knob + OLM (carbon fiber center vents, carbon fiber side vents, carbon fiber A-pillars, carbon fiber boost gauge cover, carbon fiber E-brake handle, carbon fiber door seal covers) + Cusco E-brake button + Chasing Js titanium door seals + Dress Up Bolts interior hardware  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Focal audio system  SPONSORS: APR Performance + Bob Moore Subaru + Defined Performance + Dress Up Bolts + Fortune Auto + Meguiar’s + JDMuscle + BW Tuning

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

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[ trending ]

#BUILDSTOFOLLOW ALAN SAAVEDRA

1987 BMW 325 Photography by Spoke Photos (@spokephotos) LOCATION › TORONTO, ON ENGINE › BMW S52 3.15L I6 CLUB › NEXT LEVEL

 ENGINE: BMW S52 engine swap + Raceland long tube headers + RHD Engineering ITBs + Speeduino standalone ECU + 24lb injectors  EXHAUST: Custom Y-pipe + Remus cat-back exhaust system  DRIVETRAIN: BMW (E36 M3 ZF transmission, E36 328i driveshaft, E24 3.46 LSD)  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: Autostrada Modena wheels - 17x9.5 +20 (f), 17x10 +18 (r) + Hankook front tires - 205/40/17 + Yokohama S-Drive rear tires - 215/40/17 + 20mm front spacers + 15mm rear spacers + EBC brakes  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: BC Racing coilovers + BMW (E30 M3 offset control arm bushings, E46 330Ci steering rack) + Polyurethane (rear subframe bushings, differential bushings) + Racing Dynamics front strut bar + Sparco rear strut bar  EXTERIOR: Late model plastic bumpers + Mtech 2 (lower bumper valances, lower skirts) + Mtech 1 trunk spoiler + 3M Pine Green Metallic Matte vinyl wrap + Depo smoked Euro headlight projectors  INTERIOR: BMW (E36 M3 Vader front seats, E30 rear headrest) + Mtech 2 steering wheel  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONIC: Clarion flip-out head unit + Infinity Kappa (front speakers, 12-inch subwoofer) + MB Quartz rear 6x9 speakers + MTX 4001 mono amplifier  SPONSORS: EBC Canada Brakes

@woofer101

SCOTT DEAN

2002 PORSCHE 911 TURBO Photography by Christian Dizon (@calicarclique)

LOCATION › SAN DIEGO, CA ENGINE › PORSCHE 3.6L TURBOCHARGED H6 CLUB › TEAM HYBRID  ENGINE: Tial Alpha 2871 water-cooled ball bearing turbo + Bosch 72 lb/hr injectors + Porsche 997 GT2 RS intercoolers + IPD (74mm plenum, throttle body) + EVOMS intake pipes w/ custom plenum + BBi Autosport under drive pulley + Custom ALKY methanol injection + Custom methanol + 91 octane tune by Todd Knighton  EXHAUST: Europipe V2 exhaust system  DRIVETRAIN: Custom 6-speed transmission + Sachs stage 3 clutch + AASCO lightweight flywheel  WHEELS / BRAKES: HRE C93 wheels - 19x10 (f), 19x13 (r) + Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires - 245/35/19 (f), 315/30/19 (r)  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: JZR double adjustable coilovers + Eibach springs + Porsche GT3 sway bars (f/r) + Tarret drop links w/ custom mounts for JZR coilovers  EXTERIOR: Porsche GT2 (front bumper, carbon fiber wing, deck lid, carbon fiber side mirrors)  INTERIOR: Status Racing seats + Porsche Motorsports 4-point roll cage w/ crossbar + Full carbon fiber interior + Carbon fiber steering wheel + GReddy Profec B boost controller + Brockway R1000 multi-gauge  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Sony 8.95 digital media receiver w/ Bluetooth  SPONSORS: Renegade Products + Status Racing + Michelin + AMSOIL

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@sd_911_turbo /hybrid350gt

RUI PAULO NASCIMENTO 2001 AUDI TT

Photography by Ariz Media (@ariz.media)

LOCATION › RIGAUD, QC ENGINE › VW 1.8L TURBOCHARGED I4 HORSEPOWER › 405 WHP TORQUE › 395 LB-FT CLUB › TEAM PETROL DESCENDANTS

@tt_authority /ttauthority

 ENGINE: Garrett GT28RS turbocharger + Forge intercooler + TurboSmart blow-off valve + Vex wet nitrous kit + 42 Draft high-flow air intake + Integrated Engineering (intake manifold, fuel rail, internals) + Audi RS4 throttle body + Bosch (800cc injectors, racing spark plugs) + TFSI red head coilpacks + Unitronic engine management + Neuspeed pulleys + Carbon fiber engine trim  EXHAUST: Borla exhaust + Custom stainless steel header + 42 Draft 3-inch ceramic coated downpipe  DRIVETRAIN: SPEC stage 3 clutch + Aluminum flywheel + Upgraded axles  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: Evoque wheels - 19x9.5 +25 (f/r) + Firestone Indy500 tires - 245/35/19 (f/r) + Neo Motorsport 6-piston calipers (f/r) + Drilled and slotted 2-piece rotors + ECS Tuning stainless steel braided brake lines + Carbon brake pads  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: Neo Motorsport coilovers + ECS Tuning (control arms, urethane bushings, dog bone mounts, engine mounts) + Neuspeed (22mm front strut bar, 22mm rear strut bar)  EXTERIOR: Regula Tuning (TTRS2012 front bumper, DMT racing rear bumper, DMT racing honeycomb grille) + OSIR vented fenders + Extended carbon fiber fenders + Custom one-piece side skirts + Nikolas Racing custom carbon fiber DTM racing mirrors + APR (carbon fiber spoiler, custom front lip) + LED (headlights, smoked tail lights) + Les Carrosserie Technipro custom widebody + Infinite Airbrush paint job + NRG ionized fender washers + Carbon fiber hood  INTERIOR: Sparco (leather racing seats, shift knob, racing pedals) + NRG (quick-release, custom flat-bottom carbon fiber steering wheel, harnesses) + Leather shift boot + Sprint Booster pedal commander + ABT aluminum dash cover trims + OSIR illuminated shift ring + Xenon interior lighting  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Pioneer DEHP9400BH multimedia head unit + Kicker (IQ500.2 amplifier, IQ1000.2 amplifier, IQI controller, QSS65 component speakers, COMPQ12 subwoofer, wiring) + Custom subwoofer enclosure + GBL mid-range speakers + Bose tweeters + Optima Yellow Top battery  SPONSORS: Neo Motorsport + Autoglym + Infinite Airbrush Paint + Les Carrosseries Technipro + Regula Tuning Germany + Liqui Moly + Kicker Canada + SPEC Clutch USA + Prospec Automotive + Chris Vitres Teintees + Auto Elite Mecanique + Unitronic + RTX Mags + ECS Tuning + Integrated Engineering

@marv_gts

MARVIN FONACIER 1987 BMW 635 CSI

Photography by Alvaro Romero Ramirez (@varography)

LOCATION › TEMECULA, CA ENGINE› BMW M30B35 3.5L I6  ENGINE: BMW M30B35 engine swap  EXHAUST: Supersprint Performance muffler  WHEELS / TIRES: VIP Modular FX110 wheels - 18x9 -63 (f), 18x9 -105 (r) + Toyo Tires R888R tires - 235/40/18 (f), 265/35/18 (r)  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: D2 Racing air struts + Air Lift Performance 3P air suspension management system  EXTERIOR: Coutner E24 widebody kit  INTERIOR: Custom interior + MWS 4-point roll cage  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Alpine (X-S69C 12-inch subwoofers (2), R-S65C.2 speakers, CDE-175BT head unit) + BlackVue Dashcams  SPONSORS: Toyo Tires + Coutner + VIP Modular + R1 Concepts + Air Lift Performance + VIAIR + MWS + Status Racing + D2 Racing + Team GarageLife

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[ trending ]

#BUILDSTOFOLLOW JOHN EDWARDS

2016 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R

Photography by John Edwards, Faithe Edwards (@workinthefaithe)

LOCATION › WINSTON-SALEM, NC ENGINE › VOLKSWAGEN EA888 2.0L I4 HORSEPOWER › 381.9 WHP TORQUE › 422.6 LB-FT CLUB › TEAM HYBRID

@vw_sonic_r /john.edwards.7568596

 ENGINE: MST cold air intake + ARM front-mount intercooler  EXHAUST: Invidia catless downpipe + Custom exhaust system + 3-inch quad exhaust tips  DRIVETRAIN: South Bend stage 3 clutch + Forge Motorsports short shifter assembly  WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES: ESR CS15 wheels - 18x8.5 +35 (f/r) + General G-Max tires - 225/40/18 (f/r)  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: K-Sport coilovers  EXTERIOR: Ventus front splitter + Seibon carbon fiber hood + Maxton Design V2 spoiler lip + Strafe Design side skirts + XKGLOW lighting  INTERIOR: Black Forest Industries weighted short shift knob  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Kenwood DDX6706S head unit + Skar Audio (SPX 65C 400 W 6.5-inch component speaker/tweeter system, compact 10-inch 800 W subwoofers (2)) + Kicker (CXA800.1 subwoofer amplifier, CXA360.4 speaker amplifier)  SPONSORS: AMSOIL + Renegade Products + ARM Motorsports

• THREAD SIZE: M14xP1.5 • HEIGHT: 50MM • OPEN END FULL STUD ENGAGEMENT • MATERIAL: FORGED STEEL 50BV30 • 20PC KIT WITH 19HEX ADAPTER

TITANIUM CHROME

BLACK

RED RING

BLUE RING

YELLOW RING

®

wheel.mate

DUSTIN MILLER 1967 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE Photography by Dustin Miller

LOCATION › TROUTDALE, OR  ENGINE: 2332cc stroker engine + 5-lb Nitrous kit  EXHAUST: Trick flamethrower exhaust  DRIVETRAIN: Pro Street transmission  WHEELS / BRAKES: 15-inch Smoothie wheels + Mickey Thompson tires  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: 1967 chassis bottom + Accuair air suspension system + Dirtyair shocks + 11-inch front beam extension + 3x3 IRS rear trailing arms  EXTERIOR: 1963 VW Beetle chopped top + Shaved handles  INTERIOR: Custom reupholstered (interior, headliner) + Honda Civic seats custom reupholstered + Custom air tank setup w/ 8-gallon tank + Custom shifter

@herbiethehotrod

by

WIDE TREAD SPACER SIZE: 11mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm I.D.: 73mm (70mm FOR 11mm) O.D.: 145mm P.C.D.: 4-100, 4-114.3, 5-100, 5-114.3 Size: M12xP1.5 *=& M12xP1.25 *5-100 -> 5-114.3 & 4-100 -> 4-114.3 Conversion Spacers are available in 15mm • Material: Aluminum / Studs (SCM435) • 2 pieces / 1 set • Hardwares included • 100% Made in Japan

OPTIONAL HUB CENTRIC RING SIZE: 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm Hub Diam: 54mm, 56mm, 57mm,59mm,60mm 64mm, 66mm, 67mm

www.jrponline.com

FEATURE

D R E A M A

L I T T L E D R E A M

JASON BALAZE’S TEENAGE DREAM BECOMES A REALITY AFTER ALL THOSE YEARS. Story by

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Adam Gordon

//

Photography by

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4th Media

“The 2.0L 16-valve engine was built from top to bottom, featuring changes like a ported head, titanium upgraded valvetrain, Techtonics Tuning cams, and much more.”

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T R A C K

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D R I F T

/

S T A N C E

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S T R E E T

For the past decade ISC Suspension has proven itself as a diverse weapon for multiple driving disciplines for both street and motorsports; from Time Attack and HPDE, to Drift, Autocross and Street.

ISCSUSPENSION-NA.COM

@ISC_SUSPENSION

ISCSUSPENSIONNA

ISCSUSPENSION

“In true resto mod fashion, every original rubber seal, bolt, and wire has been replaced or upgraded”

Way back when Jason Balaze was just a teenager, the Mk1 Volkswagen Golf had caught his eye, and that teenage desire stayed with him throughout his adult life. Having already built a 1988 Volkswagen GTI and a 2001 Porsche 911 Turbo, he saw an opportunity to achieve the dream of his younger self when he stumbled upon a 1982 Volkswagen Golf. With a bit of a resto mod build on his hands, he decided that this was a perfect opportunity to build a period correct version of his teenage dream car, with as much attention to detail as possible.

H

is aspirations for a period correct build meant enlisting the use of the VW 2.0L 16-valve engine of the era, and since Balaze knew he was going the distance on this build, he decided to go the distance on the engine as well. Weber DCOE carburetors were the most iconic bolt-on of the car’s time, and they would certainly be of use here. The 2.0L 16-valve engine was built from top to bottom, featuring changes like a ported head, titanium upgraded valvetrain, Techtonics Tuning cams, and much more. All in, the engine now boasts 160 horsepower at the front wheels.

Balaze went into this resto mod build with the intention to drive it hard when it was finished, and the quality of parts throughout the build reflect that. Additionally, he had to oversee the processes himself, so Balaze did everything on this car, with a little help from some friends. Being a perfectionist inspired by quality builders around him, his intentions to build a pure driver’s car slowly morphed into a love for its show-worthiness, especially as body work started. Over the course of three long years, Balaze toiled away in the garage and in shops to perfect the build he had envisioned.

In true resto mod fashion, every original rubber seal, bolt, and wire has been replaced or upgraded. Changing all the wiring out is a tedious job, but with some coaching from his friend Gab from Gab Eurosport, Balaze got it done, and installed a custom CE2 wiring harness for the engine side as well. Over time, he acquired every single quality performance part he could find to throw at the ‘82 Golf in order to keep it able to be driven as hard as possible. Sure, it would be a show car, but at the end of the day he still planned to give it hell on the street.

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“Show stopper status aside, Balaze is still all about the drive, and the car he built absolutely delivers.”

www.yokohamawheel.jp

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• Mold-Form forged 1pc • Six spokes concave design • Machining on side of each spokes • Macchining 3D logo • Available in 5-100, 5-112, 5-114.3, 5-120

Machining & Racing Brass Gold

Racing Copper Bronze

#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

yokohamawheelusa

yokohamawheel

Racing Candy Red

Machining & Racing Hyper Black

Racing Titanium Black

Keeping the build period correct, even in the interior, was a must for Balaze. Period correct Recaro Jetta GTX seats were reupholstered with GTI plaid fabric to fit the theme of the car perfectly without going overboard. A classic Momo steering wheel with a GTI horn button, OMP pedals, and 20th Anniversary seat belts go the distance in creating a tastefully modified interior that stays true to the original design from Volkswagen.

After countless hours of body work, which included shaving the Euro-spec bumpers, as well as a year-long paint process, the car was as close to completely restored as Balaze could imagine. With his teenage dream car in his possession, it was off to Eurokracy 2020 for the big reveal. Upon showing off his years of hard work at Eurokracy, Balaze’s hard work paid off!

He took home the honor of “Best Mk1” for his efforts.

Show stopper status aside, Balaze is still all about the drive, and the car he built absolutely delivers. With sponsor LiquiMoly having his back, we know this car will be doing tours around the block for years to come.

While he could stop here, Balaze says that he never knows when it’s really

- Essentials -

ENGINE

Ported head + Light lifters + Titanium valve springs and retainers + Techtonics Tuning cams + Autotech oil pan + Weber DCOE carburetors + Long intake + Carter fuel pump + Custom (fuel lines, aluminum rad w/ slim fans) + 42 Draft design oil catch can + EAA Engineering ABF serpentine conversion + Custom CE2 wiring harness

1982 Volkswagen Golf LOCATION › Carignan, QC ENGINE › VW 2.0L 16V I4 HORSEPOWER › 160 whp

EXTERIOR

Techtonics Tuning (header, exhaust system)

DRIVETRAIN

INTERIOR

4Y transmission + Hurst shifter + Techtonics Tuning (short shift kit, weighted rods)

@jasonbalaze 69jason

KW Suspensions V3 coilovers + 034Motorsports top mounts + Fast Bunny top mount risers + Neuspeed upper front stress bar + Eurosport (lower front stress bar, rear stress bar) + Autotech rear sway bar Custom paint + Euro spec shaved bumpers + Powder coated exterior trim + FIFFT smoked tail lights + Crosshair headlights + Smoked signals

EXHAUST

SOCIAL MEDIA

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION

WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES

BBS RS wheels + Toyo T1R tires + Momentum Motor Parts 11-inch front brake rotors + Girling 60 front brake calipers + 9.4-inch rear brake rotors + VW 20th Anniversary GTI rear calipers + Akebono brake pads + Custom braided brake lines

Custom (Recaro seats, door panels) + Momo steering wheel + OMP pedals + Hurst shifter + Rear seat delete + VW 20th Anniversary seat belts

AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS Retro bluetooth radio

SPONSORS

LiquiMoly + Recaro + Akebono + A&J Body Shop

over, so this 1982 Golf may see yet another transformation in the future.

Until then, we’re just glad it’s being enjoyed as intended.

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Images

DeatschWerks Has Your Fuel System Covered

courtesy of DeatschWerks

DW400 Pump Module for 7th, 8th, or 9th Gen Honda Civic and Acura RSX/ILX + Supports 900 gas and 700 e85 + 250% flow increase over OE Module + Designed for-6AN feed line and utilization of OE feed for return + Retains all OE module functionality including: > Plug-n-play harness connector > Fuel level sender > Fuel surge bucket > Compatible with pump gas, race fuel, and e85 > Optional plumbing kits with regulator and filtration available

Honda K Series Fuel Rails

5.5L Staged Surge Tank

DWR1000 Fuel Pressure Regulator

+ CNC’d from billet T6061 with integrated brackets for increased stiffness and precision fitment + -8 ORB inlets and outlets utilizing bore diameters that exceed AN spec by 80% + 1/8” NPT and 3/8” NPT ports for nitrous, pressure gauges, & fuel pulsation dampers + Schrader pressure test valve included + Optional fuel pulsation damper sold separately

+ 5.5L capacity for support up to 2000hp + 3-into-1 Merged -10AN outlet for optimized flow and simplified plumbing + Fits all standard-sized 39mm pumps AND 46mm DW400 + Wiring flexibility for single staging or dual staging of pump triggers + Submerged pump design for quiet operation, cool fuel, and long pump life + Anodized for use with all fuels including e85 and methanol + Rated at 10 amps

+ Precision performance and versatility of up to 1,000hp + 2 psi per turn precision ball bearing adjustment + Four -8AN ORB inlets, -6AN ORB outlet + Vacuum Reference 1/8” NPT + Pressure range from 30 to 100psi + Flow rate of 500LPH + Compatible with all fuels including methanol and ethanol + Multi-directional bracket for installation flexibility

Heavy Duty Fuel Pump Hardwire Kit

Fuel Injectors

Fuel Filter

+ 40-amp Bosch Automotive Relay + 30-amp ATO Blade Fuse + 15’ 10awg SLX Automotive Wire + 6’ 10awg SLX Automotive Wire + Nylon Expanding Loom Covering + Easily, safely, and reliably wire your pump directly to the battery

+ Most comprehensive and best-supported injector line in the industry + DW collects 450 data points on each injector part number + Available in flow rates of 450, 550, 650, 750, 1000, 1200, 1500, and 2200cc/min + Compatible with all fuel types, including e85 + Flow matched and balanced within 2% + Pressure rated at 43.5 psi

+ Dual-Stage Magneto-Mechanical Filtration > 35mm Neodymium magnet > Serviceable pleated 304-series stainless steel elements + 39 stainless steel pleats for maximum filtration surface area + 3/8" or 5/16" hose barb, -6AN, -8AN, or -10AN ORB available + 5, 10, 40, and 100 micron pore sizes available + 70mm, 110mm, or 160mm lengths available + Mounting brackets integrated into housing body

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#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

EVOLUTION COLD AIR INTAKE 2020+ TOYOTA SUPRA GR (EVO2300) • Direct Fit for 2020-2021 Toyota GR Supra L6-3.0L Turbo (A90) • Dyno Proven gains of up to 18 hp and 26 lb.-ft. of torque • Specially designed intake tube that transitions from 5in OD to 3.5in to increase airflow velocity at the turbo inlet

BILLET ALUMINUM TURBO ADAPTER Provides a tight seal and an OEM fit to ensure that the intake tract is completely sealed for optimal performance and reliability.

INJEN CLEAR-VUE BADGE Most Evolution Series intakes include our Clear-Vue badge to ensure simple filter inspection while also providing an exceptional under hood appearance.

PREMIUM GRADE HARDWARE Our included Stainless Steel Band Clamps with an inner protective liner and Two-Ply Automotive Grade Silicone Couplers are designed to hold up to the heat, oil, fuel and other harsh enviromental factors in your engine bay. Giving you the peace of mind that your new intake will last a lifetime.

DURABLE ROTO-MOLDED CONSTRUCTION Designed with a combination of industry leading 3D Scanning Technology and the latest CAD software to allow our engineers to get as much out of your platform as possible. All at a level of durablilty that’s simply unheard of.

TWIST-LOCK FILTER TECHNOLOGY Our patented Twist-Lock Filters make installation and regular maintenance a breeze. By mechanically simplifying the filter mounting mechanism we are able to provide the largest possible filter for peak performance and longevity.

WHOLESALE INQUIRIES ONLY (626) 839-7150

LAUNCHDISTRIBUTION.COM/INJEN *Included heatshield not shown

PATENTED MR TECHNOLOGY Features Injen’s patented MR technology providing peak performance while also maintaining factory fuel trims, to avoid costly issues.

FEATURE

E S T A T E S T A T E M E N T

EURO + WAGON X JDM = BEST Story by

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#167 // 2021 EURO // 12TH ANNUAL CAR AUDIO & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE GUIDE

Micky Slinger

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Photography by Akiko Tsukamoto Liu

How do you make any sedan or coupe infinitely cooler? Easy: give it a long roof and a hatch at the back. Shooting brake, estate, wagon - whatever your flavor, I think we can all agree that anything long and low steals the show. The example we see here is the epitome of awesome. Johnny Feng’s BMW F31 may as well have written the equation on how to modify in the most appealing way: a Euro platform with JDM goodies, done up in tasteful OEM-plus style.

I

t’s honestly surprising that Feng was able to find this example of a 3 Series in Arizona.

With the rare way it’s spec’d a wagon with a turbocharged diesel engine - it may as well have come from across the pond. Thankfully, inside, the M Performance steering wheel is on the right side (the left side) and accompanied by many other M goodies.

As an M-Sport-packaged car there are a few from the factory, but Feng has added more carbon fiber and alcantara touches that would feel right at home on an M3 or M4, straight from the M Performance catalogue. The Recaro Sportster CS leather seats look as though they were originally optioned

out as well, and in the back seat is a matching Recaro child’s car seat to hint at what this Bimmer’s original purpose was: the family daily.

“I bought this car to actually settle down from modifying cars,” Feng says, thinking back on his lies to himself. “After going back and forth about modifying it, I couldn't stop myself. I bought this car so I could drive my kids more in it, but we now have a van that we use everyday.”

As you may have guessed, Feng isn’t new to putting together great cars. Just over 13 years ago, his Lexus IS250 show car was featured here in PAS, and up until recently, regularly showed his cars before he started pursuing his MBA at USC. With the van taking over family hauler duties though, the 328d was more than available for Feng to pour his JDM sensibilities into.

The biggest challenge with any 3 Series is making it stand out from the crowd, especially in California, and with most owners opting for M Performance exterior additions, it can even be a strain to express yourself among modified owners. This is where the JDM bits come into play. Feng opted for the tasteful offerings from Japanese BMW tuner, 3D Design, for the front bumper lip, roof spoiler, and rear diffuser.

Paired with the ABS Autobody M4 GTS lookalike hood, this F31 could be mistaken as a limited edition M-badged car that would make even the most enthusiastic of BMW aficionados jealous.

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E S T A T E FEATURE

S T A T E M E N T Obviously, Feng is familiar with the old Japanese adage of “TE everything,” and made it so, setting up Formula Silver TE37 OGs in 18x9.5, front and rear, just slightly cambering the meaty Falken RT660s under each fender. JDM wheels on a European car is definitely the best move ever, but sitting behind the TE’s six-spoke faces is something that might just be even cooler.

“My favorite aspect is the extra JDM touch with the Endless BBK,” gushes Feng. “You never see Endless on a Euro.

What inspired me to build this car were some of the 3 Series wagons built in Asia - Hong Kong, Japan. There's a huge market over there for these cars and they're really rare over here.”

In an OEM-plus build, creature comforts are paramount, and just like incorporating kouki elements on a JDM zenki build, anything new put out by the OEM automatically becomes most-wanted material. It just so happened that a year after this car

was built in 2014, BMW released some upgraded tech in the form of LCI LED headlight and taillights, as well as a vastly improved version of their iDrive multimedia system. Naturally, Feng just had to have it. New LED headlights and European-spec tails with amber turn signals round out the wagon’s exterior, while an upgraded media display with a snappier processor and Apple CarPlay functionality have been retrofitted to ensure Feng, and the occasional car-seated passenger, are riding with the right tunes.

Admittedly, BMW’s N47 engine is a bit unloved compared to its gaspowered brethren in the aftermarket

LEGATIA SUBWOOFERS

BASS BETTER

www.hybrid.audio

department, but Feng has found a way to squeeze a bit more performance out of the 2.0-liter. In conjunction with the upgraded intercooler and carbon fiber ram air intake, a DUDMD Stage 2 tune ramps horsepower output to just over 200, while right around 300 lb-ft of torque is put down by the little

turbo-diesel. Even the TCU has been flashed with a tune from xHP to keep up with the newfound power and rotational force.

That being said, even though Feng loves the way the 328d runs and drives as it sits, there is talk of more power being added in the form of a total powerplant swap in the near future.

Right now, Feng has his sights set on BMW’s B58 turbocharged inline-six with the ultimate driver’s mod, a manual transmission. A long-roof 3 Series with the performance of the new-gen Supra, rowing up and down on the shifter, and carving up canyons in California sounds pretty tantalizing, doesn’t it?

While this F31 comes off, from a distance, as the perfect kind of unassuming on the outside, the closer you get, the more layers of well-thought-out modifications there are to take into account, making it one of the more unique Bimmer builds out there. If and when those new powertrain plans come to fruition, even more so. Though, with that extra kick, Feng might need to plan for a five- or six-point harness for that mini Recaro in the back seat.

- Essentials 2014 BMW 328d M Sport Wagon OWNER › Johnny Feng LOCATION › Alhambra, CA ENGINE › BMW N47 2.0L Turbo-Diesel I-4 HORSEPOWER › 210 hp CLUB › Jade Motorsports, Encore Collective SOCIAL MEDIA @oem_nub /johnny.feng

ENGINE

Gruppe M carbon fiber ram air intake system + Ambient Thermal Management front-mount intercooler + DUDMD Stage 2 ECU tune

EXHAUST

Supersprint (quad-exit cat-back exhaust system, midpipe w/ cat, downpipe)

DRIVETRAIN

xHP TCU flash tune

WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES

Volk Racing TE37 OG - 18x9.5 +38 (f/r) + Falken RT660 tires - 255/40 R18 + MSI 80.5-mm 14x1.5 stud conversion + Project Kics Iconix lug nuts + Endless Racing (6pot calipers (f), 4-pot calipers (r), brake rotors, MX52 brake pads, stainless steel brake lines)

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION

KW Suspension V1 coilovers + ARC Power front strut bar + KC Design rear strut bar + CPM front member brace + Vorshlag front camber plates + Megan Racing (rear camber arms, front upper arms)

EXTERIOR

3D Design (front lip, roof spoiler, carbon fiber rear diffuser) + ABS Autobody M4 GTS style hood + IKON Motorsports universal front splitter + Autotecknic color-matched front reflectors + BMW (M Performance gloss black grilles, M Performance side skirt extensions, mudflaps, LCI LED headlight retrofit, Euro LCI LED taillights w/ amber turn signal) + Studie AG trunk badge

INTERIOR

3D Design paddle shifter + Recaro Sportster CS leather seats + Brey Krause electric slider seat brackets + BMW (E30 window switch, M Performance carbon & alcantara M3/M4 armrest, M Performance carbon & alcantara shifter surround, M Performance carbon & alcantara shifter, M3/ M4 leather glovebox, M3/M4 shifter console w/ leg pad, cup holder cover, 6WB digital instrument cluster, M Performance stainless steel pedal set, M Performance M3/M4 carbon & alcantara e-brake handle, M Performance M3/M4 alcantara electronic steering wheel, M Performance carbon & alcantara interior trim) + Studie AG door projector lights

AUDIO

BMW NBT EVO ID6 iDrive retrofit

SPONSORS

Falken Tire + Endless USA + Mackin Industries

SPECIAL THANKS

Mackin Industries - Brian Yeung + Falken Tire - Steve Wong + Three's Racing - Meng Tea + Autotuned - Young Tea + Autofashion USA - Freddie Fernandez + Raceline USA Elton Lo + Impex Motorsports - Harry Yue + Minicorsa - Danny Darwichian + Wife and kids + Patrick Chung

BURNED BLUE TIPS COLLECTION

MXP short for Mackin eXtreme Products is the brainchild of Mackin Industries who has 30+ years of experience in the automotive parts industry. MXP currently offers a wide variety of products for Import vehicles which increase performance and improve appearance. Each MXP product is developed and tested on US model vehicles at Mackin Industries.

2017-on Honda Civic Sport HB (FK7)

2017-on Honda Civic Si Coupe (FC3)

2017-on Honda Civic Type R (FK8)

mxp_performance

www.mackinxtremeproducts.com

www.prospecautosport.com

Home & Mobile Audio Accessories

• BK-2030

Block Rockin Beats • Dual 0 Gauge In & Out • Requires No Adapters • Compact Footprint

• BK-2020 Amp Kits • Distribution Blocks • Power / Speaker Wire • RCA Cable • Sound Deadener

THE TUNER’S SOURCE FOR MODIFIED CAR CULTURE

TUNING ESSENTIALS | TECH & CAR AUDIO | 12TH EDITION

BRIAN GILL 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA45 AMG

NATAN BUDIONO 2010 SUZUKI SX4 SPORTBACK

#BUILDSTOFOLLOW

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#12

BRIAN GILL

2014 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA45 AMG Photography by Klifton Keplinger

LOCATION › NASHVILLE, TN

CLUB › HYBRID AUDIO / ZAPCO

 ENGINE: Renntech tune  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Hybrid Audio (Legatia L2SE speakers, Legatia L65 speakers, Clarus C15SW subwoofer) + Zapco (AP150.6 amplifier, AP400.4 amplifier, HDSP)  SPONSORS: Hybrid Audio

ack in the 1990s when Brian Gill was younger, he had built a sound quality competition car. With a deep love for music, as well as cars, competing in car audio was a natural fit. Now an adult with a career in the music industry working as a recording engineer, he’s successfully merged his hobby with his working life, and that’s allowed him to continue enjoying quality sound builds.

Gill’s most recent vehicle is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG you see here. Mercedes took care of all the performance and comfort he needed from the factory, so a Renntech tune is all he needed to be satisfied with the car’s power.

The real allure of the CLA45 AMG for Gill was the location of the factory speakers, which he says allowed him to build the car and compete in the classes that he wanted.

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With intentions from the beginning to build for sound quality, brands like Hybrid Audio and Zapco were employed to take the AMG’s sound system to the next level. “The Hybrid speakers unveil a natural and effortless aspect to sound reproduction, while being able to keep up at all listening volumes,” he explains.

“Zapco is a brand that has always strived for perfection in their amplifiers. The AP line is second to none not only in the quality but in the way they allow the space in the recording to come through.”

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@enbies /enbies

NATAN BUDIONO 2010 SUZUKI SX4 SPORTBACK Photography by Klifton Keplinger

LOCATION › BELLEVILLE, MI

CLUB › TEAM JBL / TEAM ETON

 ENGINE: Road Race Motorsports piggyback ECU  WHEELS / TIRES: Enkei Sesto wheels + Continental Sport Contact DWS 6Plus tires  CHASSIS / SUSPENSION: D2 adjustable coilovers  EXTERIOR: RRM carbon fiber hood  INTERIOR: Katzkin leather seat upholstery  AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS: Lexus LC500 OEM head unit + Lexus Mark Levinson (DSP/16-channel amplifier, speakers (3) + Eton Core A2 amplifiers (6) + Infinity 1001 amplifier + JBL (Arena X Beryllium speaker sets (13), Arena X 12-inch subwoofer)  SPONSORS: Harmon-JBL + Eton + AAMP

atan Budiono has been working on car audio for most of his life, as far back as his teenage years. In fact, a previous business of his was specializing in high end competition audio systems.

With over 31 years of experience in the car audio industry, Budiono has quite a resume of previous builds under his belt, and considers car audio to be a huge part of his life to this day.

His passion in car audio is all about creating the most natural sounding 2-seat listening experience possible, and that’s what he kept in mind when choosing to build the Suzuki SX4 Sportback you see here.

The factory location for a center speaker in the dashboard was a big factor in Budiono’s sound goals, and the SX4 offered just that. “2-seat sound in the past has been about

N

getting the least path length differences between the left and right channel speakers to achieve balance level, thus producing a phantom center image,” he tells us. “My method currently is combining the technologies that DSP can offer with how to manipulate them to achieve my goal. Some of the techniques are non-traditional and more innovative.”

Taking inspiration from fellow builders, as well as his own successes and experiences, Budiono has taken it upon himself to continue bringing the world of car audio something new and innovative, with the goal always being to advance the car audio industry and inspire others. In the case of his competition Suzuki SX4, he has done just that, gaining the admiration of other builders who get to see his work in action.

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PHOTO GALLERY

LONE STAR THROWDOWN CONROE, TX

FEB 26-28, 2021 PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL BRAUN AND TRAVIS CHIN

LONESTARTHROWDOWN.COM

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@LONESTARTHROWDOWN

/LONESTARTHROWDOWN

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PHOTO GALLERY

AGGIELAND COLLEGE STATION, TX

JUN 5-6, 2021 PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS CHIN

SQOLOGY.TECH

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MECACARAUDIO.COM

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STEEL VALLEY NEW CUMBERLAND, WV

JUL 24-25, 2021 PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS CHIN

SQOLOGY.TECH

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EVENT

MECA TUNER BASH CASTROL RACEWAY. LEDUC, AB, CANADA

JULY 17, 2021

Car Audio & Tech

#12

@MECAALBERTAAUDIO

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/MECAALBERTA

MECA ALBERTA

PHOTOS AND STORY BY JONATHAN BABULAL

The Mobile Electronics Competition Association’s (MECA) competitions are now in Alberta, Canada! On July 17th, 2021, MECA competitions returned to Canada at the TUNER BASH event at Castrol Raceway, Leduc, Alberta.

Event director Aarian Hosein, and Head Judge Jonathan Babulal hosted the inaugural MECA contests in Sound Quality, Install Quality, Show & Shine, and Ride the Light, in collaboration with Ray Choi from FX Audio and DB Drag.

Competitors eagerly entered in the Sound Quality League format to assess their vehicles and systems against MECA reference tracks evaluated by trained MECA judges with more than 25 years combined judging experience.

Competitors are judged in classes with

For more MECA contest info, contact mecaalberta@gmail.com, Phone: 780 386 2134, 403 307 7994

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similarly designed competitors’ vehicles, based on the complexity of the sound system installation.

From the simple to the elaborately complex and unique audio installations competed in Install Quality and the vehicles with the best installation qualities, especially regarding safety and appearance won the Installation Quality awards.

Meticulously cleaned show cars as well as daily drivers competed in Show & Shine to be judged on their vehicles’ cleanliness and attention to detail. While Ride the Light competitors were evaluated on their best interior or exterior lighting displays.

Chris Shaw earned the top Sound Quality Score of 79.25, out of 100. Stephen Takacs, Peak Freq Danny, Jordan Zeng and Albert Hebig earned several awards in all rounds of competition.

Albert Hebig had this to say about the MECA Canada competitions “It was a lot of fun!

I learned more than you could ever expect! I can’t wait to learn more from them.”

MECA 1X EVENT AT METHOD MOTOR METHOD MOTOR. SHERWOOD PARK, ALBERTA, CANADA

JULY 18, 2021 Photos and Story by Jonathan Babulal

The Mobile Electronics Competition Association’s (MECA) second Canadian competition was held on July 18th, 2021, at the Method Motor shop at Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada.

Event director Aarian Hosein, and Head Judge Jonathan Babulal hosted the inaugural MECA contests in Sound Quality, Install Quality, Show & Shine, and Ride the Light, in collaboration with Ray Choi from FX Audio and DB Drag.

Sound Quality League competition saw a newcomer, Taryn Rathberger, who’s upgraded front stage speakers in stock locations put in a respectable first score. We even had an 18-inch subwoofer wall and kick panel compo-

nents in Peak Freq Danny’s impressive Civic. Later in the day, anticipation, excitement and stress rolled into the lanes when Stephen Takacs’ Ford Focus competed in Sound Quality with one blown subwoofer out of his pair! He still managed to put up an impressive score and maintained his first place position!

The MECA judges also hosted Install Quality contests where the vehicles with the best installation qualities, especially regarding safety and appearance, won the Installation Quality awards.

Competitors in Show & Shine were judged on their vehicles’ cleanliness

and attention to detail, and Ride the Light competitors were evaluated on their best interior or exterior lighting displays.

Stephen Takacs earned the top Sound Quality Score of 73, out of 100.

Stephen Takacs, Peak Freq Danny and Taryn Rathgeber earned several awards in all rounds of competition.

Stephen Takacs aka Team Mini had this to say about the MECA competitions: “I appreciate the knowledge and patience that Jonathan and Aarian have with us. As an SQ person, I love this format of learning through competition. Constructive criticism with solutions is great.”

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HEAD UNITS BUYER'S GUIDE

Car Audio & Tech

#12

ALPINE ELECTRONICS

iLX-W650 7-Inch ShallowChassis Multimedia Receiver w/ PowerStack $299.95 | Alpine-USA.com The iLX-W650 has a 7-inch, twofinger swipe touchscreen on a shallow-mount chassis that can fit into most dash applications. Listen to your music, respond to texts, or make phone calls with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Bluetooth wireless calling and audio streaming. The compact design allows you to mount one of Alpine's Power Pack amplifiers (KTA-450 and KTA-200M, sold separately) behind the head unit with Alpine's awardwinning PowerStack design.

ALPINE ELECTRONICS

Halo11 Multimedia Receiver w/ 11-Inch Floating Touchscreen Display $999.95 | Alpine-USA.com The Alpine Halo11 is the largest display on the market with an 11-inch customizable touchscreen on the iconic floating display that fits into most single-DIN dash applications. With Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Bluetooth wireless calling and audio streaming, your music, texts, and calls are just a touch or voice command away. An HDMI input and output is available for an all-digital audio and video connection. Compatible with iDatalink Maestro, and retains your factory vehicle controls.

JENSEN

JVC

JVC

The CAR8000 features a 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, CD/DVD playback, built-in Bluetooth technology with hands-free calling, music streaming, ID3 tags and phonebook support, internal mic, push-to-talk button to access smartphone voice assistant, front panel microSD card input, front and rear USB input, 200 Watts max power (50 W x 4) MOSFET, three pairs of 4V RCA preamp outputs, backup camera input (RCA), and steering wheel control input.

The JVC KW-Z1000W digital media receiver featuring a large 10.1-inch HD screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, HDMI input, four-cam input, high-resolution audio, iDatalink Maestro ready, Bluetooth with two-phone full time connection, 13-band EQ with time alignment, and Hi-Res audio playback.

The KW-M560BT features a 6.8-inch capacitive touch screen, and is ready for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It has three pre-outs, a reverse camera input, 1 AV input and 1 AV output. Sound quality includes a 13-band EQ with digital time alignment. It has a shallow chassis mounting depth of under 3 inches. It is SiriusXM ready, and has the ability to mirror compatible Android phones. With JVC's gesture touch control, you can use finger movements on the screen to control key functions like track and volume.

CAR8000 $399.99 | JensenMobile.com

KW-Z1000W JVC.com

JVC

KW-X840BTS $149 | JVC.com / JVC.ca The JVC KW-X840BTS double-DIN digital media receiver featuring Bluetooth with 2-phone full time connection, Bluetooth automatic pairing, USB, SiriusXM, Amazon Alexa, 13-band EQ with time alignment, JVC Remote App compatibility, variable colour illumination, steering remote ready, and short body for easy installation.

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KW-M560BT $299.95 | JVC.com

KENWOOD

Excelon DDX9907XR $1,149 | Kenwood.com The Kenwood eXcelon Reference series DDX9907XR DVD multimedia receiver with 6.8-inch high definition capacitive touch screen display and the best audio experience with hi-res audio capability! Wireless Apple Carplay and Wireless Android Auto capable. iDatalink Maestro compatible for enhanced vehicle integration.

SiriusXM ready and HD Radio built-in. Includes 4 camera inputs and Wi-Fi Certified.

KENWOOD

KENWOOD

NAKAMICHI

The KENWOOD eXcelon Reference DNR1007XR navigation receiver has built-in Garmin Navigation, is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready via wired or wireless connection. It features four camera inputs, three pre-outs at 5 volts, 13-band EQ and DSP with 3-way crossover, and parametric EQ selections. It is SiriusXM ready, ADS Maestro RR/RR2 ready and features a 10.1-inch floating panel HD 1280 x 720 optically bonded display.

The KENWOOD KMM-X704 is enhanced for 2020 with Alexa built-in, Bluetooth version 4.2, and iAP2 support for Apple Music / iTunes Radio. Continued highlights include built-in HD radio, variable color illumination and SiriusXM Ready. Get that old school style with all the modern audio options!

Single-DIN DVD receiver with a detachable face. Outputs for both video and audio. Includes a wireless remote control and a 4-channel preamp output. Hardware inputs include auxiliary and USB ports.

DNR1007XR $1,599.95 | Kenwood.com

KMM-X704 $189 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca

NQ911B $129.95 | NakamichiCarAudio.com

NAMSUNG AMERICA

CAR910X - 9-Inch Multimedia Receiver $449.99 JensenMobile.com

NAMSUNG AMERICA CAR710W - 7-Inch Multimedia Receiver $439.99 | JensenMobile.com

The CAR710W 7-inch multimedia receiver features a vibrant 7-inch LCD touchscreen and fits most double-DIN dash openings. With support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto your phone can connect automatically without ever leaving your pocket or purse. Additional features include 3 pairs of 4-volt preamp outputs, 240 Watts peak power, a backup camera input, time alignment, a USB input for both audio and video playback, and a steering wheel control input.

The CAR910X 9-inch multimedia receiver features a vibrant 9-inch LCD touchscreen and fits most single-DIN dash openings. The extra-large display allows for multiple adjustment options including angle, title, height, and depth to fit perfectly in your vehicle dash. The CAR910X has support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and is SiriusXMReady. Additional features include 3 pairs of 4-volt preamp outputs, 240 Watts peak power, a backup camera input, and two USB inputs for both audio and video playback.

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HEAD UNITS BUYER'S GUIDE

Car Audio & Tech

#12

PIONEER ELECTRONICS

DMH-C5500NEX $650 | PioneerElectronics.com

NAMSUNG AMERICA CDR7011 - 7-Inch Multimedia DVD Receiver $249.99 | JensenMobile.com

The CDR7011 7-inch multimedia DVD receiver features a responsive 7-inch motorized touchscreen and fits most single-DIN dash openings. A dedicated voice assistant button makes it easy to activate your phone’s voice assistant for a quick text reply or to start streaming your favorite playlist via Bluetooth. Additional features include DVD/CD playback, 3 pairs of 4-volt preamp outputs, 200 Watts peak power, a backup camera input, a front panel USB input for both audio and video playback, and an SWC input.

The 8-inch DMH-C5500NEX receiver provides vehicles with a lower-level trim to be upgraded to the same level or higher than even the top OEM trim levels, enabling features such as a larger LCD screen, navigation, and connectivity. The unit features a modular design, combining a large touchscreen display with a hideaway control unit that installers can tuck into separate compartments of the car, and providing vehicles with limited dash space a premium upgrade solution for drivers’ entertainment needs.

PIONEER ELECTRONICS

SONY

SONY

The DMH-WC5700NEX includes Alexa Built-in, Android Auto (wired/wireless), Apple CarPlay (wired/wireless), plus a variety of multimedia entertainment capabilities. The 6.8-inch touchscreen DMH-WC5700NEX is similar in design and features to the 9-inch DMH-WC6600NEX introduced in 2020, but with the ability to fit a wider variety of vehicles including traditional double-DIN applications.

Enjoy intuitive and simple control for every journey with Apple CarPlay connectivity and a responsive 6.2-inch diagonal touchscreen. The ergonomic rotary dial makes operation distraction-free. Turn it to control volume, or push the integrated button to launch sound control menus. Alternatively, hold the button to use voice commands.

With body-shaking power of 45 W x 4 RMS to rival an external amp, you’ll feel every beat and bass line as you cruise along. A responsive 6.95-inch (17.6 cm) capacitive touchscreen, now with anti-glare feature, gives you seamless control throughout your journey. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it safer and easier than ever to navigate, communicate, and play music on the road. Just connect your smartphone to the XAV-AX7000 to see everything you need on the large touchscreen.

DMH-WC5700NEX PioneerElectronics.com

XAV-AX1000 $299.99 | Sony.com

SONY

XAV-AX8000 $599.99 | Sony.com This media receiver's huge 8.95-inch (22.7-cm) display seamlessly hovers over your dashboard and works in a single-DIN space. The sturdy mount can be adjusted in three directions to allow for flexible installation in a wide variety of vehicles. Connect a compatible Apple or Android smartphone to get directions, stream music, and more.

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XAV-AX7000 $599.99 | Sony.com

Reach grassroots enthusiasts 365 days a year with strategic content, social marketing and more!

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SOCIAL | MAGAZINE |

| EVENTS

CONTENT TUNERS The ultimate platform to engage real enthusiasts through events, social media and traditional print and digital properties across North America.

Learn more at

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Car Audio & Tech

#12

SUBWOOFERS BUYER'S GUIDE

ALPINE ELECTRONICS

ARC AUDIO

CADENCE

Finally a subwoofer that sounds as good as it looks. The S-SB10V delivers a premium sound experience to bring out the low end of your music.

The ported enclosure design features an optimized vent and rounded internal port edges to maximize performance. Includes a preloaded S-Series S-W10D4 10-inch subwoofer with 600 W RMS power handling.

The A-Series subwoofers were designed for the street enthusiast who wants good sound quality, and the ability to have some fun at higher output levels. The A-10 comes in at 500-watt peak, 250-watt RMS, and the A-12 comes in at 600-watt peak and 300-watt RMS. Like the iconic aircrafts they are named after, the A-Series subs feature advanced technology, are hard-hitting, and very robust. Simply put, it’s a great all-around sub without breaking the bank!

Ultra Shock subwoofers are engineered for performance and sound quality. New materials were used for surround and spider, revised stronger baskets, and improved stronger/larger motor structures. The surround is now a rugged santoprene rubber surround that will support long linear excursions with improved reliability. The high flex life Conex spider/damper has been revised in roll shape and material to compliment the improved surround.

S-SB10V Halo S-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosure w/ ProLink $329.95 | Alpine-USA.com

A-Series Subwoofers $309 | ARCAudio.com

US12 $170.99 | CadenceSound.com

HYBRID AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES Legatia Subwoofers Hybrid.audio

Legatia Subwoofers are Hybrid Audio Technologies' next-generation series of subwoofers. At home in virtually any enclosure arrangement – from sealed, to vented, to infinite baffle and bandpass – the Legatia range of subwoofers are going to impress even the most critical listener with speed and articulation, bottom-octave authority, with a total inductance profile that is not just low, but flat over stroke, frequency, and power.

Available in both dual 2-ohm and dual 4-ohm impedance configurations, and in 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, 15-inch, and 18-inch sizes.

KENWOOD KSC-PS28

$449 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood KSC-PSW8 powered compact bass solution with carefully selected thick voice coil and heat resistant parts, optimized magnetic circuit, newly designed damper to improve durability, and equipped with wired remote control. Offers 150 W RMS power, and 250 W peak power in an 8-inch diameter package.

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JBL

BassPro Go $549.95 | JBL.com A hybrid automobile subwoofer and portable speaker, this versatile speaker system connects music enthusiasts to JBL’s Signature Sound for an exceptional audio experience on-the-go. When docked inside the vehicle’s trunk, the JBL BassPro Go adds powerful bass to the existing car audio system, delivering sound performance equivalent to a traditional aftermarket subwoofer system. Engineered with a subwoofer and two passive radiators, the sub system allows users to enhance the bass response to their listening preferences. The JBL BassPro Go also operates as a portable Bluetooth speaker when undocked from the vehicle.

KENWOOD

KICKER

The Kenwood eXcelon KFC-XW1241 12-inch entry class subwoofer features 2,000 W peak power and 300 W RMS. It's X-Motif cone controls resonance frequency and cuts unnecessary frequency, delivering a powerful and solid bass response. The KFC-XW1241 has a robust thermal management system implemented. with an aluminum bobbin, closed yoke design, and advanced airflow control.

You want ready-made big bass. You want to get it easily, and you don’t want to build a custom box.

Here’s the CompR subwoofer enclosure! To make their subs even more reliable, Kicker engineers developed forced-air cooling to help the CompR subs run 25% cooler. Built for extreme bass, any Kicker sub box uses extensive internal bracing, thick MDF construction, and custom embroidery. Boasts 1,000 W RMS power and 2,000 W peak power.

eXcelon KFC-XW1241 $209 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca

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CompR DCWR12 Loaded Enclosure $459.95 | Kicker.com

KENWOOD

eXcelon KFC-XW1241HP $248 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood KFC-XW1241HP 12-inch high power class subwoofer features 500 W RMS and 2,000 W peak power! Its PP dual area cone gives its diaphragm the rigidity required for higher power handling and delivers more accurate bass. The KFC-XW1241HP has a robust thermal management system, implemented with an aluminum bobbin, closed yoke design, and advanced airflow control.

KICKER

Hideaway 10-inch Compact Powered Subwoofer $349.95 | Kicker.com Kicker has added a powerful 10-inch version of the Hideaway Compact Powered Subwoofer to its line of bass products. Adding a larger speaker and more power (180 watts) to the Hideaway’s already popular feature set, Kicker engineers ensured the new larger cone would barely alter the Hideaway’s near universal fit in modern vehicles. A highly convenient form factor, the HS10’s all-aluminum body readily fits under a seat, in a trunk or behind a truck bench.

Remote bass control included.

KICKER

TRTP Down-Firing Loaded Enclosure $299.95 | Kicker.com Kicker has developed and perfected three new, ultra-thin, down-firing loaded enclosures, dubbed the TRTP-Series. Included in each enclosure is the popular Kicker CompRT thin subwoofer, alongside a resurgent reFLEX passive radiator for a significant upgrade in bass without increasing overall depth. Barely six inches high, TRTP enclosures are built to fit anywhere from behind the seat of a pickup to the back cargo area of a hatchback.

KICKER

CompR CWR15 Subwoofer $299.95 | Kicker.com

ROCKFORD FOSGATE

R2-2X12 Dual Loaded Subwoofer Enclosure $249.99 | RockfordFosgate.com The R2-2X12 dual loaded subwoofer enclosure features powerful bass output, high quality construction, and easy drop-in installation. The R2 12-inch offers more bass and power handling though its dual voice coil design that handles 500 Watts of thumping performance. The pre-built enclosure is constructed with 5/8-inch MDF, OEM grade carpet, and high current binding posts. It's internally wired to a 2-ohm load, so you just need to add an amplifier for epic bass performance. A dual 10-inch model is also available.

The all-new CompR sub is the very model of power and reliability. Play them loud. Play them hard. Play them all day. With a double-stacked magnet, the CompR provides powerful bass and a thunderous low-end response for the thump you crave when the volume knob needs a workout. To make their subs even more reliable, Kicker engineers developed forced-air cooling to help CompR subs run 25% cooler. Boasts 800 W RMS power and 1,600 W peak power.

SONY ROCKFORD FOSGATE Power T1D212 Subwoofer $479.99 | RockfordFosgate.com

The Power T1D212 subwoofer builds on innovative Rockford Fosgate technologies for amazing bass with a focus on sound quality. Patented VAST technology increases surface cone area up to 25% so it performs like a much larger woofer, and the FlexFit basket provides extreme flexibility for extreme installations. The sub also features an anodized aluminum heat sinking dust cap and Kevlar fiber reinforced paper cone for high power demands. The 2 ohm DVC subwoofer is rated to handle 800W RMS and 1,600W max power.

XS-AW8 $299.99 | Sony.com Enrich your in-car listening with the XS-AW8 compact powered subwoofer.

The slim design allows installation in restricted spaces, and fills your car with 160-W peak power (75-W RMS) of clean, dynamic bass. A supplied wired remote enables convenient level control from the driver's seat.

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Words by

Bill Braun

//

Images

courtesy of Kicker

Car Audio & Tech

#12

KICKER UnMasked In recent years, the 12-volt world has drawn back the magic curtain, especially on Facebook and YouTube. Names like EXO Contralto, Big D Wiz, Dean and Fernando, Steave Meade and Everyday Audios have collectively earned millions of loyal fans with their honesty, insatiable curiosity and unbridled enthusiasm for car stereo. n October 2020, KICKER took a headlong leap into YouTube, creating an epic ten-station show designed to reveal more than a dozen products to be released in the coming year. “UnMasked” was born.

The inspiration for a live show stemmed from the challenges inherent in the shutdown. Traditional in-person

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shows like SEMA and CES were put on hold, leaving thousands of manufacturers with a looming question to answer.

How best to show off the 2021 product lineup with no shows to attend.

“It was a difficult decision,” said Kevin Campbell, KICKER’s Marketing Director. “SEMA was not an option, but KICKER still wanted to connect with dealers and consumers alike. We’ve

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always adhered to the philosophy of waiting until a product is ready, then coordinating an introduction.

UnMasked gives consumers a glimpse of what goes on at SEMA, showing viewers what the trades get to see at the show. It brought us to create KICKER UnMasked. It was about taking the mask off of SEMA: we were unveiling something.”

The show was designed to be informative and interactive, not “salesy” according to KICKER’s B2B Associate Marketing Director Kip Litsey, one of the creators of UnMasked. “The idea is to offer insight, answer questions and show how we create KICKER equipment.

There's so much more to making the products that earn our name – the testing, the research, [and] the work can take years. We wanted to share how that is done, and why caring this much matters to us and to our customers.”

Viewers showed up in droves, asking thousands of questions and getting immediate answers from KICKER’s Social Media department, both in Spanish and English.

A dozen products were unveiled live to consumers and 12-volt industry insiders alike, generating massive buzz

Dereck Williston

Dean and Fernando

in the online car audio community. The five-hour show ended with the highly anticipated announcement of KICKER’s Solo L7X subwoofer line.

Building on the success UnMasked generated, KICKER took the leap into a weekly show. Airing live on KICKER’s Facebook and YouTube channels every Tuesday night at 7:30 CST, the weekly show features guest hosts from across the industry. The guests often include accomplished car audio installers, engineers, 12-volt manufacturers, retailers, and YouTube celebrities.

Questions are answered live, either by the KICKER social media team or by Mr. Litsey, the on-camera host of the show.

The 90-minute show always ends with a live giveaway, often worth hundreds of dollars if not more.

The amount of work that goes into show preparation rivals that of a network news broadcast. Topics come from KICKER employees, industry news, social media and UnMasked viewers.

Once a topic is established, guests are lined up, graphics packages are assembled and the set is customized for the show. After the broadcast is done, KICKER also creates UnMasked “Shorts”, a series of quicker videos made to highlight sections of the show.

Overall, it takes about 20 hours of work to complete UnMasked and its sister episodes every week.

The UnMasked community has quickly grown. With over 1,200 comments posted on average per show, the conversation is “lively” to say the least.

Viewers from across the country flock to their screens, routinely adding their opinions to the commentary. Sometimes it’s to ask a question, to interject an opinion, or to add information to the conversation. KICKER often highlights those comments live on-screen, which Litsey then answers.

“One of our strengths is interfacing with people. We’re not this big, cold,

Robert Hifi Vega

corporate entity,” says Mr. Litsey.

“We’re people with passions and personalities - that’s KICKER. When people interact with us, it creates a comfort zone. They can develop a bond with us as people. They want to get answers from the people they deal with every day. They want to know the Sales Managers and Trainers. They want ‘The KICKER Guy’ - someone they know and trust.”

Robert “HiFi” Vega is Co-Host of 12V Talk & Reverse Polarity, both popular car audio shows on YouTube. “You might be able to learn this in a similar way if it was canned, but it’s not nearly as entertaining, and you wouldn’t get that sense of community. We see KICKER as a family now, not just a big monolithic company.

As far as the community as a whole, I think it’s like 12V Talk –

we saw silos of car audio guys.

Everyone doing their own thing, and no one collaborating. We wanted to bring everyone into the fold and be a community. Adding KICKER into that community is a huge outreach. I don’t see any other manufacturer doing this right now. Some are doing trainings, but that’s not the same thing.

KICKER wants to hear you. They want to hear what you think.”

Like HiFi Vega, Mr. Campbell believes the importance of UnMasked extends beyond the raw information, but the free and rapid exchange of ideas that routinely occurs on-camera and in the comments, even after the live show has ended. “Part of the intangible benefit that’s come from UnMasked is that we’ve created a community that is genuinely interested in talking and learning about audio. I’ve seen that we grow our audience every week, with folks that share this enthusiasm. They want to stay updated, and they love knowing about what’s coming. This helps keep the momentum going. I see a bright future for UnMasked, and for KICKER.”

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SPEAKERS BUYER'S GUIDE

Car Audio & Tech

#12

ARC AUDIO

CADENCE

GROUND ZERO

The latest addition to the Moto series lineup. With a slimmer design and shallower mounting depth, the CX6 will fit a wide array of applications with ease. The new completely sealed front face and floating tweeter design offer even better protection from the elements than ever before. The CX6 boasts increased power handling with 260 watts max, and 110 watts RMS as well as improved frequency response from 50Hz 20kHz. This means you can enjoy your music just the way you like it - loud and clear.

Sold in pairs, the Cadence XT60 is a 1-inch titanium bullet tweeter popular for pro audio.

The XT60 has a titanium dome structure with ferro-fluid cooling. The motor is a high density neodymium, motor structure. This tweeter is said to be heard from blocks away. Sometimes, size doesn’t matter.

Limited edition 6.5-inch 2-way component speaker released for Ground Zero's 25th anniversary. Features an aluminum cone and rubber surround, coated silk dome tweeter, and resonance free steel basket with anticorrosive coating. Boasts 130 W RMS power and 200 W peak power.

Moto CX6 Speakers $459 | ARCAudio.com

XT60C2 Bullet Tweeters $103.99 | CadenceSound.com

JVC

KENWOOD

CS-DR620MBL $239 | JVC.com / JVC.ca The JVC CS-DR620MBL offers a tough design that conforms to the IPX5 standard, so you can enjoy high-quality music playback even under the harsh environment of marine and motorsports use.

The speakers are also equipped with LED illumination so you can choose your favorite color that suits your mood or music.

AUDISON

The Audison Thesis TH K2 II A Coro is designed to transfer the precious musical message of the Thesis electronics with absolute fidelity, with the ambition to be absolutely transparent, leaving room only to the emotion evoked by the music. The search for the best acoustic result was based upon overcoming the intrinsic limits of traditional loudspeakers.

Through a finite element simulation software (FEM) conceived by the Audison R&D team, a mathematical model was developed.

PASMAG

eXcelon XR-1801P $499 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR-1801P Hi-Res Audio Component Speaker System is precisely designed for High-Resolution audio to create a truly authentic listening experience with every detail and nuance.

The glass fiber cone combines high-strength with lightweight materials, allowing the speaker to reproduce all sounds from impactful bass notes to delicate tones. The circle rib provides enhanced woofer stability, ensuring bass is deep and clear.

KENWOOD

Thesis TH K2 II A Cora $3,000 | Audison.eu

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GZRC 165 Anniversary Speakers $399.99 | GroundZeroUSA.com

eXcelon XR-1701 $299 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR speakers are precisely designed for high-resolution audio to create a truly authentic listening experience with every detail and nuance. The glass fiber cone combines high-strength with lightweight materials, allowing the speaker to reproduce all sounds from impactful bass notes to delicate tones. Asymmetrical thickness of the surround roll shape provides better focussed bass.

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KICKER

KS Series 2-Way Component Speakers Kicker.com The KSS269 high-performance component upgrade system is made-to-fit with a pair of 6x9-inch woofers and 2.75-inch mid/ tweeters, required in many of today’s vehicles. Also included are three custom bracketing options, built specifically for a drop-in fit in GM, Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and select Asian import factoryspeaker locations. A convenient in-line crossover network is also included with every KS system for versatile fitment in most any door or dash location.

INFINITY

Kappa Series Speakers InfinitySpeakers.com The Infinity Kappa Series speakers are available in a range of standard sizes. Kappa’s Plus One fiberglass woofer delivers tight, robust bass and high-output, while the 0.75-inch edge-driven textile dome tweeters deliver highs reaching upto 40 kHz. The 2- and 3-inch midrange speaker’s bandpass crossovers are available to upgrade various twoway component systems into three-way systems.

Additionally, the super-compact 3-inch midrange speaker offers a plug and play solution with a lowfrequency response to 300 Hz and high sensitivity.

HERTZ

HERTZ

ST 25K NEO high efficiency compression driver.

NEO line bullet tweeters are a totally new project, lighter and more compact compared to the previous ST 25, and with superior performance thanks to the use of Neodymium N38 H for the motor units and a FEM (Finite Element Method) optimized driver/horn design. The kit version, ST 25K Neo, features metallic mesh grille and inline crossover filter included. Ready for high output on motorcycles, UTVs or wherever good quality loud sound is needed.

Totally new NEO SPL coaxial SX 165 NEO cone is made with nature-proof high stiffness pressedpaper featuring innovative water/humidity resistant and anti-UV treatments. The double layer copper voice coil, wound on polyamide former ensures unparalleled power handling. New motors units are made of special Neodymium N38 H to obtain a minimum bulk and increased performance. SX 165 NEO features a large Hi-SPL 1.4-inch PEI dome tweeter with resettable solidstate protection circuit for added reliability.

SPL Show ST25K NEO $330 | HertzAudioVideo.com

SPL Show SX165 NEO $330 | HertzAudioVideo.com

MOREL

Elate Carbon Pro 63A $2,849 | MorelHiFi.com Elate Carbon Pro 63 Active, high power, Hi-Fi 3-way system provides you with an immersive musical experience that leaves you breathless. Equipped with a triple-layered carbon fiber/Rohacell cone for midrange and woofers, titanium voice coils, Morel’s iconic Lotus grilles, and a brushed aluminum trim.

Highlighted by the Elate Alto cavity-back tweeter employing a high-resolution design. Its widened, three-dimensional soundstage with great frequency response and detail, even at extreme volumes.

SONY

XS-GS1631C $399.99 | Sony.com

KICKER

KSS650 Component System $249.95 | Kicker.com SIZE (IN.): 6.5 DESIGN: Component WOOFER CONE & SURROUND: Polypropylene cone, rubber surrounds TWEETER MATERIAL: Silk dome POWER (RMS/PEAK): >75 W RMS BASKET: Cast aluminum

This 3-way component speaker features Sony’s original MRC Aramid Fiber Matrix cone equipped 6.5-inch (16-cm) driver, a newly developed 3.5-inch (8-cm) mid-range driver with neodymium magnet for superior response and a compact frame for easy installation, and a new 1-inch soft dome tweeter for smooth and accurate high frequency response. Boasts 120 W RMS power and 320 W peak power.

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Car Audio & Tech

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AMPLIFIERS / DSPS BUYER'S GUIDE

AUDIOCONTROL

AUDIOCONTROL

AUDISON

The D-5.1300 brings five channels of sonic purity and unprecedented levels of power and mixes it with AudioControl's simple to use DSP. The DM-SmartDSP controlled D-5.1300 features eight active speaker level inputs, six line level inputs, independent crossovers, 30 band EQ with auto EQ, signal summing, signal delay, built in RTAs, and AccuBASS. 4 x 100W + 1 x 300W @ 4 ohm, 4 x 200W + 1 x 500W @ 2ohm.

The LC-5.1300 offers five channels of audio bliss and unprecedented levels of power. With its eight active speaker level inputs and six line level inputs, the LC-5.1300 is packed with integration features. Intuitive setup controls for high-pass, band-pass, and low-pass filters, automatic and selectable signal summing, and AccuBASS make this single-amp solution a great way to build most any system.

The Virtuoso is an audiophile 12-channel input/13channel output DSP processor. The bit One HD Virtuoso features unique skills dedicated to the most ambitious OEM integration projects, and excels in the uncompromising high-end systems.

This was made possible thanks to innovative functions born with the new software / firmware development and the upgrade of some key components in the audio signal path, which are crucial to reach new heights of listening pleasure.

D-5.1300 - 5-Channel Class-D Amplifier $1,299.99 | AudioControl.com

LC-5.1300 $899.99 | AudioControl.com

Bit One HD Virtuoso $1,900 | Audison.eu

KENWOOD

eXcelon X802-5 $479 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood eXcelon X802-5 Class-D 5-channel power amplifier with rich and immersive high-resolution audio. Output coil with magnetic shield prevents magnetic flux from radiating from the subwoofer's coil, resulting in reduced noise and enhanced sound quality. With a sliding terminal cover, variable gain circuit, one-sided connection, speaker level input harness, and ready for optional wired level control.

KICKER

KEYLOC Smart Line-Out Converter Kicker.com

KENWOOD

eXcelon XR901-5 $649 | Kenwood.com / Kenwood.ca The Kenwood eXcelon XR901-5 5-channel Class-D power amplifier built with high performance capacitors and inductors. Hi-Res Audio capable of rich and immersive sound and deep bass. CEA-2006 rated at 600 watts.

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In the pursuit to get the best sound possible from your stereo system that features both factory and aftermarket gear, KEYLOC’s patent-pending KEY algorithm automatically detects and analyzes crossovers, EQ, time delay, and all-pass filters present, and then it will level-match the left and right audio channels. Once analyzed, it corrects these various filters to give you the smoothest frequency response possible, giving you a clean, uncolored audio signal for your aftermarket gear.

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DD AUDIO

DD AUDIO

HERTZ

The latest revision of the M3d amplifier pushes the design limits of the traditional M Series circuit as far as it can go. The power supplies have been optimized to better support the immense internal power demands when listeners push their system to the edge of its capability. Externally, the chassis has been revised for better cooling and optional aesthetic upgrades. These amps are also the first offerings from DD to be ZVL ready making multiamp systems easier to set up and control.

The ZVL is a multi-amplifier synching module designed to allow a user to link, strap, and tune the preamps of multiple amplifiers from a single module for precision control of large mobile audio systems. The ZVL is universally compatible, but it was designed to work seamlessly with DD's new M Series amplifiers ZVL Input. The ZVL can be used as active RCA distribution to sync full range amps, or a combination of sub and full range making installing multi-amp setups easier, cleaner, and quicker.

The HMD8 DSP, with Hertz Marine DSP technology, offers rich new highs of listening pleasure during navigation. DSP user friendly PC-software interface makes the setup process a breeze, exploiting every ounce of performance from the installed speaker system. The amazing power of 8 x 85 W or 4 x 260 W RMS gives the HMD8 DSP the capability to drive with authority the complete speaker system generating tons of crystal clear SPL up to 3 different zones of the vessel, along w/ anti-corrosion treated PCB.

M3d $1,350 | DDAudio.com

ZVL $175 | DDAudio.com

Marine HMD8 DSP $1,650 | HertzAudioVideo.com

PHOENIX GOLD

GX1200.6 $579.99 | PhoenixGold.com The GX 1200.6 6-channel, class-D amplifier is designed to cover a multitude of installation needs. Included in the line are proprietary PG quick connects for high current capability and reliability, while enabling clean and quick installations. The chassis has been optimized by utilizing BFD (Balanced Flow Dissipation) to keep the amplifier running cool when the music is hot.

KICKER

KMA-Series Marine Amplifier Line Kicker.com

KICKER

CX Amplifiers Kicker.com Kicker’s CX-Series amplifier technology provides clean, powerful music in nearly any vehicle on the road today, without changing your radio or adding a line-out converter. These powerful amps work with as little as nine volts of power from your battery, and as much as 40 volts (400 watts) of speaker-level input signal.

With Kicker’s FIT+ (Fail-safe Integration Technology-PLUS), you get outstanding noise rejection - even with premium factory audio systems.

Kicker has developed the KMA-Series marine amplifiers for 2021, made to be as versatile as they are affordable. Featuring even higher power ratings than its predecessors, these five new models of amplifiers are now shipping and ready for purchase. Every KMA-Series amplifier comes with a host of Real Marine features: weather-ready speaker terminals, stainless-steel hardware, gasketsealed input connectors, conformal-coated circuit boards, and ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) / NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association)compliant power connections.

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Car Audio & Tech

#12

AMPLIFIERS / DSPS BUYER'S GUIDE

ROCKFORD FOSGATE M5-1000X1 Mono Amplifier RockfordFosgate.com

The M5-1000X1 mono subwoofer amp features the next level of Element Ready design from Rockford Fosgate, perfect for "open air" vehicles. CTA-2006 dynamic power is rated at 525W x 1 @ 4Ω, 900W x 1 @ 2Ω, and 1000W x 1 @ 1Ω. Its IPX6 rating is based on splash guards and heavy-duty molded harnesses with integral sealing gaskets on both ends. The M5 features proprietary technologies like Constant Power, ClassBD efficiency and C.L.E.A.N. gain setup, all engineered and developed in Tempe, Arizona.

AUNEX

AC1100.5D - Class FD 5-Channel Amplifier $449.99 | AunexUSA.com RMS Power/Channel: 151-200 W Frequency Response: 10Hz-30kHz Crossovers: Fully Variable The versatile feature pack AC1100.5D amplifier from Aunex is designed for complete system amplification. This sleek compact 5-channel utilizes the newest IR chipsets by International Rectifier and makes amplifying an entire system a snap since you are only installing one amplifier that can easily power your front/rear speakers and a subwoofer. Each AC1100.5D includes a remote gain control which allows you to adjust the subwoofer output from a remote.

ROCKFORD FOSGATE R2-750X5 Amplifier $379.99 | RockfordFosgate

The R2-750X5 is a 750 watt, all-in-one amplifier capable of 4 ohms or 2 ohms stereo with a mono sub channel operating at 4 ohms or 2 ohms. The amplifier's extremely efficient Class-D technology reduces demand on the vehicle's electrical system and features C.L.E.A.N. circuitry to help adjust gain settings, a P.O.W.E.R. supply that generates more dynamic power as voltage increases, and integrated Punch EQ that corrects for acoustic deficiencies while delivering up to three times the bass.

JL AUDIO

VX1000/5i Amplifier $1,169.99 | JLAudio.com Designed to simplify great audio, every VXi amplifier combines JL Audio’s advanced NexD2 switching amplifier technology with an integrated, full-featured digital signal processor. Employing their second generation NexD2 amplifier technology, the VX1000/5i efficiently powers a complete audio system. All amplifier adjustments and DSP functionality are configured via a compatible external device (PC, tablet or smartphone), with the JL Audio TüN Software application installed.

SONY

XM-GS6DSP $399.99 | Sony.com With 6 channels of class-D amplification, the XM-GS6DSP drives a variety of speaker configurations. Fill your car with 45 W x 4 (4 ohms) of clean and dynamic sound plus 600 W (2 ohms bridged) of subwoofer power. All from a compact amp, with minimal interference for audio that’s crystal clear, even at its loudest.

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Car Audio & Tech

#12

ACCESSORIES BUYER'S GUIDE

AUDIOCONTROL

AUDIOCONTROL

ARC AUDIO

The AudioControl ACX-BT1 is the ultimate solution for adding Bluetooth connectivity to your audio system. The ACX-BT1 features the latest BT 4.1 and aptX HD support, delivering 24-bit clarity, lower noise, faster initial connection, and more reliable streaming with greater distance. It is IPX5 rated for marine and motorsports applications, so it will withstand the rigors of all-weather conditions, including as a standalone solution for classic cars, jet skis, ATV/UTVs, golf carts, and hot air balloons.

The LC2i Pro joins ranks with AudioControl’s popular active line output converter, the LC2i. Adding a subwoofer? Get the best possible signal from your OEM sound system to your amplifier. Installer friendly with multiple trigger modes, patented AccuBass circuitry to compensate for bass roll-off, the ability to handle high voltage input signal, and built-in impedance load selection switch, the LC2i Pro is the industry's best active high to low converter for good reason. Includes ACR-1 dash control knob.

The BTD Bluetooth module offers users a plug-andplay solution to add high clarity Bluetooth capability to their system. It’s even capable of being used as a standalone streaming audio source for when there is either no room or desire for a traditional source unit. With a Pro-Series DSP, it’s a simple one-wire connection, or you can use the RCA or Optical TOSLINK connections to integrate it into your existing system. For Bluetooth capability without sacrificing sound quality, get the BTD.

IBEAM

COMPUSTAR

KICKER

Firstech is excited to announce their newest product: the Compustar KP2 Keyless Touchpad. The KP2 Touchpad mounts to your windshield and allows you to lock, unlock, and share your vehicle using a secret code. What’s new about this product is the ability to also create a time-sensitive “guest” code, which makes this product perfect for the growing car sharing economy.

This complete 8-gauge amp kit comes complete with Full Spec power and ground wire, speaker wire, interconnect cable, fusing, fuse holder and hardware. Hooking up an amp is easy when you get everything you need in one place. The best hardware, signal, and power cable comes in one convenient package. Get an additional year of warranty when you buy a Kicker amp with this kit.

All kits include pure, full-spec oxygen-free copper cabling for max power transfer, superior bass response, and signal clarity.

KNUKONCEPTZ

METRA ELECTRONICS

Sold as pairs with red/black heat shrink, KnuKonceptz flush mount set screw ring terminals provide an offset flush mount, which provides that extra space you may need connecting grounds or battery cables to your alternator's battery post.

Available in 0- and 4-gauge.

This dash kit has a built-in touchscreen and electronics that retain important features. The dash kit’s color touchscreen display shows climate and personalization settings that would have been seen on the original screen, it keeps the Honda LaneWatch camera working, ensures that the factory backup camera will work on the new screen, retains use of the audio controls on the steering wheel, and more. The result is a high-tech upgrade that fits any standard 2- or 4-inch aftermarket radio.

ACX-BT1 $89.99 | AudioControl.com

9-Inch Touchscreen Live-Streaming Real-Time Mirror and Dual DVR $637.00 | iBEAMusa.com See the rear and front view of the vehicle in real-time with iBEAM's HD touchscreen mirror and camera kit. This large 9-inch color LCD touchscreen mirror features no lag with 1080p resolution at 30 fps for both cameras. A built-in dual-channel DVR captures the front and rear video feeds simultaneously to prevent liability in case of an accident, and has a G-sensor to prevent the video from being overwritten.

Includes optional ADAS features for lane detection and forward collision warnings.

KNUKONCEPTZ

Vertical Top Post Adapter $9.99 | KnuKonceptz.com KnuKonceptz expands its Ultimate Battery Terminal (UBT) accessory line with the Vertical Top Post Adapter (VTPA). Have a lease vehicle, or maybe your battery cable has a fancy built in fuse connector?

Worry no more! The VTPA allows the installer to retain the OEM battery post hardware. No cutting or modifying required. Installing a large gauge battery wire is completed in minutes! The VTPA is sold in pairs and designed specifically for UBT Terminals (sold separately).

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LC2i Pro $149.99 | AudioControl.com

KP2 Keyless Touchpad $49.99 | Compustar.com

Set Screw Flush Mount Ring Terminals From $8.99 | KnuKonceptz.com

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BTD Bluetooth Module $329 | ARCAudio.com

Value Wiring Kits Kicker.com

99-7821B TurboTouch Dash Kit for 2016-2021 Honda Civic (Excluding LX) MetraOnline.com

METRA ELECTRONICS

METRA ELECTRONICS

95-6553B TurboTouch Dash Kit for 2015-up Chrysler 300 MetraOnline.com

95-6552B TurboTouch Dash Kit for 2015-up Dodge Charger MetraOnline.com

Metra Electronics is now shipping dash kits with their biggest built-in touchscreen yet; a 7-inch color display.

The kits include the necessary wiring harness, antenna adapter, steering wheel control interface, USB/AUX-IN replacement panel, and data interface for a complete installation. The built-in 7-inch touchscreen displays and controls all climate and most of the personalization features that would typically be lost when removing the factory radio components. The kits also retain the factory audio controls on the steering wheel, retain the factory backup camera, safety chimes, and R.A.P. (Retained Accessory Power).

METRA ELECTRONICS

TurboKit Dash Kit for 1994-2000 Ford Mustang MetraOnline.com Late model Mustang owners can now upgrade to a new radio with Metra’s perfect fit dash kit! The 95-5703B TurboKit is designed specifically for double-DIN radio installations to provide a flawless look and seamless fit between the new radio and dashboard. Painted matte black and made in the USA with the highest quality ABS plastics.

MOMENTO DASH CAMERAS

M6 Smart Wi-Fi Dash Camera $449.99 | MomentoCam.com Wi-Fi enabled full HD 1080p dash camera system including front camera, rear camera, GPS antenna, and 32GB micro-SD memory card. The M6 is Momento’s first dash cam that connects to your smartphone by creating a small and secure Wi-Fi hotspot inside your vehicle that only you can access through the Momento app. In addition to giving you easy access to your video files, the Momento App also provides additional driving insights such as speed, location, and trip data.

Metra Electronics is now shipping dash kits with their biggest built-in touchscreen yet; a 7-inch color display.

The kits include the necessary wiring harness, antenna adapter, steering wheel control interface, USB/AUX-IN replacement panel, and data interface for a complete installation. The built-in 7-inch touchscreen displays and controls all climate and most of the personalization features that would typically be lost when removing the factory radio components. The kits also retain the factory audio controls on the steering wheel, retain the factory backup camera, safety chimes, and R.A.P. (Retained Accessory Power).

ROCKFORD FOSGATE

PMX-BTUR $109.99 | RockfordFosgate.com The PMX-BTUR is a universal Bluetooth remote control designed for use with audio systems that utilize a mobile device as a source with Bluetooth connectivity. Adjust volume, track, play, and pause on Android or Apple mobile devices. The Bluetooth 4.0 Smart Ready receiver quickly and easily pairs with your mobile device using an easy one-button pairing control. Remote can be configured as a hand-held control, or steering wheel applications using the included bezel and velcro strap. IP67 rated for protection against water intrusion.

STINGER

VIZUALOGIC

SwitchHUB is a solid-state, high current relay block with four independent outputs. One 40A and three 20A outputs, for a combined total of 100A continuous. Each output can be independently triggered by either a positive or negative trigger and those outputs can be combined for even more amperage capability. Each output has a thermal overload, and short circuit protection along with LED status indicators for the thermal/ overload, active/inactive status.

Vizualogic's Omni 8 is a removable 8-inch Android tablet headrest system that replaces the factory's headrest with the same materials for a seamless fit and finish into the vehicle. Connect the tablet to a wireless hotspot and passengers can download all your favorite apps and movies from the Google Play Store. When the tablet is locked and docked safely into the PerfectMatch Headrest passengers can play DVDs with the built in DVD player.

SwitchHUB $119.99 | StingerElectronics.com

Omni 8 VizualogicDirect.com

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DEALER SPOTLIGHT

PREFERRED DEALERS CANADA

RESTORFX GTA

4-15 Regan Rd Brampton, ON L7A 1E3 (647) 968-0235

RESTORFXGTA.COM

R

estorFX is the industry pioneer in PCR: Paintless Clearcoat Repair.

Through 20 years of research and development and working in over 45 countries worldwide, they have found a new way for owners to give their car a brand-new appearance without the costly need for repainting.

Automotive clear coat finishes have been slowly getting softer and thinner so that they look amazing in a showroom. However, the long term durability and wear and tear is accelerated. This results in your paint having more scratches and damage. Previously, the only ways to repair this were professional polishing or repainting. Polishing uses a series of paste polishes and pads to slowly remove minimal layers of the clear coat until you have removed enough clear to have the scratch not catch the light and show up as a visible line. This can be very damaging to your paint while only providing temporary results.

As the fillers wear out, the visual damage will eventually start to reappear. Painting is very costly and takes a long time, which makes it a very undesirable option for minor clear coat damage.

RestorFX is a two-part system that utilizes Polymemetic

RESTORFX GEORGETOWN 2-53 Armstrong Ave Georgetown, ON L7G 4S1 (416) 333-2550

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RESTORFX LETHBRIDGE

technology to actually repair your vehicle's clear coat. The RestorFX product is professionally applied to the surface and fills in the visible scratches making them disappear permanently. Once completed, RestorFX actually adds 10 microns to the overall finish making it more durable.

A RestorFX finish will chemically bond to your vehicle's existing paint finish, and is guaranteed against peeling or manufacturer defects for the life of your ownership. In as little as 24 hours, It will permanently repair your vehicle's finish without the need for repainting or accepting temporary results. In many instances it will provide you with a better than new car shine as the lumen and reflectivity of RestorFX is higher than clear coat.

Once your vehicle is restored to a better than new finish, RestorFX can keep your vehicle staying this way with a line of

Attogentic Protection products designed to work directly with your newly restored car. ClearFX is a graphene based Attogenetic product that will leave a 10h hardness over your entire vehicle.

Displaying incredible gloss and reflectivity, maintaining your car will be a breeze with its hydrophobic ability. With microns of protection added, your vehicle will now have a shine that will last.

With locations around North America, find the closest RestorFX center to you. There isn’t a center near you? Looking to start a business in the Automotive industry?

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