WWW.MOBILEELECTRONICSNEWS.EU
NOVEMBER2010
M.E.N AWARDS SPECIAL INSIDE
ThE COMPANIES AND PRODuCTS VOTED TO hAVE ThE "GOLD STANDARD" AT ThE INDuSTRy'S MOST PRESTIGIOuS AWARDS
PORTABLE NAVIGATION
The laTesT devices from The major manufacTurers
W W W. M O B I L E E L E C T R O N I C S N E W S . E U
Gold Award for Best Double Din with Navigation! As voted by you!
路 路 路 路
Advanced Navigation System DVD / CD / MP3 / Radio USB Connection for iPod, iPhone & USB Sticks Built in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and phonebook download
ADVANCED NAVI STATION INE-S900R www.alpine-electronics.co.uk
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2010 04 – ED SPEAK
Pondering what the real meaning of the M.E.N Awards may be
06-12 – NEWS
New distribution deals signed and more from your industry
14 – 15 PARK AND LIGhT
The latest product expansions to Connects2’s trade offerings
20-44 – M.E.N AWARDS SuPPLEMENT
All of the winners from the 2010 M.E.N Awards, including who dealers voted as Best Manufacturer, Best Distributor and Best Wholesaler. With 16 pages packed with product and people awards, did those you vote for scoop top honours? Find out here.
48 - MINI COyOTE FROM COBRA
A small device that can offer big help to your customers’ licences
Funkwerk Dabendorf Dabendorf GmbH is is pleased to to announce that that its pro pr Funkwerk Funkwerk Dabendorf GmbH GmbH is pleased pleased to announce announce that its its pro available from Autosound Ltd. Funkwerk have been helping thei available available from from Autosound Autosound Ltd. Ltd. Funkwerk Funkwerk have have been been helping helping their their their mobile phones hands free in their vehicles for more than than their mobile phones hands free in their vehicles for more their mobile phones hands free in their vehicles for more than confirm that that Autosound will will be bringing bringing their latest latest new hands hand confirm confirm that Autosound Autosound will be be bringing their their latest new new hands Funkwerk Audio 2010 in to the UK. Funkwerk Funkwerk Audio Audio 2010 2010 -- in in to to the the UK. UK.
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AUDIO 2010 MOUNTING OPTIONS
49 – CARSKINZ
The vehicle wrapping that can add new revenue to your business
50 – OPPORTuNITy KNOCKS
Can expanding your horizons lead to bigger profits?
the leading in-car communication specialist
52-53 – PORTABLE NAVIGATION GuIDE Funkwerk Dabendorf GmbH is pleased to announce that its products are now ADHESIVE PAD Adhesive Pad Adhesive Pad use helping their customers All the latest developments in PNDs from the available from Autosound Ltd. Funkwerk have been major manufacturers
56 – DOWN AT ThE DEALER
the leading in-car comm
the lea
their mobile phones hands free in their vehicles for more than a decade and confirm that Autosound will be bringing their latest new hands free kit - the Funkwerk Audio 2010 - in to the UK.
Funkwerk Dabendorf GmbHTheisAudio pleased to announce thatDabendorf its products are now 2010 system from Funkwerk is the link Funkwerk Dabendorf GmbH is pleased to announ
Funkwerk Audio 2010 offers both extensive functionality and excellent call Paying a visit to Accutek in Hampshire; a very The professional available from Autosound Ltd. Funkwerk been their use have bee available fromcustomers Autosound Ltd. Funkwerk between excellent have call quality andhelping extensive functionality. quality. The Bluetooth hands free kit is intuitive to use and it has a high quality their mobile phones hands free in their vehicles set-up ® their viamobile phones free in their vehicles than a decade and sophisticated OLED display. It can be controlled voice control whichhands is The BLUETOOTH hands-freefor kit ismore intuitively easy confirm that Autosound will be bringing their la
60 – INDuSTRy PERSONALITy The first female “Industry Personality”: Parrot’s Bradina Freedman
62 – uNLEASh ThE MuSIC
activated by a central button (buzzer) which makes in carthat use more convenient will be bringing their latest new Funkwerk Audio 2010 -kit in to thethe UK. confirm Autosound hands free to operate and its appeal lies in a high-precision OLED and much safer. Features such as simultaneous connection of two mobile phones Funkwerk Audio 2010 in to the UK. The Funkwerk Audio 2010 offers both extensive f DISPLAY presented in a sophisticated, timeless housing. The (multi point), reading and replying to text messages and MP3 music streaming quality. The Bluetooth hands free kit is intuitive to make the Funkwerk Audio 2010 an entertaining and contemporary travelling VOICE CONTROL, which is activated via a central button sophisticated OLED display. It can be controlled companion. The Funkwerk 2010 offers the aftermarket simple and quick activatedand a central button (buzzer) The Funkwerk Audio 2010 offers extensive functionality excellent call which make (buzzer),both makes in-car telephony not only morebyconvenient, installation and has three fitting options (adhesive pad, mounting plate and and much safer. Features such as simultaneous con mounting arm). In other words, Funkwerk Audio 2010 a good choice. quality. The Bluetooth handsbutfree intuitive and it point), has reading a high (multi andquality replying to text messag alsokit safer.isFunctions suchtoasuse the SIMULTANEOUS
MOUNTING PLATE Mounting Mounting Plate Mounting Plate Plate
M.E.N drop in on JL Audio/Celsus’ tour of the UK to find out more
63 – RAyNER’S RANT
Adam thinks Large Thoughts and about his role in the industry
64 – V.C.E GuIDE
A guide to fitting parking sensors to a 2006 Jaguar X-Type Adhesive Pad
make the Funkwerk Audio 2010 an entertaining sophisticated OLED display.CONNECTION It can be TO controlled via PHONES voice control which is TWO MOBILE companion.(multi-point), The Funkwerk 2010 offers the af installation and hasconvenient three fitting options (adhesi activated by a central buttonreading (buzzer) whichtomakes in carand use and replying SMS messages the more playback mounting arm). In other words, Funkwerk Audio 2 and much safer. Features such as simultaneous two mobile of MP3 files to make the connection Audio 2010 an of entertaining and phones (multi point), reading and replying to text messages and music contemporary travelling companion. ThisMP3 excellent basis isstreaming make the Funkwerk Audio perfected 2010 an entertaining and contemporary travelling by SIMPLE AND QUICK INSTALLATION and companion. TheARM Funkwerk aftermarket simple and quick the2010 THREEoffers FITTINGthe OPTIONS for the operating console. MOUNTING The Audio 2000 from Funkwerk Dabendorf Mounting installation and Arm has threeoffers fitting options proven premium (adhesive brand qualitypad, at an mounting plate and Mounting Arm attractive price. Thanks to the range of cradles mounting arm). In other words, 2010 - AUDIO a good choice. INFunkwerk OTHER Audio WORDS, 2010
available, you can use it with almost any mobile phone, while echo cancellation and noise suppression guarantee optimum sound quality. Adhesive Pad And intelligent charging electronics ensure your battery always stays topped up. So what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start making those calls now - without your hands ever leaving the wheel. Hill,
- A GOOD CHOICE.
65-66 – M.E.N DIRECTORy
UK companies that have a desire for your success at their core Mounting Plate
charlotte Body PuBlisher Tel: 01268 754 897 or 07903 944666 fax: 01268 754429 email: charlotte@creativemedialtd.co.uk andrew mills ediTor Tel: 07730 542263 email: andy.mills@creativemedialtd.co.uk lucy Poet PuBlicaTion manager Tel: 01268 754 897 or 07951 698873 fax: 01268 754429 email: lucy@creativemedialtd.co.uk Mounting Arm Peter johnson arT direcTor e: peter.johnson@creativemedialtd.co.uk t: 01268 754 897 charlie crocker designer Tel: 01268 754 897 fax: 01268 754429 email: charlie.crocker@creativemedialtd.co.uk shauna Peters adminisTraTor Tel: 01268 754 897 fax: 01268 754429 email: shauna.peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk
4 Lister Street, Dudley Hill, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD4 9PQ United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1274 688990 Facsimile: +44 (0) 1274 651318 E-mail: sales@autosound .co.uk Web-site: www.autosound.co.uk
If Creative Media publish any supplied text or photographs by way of contribution to the magazine, you automatically and hereby grant Creative Media a perpetual, royalty-free, irrevocable, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce modify, publish, translate, create derivative works from and distribute such text or photography into any from, medium or technology now known or hereafter developed. In addition, as between you and Creative Media, you assert and waive any and all moral rights in such text or photography. The views and opinions expressed by any contributors (including advertisers) to the magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine and should not be taken as such.
4 Lister Street, Dudley 4 Lister Street, Dudley Hill, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD4 9PQ Bradford, West Yorkshire BD4 9PQ 9PQ United Kingdom United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1274 688990 Telephone: +44 (0) 1274 688990 Facsimile: +44 (0) 1274 651318 Facsimile: +44 (0) 1274 651318 E-mail: sales@autosound .co.uk E-mail: sales@autosound .co.uk Web-site: www.autosound.co.uk Web-site: www.autosound.co.uk www.autosound.co.uk
Mounting Plate
Mounting Arm
For further information on any of our products Adhesive Pad please contact us on 01274 688990 or by e mail to lee.fergus@autosound.co.uk
4 Lister Street, Dudley Hill, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD4 9PQ United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1274 688990 Facsimile: +44 (0) 1274 651318 E-mail: sales@autosound .co.uk Web-site: www.autosound.co.uk
Mounting Plate
The offer attra avai phon supp And batte wait calls whe
GO 11/10 AN INDUSTRY UNITED www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
With the Champagne induced haze now lifting it’s a good time to reflect on the 2010 M.E.N Awards. For the ninth year in a row the great and the good from areas in car audio, navigation, handsfree, security and accessories gathered to celebrate the achievements of the last 12 months. Rightly, those who won awards can be proud of themselves, their products and their services, but the M.E.N Awards give so much more than that. Looking around the bustling ceremony there were faces that have been instrumental in shaping this industry to date, and faces that will continue to help dealers to move the industry forward into the future. The congenial atmosphere always sees old industry friends catching up with each other and meeting the new comers to the industry and that’s one of the real big bonuses of the event. There were moments of humour, of great respect and even of emotion as Adam Rayner oversaw proceedings. At one point there was even a strong sense of “family” that the visiting industry
luminaries created with a standing ovation. It’s at times like this when you realise that we’re in a unique industry where size of company, amount of turnover or number of staff becomes irrelevant and all that matters is the shared enthusiasm for the mobile electronics that we either manufacture, distribute, sell or write about and the respect felt for others who do a great job. Hopefully next year, the 10th annual M.E.N Awards will highlight this even further, but in the meantime you can find out all about the winners in the Awards supplement in this issue…plus see some familiar people looking smarter than you’re perhaps used to seeing them!
It’s not all about the Awards though as we’ve also taken a look at the latest Portable Navigation Devices on the market. The number of players in this field may have shrunk but those left and certainly pushing new boundaries, so make sure you’re up to speed on the services these devices are capable of offering. We’ve also looked at areas in which dealers can expand their offerings to consumers, hung out with JL Audio on their tour of the UK and found another target for our Industry Personality feature.
As you may have noticed, there are a bumper number of pages in this issue so we won’t keep you any longer, as there’s clearly a lot to get through. Like with every issue this one will aim to give you the information you need to succeed, but if there are areas you feel you’d like to see covered in the magazine, or even if you would like to nominate your shop for the Down at the Dealer feature, then don’t hesitate to get in contact with us.
ANDy MILLS
Editor Mobile Electronics News
IN CAR ENTERTAINMENT AND VEHICLE SECURITY BUSINESS Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire area seeks business partner or total sale as a result of senior directors pending retirement Successful 14 year trading history in excellent location, no adjacent competition. Main road retail shop with full on site workshop facility
All enquiries to
Lucy.Poet@creativemedialtd.co.uk
Award Winning Products Huge thanks to all our customers who voted for us DVD Headrest
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
NESA-NMP-709DV 7” TFT LCD Leatherette Headrest Built in DVD, AV input Dual channel IR transmitter 125 - 180 mm pole adjustability USB & SD Card Support FM Modulator Available in black, beige and grey
sed on lighter backgrounds
Best Head Rest PRoduct these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
Digital Headrest Screen
CW634
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
Number Plate Camera Dimensions: 200 x 28 x 30 mm LED Night Vision Lights: 4, vision to 3m Wide 180° viewing angle IP67 water rating 420 TV lines PAL Picture format CCD Lens Multi-angle for custom view
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
Best cameRa PRoduct
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
Parking Sensors
sed on darker backgrounds sed on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
RS-4-18-R-I S-706T 7” TFT Digital Headrest Monitor Dimensions: 172 x 114 x 20mm 2 AV inputs, PAL60 compatible Dual channel IR transmitter Pulse touch buttonResolution: 800x480 Slimline - Piano black finish
sed on darker backgrounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
Number Plate Camera
Best scReen
Intelligent parking sensors Sensitivity adjustment 4 x 18mm sensors Audible alert Scans each time powered on Identifies towbars Hole cutter included Optional display available Extra Extension leads available
Best PaRking sensoRs
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
For our full range of products & prices visit www.c-ko.co.uk
0208 863 8333
CKO International Limited, 14 The Hawthorn Centre, Elmgrove Road, Harrow, HA1 2RF
NEWS
M.E.N EXPO 2011
Following on from the huge the success of the M.E.N Awards, the focus is now switched to making the 2011 M.E.N Expo the most useful event for dealers to take place next year. The process is now well underway with companies such as Alpine, Celsus and Connects2 already making sure they’ve booked their stands. Companies like these continue to support the event, but there are also first-time exhibitors booking up such as Autosound, so dealers should have access to more new products and possibilities than ever before. Taking place at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena, the impressive venue offers the M.E.N Expo the chance to expand and be bigger than ever. With a reversion back to a trade-only format too this is great news for dealers as all exhibitors will be there solely to talk to you and to show you paths to increased profits in the future. Who couldn’t be interested in that? For more information you can view a presentation on the show that’s available on the M.E.N website, something dealers or companies interested in exhibiting can all access. If you have any enquiries you can also speak to Lucy Poet in the M.E.N office on the details below. Contact: Lucy Poet, 01268 754897 or mobileelectronicsnews.eu
HUSHMAT™ DISTRIBUTION AGREED Armour Auto are now the official exclusive distributor for the HushMat™ sound deadening product range in the UK, Ireland and Nordic regions. HushMat™ is a leading aftermarket sound and thermal insulation material available to the automotive enthusiast and is the fastest growing Sound Deadening company in the US market category. The addition of this fantastic range to the already high-quality and comprehensive Autoleads product portfolio, will only increase and enhance the choice and selection of custom installation products that Armour already offers. Tim McCarthy, President, HushMat™ said; “We, at HushMat™, are pleased to join forces with the market-leading distribution force of Armour Automotive. During our extensive research of the Western European market, Armour Automotive surfaced consistently as the leader in product, service and quality in the Automotive aftermarket. The market strength of Armour Automotive, combined with the superior product quality of HushMat™, presents a tremendous opportunity for both companies”. HushMat™ Ultra vibration damping material and HushMat™ Silencer Megabond (a thermal insulating and sound absorbing foam), is easily applied to the sheet metal or fiberglass surface surrounding the interior of a vehicle allowing users to enjoy a cool, quiet and comfortable ride. Contact: Armour Auto, 0800 7839125 or armourauto.com
INSTALL WITH XPRESSKITS XPRESSKIT have assembled a range of CAN Bus Interface and Support products to help make security and remote start system installations into nearly every vehicle easy. Saving hours on installation time, the range of CAN Bus Interfaces now allow security products to be installed into vehicles not before possible and opens up the integration of more advanced features. Unlike most CAN integration products on the market, the XPRESSKIT range of CAN products are fully integrated into the CAN architecture of the
vehicle. This means XPRESSKIT can not only read information of that system but can also use the CAN Interface to instruct the vehicle to perform tasks, such as vent windows, radio power, boot release etc. The highlights of the range are; the CANMAX400 which is a single, standalone module that interfaces with virtually every vehicle and DATABUS architecture on the planet, the DLPK which is an upgradeable CAN Bus door look interface kit that is compatible with over 700 vehicle models from 2000 that is self learning to
ensure a simple install, plus a range of CAN Bus key interfaces that trick an existing OEM immobiliser system into thinking that a transponder key is present in advanced CAN start vehicles, meaning remote start systems can be installed. Contact: Armour Auto, 0800 7839125 or armourauto.com
NEW FACE AT TRAKM8 Stewart Willes has recently joined Trakm8 as the Marketing Executive and will be the first point of contact for any enquiries regarding the company and vehicle telematics. Trakm8 is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of vehicle telematics systems, with three offerings; Trakm8 Swift Classic, Advanced and Premier, each package having been designed to utilise customer’s fleets to
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their full potential. Customers will be able to see savings on fuel bills, increased levels of customer services and reduced overtime bills. M.E.N wishes Stewart the best of luck in his new job as he and the team continue to promote the TrackM8 products. Contact: TrakM8, 01747 858444
THE AFTERMARKET TRADE SHOW FOR YOUR INDUSTRY
C O V E N T RY, C V 6 6 A Q With stands selling at a record rate, be sure not to miss the trade event of the year
01268 754 897 in order to book your stand, or email lucy@creativemedialtd.co.uk
by contacting Lucy Poet on
Find out more information at
W W W. M O B I L E E L E C T R O N I C S N E W S . E U
NEWS
THREE NEW PRODUCTS FROM AUTOLEADS
Autoleads have introduced the new “Satin Nickel” range of accessories, alongside the existing “Gold” range of power distribution, terminals and connectors. Autoleads claim the Satin Nickel range offers a brand new, up-todate look and feel in custom installation. The new range includes fused and non-fused distribution blocks, AGU and ANL fuse holders/fuses and battery terminals along with a comprehensive selection of connectors and cable terminals. Autoleads also have the new SOT-1000 series of accessory interface leads that allow hands-free music streaming kits to play high quality audio through the entire speaker system of a vehicle. Using the new high-quality Autoleads Amplifier Mute Interface, the AMI-030, the SOT-1000 series can also switch the low-level signal from the original audio system to an aftermarket hands-free music streaming kit. And finally, Autoleads can now supply super bright LED strip lights, each of which contains 36 LEDs, are trimmable and come in a choice of five colours. They’re waterproof too so can be installed virtually anywhere and the packs even come with a demonstration switch built in! Contact: Armour Auto, 0800 7839125 or armourauto.com
CELSUS SECURE CALIBER DISTRIBUTION
Celsus have now secured the exclusive distribution of Caliber for the UK and Ireland. Caliber Europe BV was founded in the early 90s when they started to design and technically develop their products in the Netherlands. Production takes place in certified factories, under permanent quality control by their own staff. Caliber started by servicing their domestic markets: Netherlands/Belgium/Luxemburg, but during 1992 their first export orders were shipped and along with their product offering distribution was also extended, now servicing 27 European countries. Caliber offer five lines of amplifiers, seven lines of coaxial speakers, four lines of component speakers, seven lines of woofers, tubes, fully-equipped subwoofer boxes and custom-fit subwoofer boxes, plus a complete line of accessories, including cables, signal cables, connectors, power kits, CD changer cables, battery clamps, fuses, fuse-holders, distribution blocks, ports, and grills. In May 2004 Caliber introduced its first two models of head units (Radio/CD and Radio/ CD-MP3) and they now offer 21 models ranging from entry level to high-end Bluetooth CD/DVD players. Caliber shares the same passion as Celsus for quality, service and flexibility and they too believe this is a major factor in their current success. Their highly motivated staff works daily to increase the product offering, quality and service level. Chris Bennett, Sales and Marketing Director for Celsus, said; “After having worked for many successful years in the past with Caliber, it’s fantastic to welcome the brand back under the Celsus banner. I am pleased to say that my experiences of Caliber in the past still remain true today, in that it delivers excellent reliability and performance from a value for money price point. Our customers have been consistently asking us to add such a brand to compliment our everexpanding portfolio of product offerings. At Celsus we are excited about the new opportunities ahead and are confident that Caliber will hit the spot in exceeding our customer’s expectations every time.” Contact: Celsus sales team, 01020 664390 or celsusice.co.uk
DAB UPDATE
MOTOROLA MOTO100 PRO-INSTALL CAR KIT EVENT
Motorola recently held a Pro-Install event at A Day in Oxfordshire to provide Chameleon dealers with an opportunity to learn about the proposition, installation and technical support services available on the pro-install car kit (TK30). By attending the event, the dealers were not only promised a day of fun-filled activities (4x4 Land Rover Driving, Segway Vehicles and Rage Buggies) but they were also offered the chance to become an authorised Motorola Dealer (accreditation program called the MOTO100). The programme is designed to help provide dealers with enormous sales opportunities and is dedicated to support dealers in offering customised marketing support (Google Pay per Click campaign, full dealership visibility on Motorola website - moto-nav.com). For more information on how to become an accredited dealer contact Chameleon on the details below. Contact: Chameleon, 01206 500803 or thechameleongroup.co.uk
Graham Baskerville gave M.E.N a few points he felt dealers should know about when it comes to DAB. Firstly was the DAB headset for new Nokia phones. The headset plays DAB and DAB+ radio, firing up automatically when plugged into the phone’s micro-USB port. It has a 3.5mm jack while volume, channel and call handling are built into an inline remote. The headset works with the Symbian 3 operating system like the N8, E7 and C7 and is due to be available by the end of the year with a price set to be around £40. His second point is on Halfords announcing a DAB adaptor at Manchester Radio Festival. It had to happen, a mass market DAB adapter, and Graham said “full marks to Halfords for bringing the product onto the market so swiftly”. With the digital switchover hanging in around 2015 there will be a lot of vehicles that just will not be able to “change” to DAB, thanks to set integration and dashboard display issues. So welcome to the Sonichi 1000 In-car Digital Radio Adapter. Like the Pure Highway it operates through a FM modulator. It features 36 DAB station presets and 4FM presets and is priced at £89.99 including installation.
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HELPING YOU STAY ON THE
RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW CRUISE CONTROL
In a motoring world filled with camera surveillance, tight speed limits and prominent police presence, you need VT CRUISE, the practical and convenient all-digital cruise control system that puts your mind at ease and lets you focus on more important things. VT CRUISE helps you to stay on the right side of the law and dramatically cuts down your everyday fuel consumption. In addition, you will experience a reduction in CO2 emissions, so as well as the obvious driving benefits it provides; VT CRUISE is environmentally friendly as well.
SPEED LIMITER
VT CRUISE SPEED LIMITER is an innovative way to permanently limit the vehicle’s maximum speed. It is available for vehicles below 3500kg. The Speed-Limiter prevents excessively high driving speeds, has no effect on the acceleration, offering safety in line with DUTY OF CARE legislation as well as protection of the environment.
The 100% Digital Solution VT CRUISE is a fully digital cruise control system developed and manufactured to take full advantage of the Drive-by-Wire/EGas technology. Developed in close collaboration with leading automotive brands, the VT Cruise kit and installation guide are designed specifically for each vehicle with all the necessary parts included for fast and effortless installation. Because the VT Cruise is pre-programmed for vehicle specific application, no further adjustment or additional fitting is required.
VT CRUISE can be equipped with vehicle manufacturer’s original control switch or a universal switch.
HELPING YOU STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW CALL: +44 (0) 208 867 2347 EMAIL: sales@vestatec.co.uk
NEWS
TOMTOM’S UNIQUE MANIFESTO Tom Tom recently published its Traffic Manifesto outlining how TomTom drivers hold the key to reducing traffic congestion for themselves and every driver around them. They point out that 10 percent of people driving with TomTom’s HD Traffic™ system will create a real-time “collective effect”, making roads flow more efficiently and reducing journey times for all. With congestion affecting millions of people every day and having serious effects on drivers’ health, businesses, society and the environment, TomTom claims to have an immediate and cost-effective solution to help tackle traffic congestion. “For many drivers, traffic congestion has become inevitable”, says Harold Goddijn, TomTom’s CEO. “We think it’s time to challenge conventional thinking with a working solution to reduce traffic congestion right now on a very large scale”. Today TomTom can reduce journey times for individual drivers by up to 15 percent and with TomTom drivers connected online, when a faster route becomes available, they are first to know. As a result, they believe journey times can reduce for all drivers by up to 5 percent when 10 percent of the world’s drivers use TomTom’s HD Traffic navigation system in a portable navigation device, smartphone or via an
SPACE AND SOUND
VIBE Audio has once again pushed the boundaries of audio innovation with the launch of the new VIBE Space amplifier range. The new piano black micro Space amplifiers are part of VIBE’s Supercar Series. Lightweight and compact for use in supercars, tuned and performance vehicles but engineered to still give maximum performance and exceptional sound quality. These state-of-the art micro amplifiers use Class GH technology, offering the sound quality of a Class AB amplifier and the efficiency of a Class D. With a signal to noise ratio up to 111dB, the music is the only thing heard, making them perfect for those seeking audiophile sound quality amplifiers. Available as a 2-channel, 4-channel or monoblock these amplifiers are microprocessor controlled, this single processor controls all of the protection circuits making it virtually impossible to damage the amplifier through incorrect installation. The extruded aluminium heat sink with internal convection cooling technology also means the amplifier will remain cool, however it is mounted. Space amplifiers are ideal for high-end SQ installs and are the perfect complement to the critically acclaimed Space 3D Speaker system and Space Subwoofers. Contact: Midbass, 0870 7658423 or midbass.co.uk
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in-dash solution. The Manifesto outlines four key action areas, designed to accelerate mass adoption of intelligent route guidance systems. TomTom will continue to work with individuals, businesses, organisations and governments to see the full scope of its plans become a reality. The four commitments outlined in their Manifesto are: 1. We will encourage and inspire people to play a role in reducing traffic congestion. 2. We will increase the availability of TomTom HD Traffic. 3. We will lead the continuous improvement of traffic and route guidance technology. 4. We will bring together key traffic stakeholders to share ideas and drive actions forward. It will certainly be interesting to see how this Manifesto will pan out, but clearly there’s a noble aim there, coupled to the obviously clever sales strategy for TomTom that this Manifesto will support. Contact: TomTom, tomtom.com
HEAD UNIT REPLACEMENT MADE EASY Connects2 head unit replacement kits are designed to provide the installer with a complete solution when installing an aftermarket head unit. Each kit includes a facia plate, head unit replacement interface and aerial adapter (if required). The kits are available for Vauxhall Astra (2010 onwards), Vauxhall Insignia (2009 onwards), Chevrolet Cruze (2009 onwards), Mitsubishi Outlander (2009 onwards) with Rockford amplified system, Mitsubishi ASX (2010 onwards) with Rockford amplified system, BMW 1 Series (E81, E82, E87 and E88) and BMW 3 Series (E90 andE91). The interfaces not only keep the steering controls functional, but also maintain a range of features that otherwise would be lost when the original head unit is removed. This includes display menu options, parking sensors, indicator beeps, warning tones and climate control. Also from Connects2 are a couple of new fascia plate kits; the CT23K124 for double DIN fit in 2010 onwards Kia Sportages and the CTHMT02KIT for double DIN fit and steering wheel control interface with the new Mitsubishi ASX. The second kit allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket head unit brands too. Contact: Connects2, 0121 5225589 and sales@connects2.com
KEEP BATTERIES IN GOOD HEALTH
Ring Automotive’s new range of SmartCharge+ battery charges have been designed to prolong the life of a battery, but also prevent unnecessary maintenance or breakdown costs. With their 7 stage charging cycle they provide a hassle free, comprehensive tool designed to diagnose, recondition and service vehicle batteries. The Ring Automotive SmartCharge+ range is easy and intuitive to use, simply plug into the mains and connect to the battery and the SmartCharge+ will do the rest. It will test a battery and establish what action is needed. Before charging, the SmartCharge+ range will automatically, if needed, go into a desulphation mode. If further charging is required the chargers will automatically go into a recondition stage to recover deeply discharged batteries. For motorists the SmartCharge+ reduces the cost of battery replacement and the claims for the battery warranty, while also allowing them to see an improvement in battery performance to deal with the constant drain from the ever-increasing onboard electronic equipment and in-car gadgets. With Winter now here, the cold temperatures can make motorists notice the state of their battery as more energy is needed to start a vehicle so these could be ideal to keep your customers on the road. The range consists on a 1A 6V and 6V/12V Maintenance Charger plus a 4A, 8A, 12A or 16A Charger, with suggested retail prices starting from just £29.99. Contact: Ring Automotive, 0113 2137338 or ringautomotive.co.uk
Cool, Quiet, Comfortable... Armour Auto - the New HushMat™ Distributor
Armour Automotive are pleased to announce that it has secured the exclusive distribution for HushMat™ Sound Deadening Product Range for the UK, Ireland and the Nordic Region as of November 1st, 2010. The full range of HushMat™ sound deadening products, sitting alongside the Autoleads range of installation materials, will offer the ultimate solutions in sound, vibration and thermal control. HushMat™ materials, introduced to the North American automobile manufacturers in 1989, has become a leader in sound absorption and vibration damping materials formulated to eliminate road, wind and engine noise, as well as structural and mobile electronic system vibrations. HushMat™ is the leading aftermarket sound and thermal insulation material available to the automotive enthusiast. HushMat™ is the fastest growing Sound Deadening company in the US market category and earned the #1 rated insulator designation in an independent aftermarket study. The addition of this market-leading range to the already high-quality and comprehensive Autoleads product portfolio will only increase and enhance the choice and selection of installation products that already on offer. Tim McCarthy - President of HushMat™ “We, at HushMat™, are pleased to join forces with the market leading distribution force of Armour Automotive. During our extensive research of the Western European market, Armour Automotive surfaced consistently as the leader in product, service and quality in the Automotive aftermarket. The market strength of Armour Automotive, combined with the superior product quality of HushMat™, presents a tremendous opportunity for both companies.”
The HushMat™ range includes u HushMat Ultra™ - Eliminates road noise and vibration - HushMat Ultra™ requires no pre-cleaning of the application surface - One-Step application with HushMat Ultra™ - simply Peel and Stick u HushMat Silencer Megabond™ - Provides Thermal Insulation - Proven to perform up to 300°F - Absorbs engine noise coming through firewall - Apply directly on top of HushMat Ultra™ for the Ultimate Sound Quality u HushMat Quiet Tape™ - Prevents nuisance rattles caused by loose wires and cables - Simply Peel and Stick, wrap the wire, or bridge over the top u HushMat H20 Sealant™ - Non-solvent, water-based, and self adhesive - Air drys in 3 hours & maintains flexibility when cured.
www.armourauto.com www.hushmat.com
rmour ™ and A t a M h s ts in Hu uiremen nal ut how q o e r d r n u fi o y To gio fy all of your Re s can satis ening contact ale S r ead act ou Sound D ntative or cont 839125 Represe ent on 0800 7 Departm
Armour Automotive Ltd. ® 2010 All Rights Reserved www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
11
NEWS
REALVNC POINT THE WAY TO THE FUTURE With growing demand to access mobile devices from vehicle head units and aftermarket infotainment systems, RealVNC has harnessed its VNC technology to create a solution that can automatically detect, access and control virtually any mobile device or desktop computer from the vehicle's touch-screen or fixed input devices, such as steering wheel switches and head unit buttons and menus. RealVNC maintains the VNC Server software running on the mobile devices for all operating systems and new mobile devices, removing the burden that exists for car manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers to continuously upgrade invehicle system software to keep pace within the fast moving mobile market. Interest in VNC Mobile Solution for Automotive has apparently accelerated since Telematics Detroit, which took place in June this year and the company has already signed several agreements with OEMs and equipment suppliers, including a partnership with Wipro to provide remote access to mobile phone applications for in-vehicle usage. RealVNC also recently announced support for Nokia’s Terminal Mode, which is based on VNC technology. The Terminal Mode specification is proposed by Nokia and CE4A (Consumer Electronics for Automotive) as an industry standard for integrating mobile technology in a vehicle environment and has already led to collaborations with Fiat, Continental, Alpine Electronics, Harman Becker, Valmet Automotive and Magneti Marelli. RealVNC also continues to provide cross-platform solutions with all leading mobile devices supported, including Windows Mobile, Symbian and Blackberry, as well as development versions of iPhone, Android, WebOS and Linux.. To learn more about VNC Mobile Solution for Automotive and watch a demonstration, visit the link below that explains very clearly the technology involved. It’s definitely worth a watch. Contact: RealVNC, http://www.realvnc.com/services/mobile.html
MRHANDSFREE BLUETOOTH KITS Busted?
We can fix it! Sometimes things go wrong, when they do, support is only a phone call away. All Clarion aftermarket and OEM units repaired or exchanged under our industry leading service and support plan, at a price that won’t have your customers ending up broke. Want to know more about our services? Call 01285 861861 for an information pack, or email mail@clarion-service.co.uk
InPhase International has recently announced their selection by mrHandsfree as the exclusive and sole distributor in the UK and Ireland for their revolutionary range of incar Bluetooth hands-free devices. mrHandsfree has an extensive range of technically advanced Bluetooth hands-free devices that range from the quick to install to the fully installed, offering features like multi-pairing, Made for iPod and iPhone, advanced noise and echo cancellation and the patented SIM card reader for phonebook copy, as well as much more. InPhase International will distribute the mrHandsfree range via its network of franchise dealers, specialists and chain stores giving the same unravelled service and back-up that InPhase customers are currently provided with. InPhase International’s Managing Director, Steve Digva, commented; “We are so pleased to be chosen to distribute the mrHandsfree product range, the range of product is excellent and will be a real challenge to the established brands, with great features and functions. The product line up and pricing will give the end user real value for money”. Contact: InPhase international, 0115 975 8600 or ipitrade.com
YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME A SHOP WHY ARE WE LOOKING FOR VIBE SHOPS?
VIBE is at the forefront of the car audio manufacturing industry, it continues to be our flagship brand representing innovative design and outstanding quality.
The VIBE audio range has an enormous consumer following. We are enjoying massive industry success and as a result of this we have a high volume of consumer enquiries on our VIBE website, at national events and directly to our HQ.
We have successfully developed a network of elite VIBE Superstores. These flagship stores work in partnership with the VIBE brand and display, demonstrate and carry in stock every VIBE product. To mark our success with the VIBE Superstores, we are looking to promote a select number of additional Independent Stores. These stores will become known as ‘VIBE Shops’ and will be proactively promoted by Midbass.
WHAT IS
A
A VIBE S hop is an Inde pendent Car Audio Specialis t that dem onstrates displays , and a minimu stocks (as m) all of th e BlackAir and Slick VIBE aud io products.
SHOP? BE VI
AT MIDBASS WE ARE PROUD OF OUR BRANDS
It is important to us that all consumer enquiries are handled with the very best care. It is with this in mind that we are looking to secure a select number of dedicated VIBE Shops; shops where we can direct consumer enquiries with the confidence and knowledge that they will receive the very best service and assistance; shops that not only stock all of the VIBE Audio’s Slick and BlackAir ranges but also display and demonstrate the products in-store.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING A VIBE SHOP? Qualifying dealers can expect to receive the following: • Dealer Stands Free of Charge – subject to purchasing of stock at reduced trade demonstration price. • Giveaway merchandise material to aid the sales of products within the VIBE range • VIBE Shops promoted in VIBE Marketing material in all consumer enquiry packs, VIBE brochures, VIBE website, VIBE National Advertisements and other branded literature • Access to Bi-monthly offers and promotions • Bespoke Seasonal Promotions available exclusively to your store with Marketing Support (posters / flyers / merchandise etc.) • Assistance with Marketing – PR Helpline and access to a bank of VIBE advertisements • Loan of Midbass demonstration car(s) and a member of staff for open days, events etc. VIBE Shops get even greater visibility on the heavily trafficked VIBEaudio.co.uk. Customers are actively directed to VIBE Shops for purchase, advice and installation. To learn more about these and the many other benefits of becoming a VIBE Shop please contact: Keith Belch, VIBE National Sales Manager keith.b@midbass.com or call the sales team on 0121 311 9090.
www.twitter.com/vibeaudio www.youtube.com/vibeaudio www.facebook.com/vibeaudio
www.vibeaudio.co.uk
shop
CONNECTS 2
Park and Light
Connects2 continue to support the trade in a massive way through various means such as their recent sponsorship of the M.E.N Awards. But what better way to support the trade than to look at their product offerings and expand on them in areas that they realise dealers can make a profit on. Thankfully Connects2 make a habit of this and their latest new ranges are no exception, opening up the worlds of vehicle lighting, parking sensors and rear view cameras to both existing and new dealers alike.
EVO FORMANCE LIGhTING
As reported in the news section of M.E.N last month Connects2 are now supplying lighting products from EVO Formance. These ranges cover everything from headlights to daytime running lights (DRLs) and interior LED lighting. On the headlight front there are a number of options available, which are; Alfa or Spectra bulbs or LED replacement bulbs. The first two in that list offer direct replacements to traditional halogen bulbs but with a twist. The Alfa range gives the customer maximum intensity and are reckoned to be “the best approximation to a full HID lighting system”, but without the complicated electrical installation that HIDs involve. Compared to halogen bulbs they project around twice the amount of light with a brilliant “Ultra-White” colour. The simple plug and play nature of these bulbs, the fact they won’t melt or damage the vehicle’s existing components, plus the performance and low price in comparison to HIDs makes these a great upgrade for your customers. For the more style-orientated though the Spectra bulbs may be more appropriate, using different combinations of gas, bulb finishes and specialised filaments to create a range of colours from that “Ultra-White” to Blue and even Red, Green and Purple tones. On top of the different hues EVO Formance claim that the Spectra bulbs offer
14
www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
Connects2’s latest offerings to the trade can add some great additional elements to your repertoire
brightness levels that will match or even exceed the vehicle’s factoryinstalled OEM halogen bulbs, which is reassuring. EVO also offer some LED solutions including LED headlight bulbs that use white and blue bulbs to give that “Xenon” colour. These come in 1156, 1157 and 3157 sizes, the 1156 size with a round base and single intensity circuit, the 1157 with round base and dual intensity circuit and the 3157 a wedge base and dual intensity circuit. There are also LEDs available to replace internal courtesy lights with an extreme flood of “Ultra-White” or Blue, plus LED eye-brows that can be stuck to the exterior of a vehicle as they are 100 percent waterproof and can work as DRLs. On top of all of these, EVO Formance can also help those after the finishing touch to their custom audio install with their LED Ultrabright range, effectively an alternative to neon tubes that are brighter, smaller, flexible and again, 100 percent waterproof. For traditionalists though they also can supply Neon Ultrabrights, using neon tubes but now with more resistance to water, a brightness claimed to be 10 times that of standard neons and new mounting brackets for total security of fit. Basically, with EVO Formance Connects2 now have a quality lighting solution to almost every automotive need.
|2010
POWERDRIVE PARKING SENSORS Dealers can now order three different parking sensor solutions from Powerdrive via Connects2; the Powerdrive 4, Powerdrive 4D and Powerdrive 8. All three kits offer the same 0.3-2m detecting distance with a 60 degree detecting angle but range from a basic 4 sensor kit to a more advanced 8 sensor kit. The Powerdrive 4 and Powerdrive 4D are the 4 sensor kits using the same sensing technology, however the former uses a buzzer to indicate proximity while the latter has a cockpit mounted display to do the job. A display is also used in the Powerdrive 8 kit but this solution comes with 8 sensors for those needing guidance at both the front and the rear. Colour-wise all the sensors are available in Black, Silver and White, although the entrylevel Powerdrive 4 kit is also available with a Matt Black finish.
If you can’t find a BEAT solution for your customers’ rear camera needs then you can’t be looking hard enough!
BEAT EVOLVE SERIES CAMERAS If you can’t find a BEAT solution for your customers’ rear camera needs then you can’t be looking hard enough! On top of the four universal fit cameras, BEAT also produces a number of vehicle specific items plus a 3.5in monitor and their PK-Wireless transmitter and receiver for wireless installation. The universal cameras come as either the CAM-1 1/4in CMOS camera, the CAM-2 1/2in CMOS infrared camera, the CAM-3 CMOS III camera or the CAM-4 mini CMOS III camera. All four cameras are built to withstand water and dust to varying industry standard levels and have compact sizes for discreet installation. The CMOS sensors also insure high noise immunity in low light and means they have low static power consumption. What may be even more interesting to installers are the range of vehicle specific rear view cameras that combine with a numberplate light, which obviously makes for a nice OEM-style finish. Models covered include; Audi A4/A6/Q7, Ford Mondeo, BMW 3 and 5 Series, Land Rover Freelander/Discovery, VW Bora/Golf MkIV/ Passat MkV and many more. There’s even the option of a numberplate holder with built-in camera, so effectively there’s a near factory-finish solution for virtually any car. Again, all the cameras use quality sensors and should ensure users never end up slapping their foreheads after reversing into something they shouldn’t have.
For more information on any of these new ranges or on Connects2’s existing ranges of connectivity and car audio products then don’t hesitate to get in contact. Details can be found below and you can be sure there’ll be more new products available soon as Connects2 continue to arm their dealers with the goods and service that can help them to prosper. Contact: Connects2, 0845 257 5588 and sales@connects2.com www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
15
T: 0116 2449846 E: sales@celtrade.com
Wholesaler of the year 2008, 2009 & 2010
CD HEAD UNITS 
KDC BT8044U
CDE-111R
RRP £169.99
£88.55
BLUETOOTH
∙ CD/MP3/USB Tuner ∙ Front USB ∙ Aux In ∙ iPod Compatible (with KCE-433iV) ∙ Preout
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £299.99
£114.24
AUX A UX
RRP £119.95
£52.99
∙ Built in Bluetooth handsfree and audio streaming ∙ iPod direct control via USB ∙ Rear Aux in AUX A UX ∙ Touch sensor operation IN IN ∙ Remote control included
AUX A UX
∙ Radio/CD/MP3/WMA ∙ Direct IPOD Control ∙ Rear USB 3.5mm Front Aux In ∙ Bluetooth
IN IN

IN IN
£147.20
KDR 311/312
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RRP £99.95
£39.99
KDC 3047
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CDX GT25
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£151.88
RRP £289.99
£110.11
AUX A UX

AUX A UX
∙ Radio CD/MP3 ∙ Bluetooth Built In ∙ Direct iPod/iPhone Control ∙ 2 Pre-out ∙ Front USB/Aux In

RRP £199.95
IN IN
RRP £209.99

CDE- 114BTi
CZ- 500E
AUX A UX

IN IN
FZ- 709E
∙ Radio/CD/MP3/WMA ∙ Front USB /Aux In ∙ Music Editor Software ∙ Preout
IN IN
HEADUNITS
∙ Radio/CD/MP3/WMA ∙ Direct Ipod control ∙ 3 Pre Outs ∙ Rear USB/Aux In ∙ Parrot Bluetooth ∙ 5 line full face Display
KDC- 414UA
AUX A UX

RRP £79.95
£39.99
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £109.95
£39.99
AUX A UX
IN IN
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RRP £199.95
£98.76
KD R811
DEH-1220MP
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MEX BT2800
MEX BT3800U
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £99.99
£48.30
∙ Direct iPod control ∙ Bluetooth ∙ Front USB/Aux In ∙ External Mic
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RRP £169.95
£79.99
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DSX S300BTX
AUX A UX


RRP £199.95
£99.51
∙ Ipod Control ∙ Bluetooth ∙ Ipod tray ∙ 2 x USB ∙ 2 x 4v Preouts
IIN N
 RRP £299.95
£154.99
working with you in 2010
SUPPLYING
74
AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS IN 2010
iPOD DIRECT
DOUBLE DIN
HEADUNITS
IDA- X305
IVA- W502R
∙ Direct iPod/iPhone Control ∙ USB ∙ Blue/Red Illumination ∙ Artwork Display for Ipod ∙ BlueTooth Ready ∙ 3 x Preout
RRP £379.99
£202.70
AUX A UX
IN IN
∙ Double Din 7" Motorised Pulse Touchscreen ∙ .VMUJSFHJPOBM %7% %*79 $% .1 $% ∙ Direct iPod control ∙ Bluetooth Ready (Needs BT400) ∙ Fibre Optic output
RRP £999.99
£534.00
∙ Direct Ipod/ Iphone Control ∙ 3" Screen ∙ Rear USB/3.5 Aux in ∙ Video playback ∙ 3 x 4v Preouts
IN IN
∙ Direct Ipod/ Iphone Control ∙ 3" Screen ∙ Bluetooth ∙ SD card control ∙ Front USB /3.5 Aux in ∙ Video playback ∙ 3 x 4v Preouts
RRP £349.95
£178.58
AUX A UX
IN IN
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £499.95
£264.91
VX- 709E CARD
AUX A UX
∙ 7" Touch Screen ∙ CD/MP3/WMA ∙ Direct iPod Control ∙ Rear USB ∙ 3.5 Front Aux In ∙ Built in Bluetooth ∙ AV Input
RRP £399.99
£200.52 DSX S100
IDA X311
∙ Mechless Unit ∙ Direct iPod Control & tray ∙ USB in tray ∙ Front Aux In
RRP £199.99
£108.10
AUX A UX
IN IN
DSX S200X
IN IN
IN IN
RRP £229.95
£114.99
∙ Direct iPod/iPhone Control ∙ 3" Screen ∙ SD card control ∙ Front USB/3.5mm Aux in
Dealer Net
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £899.95
£499.63
RRP £169.95
£79.50
XAV- 70BT ∙ Double Din 7" Touchscreen ∙ %7% %*79 $% .1 ∙ Direct iPod control ∙ Bluetooth built-in ∙ 2 x 4v Preouts ∙ AV Input ∙ Digital EQ7 ∙ Remote control
MVH-8200
AUX A UX
∙ Mechless Unit ∙ Direct iPod Control & tray ∙ USB in tray ∙ Front USB/Aux In
IN IN
∙ Double Din Touchscreen 5.8"Wide ∙ Slidetouch Control ∙ Bluetooth ∙ CD /DVD/MP3/ WMA/AAC ∙ Direct iPod/ iPhone control ∙ SD Card Playback ∙ 3 x 4V Preouts ∙ Front USB/Aux in ∙ 2 Video In / Video Out
MVH-8200BT
∙ Direct Ipod Control ∙ USB ∙ Bluetooth Ready ∙ 1 x Preout
AUX A UX
AVH-3200BT
KIV-700
AUX A UX
UNITS
RRP £349.95
£173.59
Live pricing and online ordering at www.celtrade.com Credit card payments will be subject to a 2% surcharge
AUX A UX
IN IN
RRP £799.95
Prices exclude VAT and delivery Errors and Omissions excepted
£390.32
5 & TBMFT!DFMUSBEF DPN
BLUETOOTH
TK 30
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RRP £279.99
£174.62
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RRP £129.99
£69.99 MKi9000
nüvi 1310
4.3”
4.3”
t 6, &6 NBQQJOH t 4QFFE $BNFSB BMFSUT t JODI UPVDITDSFFO
nüvi 245W
CK 3100
MK6000 6000
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£74.99
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RRP £179.99
N w
RRP £119.99
£79.99
nüvi 1340T
t 6, *3& NBQT t #MVFUPPUI t -BOF HVJEBODF
RRP £119.99
£79.99
nüvi 1390T
t JQPE 64# MJOF JO t "VEJP TUSFBNJOH DPOUSPMT t "EWBODF WPJDF SFDPHOUJPO
331 b
RRP £129.99
£48.99
CK3200
£79.99 MKi9200
331 b
£98.94
nüvi 1490T
331 b
£99.99
£74.99
331 b
£109.95
£131.91
t w EJHJUBM 57 t 6, &6 NBQT t +VODUJPO WJFX t -BOF HVJEBODF
5”
331 b
£174.62
nüvi 1695 LIVE t 6, &6 NBQQJOH t "EWBODFE -BOF "TTJTU t 1IPUP3FBM +VODUJPO WJFX t #MVFUPPUI t :FBS '3&& -*7& OV-JOL TFSWJDFT
331 b
£119.99
RRP £199.99
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RRP £199.99
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NOKIA CK-200
5”
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nüvi 1490TV
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4.3” t 6, &6 NBQT t #VJMU JO 5.$ t -BOF HVJEBODF
5”
RRP £299.99
£197.87 8&45&3/ &6301& 0/-:
Continuing to bring you the best products of 2010
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DOUBLE DIN
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with navigation
£128.82
TOMTOM
RRP £999.99
£747.50
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START UK
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RRP £179.99
IN IN
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£69.99
RRP £119.99
£76.44
3.5”
G0 550 LIVE
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331 b
TOMTOM
£117.94
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6.1”
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4.3”
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RRP £299.99
t -BSHF w UPVDI TDSFFO ∙∙ 5PN5PN /BWJHBUJPO 5PN5PN /BWJHBUJPO t )% USBóD t 5PN5PN -*7& TFSWJDFT t 'VMM 6, &6 NBQQJOH t 4BGFUZ "MFSUT t *2 3PVUFT t #MVFUPPUI
7”
IN IN AUX A UX
IN IN
TOMTOM
t -BSHF w UPVDI TDSFFO ∙ 5PN5PN /BWJHBUJPO 5PN5PN /BWJHBUJPO t )% USBóD t 5PN5PN -*7& TFSWJDFT t 'VMM 6, &6 NBQQJOH t 4BGFUZ "MFSUT t *2 3PVUFT t #MVFUPPUI
£198.75 331 b £760.50 UK £177.45 RRP £279.99
EU
4.3” Dealer Net
TOMTOM
RRP £999.99
£614.25
XNV-L77BT
331 b
AUX A UX
6.1”
W NE
£565.00
XNV-L66BT
GO LIVE 1000 :&"3
331 b
£199.99
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M.E.N AWARDS
Dinner jackets on, hopes high and Sopwell House function room entered. As the lights dimmed Adam Rayner took to the stage to announce the winners of the 9th annual M.E.N Awards. Holding the attention of the audience as only Adam’s passionate ramblings could, he let the world know just what the UK’s mobile electronics dealers thought of the industry through 2009/2010. There were some big success stories on the night with a number of companies clutching at armfuls of the glass trophies by the end of it. The notable awards on the night are often for the personalities of the industry though, with the audio side being well represented by Celsus’ Chris Bennett receiving the “Services to the Industry” award and Midbass’ Carl Venables picking up the “Lifetime Achievement” gong. Both thoroughly deserved, but perhaps the biggest round of applause went to Adam Rayner at the end. He showed his true passion for the industry by appearing just days after the passing of his mother and delivering a belter of a show up on stage. It was a genuinely moving moment as the industry he’s dedicated his life to showed their support back with a standing ovation. And this is one of the great things about the M.E.N Awards. Not only does it help suppliers and manufacturers to find out how they’re doing in the eyes of dealers, it also brings all sectors of the market together for one night of the year. Rather than letting their
competition in the market flow over into the evening, there’s a general air of togetherness, of an industry coming together for the greater good and recognising their good work and that of their dealers. This year was certainly no exception and as the winners proudly find places on their mantle pieces for their awards, M.E.N is already looking forward to the 10th annual Awards in 2011 to make sure they’re the biggest and best ever. For now though, here are all the winners of the 2010 M.E.N Awards, as voted for by you.
|2010
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M.E.N AWARDS 2010
SERVICES TO ThE INDuSTRy
CARL VENABLES
ChRIS BENNETT Chris Bennett is one of the most well-known faces in the car audio business with dealers and suppliers alike virtually all familiar with him. After years at BBG Distribution and now the Sales and Marketing Director for Celsus he’s continued to drive the car audio business forward. One of the things that most people will talk about when his name is mentioned is his remarkable enthusiasm. Aside from his well-proven sales techniques and training, it’s this enthusiam that has really set Chris apart. If ever you were feeling depressed about the car audio market, a ten minute phone call (that will likely end up being closer to an hour) with Chris will have you back firing on all cylinders and rev’d up to go out there and sell audio with the enjoyment factor very much at the forefront of your mind. There’s an undeniable talent for car audio and for sales, training and marketing all of which Celsus now benefit from, but it’s fair to say that the whole of the car audio industry has benefited from his positive attitude over the years. Sometimes these kind of awards can tend to be handed out to those towards the end of their careers, but Chris is very much in the prime of his and those who know him will know his love of the industry will keep him these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds with us for years to come. And obviously we’re all the richer for it!
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BEST MANuFACTuRER
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LIFETIME AChIEVEMENT AWARD Carl is the man behind Midbass Distribution so it’s quite fitting that he should receive the “Lifetime Achievement” award considering how much the company has grown from it’s humble beginnings. Today Midbass’ products are a mainstay of the car audio market, providing plenty of hard-hitting bass to fans of car audio. Many of you won’t have met Carl or even know what he looks like which is how he wants it, partly through shyness and partly as he wants the products to be the focus. Away on business for the evening, his lovely wife Kate collected the award...it was even joked that his incredible shyness had made him book a trip to Hong Kong specially to avoid the limelight. It’s a shame as his passion for, and dedication to consistently delivering the products that take Midbass’ brands from strength to strength is second to none and he deserved to hear the applause. His famous words spoken years ago were; “Bass is life, in all music without it you only hear half the song”. It’s the basis of his achievements and of this “Lifetime Achievement” award, and you can be darn sure it will continue to inspire Carl and his team at Midbass to keep the bass pounding for years to come yet.
BEST WhOLESALER OF ThE yEAR
KENWOOD
CEL TRADE
Kenwood have scooped this prestigious award again fighting off stiff competition in what’s one of the most competitive categories. With a number of new launches in 2010 and a continued impact from their dealer scheme started last year, clearly dealers are still feeling the love for the Kenwood brand.
Just like in 2009, Car Electronics once again
ALPINE With a host of product awards it’s no surprise to see Alpine competing for this one. How many quality installs do you see using an Alpine source? And now, you see them using their amps, sat nav modules and more, meaning dealers have been spoilt for choice by Alpine,and this is clearly their reward.
scooped the coveted “Best Wholesaler of the Year” award. The company has been around for what seems like forever, but they continue to strive to maintain their position as the “go to guys” for mobile electronics dealers. Covering the whole range of products that dealers need and with high stock and the ability to get product out by the next day CEL Trade epitomise what it is to be a car electronics wholesaler. The added beauty from a dealer’s point of view about CEL Trade is that their roots are firmly inbedded in retail and indeed it’s something they still specialise in with their three stores. This has meant that over the years the wholesale aspect that is CEL Trade has used that experience to tailor their service to the level it is at now. Dealers certainly benefit from this and appreciate it, so it’s a fitting tribute to Tony Green and his team that they’ve once again been voted the “Best Wholesaler of the Year”. Can they repeat the feat in 2011? Well, if they continue in the way they have
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CLARION
since evolving into wholesale then you’d be a brave man or woman
Just like Kenwood and Alpine above, Clarion also had a haul of accolades at the M.E.N Awards. They’ve been hugely proactive again this year and have continued to launch new products, which is exactly what the dealers and readers of M.E.N responded to.
to bet against them.
M.E.N AWARDS
BEST PRODuCT INNOVATION - A AuDIO VIBE BLACKDEAT BLACKDEATh 15 CARBON SuBWOOFER S Naturally this award seems like a tough one for dealers to vote for, with new innovations in the audio world hitting them every year. So what was it that made them plump for the VIBE BlackDeath 15 Carbon subwoofer in 2010? Perhaps it’s the carbon cone with its lower mass and higher sensitivity whch makes it ideal for SPL competition. Or maybe it’s the double stacked ferrite magnet that offers immense motor strength and power handling. The magnet alone weighs an incredible 8.2kg and provides the massive magentic field required to propel the woofer cone to such incredible SPL levels. So it would seem that at the heart of the matter there’s no getting away from the fact that dealers are not only impressed, but possibly even addicted to the thud of some dangerously monster deep bass. If that’s the case then it’s no wonder they voted for the VIBE BlackDeath BD15C. While some may question their rationale for best “innovation” there’s no denying that the 7500W power handling is pushing the booming bass experience onwards and for that fact alone this award seems wholly justified. And hopefully it will spur VIBE on to keep giving dealers and their customers the ear-melting boom that they so clearly crave!
BEST PRODuCT INNOVATION - hANDS-FREE MOTOROLA TK30 Motorola’s TK30 has offered installers a great new product to win over customers so it’s no surprise that their innovation was rewarded. The TK30 is a music and hands-free car kit that allows installers to integrate their customers’ car stereo systems with music sources such as iPod, iPhone and USB or 3.5 devices. It also wirelessly streams music from compatible A2DP handsets. Some of the key selling points that dealers have found useful are features like the ability to link two phones to the TK30 at one (ideal for business phone users who want to access their personal phone on the move too), the cutting edge noise cancellation technology and plus the ease of use for customers like the automatic phonebook download, voice prompts that guide them through the key features and the OLED display for clear guidance and information. The unit even makes audio and on-screen reminders to ensure they don’t enter or exit the vehicle without their phone or personal music device. All extremely clever stuff from Motorola and a real return to form for the company when it comes to hands-free kits. Voted as “Best HandsFree Kit” too, this innovative device is likely to be a contender at the top for some time yet.
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BEST PRODuCT INNOVATION MOBILE ELECTRONICS DENSION GATEWA GATEWAy FIVE With connectivity the key word for many installers nowadays it’s no wonder that a product in that field scooped this award. And what better winner than the Dension Gateway Five. This bit of kit is available for numerous VW, Peugeot, Citroen, Audi and BMW models with more being catered for all the time. It’s designed to integrate iPod, USB music devices and telephones into the existing controls of the car, with maximum functionality and minimum fuss. There are no extra boxes to stick on the dashboard or unsightly cbles trailing around the vehicle. This means the customer’s car interior remains looking exactly the way it did the day they bought it which has clearly won appreciation from dealers. The Gateway Five also utilises the car’s existing display screens to add to that seamless integration, showing things like track lists or phonebook information...and it will even charge an iPhone or iPod while the car is driving. What more could installers and their customers want then than something that makes todays essentials so easy and so stylishly connect a vehicle.? A big well done to Dension for this innovation.
BEST NEWCOMER ARMAGEDDON Launched towards the tailend of 2009, the Armageddon range from Pro Plus has aimed to do something a bit different from the off. Realising that a proliferation of low cost and often low quality car audio has infiltrated the market, Pro Plus saw an opportunity to help dealers hit back. The solution was Armageddon, a range of speakers, amplified and non-amplified shallow bass boxes and powerful amps with complete high quality wiring kits. But it wasn’t just the low price points, but the quality of the product that helped to win fans for the Armageddon range from the very beginning. Our own Adam Rayner had an early look at the line-up and even he was impressed by the build quality according to Pro Plus. But the good news didn’t end there for dealers. Not only has Armageddon given dealers an attractive alternative to give to their customers, but remarkably there is still decent profit to be made by dealers. So, good pricing, good quality and the chance to make some money from them, it’s not a surprise that dealers felt that Pro Plus were onto a winner with Armageddon and voted them as the “Best Newcomer”. It’s testament to Pro Plus too that in a tough economic climate they still had the balls to launch something new, so a well deserved award.
ARMAGEDDON
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universal Bluetooth speakerphone
Goes here, goes there, goes almost anywhere
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BEST DISTRIBuTOR
Fix it to your dashboard; clip it to your sun visor. Tack it to your monitor; stick it on your desk: we believe wireless means the freedom to put technology wherever you like, and that’s these logos can be used on darker backgrounds why, whether you want it out of the way or on display; you can mount TheTalkyOne universal speakerphone almost anywhere.  Â
When you’re driving, safety comes first: you need
your hands at the wheel and your eyes on the BEST hANDS-FREE road. There’s no time to check your mobile to see who’s calling, so TheTalkyOne tells you, out DISTRIBuTOR loud, in your language. There’s no time to fiddle
CELSuS Having scooped a number of awards for these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds their products and even for “Best Dealer Incentive� (see below), Celsus crowned the night with the coveted “Best Distributor� gong. This is surely as much to do with their products and delivery as it is to do with their endless desire to ensure their dealers are armed to succeed. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
with a complicated keypad, so TheTalkyOne does
everything with just one big button. Hit it, and ChAMELEON you’re talking. Rock it, and the volume changes. It’s that and simple. The largest suppliers installers of hands-free kits in the UK, Chameleon are the first port of call for many hands-free installers. They won this award last year too which means Chameleon are doing something right• and are 2.1, very much the1.2 Bluetooth HFP 1.5, A2DP company to beat if others tophones takesimultaneously) • Multipoint (Pairwant with two • Caller name recognition (Text-to-Speech) the crown in 2011.
Key Features
• SIG Simple Pairing
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FOuR
CEL TRADE•
There’s no denying the passion for car these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds audio that FOUR show, reflected in their continual striving to increse consumer knowledge with their Car Clinics. But they look after FOUR Masters too, giving them enviable service as well as a very personal touch. With FOUR behind them dealers really do feel the benefits. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
“Best Wholesalerâ€?, a Bronze in “Best • Noise reduction and echo cancellation with best in Distributorâ€? and now class this DSP Silver clearly prove that dealers feel CEL Trade’suser self installable • Universal car installation, all-round proposition is worthy of praise. • 180 hours of stand-by and up to 15 hours of talk tim Faced with tough compeition in this particular category, this award shows the company’s continual evolution and RRP ÂŁ129.95 desire to not rest on their laurels. Apple Online Stor
CEL TRADE
DALTEC
There’s not much that CEL Trade don’t supply as they aim (and seemingly succeed) in being a “12V trade hypermarket�. With massive stock levels and dedicated customer support, plus the knowledge of what being in retail involves it will only be a matter of time until they scoop the Gold award here.
Distributors of the major brands of handsfree and pushing the new Novero brand now, Daltec again feature in the top 6$/(6 +27/,1( three hands-free distributors. With orders HPDLO VDOHV#GDO WHF FRP processed right up untilRoad 6pm too, they Unit 5 Palmerston Centre . Oxford Wealdstone . Harrow . Middlesex . HA3 could well win more favour with dealers next year with a focus on helping them to make profit from phone kit installs.
SALES REP OF ThE yEAR ATSuhIRO TAKEDA (ALPINE) A Gold award for represents Atsuhiro’s fine work at Alpine, where his product and technical know-how is used to superb affect with dealers. Adam Rayner even met his dad at a car audio shop years ago, so it must be in the blood.
MIKE KEENAN (CELSuS) Mike was at Celsus before the more recent merger of companies, but he’s adapted to the new products perfectly and continues to hit the road with endless dedication and a huge rraft of knowledge as Celsus move ever onwards. And now he’ll be arriving in a sweet JL Audio installed Scirrocco too!
Auto off feature
• Micro USB charging and Software update via USB
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BEST DEALER INCENTIVE CS.I MIAMI (CELS (CELSuS) There was only ever going to be one winner for this award and it rightly went to Celsus for their C.S.I Miami dealer incentive. This even made it to the cover of M.E.N and helped to stir up massive enthusiasm from their dealers in the run-up to the event. Those who had met targets were jetted off to Florida to visit the likes of JL Audio and AAMP of America, then taking in Clearwater Bay and the infamous South Beach. The response from dealers on their return was wholly positive once their hungovers had subsided. In fact, while the trip was the reward for dealers after a period of time when the incentive ran, the real reward may have come when they returned to their shops. Having spent a week in a different environment, learning about the companies whose products they supply and having fun with car audio again, many dealers returned to work with a fresh outlook and a desire to push audio and make it fun for their customers. It’s this aspect that really helped C.S.I Miami standout, as it clearly offered wins for dealers, Celsus and ultimately for car audio.
RICh hILL (CONNECTS2) A Connects2 stalwart, Rich has been spreading the good word of the company for the past nine years. Covering the whole of the UK he works tirelessly with over 100 dealers, both big and small, to make sure they’re up-tospeed and stocked with Connects2’s finest products.
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M.E.N AWARDS 2010
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BEST FIXED SAT NAV ZENEC ZE-NC2010 This vehicle-specific unit is designed for the Golf IV and V platforms and the newest SEAT vehicles. The E>GO naviceiver can be installed in record time because of this, communicating seamlessly with the vehicle CAN system. With great functions too, there’s no wonder it was the installlers’ favourite.
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PIONEER AVIC-F9210BT High-end navigation for VW, SEAT or Skoda drivers with a unique 3D touch interface. Covering 44 countries, coming with a TMC and multiple sensors to ensure accurate positioning even in poor GPS signal reception it’s a class act. Naturally the audio and Parrot Bluetooth module don’t hurt its popularity either!
BEST PORTABLE NAV BELOW £250 TOMTOM XL LIVE Eu The new user interface of the TomTom XL LIVE IQ Routes Europe means that it’s even simpler to access the most accurate and up-to-date travel information as well as find the fastest route at any time of the day. The XL LIVE is packed with features, including maps of Europe with 42 countries covered. But it’s affordability, superb navigation and LIVE services have made it a hit with the users in the UK who have taken the compact unit to their hearts. There’s also the safety element with the easy-to-read screen, hands-free operation, emergency information and warnings of danger ahead that have added an important element. For those after a lower cost PND then the TomTom XL Live EU has hit the nail on the head and offers the features (including a year’s free subscription to the Live services) that have made it a superb unit for dealers to offer to their customers.
KENWOOD DNX9260 Kenwood’s top spec navigation and multimedia unit offers Garmin’s leading navigation system with 2D and 3D views plus a host of additional info. Viewing it on the WGVA high resolution screen makes it a pleasure to look at too, something many dealers agreed with. Good work Kenwood.
BEST PORTABLE NAV ABOVE £250 GARMIN NuVI 3760T Certainly the slimmest and possibly the sexiest portable navigation device about (if you can take descriptions of product that far), the Garmin Nuvi 3760T is a real treat. With an iPod-esque touch screen and a level of clarity that you can’t help staring at it’s a real class act. The Nuvi 3700 series were the first portable navigation devices to adopt capacitive multi-touch displays too, which meant they had a really similar feel to the iPods/iPhones that most consumers are familiar with nowadays. Internally, the Nuvi 3760T boasts nuRoutes, myTrends and trafficTrends, all of which are Garmin’s useful tools to get users where they need to get to with minimal fuss. There are also some great things to look at, like the 3D terrain, 3D buildings and landmarks and the PhotoReal junction view (see image below), that gives a good-looking additional hand to make sure drivers don’t miss their turn. The Nuvi 3760T has a big sister, the 3790T, which adds smart voiceactivated navigation, but it’s the 3760T that dealers voted for as the best way for their customers to spend over £250 on portable navigation. To see and use one is to want one, so it’s not hard to understand why they think like that!
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BEST MAPPING TELEATLAS Mapping. It’s the basis upon which all success with any navigation device is based. If the mapping is sketchy then all the add-ons like connected services, traffic information and Points of Interest don’t really mean a hell of a lot. Much like making a sandwich with stale bread, it doesn’t matter if you use the finest bacon, crispest lettuce and juiciest tomatos...if the bread’s stale then you have a rubbish BLT. A lot of effort and time is put into getting the mapping spot on and Adam Rayner spoke on his time out with the guys from TeleAtlas’ GPS surveyors. They have to make a lot of value judgements on where a road ends and a driveway system begins (particularly in new housing estates), or which road joins which when the road markings have been worn off. The skill involved here, plus the additional aspect of keeping up-to-date with the 10,000 sets of road works each year in the UK, means they have their work cut out. Their efforts are clearly appreciated though as dealers voted their mapping quality as the best of the year once again, their direct experience with devices employing the TeleAtlas information surely helping them to put the cross in the TeleAtlas box. More mapping companies have appeared since the original two of TeleAtlas and Navteq, so it’s great to see the originals can still lead the way.
FLyING ThE FLAG BEST uK BuSINESS
M.E.N AWARDS
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BEST ONLINE RETAILER
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CAR AuDIO DIRECT
ALPINE IVA-D106R
When your business survives purely in internet land then these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds you need to be darn good at it. Clearly, with another award win in this category CAD are, doing all the right things and showing many in this industry (and indeed others) just the way to operate an online business.
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BEST AV hEAD uNIT (SINGLE DIN) Utilising a 7in touchscreen interface and Pulsetouch technology, the IVA-D10R has simplicity of use at its core. But on top of that it also satisfies most audio needs and can connect to iPod with Full Speed operation and QuickSearch control. Basically, it’s everything dealers feel customers want from a AV single DIN.
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JVC KD-AVX77 If looks could kill the KD-AVX77 would these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds have been arrested for murder by now. With a wide 5.4in high-resolution screen and the capability of displaying aspect ratios up to 3:32:1 it’s very easy on the eyes. Users can even split the view! With a unique full touchscreen this JVC unit’s ability to grab lustful looks is clear. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
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CAR A AuDIO CENTRE With over 3000 product lines available and six bricks and mortar stores across the UK, Car Audio Centre balance the manufacture of their own InPhase products with running an extremely successful online operation too. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
CLARION VZ509E CAR A AuDIO SECuRITy Car Audio & Security do just about everything from attending shows, running a showroom, stocking a huge array of brands and even distributing. So to annually scope gongs for their online business these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds is testament to just how switched on to business these guys are.
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130MM COMPONENT SPEAKERS uP TO £150
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Offering a 7in motorised screen, the VZ509E allows quick access to its multi-functions through a touch of the on-screen menu. It gets bonus points too by being upgradeable for sat nav with the CeNET interface that can link to the NP509E flash memory navigation system. A definite plus point for dealers!
130MM COMPONENT SPEAKERS OVER £150
VIBE BLACKAIR 5
JL AuDIO EVO C2-525
VIBE points out that these speakers these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds are engineered to give the best match between woofer and tweeter. There are also multitude of mounting options for the tweeter, which adds a versatility that installers and their customers can benefit from. Oh, and they sound good too which is what helped themthesescoop Gold. logos can be used on darker backgrounds
If speaker design and engineering is an art form then these speakers could be called a masterpiece. JL Audio have put a lot of research into these in order to deliver a highly compelling performance solution at a price still within the reach of any enthusiast seeking a great listening experience.
MTX RTS 502
CDT AuDIO CL-52
For great sound quality at low prices these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds dealers voted the RTS 502 component speakers as one of their favourites. Teamed up with MTX RT amps and subs these little crackers can add up to an awesome musical experience for audio fans whose wallets maybe can’t stretch as far as they hope. these logos can be may used on darker backgrounds
They may have been around for a these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds while and they may not be a product that you’ll see flying off shelves, but dealers still love them. Built by fanatics, for fanatics the neutral, natural and clear sound they produce still strikes a chord with audiophiles around the world, so it’s great they’re recognised here. thesestill logos can be used on darker backgrounds
JL AuDIO EVO TR525-CXI
VIBE SPACE 5 3D
Long-excursion woofer designs allow these speakers to handle real-world power without compromising lowfrequency output and midbass capability. With woven textile dome tweeters these can give the punch and the detail that is the hallmark of a great piece of car audio kit.
From not so humble beginnings, these speakers were originally designed to compliment the stunning Audi R8. Fortunately we’ve all been able to benefit from their design ever since, with great features like the 3D mounting option where tweeter can be placed above the midrange for a 2-way set-up.
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165MM COMPONENT SPEAKERS uP TO £150
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ALPINE SPG-17CS
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165MM COMPONENT SPEAKERS OVER £150 PIONEER ODR TS-TORSII & TS-S01RSII
Built with high power-handling in mind these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds the SPG-17CS speakers deliver great sound quality due to soft dome tweeters, square voice coil wires with Kapton bobbins and audio tuned capacitors. Alpine speaker designers even went so far as to specify the stuff inside the passive’s capacitors! these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
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|2010
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Dealers will be familiar with these even if they may not sell many of them. The tweeters and midranges both have hefty price tags but audiophiles will agree it’s a price worth paying when they hear Pioneer’s finest in full flow.
VIBE BLACKAIR 6
JL AuDIO EVO C5-650
Another award for VIBE’s BlackAir range these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds of speakers, with the VIBE BlackAir 5 scooping Gold in the 135mm category. This time it’s the turn of the bigger brother, but it’s likely to be the same attributes that had dealers voting for these speakers...and let’s face it, who could really blame them! these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
The design and engineering of these speakers is spectacular, not only for the sound they produce but for the tweaking that enthusiasts can get down to with them. And all wrapped up in a relatively idiot-proof package with the poly switch protection switch. Another great JL product for SQ fans.
CLARION SRP1721S
VIBE SPACE 6 3D
Boasting 170mm titanium composite cone woofers with rubber surrounds, two-way mounting tweeters and high grade two-way crossover networks with level attenuator, They even come with a custom tweeter bracket to help mount in Renaults, Peugeots and Citroens, so more good news for dealers.
VIBE believe they have “reached the pinnacle of in-car audiophile sound” with these speakers. Unfortunately they also suggest it’s “the last speaker you’ll ever need to purchase”, which may be the only reason car audio retailers didn’t vote it into the Gold place position!
BEST DOuBLE DIN (WIThOuT NAVIGATION)
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BEST DOuBLE DIN (WITh NAVIGATION)
ALPINE IVA-W502R
ALPINE INE-S900R
Alpine took this award last year with these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds their IXA-W404R and have done it again this year with the IVA-W502R. It’s a true entertainment hub all easily accessible through the 7in WVGA touch-screen monitor. With virtually every audio and visual format supported, plus optional Bluetooth, it’s a born winner. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
Another Alpine win, and a popular one too. With this ONE LOOK NAVI innovation users can pick from various scren views and even swap what’s in the main screen and in the side screens. Naturally all other areas are taken care of in typical Alpine quality, so dealers know this new unit could satisfy any customer.
PIONEER AVh-3200BT
KENWOOD DNX-7260
An anti-glare touch-screen, these logos can be used5.8in on lighter backgrounds dual zone function, integrated Parrot Bluetooth kit and great audio and visual capabilities...the AVH-3200BT may consider itself unlucky to miss out on the top spot. Fortunately the consumers can still win by buying it, which ultimately is logos can be used on darker backgrounds whatthesematters.
Parrot Bluetooth, Garmin full European navigation with Lane Assist and Junction View plus a plethora of audio and visual functions available through the stylish touch-screen, it’s the kind of source unit that wouldn’t fail to impress even the most sceptical technophobe.
CLARION VX709E
CLARION NX700E
A great looking unit that uses the 7in monitor to access a host of functions with a simple touch. It’s Bluetooth compatible as standard and usefully offers the potential to connect sat nav at a later date thanks to Clarion’s CeNET interface. Great stuff!
No speed pulse connection is needed to get this Clarion unit on the move, so you can see at least one reason for it winning dealers’ votes. But with built-in Bluetooth, a rear USB and a 4GB flash memory as just some of it’s highlights, there are plenty more reasons too.
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es Loud 118dB six tone siren tes from vehicles original remote control keys es dualM.E.N stage shock sensor 2010 with warn away AWARDS d sensor port for single or dual zone sensors Arm/Disarm Option Closure Facility e immobiliser BEST VEhICLE ve Arming arms alarm automatically ng Hazard Lights on arm/disarm/activation INTERFACE orary sensor bypass mode to disable alarm functionsCONNECTS2 INSIGNIA They said it couldn’t be done, which e-arm prevents accidental disarming basically meant that Connects2 got the ntensity blue Smart dashboard status LED bit between the teeth and proved them ondition memory all wrong. Their Insignia interface opens a whole new world to installers and ive Zone Bypass prevents falseupalarms e emergency override facility Insignia drivers, some of whom will have seen the result in action on Connects2’s boot/bonnet protection stand at this year’s M.E.N EXPO. these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
Citroen START ALARM Fiat Alarm system with built in Ford remote engine starter and Honda turbo timer. With universal Iveco central locking, total closure and dual stage shock sensor. Infiniti BEST SECuRITy Jeep – TRACKING PRODuCT Kia Lamborghini FALCON PREDATOR Mazda EVO4+ 2 WAY ALARM Mercedes WITH REMOTE STAR SMARTRACK TRIDENT Mini The British designed and manufactured tracking system knows no limits, High end alarm with not only winning this award but bagging two others at the 2010 M.E.N Mitsubishi 2 way LCD pager, Awards. For more information on why this may be, seeremote the section for Opel “Best Security Product ofengine the Year”. starting and turbo Peugeot timer. Includes dual stage shock sensor. Porsche Saab Seat COBRATRAK 5 Skoda The Thatcham Category 5 listed product offers PREDATOR plenty of peace of mind, FALCON with two Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) cards, so a vehicle Subaru coming can be tracked even ifGSM it’s stolen using ALARM the keys. With Cobra’s Europe Suzuki wide stolen vehicle recovery system, thieves don’t stand a chance. Alarm system with GSM Toyota communications and Vauxhall tracking via the mobile phone network. Control, VW track and listen in to the Volvo TRAFFICMASTER TRACKSTAR car from any phone. In just one 6-month period, Trackstar GPS tracking systems helped
ounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
ounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
ts for the installer:
Arm & Disarm CELSuS AV I INTERFACE With Factory Remote
tible with all major CAN-bus cars Designed to allow control and/or display of AV products (TV tuner, tible with 1 & 2 wire CAN-bus systems games console, rear camera etc) r configurable without need for PC through the original source, Celsus re is upgradeable to support new models even offer their AV interfaces in a host nd quick to install of plug and play vehicle-specific kits, making them a totally installer-friendly liability solution. he OEM keyless entry controls mmable features gives DENSION GATEWAy 500 unity to sell additional The Gateway 500 uses fibre optic s for extra profit at no connections that work with cars that use the Media Orientated System Transport ost to the installer digital system to carry entertainment info st priced CAN-bus alarm around a car. And it works seamlessly, market = massive profit these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
bringing iPod or USB, video control and phone integration (with BTA 1500 module) to the masses.
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
£45
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
£65
£139
Trafficmaster recover £1,082,062 worth of BMWs alone. It’s approved by these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds the Police and insurance companies and it can be upgraded to offer speed camera warnings too, keeping everyone happy!
SNIPER X1 ER EASY FIT ALARM SYSTEM RM SYSTEM BEST SECuRITy
m system with es. six tone siren, ing LED, shock wo remote nd low ocking outputs. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
SNIPER SELFTRACK GPS TRACKER BEST SECuRITy
Popular budget alarm with IMMOBILISER
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universal central locking, COBRA CATclosure, 2 8510 passive arming, total The Cobra 8510 hijack, immobiliserboot is a touch anti release key operated, two circuit solution that’s output, immobiliser, six tone approved to Thatcham Category 2 siren dual status. With passiveand arming, it’s astage simple shock but effective way for users to keep their sensor.
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tracking system with text alerts and battery backup. Can be connected to any alarm to send text messageSmartrack’s on alarm SMARTRACK TRIDENT Trident won a number of awards at this year’sactivation. event, and for this category it was the text alerts
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£18
cars in their possession. It won Bronze last year, so clearly 2010 has seen more dealers fall for its’ charms.these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
ounds
-Subscription CELLuLARfree GPS
£25
£199
that helped it to take the top honours. For a tracking system this is a great extra function and can really help to give users the peace of mind that paying for security measures should instill.
FALCON PROTECTOR INSTALLERS WANTED - REGISTER ON OUR WEBSITE BELOW AuTOWATCh 172RI
electronics WORLDWIDE
The Autowatch 172Ri Remote these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds Immobiliser comes with two remote transmitters and can be connected to interface into the vehicles’ existing central locking. The system can also be upgraded to full alarm offering many of the features and facilities found in the logos can be used on darker backgrounds morethese expensive Category 1 products.
SNIPER AUTOMOTIVE
PROACTIVE
TM
FA L C O N WORLD CLASS SECURITY
Tel: 01928 759 239
FALCON PREDATOR www.electronics-worldwide.com Login: trade Password: global
MKII TRANSPONDER All prices exclude VAT & delivery.
Approved to Thatcham Category 2, the Falcon Predator MkII Transponder is an effective transponder immobiliser, so no key to touch or socket on the dash which makes it an easy to use solution for customers.
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Falcon’s tracking system alerts users by text message if the alarm is triggered, or if there’s no alarm, it alerts them when the ignition is started. This helps vehicle owners quickly find out if they need the tracking system to be employed, which could save their car.
Multimedia
AuTOWATCh 457RLI/T email: sales@electronics-worldwide.com Ideal for use in motorhomes this alarm system can enable or disable specific wireless intruder zones, lockers or interior PIR sensors as well as the wired ultrasonic movement sensors all from the remote control. It comes with a pager output too, making for some happy campers.
Audiovox Incaar System launches Invision in Europe Active Headrest Console - Invision Built specifically for vehicles with active head restraints. Finish in OEM leather to match car interior. Available for Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and many other models on request. Warranty 3 years. System features • Two DVD monitor consoles supplied with fitting kit • Leather colour coded for oem finish • Two IR remotes and two wireless 2 channel headphones • 7” LCD TFT panels with adjustable viewing angle • USB and AUX ports, integrated FM transmitter
IPAD dock
Removable easy to install with IR transmitter and capable to charge IPAD in your car.
9” inch DVD dock
Removable easy to fit 9 inch digital DVD unit. Supplied as Master and Slave kit in a carry bag and accessories. Audiovox Incaar Systems GmbH, Unit 14 Boundary Business Centre, Boundary Way, GU21 5DH , UK Tel. 01483 722 531 Fax 01483 740 204 www.audiovoxincaarsystems.com info@audiovoxincaarsystems.com
M.E.N AWARDS 2010
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
BEST MANuFACTuRER IN ThE uK
BEST SECuRITy PRODuCT OF ThE yEAR
CONNECTS2 Every month M.E.N seems to have a new product from Connects2 to tell dealers about in the News section. They’re committed to not only being at the cutting edge of vehicle interfacing but also widening their proposition to dealers all the time, like taking on MTX’s UK distribution, so this is well deserved recognition.
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ARMOuR AuTO ARMO Visit Armour’s headquarters and you’ll find high tech manufacturing of Autoleads wiring solutions, not only for the UK’s aftermarket but also for OEM supply. It’s an impressive set-up and the reason why dealers have once again voted Armour Auto into the top three UK manufacturers.
MIDBASS When it comes to bringing bass to the masses, Midbass are true champions. From their Midlands HQ they continue to give end users products from entry-level to SPL. With big presence at shows and a high profile with their array of demo cars, Midbass produce, promote and help dealers to sell brilliantly.
BEST AD CAMPAIGN CLARION “BuSTED”
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these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
Bust?
solutions offer installers a wealth of options. The ever-expanding range now includes a parking sensor interface, daylight running lights interface plus new applications recently added to the universal CAN-Bus range. All this is plus the most extensive CAN-Bus steering wheel control range in the industry
It’s unsurprising that all ICE dealers are feeling a little exposed with business like it is.
But when you’re up against the wall, you
need to be confident of making the most of every deal on the street, and working with
the best people to help you with the products, support and commitment to get you through. As others pull out or pull back, Clarion
remains the most experienced, sustained and committed brand to the UK aftermarket and
its appointed dealers. Worth looking at eh?
Want to know more? Call 01793 870400, or e-mail active@clarion.co.uk and we’ll e-mail you a free copy of Clarion Active, the dealer guide to get you on the road to better business. Clarion (UK) Ltd, Unit 1, Marshall Road, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YU
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BEST CAN BuS SySTEM CONNECTS2 Connects2 CAN-Bus
Clarion Ad.Bust:Layout 1 28/10/2009 16:01 Page 1
Most of you will recall one particular image used in Clarion’s advertising campaign, but it was more than just that. The these logos can be used on darker backgrounds whole rationale behind the campaign was to give dealers confidence in Clarion during the these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds recent tough economic times. With eye-catching images getting the attention and a single well-chosen, highlighted word it’s obviously done the job in the eyes of the voters. “As others pull out or pull back, these logos can be used on darker backgrounds Clarion remains the most experienced, sustained and committed brand in the UK aftermarket and its appointed dealers,” were the words they used, and they were words that dealers needed to be hearing. Judging by the number of product awards that Clarion picked up this year too, it would seem that the campaign was more than just words and clever pictures and plays on words. An advertising campaign like this shows committment to the industry on its own, but empty words are useless and Clarion have clearly made sure that their words and message have real meat behind them. Congratulations to Clarion then, not only for this superb campaign, but for backing-up what they said in their adverts.
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SMARTRACK TRIDENT This product has been designed and manufactured in Britain for SmarTrack and has achieved e-mark and Thatcham TQA104 status. It’s at home fitted to normal cars as it is to vans, HGVs and high value vehicles, and with internal aerials for enhanced security and an IP56 ABS casing for extra protection it’s possible for installers to fit it in the most covert places possible. Trident has a number of useful features such as a battery disconnect alert, movement sensor alert, low battery text alert and the ability to view the fitted vehicle live at home via a PC. This last point is particularly useful and can be upgraded via a change in subscription from 12 hour updates to updates every 1-2 minute, for those keen to know exactly where their pride and joy is at all times. Trident is monitored 24 hours a day and not only comes with a three year warranty and the usual insurance discounts that tracking systems account for, but it’s also fully transferable should the user sell the vehicle that the device is fitted to. This in itself is a unique feature of the SmarTrack Trident and although that may not be the ultimate selling point for dealers (although they can presumably still charge labour on removal and refitting), the features and selling points kept them voting this system as “Best Security Product of the Year”, “Best Security- Tracking Product” and “Best Security- Cellular”. It takes some doing to hit top spot in all three of those categories, so a massive well done to SmarTrack for developing a system that dealers see as saleable and customers see these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds as reliable, useful and good value for money.
CLARION CAN B BuS Numerous CAN-equipped cars can be upgraded with the latest navigation technologies from Clarion by installating a compatible CAN-converter to handle all the required signals or simply to enable enhanced use of Clarion multimedia products with the convenient steering wheel controls in the car.
CANM8 The CANM8-PULSE interface has been designed to provide a cost effective installation solution, where a conventional speed pulse is not available or is difficult to connect to. It features compatibility with over 200 vehicle models and can be connected to a convenient point on the vehicles CAN Bus system to suit the installation.
M.E.N AWARDS
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these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
BEST SCREEN
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
ALPINE TME-S370 Alpine’s convenient on-dash monitor is the easy these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds way to view maps, rear/front cameras or movies via the 6.5in WGVA display. It’s extremely thin and comes with an ambient light sensor, plus a box for numerous inputs making it a versatile solution for dealers to offer and that is surely a big part of its choice for these logos can beGold. used on darker backgrounds
ounds
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these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
ROSEN AV7500 Many installers will have had first hand experience with the AV7500 pair of headrests, and realised that the 7in display, DVD/CD/MP3 drive, 25 built-in video games with wireless controller, USB port and much more make them an almost default choice when dealing with customers who want it all!
C-KO S-706T
CLARION VMA773
This stylish, super-slim design comes in 7in, 9in or 10.2in. With a piano black finish and pule touch buttons, quality TFT LCD monitors, two audio and video inputs and dual channel IR transmitters, it’s not hard to see why dealers voted C-KO offerings as one of their favourites.
Clarion make a big point about their monitors being perfect for linking to the main source up front, or as a basis for a dual zone system. Their compact dimensions make headrest installation easy too, which helps dealers and gets customers enjoying the quality screen even quicker.
BEST CD TuNER (uNDER £150)
KENWOOD KDC-414uA
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A front USB input allows users to link iPod or other media storage device to the KDC-414UA or they can play CDs or MP3/WMA/AAC files stored on discs through the disc driver. Pre-amp outputs, potent internal amp and built-in audio processing too, all coming in at well under the £150 cap is great value. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
CLARION CZ200E Style, iPod control via rear USB, a front AUX-in and the Clarion parametric equaliser make this a superb entry-level product, but with two sets of preamp outputs it’s also a decent starting point for those who may want to build a system. It also includes a free two year warranty!
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offer this stylish replacement headrest to their customers in Black, Dark Grey or light grey. They come in pairs and offer built-in DVD, dual channel IR transmitter and a 7in TFT LCD screen. USB and SD cards are also supported, making these a functional and relatively straightforward way to add rear entertainment.
Coming incansizes 8in to 15in these these logos be used onfrom lighter backgrounds Clarion units offer a great rear seat solution thanks to quality TFT active matrix LCD monitors, wireless headphone transmitters and that all-important DVD. Thankful parents will have inundated dealers with stories of peace and quiet thesefamily logos can be used on darker backgrounds on the road trips for once.
CD player and iPod/USB these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds control (or full speed iPod/ iPhone control with an optional cable), with that renowned Alpine quality and coming in at under £150. That ticks just about every box for dealers selling to customers at this level, so you can understand why they rewarded it with a Gold. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
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NESA NMP 709DV Dealers can
CLARION OhM 1588VD
ALPINE CDE-111R
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BEST hEAD REST PRODuCT
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
BEST CD TuNER (OVER £150) PIONEER DEh P88RS11
This may not have been voted for on the basis of how many dealers sold, instead it may have been on how many dealers want one for themselves. The Reference Series head unit gives competition-grade audio reproduction so a CD tuner for the real audiophiles out there.
ALPINE CDA-105RI The CDA-105Ri is designed for full control over music stored in later gen iPhones and iPods. With variable illumination and upgradeable to Bluetooth hands-free or to an ultimate listening experience with the optional PXA-H100 it’s another Alpine corker.
CLARION CZ500E This unit has more source connections and format capabilities than ever before from Clarion, so it’s a more than worthy award winner in this category. Great sound, great functionality and built-in Bluetooth capability, the CZ500E is a stylish solution from Clarion.
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
BEST BLuETOOTh hEAD uNIT
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KENWOOD KDCBT8044u
This is a hot category nowadays so well done to Alpine for being voted the dealers’ favourite this year. With great iPod/iPhone compatibility, navgational menus just like an iPod and the high resolution 2.2in TFT screen, it’s a treat to use and clearly dealers are finding that it’s a treat to sell in 2010 too.
KENWOOD KIV-700
CLARION FZ709E More value in less space is the mantra of the FZ709E and the mech-less unit succeeds nicely. Aside from the USB connectivity, it offers a built-in Bluetooth interface for audio streaming and hands-free calling. With a wired microphone supplied, Clarion claim users benefit logos can be used on darkerit backgrounds from crystal clear telephony whichthesehas helped to scoop this Silver. these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
This is Kenwood’s first effort at an iPod/ USB only head unit and they’ve played a blinder. The 3in TDF screen displays everything digital music junkies need, plus is can also display video files too. How they’ll better this will be great to see!
ALPINE CDE114BTI This Alpine unit employs a Parrot Bluetooth kit so users can make calls seamlessly through their stereo. It can also be updated to support future handset models, so even if users these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds change their phone they can keep their quality Alpine CDE-114BTi in their car.
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BEST 4–ChANNEL AMP (ENTRy-LEVEL)
BEST IPOD/IPhONE DIRECT (MECh-LESS) hEAD uNIT ALPINE IDA-X305
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With so many head units offering Bluetooth now, it must be a tricky one to call. But Kenwood’s Parrot Bluetooth compatibility and simple operation for receiving calls (as well as the dual knob fascia for audio controls) was deservedly voted as the dealer’s favourite for 2010. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
|2010
PIONEER MVh8200BT Not only can Pioneer’s unit connect and playback from just about any storage device, it also comes enabled with Bluetooth. Typical Pioneer sound these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds quality too, plus really sexy styling makes the MVH-8200BT a real star in this class.
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BEST 4–ChANNEL AMP (ENTRy-LEVEL)
VIBE SLICK A1 The SLICK range of amplifiers is VIBE’s entry-level offering, these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds that give big performance at more affordable prices. With a Max Power of 800W and the newly developed SLICK heatsink the SLICK A1 hits the criteria of this category perfectly and does well to fight off the stiff competition. Another dealer-favourtie product from VIBE. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
ALPINE PDX-F4 The new cosmetics of the PDX-F4 meant it was 20 percent thinner than the first generation. With new power supply design they are even more efficeint and offer the sound quality and extremely low noise distortion levels that dealers and their customers have fallen for in a big way. Alpine: much more than just head units!
JL AuDIO J2 320.4 This is a
JL AuDIO XD400/4
no-nonsense amp where the design these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds concentrates where it counts; oversized output transistors and rugged MOSFET power supply to ensure ample current and thermal capacity. In the entry-level category this is what customers need, so they can play it loud and know their amp will to the job. these logos can bebe used onup darker backgrounds
Studio-grade signal processing with fully variable crossover filters in a tiny package, JL’s XD amps continue to impress those who maybe don’t believe such quality and power can come from something so small. It does though, as anyone who’s heard the XD400/4 in full flow will testify to.
JBL GTO-504 Optimum power
VIBE BLACKBOX STEREO 4
delivery into numerous impedences with low distortion is what JBL promised with this amp. The fact that dealers voted this into Bronze position suggests that JBL are as good as their word. A good choice for those enthusiasts looking to take their first steps into building a decent car audio install.
With the newest Internal Convection Cooling ICC vented technology VIBE have not only kept things cool, but kept them cool looking too. Versatile and fully adaptable to multiple speaker configurations, the BlackBox Stereo 4 is a more than worthy Bronze recipient here.
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M.E.N AWARDS 2010
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
BEST MONO AMP (ENTRy-LEVEL)
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
JL AuDIO J2 250.1 Just like
JL AuDIO XD600/1JL Audio’s
the JL Audio amp that took Silver in the these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds “Best 4-Channel Amp (Entry-Level)” category, this mono amp uses the same philosophy of putting the the money where it matters - inside. It may not be the prettiest, but dealers and customers alike respond to the power capabilites of this mono and the attractive price tag. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
XD series of amps is winning fans across the board thanks to the performance they pack in such relatively small packages. Rammed with cutting-edge technology and designed to keep pushing hard without any heat issues, the XD600/1 is a revolution in mono amps and is sure to feature here for years yet.
VIBE SLICK A7 Like the SLICK A1, the SLICK A7 is another stylish these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds offering from VIBE’s entry-level range of amplifiers. Some believed the power and performance of SLICK amps wasn’t possible at their retail prices, but the fact dealers have also voted their A7 mono amp into their top three, suggests the doubters now these logosare can be used on darkerlong backgroundsgone.
MASSIVE AuDIO DB3000
JBL GT5-A3001 With a stylish
VIBE DEAThBOX BASS 1
orange back-lit JBL logo, the GTS-A3001 is spec’d up with full range preamp outputs for multiple amp hook-ups, without the need for high-loss Y-adaptors or signal splitters, plus an on-board variable electronic crossover. All-in, that makes for a great option for entry-level audio fans building a pumping system.
The Deathbox Bass 1 mono amp uses Class G technology and is capable of a bone-crunching 5000W peak into the users subs, so the perfect choice for those needing power for their high SPL or competition use. Another VIBE product proving their wide appeal to users.
BEST STEREO AMP (ENTRy-LEVEL) VIBE BLACKBOX STEREO 2 V3
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award for one of JL Audio’s J2 series of these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds amplifiers. These were designed to hit a price point that JL realised their higher end wasn’t, but they made sure they did so while keeping their power and performance standards intact. Perfect with their WX subs, this amp is a great first step into JL Audio these logos can be used on darkerquality. backgrounds
CLARION APX2121E With a MOSFET power supply, maximum output of 200W and two channels (one bridgeable), the Clarion APX2121E was deemed to have the mettle and the nice touches (like gold plated connections), to scoop Bronze in this entry-level category.
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BEST STEREO AMP (hIGh-END) AuDISON ThESIS hV VENTI
JL AuDIO J2 360.2 Another
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Launched back in 2009, the DB series of amps strived to hit the balance between quality and value. Dealers must feel they’ve succeeded, with the D Class mono block’s unique bass enhancement circuit Massive Bass Kompressor allowing for distortion free low frequency extension.
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The BlackBox Stereo 2 class AB amps are highly versatile and fully adaptable to multiple speaker configurations. With VIBE ICC cooling tech, it means users can benefit from smart looks as well as the clean, dynamic sound quality of this smart stereo amp. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
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BEST MONO AMP (OVER £150)
You can’t fail but to enjoy the design of Audison’s top-spec Thesis HV Venti amp. But it’s not just that exposed styling that sells this amp, it’s the pure sound quality that being a Thesis product always implies. Implies and, in reality, delivers. An audiphile’s dream distributed to UK fans by FOUR.
JL AuDIO hD600/4 High-class fidelity, Single Cycle Control switching amplifer tech, JL’s regulated intelligent power supply and great touches like the removeable power and speaker plugs to allow quick disconnection are just some of the benefits that have made this stunning amplifier a top three choice by dealers again this year. FOCAL FPS2300RX Designed to get the best from speakers this amp can also be switched to single-channel mode to drive a dual voice coil sub with up to 750W RMS bass thunder. Versatility with no compromise in design or internal components, the Focal amp gives reliable, high fidelity reproduction.
Gateway Five from Dension.
Gateway Five provides in car handsfree
mobile phone handling
via Bluetooth. It can be
controlled from the steering wheel and will also
display the phonebook
and call information on the original screens. Gateway Five
also connects an iPod
or USB
storage device
to the original car radio, providing music playback and
menu based control and charging.
Gateway Five is now available for certain cars, including Audi, BMW, Citroen, Peugeot, Opel and Volkswagen. Compatibility depends on the head unit as well as the level of telephone preparation in the car. Go to www.dension.com/g5 for more details and a full compatibility list. Alternatively call Dension on 01494 898950 or Daltec on 0208 5157820
Simple Seamless Integration
M.E.N AWARDS
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds
BEST CABLING/WIRING
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CONNECTS2 IPOD ADAPTORS
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Connects2’s iPod range now includes interfaces that offer track names shown on the head unit. They’re available for most popular vehicles makes and the plug and play design combined with the quality and reliability offers the installer a superb product.
AuTOLEADS A uTOLEADS Under the stewardship of Armour’s Mike Smith, Autoleads have gone from strength-to-stength in 2010. Manufactured in the UK, the Autoleads offerings in both product and in ways that dealers can order them (packed or in bundles for larger quantity installation supply), continue to make them the gold standard in cabling/wiring.
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BEST IPOD INTERFACE
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TSuNAMI Taken TS on by Connects2, these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds Tsunami offers one of the widest ranges of products with a fine selection of small blister packed SKUs. Under the Connects2 umbrella, dealers can get the service they need on Tsunami products with everything from amp wiring kits, battery terminals, capacitors and these RCA leads delivered in no time. logos can be used on darker backgrounds
CELSuS IPV3 SERIES Celsus’
STINGER The only car audio company to offer power cables up to a mighty TWO over gauge. Stinger accessories offer some great looking solutions and they also represent good value for money, so it’s a win win situation for end users and dealers. They do a range of branded alternators too, which may not be too common a request, but still cool.
DENSION GATEWAy Dension’s Gateway allows users to connect and charge iPods, iPhones, USB mobile storage devices or MP3 players through an original car stereo. They can control their music device from the head unit and/or steering wheel controls and view their iPod and USB menu on the original display of the car. Nice work Dension.
BEST-SELLING hANDS-FREE KIT Parrot CK3100 these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds Others may be catching up in terms of technical advancements, but the Parrot CK3100 remains top of the charts when it comes to sales. As innovative as it was when launched with its LED screen, it hasn’t lost any of its appeal over time, offering dealers a tried and tested top quality hands-free solution. Features like the voice recognition for dialling numbers from the phonebook and the unidirectional these logos can be used on darker backgrounds microphone that helps reduce background noise and ambient echo, have all helped the Parrot CK3100 become the benchmark in handsfree kits. While other kits may be snapping at its’ heels now, there’s no denying that dealers’ familiarity and confidence in the product these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds will keep them opting for this kit for a long time yet. In fact, it will take something truly special to knock the Parrot kit off its perch as the UK’s most popular.
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range of iPod interfaces have updated software to work with all iPods and iPhones including the iPhone 4. Using the CD changer port, users can also still plug their changer into the interfaces meaning both digital and CD albums can be listened too and controlled via the original source head unit.
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these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
BEST hANDS-FREE KITS MOTOROLA TK30 The new kid on the block has had a succesful year, offering users hands-free calling and music, and installers a simple ISO installation. Dealers have taken to the sound quality and functionality while nice touches like audio and on-screen reminders to stop you leaving your phone behind are nice extras.
PARROT CK3100 One of the most known and respected kits on the market, the Parrot CK3100 continues to be a firm favourite with both customers and dealers. A revelation when it was launched thanks to the LCD screen, it’s been the bedrock of the hands-free market ever since and is likely to be for some time yet too.
NOKIA CK-600 A good-looking kit with full colour display, the Nokia CK-600 allows hands-free calling from the ondash unit, plus music playing through the car’s stereo. Solid and reliable, it’s the reason why dealers voted it into their top three hands-free kits for the second year in a row.
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|2010
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BEST POWERED BASS BOX
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VIBE BLACKAIR VENTED V12
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BEST SuBS (uNDER £150) JBL GTO 1214 Engineered to deliver deep, solid, tight bass, the 12in JBL GTO 1214 subs rock die-cast aluminium baskets, polypropylene cones, rubber surrounds and a unique tinsel wire protector that strengthens joints between cone, voice coil and spider. All in, that makes for a great entrylevel, bass kicking sub.
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Boasting the N-Wedge Pro design to help with fitting and with creating a big bass hit from the 1600W peak power, the BlackAir Vented V12 also has two TurboPorts that can be plugged to allow it to work as a vented or sealed enclosue. Clever stuff fromtheseVibe! logos can be used on darker backgrounds
MTX ROADThuNDER RT12PT
JL AuDIO 12WX-4
This compact 12in solution will fit into almost any car and with high level inputs it’s easy to use with factory systems. That’s why you’ll often see these well stocked in dealers’ showrooms and why they voted it as one of their top bass boxesthese oflogos2010. can be used on darker backgrounds
Patented cooling and construction technologies help all WX series subs pump out accurate, life-like bass with less distortion and the 12WX-4 12in sub is no exception. Users benefit from a serious thump when in compact enclosures and they can even customise the trim ring to make it look the part in their install too.
CLARION SRV313
VIBE BLACK AIR 12 Good looks,
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BEST SuBS (OVER £150)
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ORION hCCA15 With its massive 4in high temperature voice coil and immense motor, this sub can reach as much as 4in of travel. And that means serious bass. It’s been suggested you could call this a “super woofer” because of the performance, and with a Gold award dealers felt that “super” is an apt word to use about this beast.
ELECTRONIC COuNTERMEASuRES OF ThE yEAR STINGER DSI Stinger has the philosophy of prioritising quality and performance over price, which is apparent in every detail of their highend speed protections systems. The technology involved in the Stinger
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JL AuDIO 12W6 V2 Exceptional sound quality and output but in a very compact enclosure have helped JL’s 12in W6 v2 sub to hit the mark with dealers and end users alike. A fine piece of engineering with impressive results and built with a fanatical attention to detail, the patented W-Cone design continues to breed successes for JL Audio.
Using Diamond’s patented sandwich cone technology and an encapsulated Neodymium motor structure this nocompromise sub manages to keep weight down in comparison to similar competing products, but SPL and sound quality up. ^6L#%)6#[KLZ''\ Q6R#%)6#[SgS''\
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DSI is typical of this, espcially with the spectrum analyser (a device used to examine the spectral composition of some electrical, acoustic, or optical waveform), possibly Stinger’s most spectacular component. This state-of-the-art technology is usually found in uber expensive scientific research equipment, and it’s coupled with a phased array radar or ‘patch antenna’ to serve as the receptor (again technology usually found elsewhere – the noses of military F-16 jets!). The DSI is a modular system consisting of computer centre and multiple connecting
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good sound and heavy lows from this mid-range subwoofer from VIBE. The Black Air 12 is a hard-hitter with enough style too that it makes for something of a posterchild for VIBE’s proposition. Its second year in “Best Subs (Under £150), it’s popularity isn’t likely to wain any time in the near future.
A 120W high power amplifier with low pass filter that has one major trick up its’ sleeve...it’s extremely slim. That means installers can use it in places like under seats, therefore opening up the world of Clarion inspired bass to just about any car on the road. A fine and useful selling point indeed.
modules, with a visual display. It offers; Mileage Logging, Safety Signals, SPECS Alerting, Spotlist Alerting, Radar Alerting, Police Check, Laser Safety Signals, Laser Alerting and LaserShield (the last three when a system is installed with Laser as an additional part). What does all this mean? Basically, if you can afford it, the Stinger DSI is the closest thing to a full-proof licence protector you can buy and for that it’s a hero product and a truly worthy winner here. In fact, how can things get any better!
M.E.N AWARDS 2010 men copy.pdf 1 15/10/2010 12:18:16
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BEST ALARM
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BEST CAMERA PRODuCT
CLIFFORD AVANTGuARD 5.1
C-KO CW634
Award Winning Products
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The AvantGuard 5.1 is Clifford’s premier G5 security and remote start system, with features like BlackJack 5 anti-carjack, dual-zone OmniSensor and G5 glass break sensor. Coming with two 5-button remote controls, this 4-channel system is a masterpiece of car security.
This is another one of those categories where it
can be a bit of a trick to figure out the dealers’
rationale when voting. After all, many camera
products offer the level of clarity that consumers need and there are hundred out there from the universal to the
Huge thanks to all our customers who voted for us
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FALCON PREDATOR EVO4
With a remote starter for automatic and manual cars and a list of other features that just goes on and on the Predator EVO4 offers everything customers need, and probably some things they don’t. A fine alarm from Falcon though that, without doubt, deserves its place amongst the installers top three
DVD Headrest
COBRA CAT 2/1 ADR G368 The trick points of this Cobra alarm are the Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) cards and the fact there’s no interface requirement with the original vehicle platform. That means modern OEM-style technology for the customer and a less complicated installation process for the dealer. Perfect!
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NESA-NMP-709DV
BEST TRACKING
7” TFT LCD Leatherette Headrest - FLEET Built in DVD, AV input Dual channel IR transmitter 125 - 180 mm pole adjustability USB & SD Card Support FM Modulator Available in black, beige and grey SMARTRACK FLEET ASSIST With many of the same stolen/
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nds
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recovery benefits as the Trident system, SmarTrack add to that with Fleet Assist by allowing for overspeed e-mails for all vehicles, last location saved on map, direction the vehicle is travelling and even vehicle battery status all accessible live to managers from any internet device. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
Digital Headrest Screen
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vehicle specific and those designed for specific purposes like use with motorhomes. But the winner of this award for 2010 according to dealers is the smart C-KO CW634 solution. Technically this camera boasts a 180 degree view, four LED lights to assist with a vision of up to three metres, an IP67 water rating plus 420 TV lines. But the thing that is likely to have had dealers and installers voting for this solution is the way it’s mounted; within a numberplate holder. Available in black or chrome, this design enables the C-KO
Number Plate Camera
CW634 to be suitable for virtually any car with a rear numberplate in the standard size, and with those colours it means the customer can keep stealthy or go a little bit bling. These are the sorts of proucts that make life easier for the installer, so when you’re trying to figure out how they vote for this category, suddenly it all becomes a bit more obvious!
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CW634 Number Plate Camera Dimensions: 200 x 28 x 30 mm BEST TRACKING LED Night Vision Lights: 4, vision to 3m Wide 180° viewing angle - CONSuMER IP67 water rating 420 TV lines COBRATRAK FIRST MOBILE This is an enhanced version of CobraTrak PAL Picture format First, offering all the benefits but adding CCD Lens vehicle position mapping delivered Multi-angle for custom view
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direct to a mobile phone or PDA, selfsetting/un-setting of Transport or Garage Modes via phone and a fixed annual rate with unlimited useage and no additional SIM usage charges. Nice!
Parking Sensors
TRACKER REPORTER these logos can be used on lighter backgrounds Using both satellite GPS (Global Positioning System) and GSM mobile phone technology, it automatically reports real time information at defined time intervals and this can be used to produce an extensive range of concise user-friendly reports. This is why it’s one of the most widely used fleet systems now. these logos can be used on darker backgrounds
SMARTRACK uTRACK Described as a “20p a day tracker”, uTrack is an affordable system suitable for any type of vehicle. The subscription includes full web access so users can keep an eye on their asset via PC with one minute updates, plus they can receive e-mailed speed warnings and road traffic updates to keep track of family. RS-4-18-R-I
S-706T 7” tools TFTtoDigital Monitor managers the monitor Headrest and track fleets both large and small, Dimensions: 172onx vehicle 114 x usage, 20mmTrack and Trace Motion provides detailed reports AVit gives inputs, PAL60 compatible information,2plus full live and historical location, tracking information Dual and reporting. Trackitnow also claim its very cost-effective. channel IR transmitter Pulse touch buttonResolution: 800x480 Slimline - Piano black finish
TRACKITNOW MOTION With bespoke software giving
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TRACKER MONITOR TRACKER Monitor’s sophisticated movement
Intelligent parking sensorssensor helps TRACKER to alert the customer if the vehicle has been illegally Sensitivity adjustment moved. It works too, as TRACKER’s 4 x 18mm sensors technology has recovered over £400 Audible alert million worth of cars since they started Scans each time poweredand on have the backing of all of the UK’s Police forces who operate this system. Identifies towbars Hole cutter included Optional display available Extra Extension leads available
M.E.N AWARDS 2010
INSTALLER OF ThE yEAR
SOuRCE SOuNDS
XQuISITE AuTOMOTIVE
A1 AuDIO DESIGNS
Anywhere you go you’re likely to bump into the man behind Source Sounds, Paul Ellis. Guiding the ship he continues to vent his passion for car audio on his customers’ installs which sees them regularly pick up awards in competition. Paul won this award last year too, so perhaps voters will soon be thinking a “Services to the Industry” accolade is in order...and who’d argue!
Karthik Gowrinath (or K) is the man behind Xquisite, a well-known pioneer in the automotive styling world. But as a FOUR Master he’s audio capabilities are becoming just as well-known. He’s created some of the most stunning installs this year and with rumours of a special Porsche Boxster in the making next year could be even bigger for Xquisite.
Paul Richardson has been in the game for years, but 2010 saw his star rise once again. With a new set-up he created cracking installs like that found in Armour Auto’s Mutant filled Mitsubishi Colt or the Rockford Fosgate installed Discovery that hit M.E.N’s cover. People know what Paul’s capable of and he once again reminded us of it this year.
DEMO CAR OF ThE yEAR
hERTZ PANDA What happens when you
PROJECT BIG BLACK Featured in
pack one of the smallest cars on the road with a lorry load of Hertz product? The answer is a car that can drown out just about any PA system you’d find at a car show. The Hertz Fiat Panda is that car, sounding great as well as hugely loud no matter what type of music it’s pumping out.
M.E.N, Matt Sprigg’s creation employed just about the entire Connects2 audio catalogue to conjure up some competition winning dB levels in it’s first season on the circuit. Hugely powerful the Ground Zero amps, subs and speakers proved something of a revelation.
CLARION K1 ATTACK How to get attention - lesson one; build a totally unique supercar from scratch like Oli Ashley did. The Clarion K1 Attack has been at numerous shows this year where the impressed visitors have seen a seamless Clarion install that still manages to sound fantastic despite the K1 being a tricky base.
FLyING ThE FLAG BEST uK BuSINESS SCORPION AuTOMOTIVE Scorpion Automotive is a forward-thinking company that incoporates some well-known and trusted brands. This Gold award is recognition of their efforts with four brands of security, cellular communications equipment, in-car integration and OE product supply. With ISO/ TS16949 accreditation achieved too they’re a leading light in the UK mobile electronics business and set the bar at a high standard. Congratulations to all at Scorpion including all those in R&D, technical support, manufacture and sales. Highly deserved.
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CELSuS ICE LTD When it comes to flag flying Celsus ICE Ltd are one of the best in the business. However, more often than not it’s flying the flag for car audio in general, for their dealers or for the products they supply. Very rarely will you find Celsus staff shouting about their own achievements (well, apart from climbing mountains and literally flying a flag), but many dealers and onlookers would certainly take that job on for them. They’re passionate about car audio and that’s infectious, which leads to even those on foreign shores hearing about their efforts in the UK. In fact, Celsus even use those from abroad to help in their quest to promote car audio and promote profit for car audio dealers.
SMARTRACK By this point you’ve probably lost count of how many awards SmarTrack scooped at the 2010 M.E.N Awards. Well the answer is four Golds and one Silver, so six in total including this one. Considering you’re only as good as the products you produce or supply, it’s only fitting that they should be recognised here. The UK business produces tracking products across both fleet and consumer fields with their Trident product in particular getting the nod from dealers. The benefits of that can be read about elsewhere in this Awards review, but this is the point where we say a big “well done” to SmarTrack for their continuing dedication to tracking and to giving consumers and dealers just what they want.
Coyote, the ultimate speed camera alert system
ly ve si u m cl o a x fr br E o C
Cobra is launching Mini Coyote, Europe’s latest must-have motoring gadget, in the UK – and you could be one of the first stockists! Mini Coyote is the UK’s most advanced real-time speed camera alert system. It’s a small, sleek, and super easy-to-use device that instantly notifies drivers of the locations of more than 26,000 fixed and mobile speed cameras across the UK and Europe. Cutting-edge technology allows Coyote drivers to update and share new camera locations with other users in the Coyote Community at the touch of a button, whilst real-time ‘danger zone’ alerts and speed limit warnings keep drivers safe. See the speed limit and your speed ■ Monitor your average speed through average speed camera zones ■ Receive real-time traffic and incident alerts ■ Know the locations of over 26,000 fixed and mobile speed cameras ■
With an estimated one million UK drivers with six to nine penalty points on their licence, there’s never been a better time to stock Coyote.
With more than 480,000 Coyotes already sold in Europe, don’t miss out! Call Cobra Sales Support now on 01932 772400
M.E.N AWARDS 2010
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BEST PARKING SENSORS
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STEELMATE PTS400 Coming with four rear sensors and a four-stage audible warning buzzer plus a sturdy all-weather design, these sensors are a dealer’s favourite. It doesn’t hurt that Steelmate make sure they keep their dealers happy with great support and a realistic and helpful approach should a rare issue arise with their products.
ounds
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and back-up, tomonitor.
AuTOMONITOR AM-400MBI A four sensor kit available in paintable matt or gloss black or silver finishes, they also come with an audible buzzer and an Intelligent Control Unit to take into account wheel and tow bar accessories. With full weather design, they offer dealers a great solution for just about Parking Sensors 4 Sensor Kits:19mm Detachable Sensors with any vehicle.
ch Screen,
changeable 6º, 10º and 13º collars,to suit bumper contour. Kits available: Rear & Front with and without LED Display. Colours available: Matt & Gloss Black or Silver.
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AM-400 Se
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know!
une with the latest driver technology.
AUTOMONITOR MOBILE MULTIMEDIA LTD
Redcomb Business Park, Desford Road, Enderby, Leicestershire, LE19 4AD
www.automonitor.co.uk
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To All ThE 2010 M.E.N AwArd wiNNErs, Also A Big ThANk these logosANd can be used on darker backgrounds you To All ThE EvENT spoNsors
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C-KO comes with everything dealers need to get the job done, like an 18mm hole cutter, cable splicers, velcro pads and more. With an OEM style too, the RS-4-18-R-I four sensor kit is unsurprisingly popular and makes the job of the installer as easy as it possibly can be.
gest in the market.
M/RDS, er.
CONGRATuLATIONS ONGRATuLATIONS
TheTrustyOne universal Bluetooth速 car kit & A2DP amplified music device
TheTrulyOne
universal Bluetooth速 display car kit & A2DP amplified music device
Now with MULTIPOINT Pair
TWO phones and a sperate Bluetooth Music device or play music straight from one of your phones
www.novero.com
a masterpiece in simplicity
www.dal-tec.com sales hotline: +44 (0) 208 515 7820 email: sales@dal-tec.com
COBRA
|2010
Mini Coyote
Keeps you Driving Keep safe, keep legal and keep driving with Mini Coyote – Europe’s most advanced speed camera alert system Europe’s most advanced real-time gps speed camera alert system, Mini Coyote, has arrived in the uk, distributed exclusively by Cobra. with over 600,000 people already using it across Europe, wouldn’t you like to be on board for similar success here? With an estimated one million UK drivers having between 6 and 9 points on their licence, it’s not hard to see why people would be interested in technology that protects them from picking up any more. After all, just one more flash from a speed camera could result in the loss of their licence, their car...or worse still, their livelihood if they rely on their vehicle for work. That’s where an exciting new product for the UK mobile electronics market comes in. Meet Mini Coyote – Europe’s most advanced real-time GPS speed camera alert system. Already used by more than 600,000 drivers across Europe, Mini Coyote is a portable device that can be mounted discreetly on the dashboard of a vehicle (or on the handlebars of a motorbike using the motorcycle accessory kit) that tells you exactly where the UK’s 6,000+ fixed and mobile speed cameras are located. Drivers travelling further afield will be pleased to know that it also works in 27 other countries too. Mini Coyote uses a constantly updated database of fixed and mobile camera locations and provides audio and visual alerts to the presence of speed cameras as you drive along. In addition, Mini Coyote owners can alert other Coyote subscribers to new fixed and mobile camera locations in close proximity at the touch of a button. As a result, users benefit from the most accurate and up-to-date information during their journey and effectively become part of a ‘live’ community of users. It’s not just about speed cameras though. Uniquely, the Mini Coyote displays the vehicle’s actual average speed when driving through SPECS-monitored average speed camera zones, such as those typically found in motorway roadworks, and it also alerts to school and high-risk zones, and even to Congestion Charge entry
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locations. Mini Coyote will also identify the reasons why, for example, you are stuck in a traffic jam on the motorway, helping to combat the frustration and lack of information that can often result from delays during a journey. Mini Coyote is being distributed exclusively in the UK by Cobra UK Limited, part of the Cobra Group, a leader in the design and manufacture of security and safety solutions for the global automotive industry. UK retail pricing (including VAT) will be £179.00 for the hardware including 3 months subscription and then £89 for a 12 month subscription renewal. Andrew Smith, Managing Director of Cobra UK Limited, said: “Mini Coyote is Europe’s most advanced real-time GPS speed camera alert system and is already trusted by over half a million people, so we’re delighted to be launching it here in the UK. Its high level of technology, together with real-time alerts that users provide at the touch of a button ensure that everyone benefits from the very latest information about the road they are driving on. Contributing in this way results in improved road safety information for the whole Coyote Community, helping everyone to ‘Keep Safe, Keep Legal and Keep Driving’.” For more information about becoming a Mini Coyote stockist, or to arrange a demonstration from the Cobra Area Sales team, please contact the team on the details below. Cobra has a consistent track record in producing quality products and service, their recent Gold for CobraTrak First Mobile in the “Best Tracking: Consumer” category and Silver for CobraTrak 5 in the “Best Security: Tracking Product” category at the M.E.N Awards underlining this. So don’t miss out working with a winning team with winning products. Contact: Cobra Sales Support, 01932 772 400 or info@coyotesystems.co.uk
Aren’t speed cameras being turned off in the uK? There’s been a buzz of activity in the press recently about speed cameras being turned off, but in truth, it’s only a few local authorities that have actually pulled the plug. The vast majority of the UK’s fixed site cameras are still live, and mobile speed cameras and the SPECS average speed cameras won’t be disappearing anytime soon either. It’s also worth remembering that Mini Coyote is about much more than just speed camera alerts too. It will identify school and high risk locations on your route, feed you live traffic information and even tell you when you enter and leave the London Congestion Charge Zone. Finally of course, it’s already trusted by over half a million drivers across Europe and it won’t be long before it’s a must-have road safety gadget for motorists here in the UK.
KEy BENEFITS
• Europe’s most advanced speed camera alert device for drivers – informing them about their actual speed and the speed limit for the road they are driving on • Provides alerts to school and high risk zones, entry into the London Congestion Charge Zone and current traffic incidents ahead • The Coyote Community allows users to provide live alerts to each other, including the current location of any mobile speed cameras, at the touch of a button • Unique in displaying a driver’s actual average speed through SPECS average speed camera zones, such as those typically found in motorway roadworks • Real-time alerts to the presence of both fixed and mobile speed cameras • System works across 28 countries and in 9 languages • Accessory kit available for motorcycle riders • Available as an iPhone App – iCoyote
Wrap Up Extra REVENuE For mobile electronics installers Car Skinz vehicle wrapping offers an exciting new revenue stream
You may wonder what vehicle wrapping has to do with mobile electronics, but Car Skinz’s Steve Jones makes some valid points. Many will know Steve from his years in the industry with Boundary Car Care Ltd in St Helens and Car Skinz has become an offshoot of that business as Steve realised the vinyl available now was actually upto the job, plus it offered great potential for additional earnings. The key though was that as electronics installers they weren’t afraid to remove aerials, headlights etc to fit the vinyl wraps perfectly, plus the skills involved in wrapping weren’t too dissimilar to the techniques needed for the window tinting they already offered. And this is likely to be the same for many dealers across the UK so it shouldn’t be too challenging for them to diversify into this currently very popular area. Joined by Jim Rogers and John den Braber (who many will know from his 18 years at Lumar) Car Skinz is now looking for other UK fitters, particularly in the South. The company currently comes up in the top three listed when “vehicle wrapping” is typed into a Google search and the number of enquiries they receive suggests a lucrative opportunity. Naturally there’s a cost involved for dealers (£1695 plus VAT), but that includes training, tools, vinyl material (with an expected return of £2500!) point of sale material, t-shirts, leaflet dispensers, window stickers plus the benefit of a full dealer support programme. Car Skinz dealers will also receive leads in their area via the Car Skinz website meaning they can be up and running in no time. It’s not just full car wraps either but also details like door pillars, roofs and splitters, all of which can be done in minimal time but offer excellent profit potential (a roof for example can take one hour if the installer is skilled, uses roughly £40 of vinyl and can be charged at over £200). Steve even points out that local car dealerships have used them for things like gloss black vinyl roofs so there’s additional scope for Car Skinz installers to increase their customer base. For more information contact Car Skinz on the details below. Contact: Car Skinz, 01744 813282 or carskinz.co.uk
OPPORTuNITy KNOCKS
|2010
Number 6: Expanding Horizons When you take a look at recent years of business it may be the case that your company has reduced its offerings to customers. Rather than expanding and giving the customer more choice, it’s likely that you’ve scaled down or stopped certain products that just don’t make financial sense to you. Some products may be those that you can’t make additional money on through installation while others could simply be either obsolete to your customers’ needs or have so little profit left in them that you’ve decided to concentrate elsewhere. The problem is though that while it’s possible to reduce your offerings and concentrate on more profitable areas of your existing business at the moment, you may be restricting yourself. Looking to other areas in which to expand can help ensure that you not only make the most of your current position but also help you grow into the future. But how can you expand your business and where should you be looking?
1
PERFORMANCE MARKET
There’s no reason to try and compete with other performance and styling specialists, but simple upgrades like alloy wheels can offer another option for mobile electronics dealers, especially as they can add a simple upgrade of style to match any upgraded sound system. If you already have a fitting bay then it should be easy as many alloy suppliers can also fit balanced tyres before shipping to you. There’s also the opportunity to upsell tyre pressure sensors at this point too. You may even consider ECU remapping as there are relatively straight-forward ways to do this (which should be easy for electronically minded installers), however, it’s also worth noting that remaps on dynos are generally deemed by many to be the better option than downloadable generic files.
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MARINE AuDIO
As focused upon in a previous issue of M.E.N, marine audio offers a new market area and a new challenge without requiring dealers/installers to take on too much added knowledge. The key to success here though is promoting the service and it will also require on-site installation a lot of the time. This may be off-putting, but boat owners generally have high disposable incomes and are relatively recession-proof, which can surely counter the initial scepticism about the additional efforts breaking into the market would need.
hOME AuDIO
There are plenty of home audio specialists, but car audio dealers could still get in on the act. Like with marine audio, there are many manufacturers of car audio who also supply products in this area meaning access to products shouldn’t be too hard. Obviously the electronics and staging of sound are different but the idea of giving the viewer/listener the best experience is the same, so it should offer familiar ground. Again, dealers may need to have a demo area and be prepared to leave the shop to install products, but existing car audio customers after better sounds should be the target market already so you’re halfway there.
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4
LEISuRE MARKET
The leisure market is huge in the UK with caravans, camping and hiking all on the up. Where would you go for the latest technology to help in these pursuits though? Promoting this area could pay dividends, not only with the parts you already supply such as rear parking cameras/sensors, tracking and security but also expanding to incorporate portable power, GPS systems for hiking and even hardware like tents. If it’s an area you’re also interested in then that’s a bonus too and would help you devote an area of the store to it and promote the services and products heavily.
5
MOBILE SERVICE
Many dealers have either stopped their mobile services due to the time and staffing required or given up their shops to concentrate solely on being a mobile installer. Both options are easy to understand, especially in tough times, but a mobile service still has a unique selling point particularly to timestrapped professionals. A well-run mobile service linked to a shop can pay dividends and expand your appeal so long as you let people know about it. Do they know you would fit parking sensors to their car while it’s sat in their work car park? Alternatively you could work in collaboration with local mobile installers, especially if your trade discounts are good enough to be able to sell to them while still making a little profit. In a good relationship like this the mobile installer will often point customers back towards your shop for other products that they don’t deal in. In fact, local collaborations needn’t be restricted to here, linking up with other local specialists in the kind of areas mentioned earlier for example could help send customers your way…so long as you’re prepared to send your customers back to them for their specialist products.
PRODuCT FOCuS
proDuCt FoCus:
portable navigation DeviCes M.E.N takes a look at the latest offerings in the world of portable navigation
W
hen Portable Navigation Devices (PNDs) entered the market the world and their dog fell over themselves to create one. And it’s fair to say most dealers fell over themselves in order to sell them too. Spend any amount of time on a motorway and you’ll still see the little black boxes stuck to windscreens of all manners of vehicle from trucks and old classics to (believe it or not) brand new cars. However, the competitive nature of the market, both in manufacturing and selling, have led to a number of companies stopping production of PNDs and some retailers have even stopped stocking them. That doesn’t mean the market for PNDs is dead, in fact, far from it. Those who are still producing the devices are coming up with better functionality all of the time, which means that even those customers with existing PNDs may be tempted to upgrade. M.E.N takes a closer look at some of the newest innovations in the market so that you know how best to tease your customers’ interest…and most importantly to keep them on track to where they’re going.
TOMTOM Arguably the Hoover of the navigation world, TomTom continue to push the boundaries of functionality with their products and stay at the forefront of customers’ navigation thoughts. In the news section of this issue you will have read about TomTom’s mission statement where they aim to think big and reduce traffic congestion for drivers across the world, and it’s their HD Traffic service that will be a huge part of that. This statement coincides with the launch of their new GO LIVE range which are packed with functions and backed-up nicely by that HD Traffic information. The two new models are the GO LIVE 1000 and the GO LIVE 1005, with the latter offering a larger 5in screen. “Our new flagship GO LIVE 1000 range is the future of driving,” said Damian Woodward, VP sales and marketing at TomTom. “With functions like a finger-friendly touch screen, HD Traffic information, slick magnetic mount, speedier route calculation and our richest maps yet, these super satnav devices will get drivers to their destination faster, safer and smarter than ever before.” Both of the new models should be familiar to TomTom users despite the new improvements, but it’s these improvements that will have them excited. The GO LIVE 1000 range is fully connected, with HD Traffic free for the first year and a LIVE Services bundle that includes Speed Cameras, providing both fixed and mobile sites, Local Search with Google to help pinpoint shops and businesses in unfamiliar areas and even news of rain or sunshine with TomTom Weather. There’s more too with a powerful, super-fast computer processor allows speedier route calculation, while maps with IQ Routes uses real speed data collected from millions of users to calculate accurate travel and arrival times. Map-wise there are two million kilometres more roads than before across 45 European countries with richer Points of Interest data including business phone numbers and opening times. Add to that the physical elements of the units that include a capacitive Fluid Touch screen for the first time, that lets users pinch to zoom in or out of maps or scroll through menus and the new Easy Click magnetic mount to make docking even easier, and TomTom are surely onto another winner. Naturally they also both offer Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio playing abilities, but it’s really the in-depth, function loaded new navigation from TomTom that will have these flying off the shelves. Contact: TomTom, 0845 1610009 or tomtom.com
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MIO Mio launched three new Navman models earlier this year; Mio Navman 470,475 and 575. The former two offer 4.3in widescreens, TomTom’s IQ Routes, 3D Junction Views and Lane Guidance, LearnMe (that adapts routes over time according to your preferences), Spirit QuickStart menu, road speed limit info, tunnel guidance and high speed GPS. They both also offer Rental Maps, where users can rent specific maps when they head to short trips and holidays, and the 475 adds built-in Traffic information. The Navman 575 has the same functionality as the 475, but comes with a stylish, slim, lightweight design and a 4.7in widescreen. All of them also come with a 12 month free trial of the pre-loaded safety camera data and the latest map data with Total Refresh Map Guarantee. On top of these, Mio have also just released their Mio GPS Car Kit for all iPhones and iPod touch, which are compatible with most GPS navigation software. These cradles can support second generation iPod touch, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 and offer a powerful built-in GPS receiver, Bluetooth hands-free and playback of spoken instructions and music through the car stereo. Mio have also ensured that even iPods or iPhones with protective cases or skins can still be docked, without the need to take those covers off. The obvious advantage of the Mio GPS Car Kit is the massive reduction of bad GPS reception and a way to stop drivers getting fined for using their iPhone without hands-free. Contact: Mio, eu.mio.com
|Portable Navigation Devices |2010 GARMIN The latest Garmin PNDs are the two nüvi 3700 series models (nüvi 3760T and 3790T) which are incredibly slim (just 8.7mm depth) with stylish aluminium and chrome finishes. The unique size of the units is a major achievement considering the features within, plus the fact they still manage to accommodate a high-detail 800x400 pixel 4.3in LCD display. A first for satellite navigation was the incorporation of a capacitive multi-touch display, allowing for the pinch and slide movement similar to iPods/iPhones. This means virtually every function is accessed via the touchscreen, with only the power on/off function on the body of the unit. Viewing wise, there’s also that familiar ability to view it as landscape or portrait mode, changing automatically depending on how the user holds it. On the navigation side of things, there’s obviously the ultra-intelligent guidance you’d expect from Garmin’s nuRoute’s technology. This includes the myTrends™ feature, which analyses your driving behaviour and predicts where you are likely to go before linking to the trafficTrends™ application. The trafficTrends feature looks at what other people are doing using tools such as historical traffic information and period of day, then helps to ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible, whatever time of the day it is. The mapping also offers 3D terrain details and contour and 3D buildings and landmarks, yet there’s the additional bonus of PhotoReal™ junction view. Both units comes preloaded with detailed CityNavigator® NT street maps for 44 countries across Europe with the added bonus of subscription-free, panEuropean lifetime traffic updates. They also give up-to-date alerts of speed
cameras and offer useful functions such as Garmin Locate™ (which marks the position of where the device is removed from the windshield), Where Am I? (to find closest hospitals, police and petrol stations) and ecoRoute™ (for a more fuel-efficient route). The major difference between the 3760T and the 3790T models is the higher spec 3790T employs unique voice-activated navigation. Users simply set their own custom “wake-up” command to activate speechrecognition mode and nüvi 3790T acts on their spoken instruction for totally hands-free navigation. On top of all of this both units are Bluetooth compatible for hands-free calling and have the excellent pedestrian route guidance feature too. Contact: Garmin, 02380 524000 or garmin. co.uk
NAVIGON
CLARION
NAVIGON can offer dealers a number of portable navigation devices; the NAVIGON 20 series, NAVIGON 40 series, NAVIGON 70 series plus the NAVIGON 70 Premium Live. The NAVIGON 20 is the baby of the pack, offering high-quality navigation in a compact body with a 3.5in screen. It comes in either Easy or Plus versions, the latter adding Motion Sensor (activates the menu bar or NAVIGON MyBestPOI without touching the display), text-to-speak, NAVIGON Sightseeing Tours, NAVIGON Sightseeing inspired by MERIDIAN scout and TMC. Both offer touch-screen functionality, Active Lane Assistant, NAVIGON MyRoutes, TMC routing info and Speed Assistant. The NAVIGON 40 series is the mid-range choice, all of which offer a 4.3in screen and the same functionality as the NAVIGON 20 series. However, users can opt for the NAVIGON 40 Plus with 43 European maps, text-to-speech and One Click Menu or that can be added to with the NAVIGON 40 Premium that gives Bluetooth hands-free 2.0. The daddy is the NAVIGON 40 Premium Live which offers those all-important live services; Google Local Search, Traffic Live, Mobile Safety Camera Live, Weather Live and Clever Parking Live. At the top of the NAVIGON ranges though is the new NAVIGON 70 series. NAVIGON claim that The NAVIGON 70 Plus and NAVIGON 70 Premium are “the beginning of a new generation of navigation systems that set new standards of user-friendliness”. With elegant styling, they offer innovative technologies such as the Motion Sensor plus they offer an enlarged map section and the Active Lane Assistant. The Premium version can be operated using Professional Voice Command 2.0, while the Bluetooth hands-free 2.0 helps drivers to manage their businesses more efficiently. Both devices are equipped with one of the fastest processors that are used in PNDs at the moment too. NAVIGON even offers a version of this for caravans and trucks that takes data about the vehicle that the user supplies and calculates only safe routes. But the ultimate is the NAVIGON 70 Premium Live that takes all of the 70 Premium functionality and the five tried and tested Live service, but adds two more; “Fuel Live” (showing nearby petrol stations, price per litre etc) and “Events Live” (that displays local events under searches like “rock” or “festival”, giving start times and entry prices etc). All the Live services are free for 15 months, and other NAVIGON users can subscribe to them at lower prices than ever from NAVIGON. Contact: NAVIGON, navigon.com
Clarion offer two Portable Navigation Devices to the market; one for the general car user and one specifically aimed at commercial vehicles. The MAP790/MAP690 models are suitable for most customers and come with built-in navigation on a 2GB flash memory. With mapping taken care of by TeleAtlas and 44 counties covered the units are useable almost anywhere and are easy to swap between vehicles. Navigation functions can be selected via the touchscreen and users are treated to a 360 degree 3D display mode for 3D city maps, 3D landmarks and 3D terrain. Other navigation features include toll-free TMC traffic information reception, lane indicator, speed limit information and spoken street and city names. To keep up-to-date, users can also update their maps and content through downloads from Clarion’s portal site. But the fun doesn’t stop there, the Clarion units can also act as a movie player, a music player, a device to browse photos and crucially, Bluetooth hands-free. There’s even a trip computer built-in, which could prove particularly useful for those business users who need to keep track of their mileage. The other offering is the MAP690TRK for commercial vehicle users. The unit offers virtually all of the functions of the previous unit with a 4.3in LCD nonreflective touchscreen. However, the crucial difference is that three different vehicle information profiles can be set-up, with the following data on each; height, width and height, weight (actual and Max), weight per-axle, trailer (yes/no) and hazardous material transportation. The route calculation then respects the following attributes; bridge (height, width, carrying capacity), tunnel (height, weight), road carrying capacity, water protection area, hazardous material transportation, general allowance and minimise bridge/ tunnels. The result of this is that drivers should never find their van, truck or lorry driving down roads that they’re either not suitable for or not allowed to be on. An added bonus is that the unit comes with a travel time monitor, basically acting as a trip computer that tracks driving and rest times and warns drivers when preset daily, continuous or break times are overtaken. That makes these units ideal for fleets, so could be an interesting product for dealers to put in front of their commercial clients. Contact: Clarion GB Ltd, 01793 870400 or clarion.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
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|ACCuTEK
DOWN AT ThE DEALER
Down at the Dealer:
At the back of the FOuR stand during the TRAX show, next to his Beetle demo car, Stuart Crombie made the suggestion that he’d like his company Accutek to be featured in these pages. Turning up to the hampshire business about a month later (just inside the pretty village of Kings Worthy) it was only fair to oblige. Their business is on a small industrial estate, out of sight from passing trade but near enough to some local landmarks for the many sent via word of mouth or by main dealer recommendation to locate them. They’ve built the innards of the unit from scratch, a large workshop with separate fabrication room downstairs, and a decent showroom and offices upstairs. There’s a distinct air of professionalism from the moment you arrive, from the smart signs and the team uniforms to the printed leaflets that they use at their own place and with dealers and the displays of quality products and electrical fittings. In fact, it feels a little more like an high class electricians than the usual audio store with lurid colour products and posters all around. Considering both Stuart and his partner Chris Payne come from the electronics industry it’s no real surprise though! With happy customers flowing through the store steadily, even on the Saturday M.E.N visited, it’s clear why Stuart wanted to show-off what an effective business they’ve created.
When was Accutek started, and how did it come about? Accutek was set-up by Chris Payne and myself in 1998 after working together for the previous nine years at an electronics company in Winchester. We discovered a gap in the area for a specialist to repair, supply and install car audio/visual systems as well as security and navigation systems. With the experience of working part-time in the industry we set out looking for premises within the Winchester area (where there wasn't a great deal of competition!). Foundry Yard, Kings Worthy was an ideal place to start with as it’s easy to get too even in the local rush hour.
Who works there now and what are their roles? Myself, Chris, Nicola Kemp (accounts) and Ben Denny (Saturday/tea boy)
you’ve moved units since you began, why’s that? We moved to a new unit within the same Foundry Yard estate in 2005 as it brought a larger workshop with the capacity to have four car bays and a cutting/trimming room. The new unit also gave a larger showroom for us to display a wider range of manufacturers and products. We could also make a larger repair lab, vinyl cutting area and more office space, plus an increase in parking to about 10 spaces.
What are the main products you sell and install now? has this changed over the years? Main products are Sat Nav, audio, phone kits, parking sensors, screens and sound Proofing. Originally, when we first set up, it was mostly car stereos and speakers. As technology has progressed, the more specialist equipment is required. We sell more phone kits now because of the change in the law and an increased number of parking sensors, as they are more widely known as an optional extra on new cars now. Sat Navs seem to have become more of a necessity too and we’ve seen a big shift from portables to professionally installed media centres.
What kind of customers do you have and how do you attract customers? Originally we were set-up for trade customers, but it’s now 50/50 private and trade. We advertise in local magazines and papers, attend car shows
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When Stuart Crombie of Accutek asked M.E.N to pay them a visit, who were we to refuse!
and use our website, Facebook page and leads through FOUR Masters, but most customers are word of mouth or repeat. We also hold workshops for two local colleges with between 15 and 25 students coming in to learn about car audio and installations.
wherever it was sold and the end user wouldn't spend a week ringing around and looking on the internet to get a better price. I have also seen a shift in manufacturers/ suppliers going direct to car dealers, which is very worrying as it's cutting out the specialist. In my opinion it’s not a good way for them to go, as in two or three years when cars are coming to the market with product already fitted, those manufacturers/suppliers will come back to the specialist and say “can you start selling these products again?”. And what do you think our reply is going to be! Fortunately we currently have a good customer base (trade and private), which continues to grow and I put that down to the service and knowledge that we provide.
What have been the biggest challenges for Accutek to date?
And finally, what does the future hold for Accutek?
A break-in in 2004 cleared out all of the stock and tools (two days before my first son was born!!) and the insurers refused to pay out. We had to build up again from scratch which was a huge challenge.
That must have been tough! Do you do anything as a company now that you feel sets you above your competition then? We specialise in all areas of car electronics from diagnostics to high-end bespoke installations with a passion for detail and customer service, customer service, customer service. We work on old classic cars which require careful attention, especially when the client doesn't want any audio to be visible but still sound fantastic, and many new vehicles which some dealers won't touch through fear of the unknown!. Being a FOUR Master helps with advertising our installation capabilities when we attend shows and also provides extra warranty on product. It’s very important as a specialist to be able to supply and install a complete audio/navigation system into a new registered car, and give the car dealer a 3-year warranty on all the products and installation (which runs alongside the manufactures warranty). This is only possible by the foresight of Pioneer's Nav to Business scheme and FOUR Masters extended warranty scheme. They’re a must have to keep trade customers happy and it also helps when trying to close a sale!
So that’s the good. Is there anything that frustrates you about running this business? To continue our passion to supply and professionally install good audio/visual and navigation systems, we need the support of manufacturers. This in some cases is happening, however, in most cases we find ourselves "giving product away" just to compete with other suppliers! It’s a shame the manufacturers can't recommend a retail price and everyone try to keep very close to it up and down the country. This way everyone would make the same profit
We’ll continue to provide both new and existing customers with the best service and products. And we’ll also reveal a new demo car!
Contact: Accutek, 01962 886900 or accutek.co.uk
www.electronics-worldwide.com FALCON CAN-BUS ALARM
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Ideal for dealer installations The Falcon Predator CAN-bus alarm uses the vehicle manufacturers remote control key to arm and disarm the alarm via the vehicles digital CAN-bus communication system.
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COMPATIBLE WITH
Features: � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �
For vehicles that already have remote central locking Compatible with 1 & 2 wire CAN-bus systems Upgradeable firmware for maximum compatibility Includes Loud 118dB six tone siren Operates from vehicles original remote control keys Includes dual stage shock sensor with warn away Second sensor port for single or dual zone sensors Silent Arm/Disarm Option Total Closure Facility Engine immobiliser Passive Arming arms alarm automatically Flashing Hazard Lights on arm/disarm/activation Temporary sensor bypass Valet mode to disable alarm functions Auto re-arm prevents accidental disarming High intensity blue Smart dashboard status LED Arm condition memory Defective Zone Bypass prevents false alarms Secure emergency override facility Door/boot/bonnet protection
Benefits for the installer:
Arm & Disarm With Factory Remote
Compatible with all major CAN-bus cars Compatible with 1 & 2 wire CAN-bus systems Installer configurable without need for PC Firmware is upgradeable to support new models Easy and quick to install High reliability Uses the OEM keyless entry remote controls � Programmable features gives opportunity to sell additional features for extra profit at no extra cost to the installer � The best priced CAN-bus alarm on the market = massive profit � � � � � � �
See website for full compatibility list
Alfa Romeo Audi Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Citroen Fiat Ford Honda Iveco Infiniti Jeep Kia Lamborghini Mazda Mercedes Mini Mitsubishi Opel Peugeot Porsche Saab Seat Skoda Subaru Suzuki Toyota Vauxhall VW Volvo
Full feature alarm with universal central locking, total closure, passive arming, immobiliser and dual stage shock sensor with warn away.
£29
FALCON PREDATOR EVO4 REMOTE START ALARM Alarm system with built in remote engine starter and turbo timer. With universal central locking, total closure and dual stage shock sensor.
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FALCON PREDATOR EVO4+ 2 WAY ALARM WITH REMOTE START High end alarm with 2 way LCD pager, remote engine starting and turbo timer. Includes dual stage shock sensor.
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FALCON PREDATOR GSM ALARM Alarm system with GSM communications and tracking via the mobile phone network. Control, track and listen in to the car from any phone.
£139
SNIPER EASY FIT ALARM SYSTEM
SNIPER X1 ALARM SYSTEM
SNIPER SELFTRACK GPS TRACKER
DIY alarm system with only 6 wires. Includes six tone siren, blue flashing LED, shock sensor, two remote controls and low negative locking outputs.
Popular budget alarm with universal central locking, total closure, passive arming, anti hijack, boot release output, immobiliser, six tone siren and dual stage shock sensor.
Subscription free GPS tracking system with text alerts and battery backup. Can be connected to any alarm to send text message on alarm activation.
£18
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INSTALLERS WANTED - REGISTER ON OUR WEBSITE BELOW
SNIPER AUTOMOTIVE
electronics WORLDWIDE
TM
FA L C O N WORLD CLASS SECURITY
Multimedia
Tel: 01928 759 239 www.electronics-worldwide.com
Login: trade Password: global All prices exclude VAT & delivery.
email: sales@electronics-worldwide.com
5 0116 2449846 & & sales@celtrade.com sales@celtrade.com
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|2010
INDuSTRy PERSONALITy
inDustry personality:
braDina FreeDMan
M.E.N gets the full lowdown on Parrot’s Trade Marketing Manager
Recently married Bradina Freedman nee huddell, is well-known to many thanks to her role at Parrot uK as Trade Marketing Manager, uK & Ireland. Born in Berkshire and now living in a small South Leicestershire village with her new husband and Cocker Spaniel Stanley she continues to flourish in a so far impressive career. having left a university course in Land Management and urban Planning at the age of 18, Bradina went off with “a dodgy suit and no doubt an even dodgier haircut” and landed a job as Marketing Assistant for a computer peripherals company where she became familiar with incoming technology. One of the Directors then bought into a franchise business selling clothes to pensioners in nursing and residential homes. he needed somebody to head up the marketing for this business and thought she’d be the best gal for the job. Living in Slough with a job based in Godalming wasn’t ideal but it was a great opportunity and they gave he a car so “who was I to complain!”. At 21 she decided to get her teeth into a big corporate and start to build upon her experience. This is when she found herself working for i2 Technologies, a multinational Supply Chain Management software company, headquartered in the uS. “I had an amazing time working for them, had a fantastic mentor and got to travel around the world. had it have not been for the crash in the e-commerce market I would have stayed with them, but this was not to be”.
So, how did you get into the mobile electronics market? In the early ‘00’s I landed myself a position at DTS, Digital Theater Systems as it was known then, as their European Marketing Co-ordinator, covering all of their business divisions: Consumer (CE), Film/Cinema, Broadcast and Pro-Audio. Both home and car CE manufacturers alike incorporated the DTS technology into their equipment by way of digital surround sound processing chips – all very hi-tech - and my team was tasked with supporting the European arms of all the major consumer electronics manufacturers as part of the company’s global strategy to support sales in the Far East. As part of this role I spent many weekends visiting numerous industry trade-shows, including the M.E.N Expo, handing out literature and demo DVD content to the manufacturers. I also worked with them behind the scenes to provide training and marketing support programmes to aid sales, and with managing the Blu-Ray committee meetings we hosted in Europe during the Blu-ray versus HD-DVD days, when studios were deciding which camp to sit in. During my time with DTS I was rewarded with a couple of promotions and finally found myself as their Director of Marketing for Europe. In 2007 the company made some strategic decisions and split its operations, and in October 2008 I bid farewell to DTS. After some well earned rest I then joined the ranks of Parrot in June 2009 and here I am!
have you found it a positive or negative being a woman in this male-dominated market...or do you believe there's no difference to being a man? 60
www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
There is always a difference, but ultimately your success boils down to the substance of who you are as an individual and your aspirations. Thankfully, to date, I haven’t experienced any negativity in the industry and long may this continue. I also think that my ability to find a way to laugh everything off helps.
What does a typical day for you at Parrot consist of? There isn’t a typical day. I always set myself a plan for the week but this changes hourly as my role is very reactive to customer needs and demands. Although we are a well-established brand in our field our team is very small, with only 10 of us based in the UK & Ireland, so we have our work cut out for us. The best part about my job is the flexibility and variety of activities and the team I work with are great. Can this be the part where I show my lack of social standing and make a shout out to Maxine Stalker and Magdalena Bieth for their continued hard work and commitment to the CIP and Parrot, and say that I really enjoying working with them – thank you ladies! The worst bit is getting up at 6am every Monday morning to sit on the M6 to go the office in Birmingham. I know get out the violins, Bradina’s got a hard life, but it kills me!
What's been your proudest professional achievement? Being promoted to the DTS European Director of Marketing at the age of 28. I’d set ‘Director’ level as a career goal for myself when I was 20 based on a role model from a previous company. That plus finally, after many years of putting it off because I was ‘too busy at work’, completing my ACIM qualification.
Do you have any hobbies that occupy your spare time? I run a local Beaver Colony, along with a friend, go on lads, laugh it up. It’s a scout group for girls and boys aged between 6 and 8 years and I really enjoy it. It completely takes my mind off of everything else because I have no choice but to concentrate on them as they are little tearaways! It means that children in our local community get to learn about their surroundings, working with others and basic scouting skills. It’s a great extension to their standard education and we’ve been really successful as our group continues to grow each term!
Is there anything else people may not know about you that you'd care to share? I like to sing. I’m no Beyonce, but I like to have a go so karaoke parties are my favourite kind!
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given? My dad gave me some advice once, but it’s too rude to repeat... “Do unto others what you would have them do unto you”, my mother always used to quote this to me. Don’t get me wrong she didn’t bash me over the head with a bible as a child, but it’s a very good proverb to live by. However she did use to follow it up with that classic expression; “Give as good as you get”. So the two combined somewhat contradict each other…no wonder growing up is challenging! The irony of it is that I completely believe in both of them!
And finally, what do you hope the future holds for you? Luck, health and happiness. Oh yeah, and a big fat lottery win!
Gonged
Winning the gong for the best advertising campaign in the 2010 M.E.N. Awards, shows yet again that Clarion’s nicely up-front. And that’s not all that stands out. This year Clarion has won more M.E.N. Awards than anyone else, which says a great deal about the Clarion range, and means a great deal for you. As others pull out or pull back, Clarion remains the most experienced, sustained and committed brand to the UK aftermarket and its appointed dealers. And that’s something else worth taking a good look at.
Want to know more? Call 01793 870400, or e-mail active@clarion.co.uk and we’ll e-mail you a free copy of Clarion Active, the dealer guide to get you on the road to better business. Clarion (UK) Ltd, Unit 1, Marshall Road, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YU
|2010
INDuSTRy PERSONALITy
Jl auDio
glasglow
unleash the MusiC A three-day tour by Jl Audio and Celsus helps dealers and their customers to hear the music
T
here’s a truth about car audio that anyone at JL Audio or Celsus will gladly offer to the ears of any dealer willing to listen. And that truth is; “Car audio is fun, so try not to forget that when you’re selling it!”. To prove the point in a typical manner of theirs (you may recall how they re-invigorated dealers with their CSI Miami trip), JL Audio’s Carl Kennedy and Steve Turrissi jetted into the uK to embark on a three-day tour to spread the message. Starting off at huets The In-Car Specialists in Shoreham, the party then moved to Car Electronics in Derby/Leicester before finishing up at CarAudioSecurity in hayes. Amongst all that Celsus’ Chris Bennett and Carl of JL Audio even squeezed in a trip to Glasgow too!
M.E.N caught up with the tour at the Derby/Leicester stopover to see the JL Audio guys in action. During the day Car Electronics opened up the doors of their Derby store, letting their workshop be taken over by customers’ cars while Steve and the guys from Celsus offered their expertise to tune their systems. There were clearly benefits offered by this service; firstly the team were actually helping the store to sell product, especially with the first officially sanctioned discount on JL Audio products and secondly the end customers were getting some professional input on how to make their installs sound better. Mike Keenan’s Scirrocco was also on hand to help, a low-cost install of JL products done by Jon Griggs showing just how good a minimal amount of quality equipment can sound. There were some interesting things to happen on the day, including the owner of a 5-series BMW having his whole sub enclosure removed and replaced just to let him hear the difference. While he didn’t jump into the purchase right then, it was apparent he was impressed with the punch the new kit gave him…and the masses of space it freed up in his boot! By around 5pm the team’s work was done in Derby so it was a quick drive over to Car Electronics’ Leicester headquarters. At this state-of-the-art building a fitting bay was cleared out and arranged with seating to greet the dealers/installers who were due to arrive. With a great atmosphere and a superb turnout Steve and Chris gave a presentation, talking about how they feel car audio can be improved, sold and enjoyed plus a few stories from the day in Derby. Some of the key points that were made concerned making sure that the customer not only had the knowledge to make the most of their install but also that dealers could sell great sounding systems that were expandable at a later date. In the current climate this kind of technique is crucial as it can get customers into great sounds at reasonably inexpensive price points, and importantly give them a great experience that should ensure they’ll be more likely to build upon the system in the future. To back this up, JL had some of their latest products on show for dealers to take a look 62
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at and, in some cases, hear. Interestingly they also called upon Carl’s extensive experience in sound production and he made an extremely valuable point that can help dealers to win over customers. This is that the quality of sound recordings, especially on downloaded tracks, can vary massively. Sometimes the same song on the same install can sound noticeably worse from two different media players purely down to the quality of the recording. Letting customers know this means the inner audiophile can come out in them next time they download a track…and that will help them to enjoy the music even more as they link the media player up to their car install. At the end of the presentations dealers had the opportunity to talk to the team and check out the JL Audio products, as well as to eat some pizza. It wasn’t just dealers though, some of their customers turned up in an array of cars, including a Mk3 Golf that had a W7 sub fitted into a spherical enclosure. In fact, with the sun gone and the music playing it had the feel of a good old-fashioned cruise! So, what was the verdict on the JL Audio/Celsus “Unleash the Music” tour? From their point of view they felt that it was a worthwhile way that they could help dealers to sell more. They weren’t solely focussed on their own products either as there’s a belief (which you may have recalled Chris Bennett put forward in his ‘Industry Personality’ feature a few months back) that “if the tide comes in, then all the boats rise”. Essentially though it was all about building up the industry again, helping dealers to find new and exciting ways to sell car audio and make sure that the quality of what the customers hear is so good they keep coming back for more. And all of that can only be a good thing, so it’s yet another example of how Celsus’ proactive approach in the UK is something to be admired but hopefully also followed by others in the future. Contact: Celsus uK Limited, 01202 664 390 or celsusice.co.uk
London
RAyNER RANTS
|2010
this Was all FiElds WhEn i WErE a LAD…. Adam Rayner is taken to portentous pondering….and writes one in memory of his mum, Claire Rayner O.B.E. I have, of course been thinking Large Thoughts of late, about life and death and what really matters. And have come to the conclusion that I did pick the best path for me. Although I might have made a lot more money as a suit. It was fully eighteen years ago, just before Mike Edwards was hired, that Rob Walker of Kenwood led me up the mountain and tried to tempt me away from journalism. I chose the route of being allowed to play with everything and having relationships across the whole industry as a journalist. And spinning my Volvo up through 200,000 miles… As quite apart from anything else, freelance media is what I grew up with and is exactly what my little bro does, too. I like to get a spark for an idea for my stuff here in M.E.N., as there is so much piffle locked up between my ears, it’s generally best to have the right question asked. I was on the phone to wish Emma Ward, MD of Vibe, a very happy birthday and spoke to Ryan Hawtin, newbie hotshot PR dude at Midbass Distribution. He knows I have half a million miles on my clock and asked me about, “What was it like in the Olden Days, Gramps?” So I tell him now…..(wibble-wobble, fade flashback…) It’s the early Eighties and my dad’s just bought a Peugeot 107. A terrible car that stops when it rains, it creates the violent need for the 205 to be developed and rescue the company. But it was when I had been driving a year or so and it was shiny and new. Like the big old three-rows-ofseats estate, it had to go off to Neasden Electronics, our local branch in the Kenton Road. There, it gets fitted with a Pioneer headunit that takes cassettes and has an AM/FM radio with six presets. Before long, I add a Harry Moss booster equaliser I buy from a car parts shop. It says it has 4x55 watts as against 4x50 watts and a flashing light peak output meter. I later find that the innards were identical and that they just put the label different on the front. But the amazing thing back then was that the OEM trade was pitiful and the after market was relied upon by the actual mainstream car buyer, to equip their car with a radio. It was the era when Mark Turner’s dad was earning enough to drive an Aston Martin. There were no amplifiers of any kind. There were no high end nor big SPL products whatsoever. We had never ever heard of the stiffening capacitor and a subwoofer might exist but only as an eight or a ten perhaps from those complete lunatics at JBL. But then they were crazy Yanks. I recall I had a 12in sub taken from a bin at a PA company I was working for and had re-coned by Wembley Loudspeakers which
I replaced with a JBL ten incher as the brochure said it would make ‘practically unlimited volume levels’. It was cleaner and tighter but the cheapo bodged 12 was a joy to own. Brian Parton was a lippy little git of a shop boy with a sharp line in flat top buzz cuts that I repped to for Midlands Car Radio (if anyone knows him, do give my love to his ex boss, Frank Lancaster, who was a real fan of my mum’s.) and Mike Smith was a rep rather than on the board. Cassette was still king and CD was a technological marvel that only the cognoscenti thought was a good idea to be used in-car. We knew nothing of Dynamat. Dealer trips were things like jaunts to the JVC Jazz festival in St. Lucia and there was a mighty margin on all products. I think we peaked at around 350 million GBP a year. Our trade is now around 80 million a year with headphones being worth 90 million. When I was repping, the dealers were all complaining about poverty yet on my patch alone, I would go to at least six stores with a whale-tail Ford Escort Cosworth parked outside, all sign written and stuffed with tunes. But you know what, you can look back at those times fondly, especially if you are a major player, yet today’s trade is far more high end. The products are a thousand times cooler and far more hardcore type end users exist as they know the stuff is there to buy. Like £600 monster boomer woofers or eight grand Thesis amplifiers and high end gramophones, the trade is now about selling stuff to those who care rather than it being only a ‘necessity purchase.’ Which doesn’t include all the parking sensors and security but in audio, from a selfish point of view, I reckon the consumer has never had it so good. Oh and by the way, I said both ‘Cunnilingus’ and ‘F*k’ at the funeral, as well as whipping out the carved wooden cock Claire was sent in the Eighties, as part of my few words. Here’s the context of the ‘worst bit’: And all but lastly, the biggest question I was always asked was, “What’s she really like? Is she really like that?” And the reply was always the same, “She’s a WYSIWYG mate! What you see is what you get. She just never says ‘f*k!’ on the telly. Most kids from a happy home are of the opinion that their mum is the best in the world. I still think so.”
Do take care now and avoid the old BOOMPh, tinkle. www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu
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V.C.E GuIDE
INSTANT EXPERT |
Instant expert
Jaguar X Type 2006 parking sensor insTallaTion
This month we are installing parking sensors into a 2006 Jaguar X Type estate. This is not the hardest of installation as there are factory blanking plates to show where to mount the aftermarket sensors. 1 So to start, mount the sensors on the original black, we used matt black sensor, these are mounted on the lower skirt. There is no need to remove the bumper on this installation: 2 Next, remove the false floor and route the cables to near
side and use the existing cable grommet for entry into vehicle behind spare wheel.
3 You can locate the power for the kit on the reverse light wire behind nearside lamp cluster. To access this, remove the nearside panel in the boot and the cable colour you are looking for is Green/Black: 4 Whilst behind the panel you will find plenty of room to mount the junction box and loom up the cabling. 5 We located the speaker for the sensors on the passenger kick panel:
Steelmate Parking sensors installed Installation time 60 – 90 minutes.
Compiled by: Vernon Craig (Freedom Installations) 07813303398 – Covering Bristol, TA, GL & BA postcodes. Installation by: Andrew Rossell (Blackpool Communications Ltd) 07976 757573 – Covering Blackpool & Preston, FY & PR postcodes.
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Alpine Electronics of UK Ltd Contact: Keith Holness T: +44 (0) 2476 719623 E: keith.holness@alpine-electronics.co.uk W: www.alpine-electronics.co.uk Brands: Alpine Armour Automotive Limited Contact: Sales T: 0800 783 9125 E: sales@armourauto.com W: www.armourauto.com Brands: Autoleads, CTi, iO, Mutant, Radiomobile, Veba, VI, Avital, Clifford, Focal, Hornet, Kicker, Orion, Viper Anglia Fleet Services T: 01493 888017 M: 07760196088 W: www.angliafleetservices.co.uk E: james@angliafleetservices.co.uk Brands: Anglia Fleet Services Ltd offer a One stop shop. Vehicle Conversions Specialists. Customer operations and national vehicle installation services of the highest quality including a wide range of accessories such as Racking, Roof Racks, Tow Bars, Graphics, Van Vaults, Bulkheads, Light Bars, Beacons, Hands Free kits, Tracker, Sat Navs. Audiovox Incaar Systems GmbH Contact: Ian Rosevear T: 01483 722531 E: ian.r@audiovoxincaarsystems.com W: www.audiovoxincaarsystems.com Brands: AIS, Incaar, Invision Audio Wave LTD Contact: Grant Hanan T: +44 (0) 1702 589722 E: grant@audiowaveltd.com W: www.audiowaveltd.com Brands: Audio Wave - Handcrafted bespoke amplifiers Audiopipe Contact: Pav / REJJY T: 01604 601500 / +44 (0) 7810652661 E: pavkapoor@hotmailcom W: www.caraudiosupplies.com Brands: Audiopipe, Earthquake & Mobile Spec Automonitor Mobile Multimedia Ltd Contact: Hugh J McTernan T: +44 (0) 116 275 2020 E: sales@automonitor.co.uk W: www.automonitor.co.uk Brands: Automonitor, SAVV, Necvox, Visteon and Vizualogic Autosound Limited Contact: Lee Fergus T: 01274 688990 E: lee.fergus@autosound.co.uk W: www.autosound.co.uk Brands: Blaupunkt, Tetrax, Funkwerk
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Bazooka (Flagship Products) Contact: Greg Morris T: +44 (0) 20 8838 8844 E: sales@flagship-products.co.uk W: www.bazooka.com Brands: Bazooka, Morel
Clarion (GB) Limited Contact: Sales at Clarion T: +44 (0) 1793 870400 F: +44 (0) 1793 875881 E: info@clarion.co.uk W: www.clarion.co.uk Brands: Clarion
Bravox Audio (Hexen A.D) Contact: Ajay Maisuria T: +44 (0) 20 8904 7099 E: sales@bravox.co.uk W: www.bravoxaudio.com, www.bsaaudio.com Brands: Bravox & BSA Speaker Systems
20:20 Mobile Contact: Marc James T: 01270 411838 E: marc.james@2020mobile.com W: www.2020mobile.com Brands: Nokia, IO, BlackBerry, Sony Ericcson, Jabra, Motorola, LG
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Car Audio Security Contact: Reno or Allan T: 08707 220011 E: support@caraudiosecurity.com W: www.caraudiosecurity.com / www.jblcaraudio.co.uk Brands: UK Wholesaler for JBL, Infinity & Harman Kardon. Authorised Dealers for: Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, Sony, JVC, Vibe, Fli, Boss Audio, Orion, Clifford, Snooper, Hertz, Rainbow, Fusion
Cobra UK Contact: Cobra Sales T: 01932 772 400 E: salesuk@cobra-at.com W: www.cobravehiclesecurity.co.uk Brands: Cobra offers a complete range of vehicle security, safety and electronic systems: CobraTrak stolen vehicle tracking systems, Cobra alarms and immobilisers, Cobra ParkMaster parking sensors, Rosen retro fit in-car DVD systems, NSV Bluetooth handsfree systems, E-Cruise aftermarket cruise control and speed limiters, and Coyote live speed camera alert systems.
Car Audio Supplies Ltd Contact: Pav / Rejjy T: 01604 601500 / +44 (0) 7810652661 Email address: pavkapoor@hotmail.com W: www.caraudiosupplies.com Brands: Earthquake, Audiopipe & Mobile Spec
Commercial Electronics Contact: Salim Ali T: +44 (0)208 404 7105 F: +44 (0) 208 404 7104 E: sales@hawkcaralarm.com W: www.hawkcaralarm.com www.demonalarm.com Brands: Designed & engineered in UK. Est. over 25 years. OEM service available. Hawk Car Alarm, Hawk Reversing Angel, Hawk Motorcycle Alarm, Hawk GPS, Demon Alarm, Demon iReversing , Demon Motorcycle Alarm, Demon Tracking.
Canm8 Ltd Contact: Colin Palmer T: 08452266283 E: SALES@CANM8.COM Brands: Canm8 range of can bus interfaces can bus custom design CSS Aftermarket Group Contact: Mick Barber T: 01773 746 591 F: 01773 743 251 E: sales@CSSAftermarket.co.uk W: www.carsoundsupplies.com Brands: PARKSAFE REVERSING SENSORS - CAMERAS - IVANHOE TRUNKLINER - ACCOUSTIC TEXTILES IVANHOE SUB BOXES - RHINOMAT SOUND DEADENING - PARCEL SHELVES - AERIALS ELECTRIC AERIALS - ONYX AUDIO ELITE CONSUMABLES AND ACCCESSORIES - MARINE MOTORHOME - COMMERCIAL - AUTOMOTIVE
Connects2 Contact: Andrew Simner T: 0845 257 5588 F: 0121 522 5589 E: sales@connects2.com W: www.connects2.com Brands: Connects2 – Interface solutions for O.E.M and aftermarket systems, Including interfaces for iPod, USB, MP3, Aux, Steering wheel controls inc CAN-Bus, Stalk & Display, Telemute, Parrot, and MOST fibre optic iPod & Bluetooth hands free interfaces. BEAT, Ground Zero, Tsunami, Shuriken, Balistic, Raptor, Zenec, Metra, LG, MAC Audio
Cellular Trade Accessories (CTA) Contact: Sales T: 01296 425831 E: sales@tradeaccessories.com W: www.tradeaccessories.com Brands: Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Parrot, Motorola, Autoleads, Scorpion, Jabra Celsus UK Limited Contact: Sales T: +44 (0)1202 664 390 E: sales@celsusice.co.uk W: www.celsusice.co.uk Brands: Celsus Accessories, Calearo, CANBus, Dynamat Europe, iPod Integration, Jehnert, JL Audio, MTX Audio, Stinger Electronics, PAC Audio, Stinger DSI CEL Trade Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Garmin, Road Angel, Snooper, Sony, TomTom Parrot, Fusion, Mio, Pioneer, Alpine and Kenwood Chameleon Codewing Ltd Contact: Kent Stabler T: 01206 500 848 M: 07702 565100 E: sales@thechameleongroup.co.uk W: www.chameleondirect.com Brands: Authorised Distributor for THB Bury, Parrot, Motorola, Kram Radio Mutes, Scorpion, Dashmount, Brodit, Steelmate, Alpine, Kenwood, Snooper & Nokia. Plus Trade & Corporate Nationwide installation. CKO International Contact: Mark Scarff T: 020 8863 8333 E:enquiries@c-ko.co.uk W: www.c-ko.co.uk Brands: CKO, Eurologics, Necvox, Nesa/ VST, Rosen
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Daltec AI Ltd Contact: Matt Tombs T: 0208 515 7820 E: sales@dal-tec.com W: www.dal-tec.com Brands: Distributors for Dice Ipod, Dension, Fiscon, Steelmate, Bluetooth Car kits including Novero, THB Bury and Nokia, Brodit, Tow-Trust and much more…. Dashmount Contact: Steve Taylor T: +44 (0) 208 391 1911 E: steve.taylor@dashmount.co.uk W: www.dashmount.co.uk Brands: Dashmount Digicat Media LTD Contact: Select Products T: 01233 623236 E: matt@selectproducts.co.uk W: www.selectproducts.co.uk Brands: installer accessories Directed Electronics Contact: Armour Automotive T: 01420 476 767 E: Customerservices@directed-uk.com W: www.directed.com Brands: Clifford, Viper, Hornet, Avital, West Coast Customs, Directed Audio, Orion, Directed Video, Directed Mobile Media
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Drive Contact – Steve McLean T: +44 (0) 1943 882716 E: smclean@imcopex.co.uk W: www.drive-imcopex.co.uk Brands: Handsfree – Parrot, Nokia, THB Bury & others SOT & Telemute Leads – Autoleads Non Damage Brackets – Bloomice Cradles – Brodit Lightbars, Beacons & LED’s – Haztec Camera Systems – Veba Antennas – Hirschmann & others Voltage Converters – Wallen GPS Safety Alert & Event Recording Systems – Novus Parking Sensors – Steelmate, Veba, ParkSafe & Autowatch (HGV) Alarms - GT
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Earthquake Contact: Pav / REJJY T: 01604801500 / +44 (0) 7810652661 E: pavkapoor@hotmail.com W: www.caraudiosupplies.com Brands: Earthquake, Audiopipe & Mobile Spec
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Fusion Electronics UK Ltd Contact: Matthew Forbes T: +44 (0) 845 299 7586 F: +44 (0) 845 280 7585 E: matthewf@fusionelectronics.com W: www.fusionelectronics.com
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Navigon AG Contact - Anthony Mills T: 01189 635 965 F: +49 40 370 88 480 E: Anthony.mills@navigon.com W: www.navigon.com
Select Products Contact: Matt T: 01233 62 32 36 E: matt@selectproducts.co.uk W: www.selectproducts.co.uk Brands: Select Products
Novus Systems Ltd Contact: Nigel Carter T: 0845 659 0959 E: info@novusgps.com W: www.novusgps.comm Brands: Novus speed camera detectors
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SmarTrack Ltd - Global Telemetrics Contact: Andrew Newman T: 0845 833 6971 – 07787 106493 E: andy.n@smartrack.uk.net w: www.smartrack.eu Brands: SmarTrack – MotoTrak – TOADTRAK - uTrack
Origin Technologies Ltd Contact: Steve Doyle T: 0203 010 1000 E: steve@pogogps.com W: www.pogogps.com Brands: Pogo and Origin Pama & Co Ltd Contact: Pama Sales Office T: 0161 494 4210 E: uksales@pama.co.uk W: www.pama.com Brands: Pama, Authorised UK distributor for Parrot, Plantronics, Krusell, Cobra, Scala, Ring, Dexim, Lexar
Gemini Security Direct UK Ltd Contact: Kelly Pee T: +44 (0) 1354 695 946 E: k.pee@gemini-alarm.com W: www.gemini-alarm.com Brands: Manufacture of Car Alarms, Can-bus, Wireless Sensors, Parking Sensors Cellular Accessories.
Panorama Antennas Ltd Contact: John Thomson T: +44 (0) 20 8877 4444 E: sales@panorama-antennas.com W: www.panorama-antennas.com Brands: Manufacturer of antennas for DAB, Mobile Radio, Tetra, 3G Broadband and other wireless technologies.
In-CarPC Ltd Contact: David Hitchings T: 0117 972 1775 E: sales@in-carpc.co.uk W: www.in-carpc.co.uk Brands: In-CarPC, Mini Intel Atom Automotive PC, Mini Intel Core 2 Duo Automotive PC, Mini Via C7 Automotive PC, Pico Automotive PC
Paragon Auto Electrics Contact: Paul Culling T: 0845 33 00 600 E: Paul@paragoncaraudio.com W: Paragoncaraudio.com Brands: Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, JVC, Clarion, Sony, Rockford, Connects2, Autoleads,TR Speed Detectors,Hirschmann
Sailes Marketing Ltd Contact: Matthew Sailes T: +44 (0) 1386 554210 E: info@sailesmarketing.com W: www.sailesmarketing.com Brands: Manufacturer and Distributor of CAN Bus interfaces, Electronic Interfaces, Automotive Transducers, Data Logging Systems and SpeedWatch Scorpion Automotive Ltd Contact: Petra T: 01257 249928 E: info@scorpionauto.com W: www.scorpionauto.com Brands: Scorpion Security, Scorpion Parking Systems, Scorpion Stolen Vehicle Recovery Systems, Scorpion Cellular Accessories, Scorpion Multi Media, Scorpion Reversing Cameras
Navman Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Navman
Focal See Armour for contact details
Frequency Telecom Ltd Contact: Stephen Donovan T: 020 8397 2222 E: s.donovan@frequencytelecom.co.uk W: www.frequencytelecom.co.uk Brands: Jelly Communications, CleverKit.com, UK Car Kits.co.uk
ProgressiveICE.com T: 0871 871 9747 E: sales@progressiveICE.com W: www.progressiveICE.com Brands: Audiovox InCaar Systems, Becker, c~quence, Dension, Flash2pass, i-sotec, Parkology, Paser, Vizualogic
Morel (Flagship Products) Contact: Greg Morris T: +44 (0) 20 8838 8844 E: sales@flagship-products.co.uk W: www.morelhifi.com Brands: Morel, Bazooka
Fli Audio T: 0870 765 8423 E: dealers@midbass.co.uk W: www.fliaudio.co.uk Brands: Fli
Four Contact: Brian Parton T: 0845 450 1594 E: info@fourcars.co.uk W: www.fourcars.co.uk Brands: Audison, Audiocontrol, Audison Connection, CDT, Hertz, Massive, Rainbow, Skinz
Locks4Vans Ltd Contact: Sales T: +44 (0) 1474 560077 F: +44 (0) 1474 561112 E: sales@locks4vans.co.uk W: www.locks4vans.co.uk Brands: L4V, Diablock, Bodyguard, Containerlock, Deadlocks, Slamlocks, Defender Contact: Kevin O’Byrne T: 0118 9701612 E: admin@mmsa.org.uk W: www.mmsa.org.uk Brands: The trade association of independent specialist retailers
Electronics Worldwide Ltd Contact: Chris Williams T: +44 (0) 800 083 1893 +44 (0) 1928 759239 E: chris@electronics-worldwide.com W: www.electronics-worldwide.com Brands: Falcon Alarms Systems, DE Multimedia
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Parrot UK Limited T: 0844 472 2360 E: sales.uk@parrot.com W: www.parrot.com Brands: Parrot
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Drivesync - Tracking Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Drivesync - Tracking.
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Kenwood Electronics UK Limited T: +44 (0) 1923 816444 E: enquiries@kenwood-electronics.co.uk W: www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk Brands: Kenwood
Steelmate Automotive (UK) Ltd Contact: Kevin Kay T: 01582 475677 E: sales@steel-mate.co.uk W: www.steel-mate.co.uk Brands: Steelmate Parking sensors, TPMS, HID
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Twd LTD Contact Name: Smudge T: 07980 594 579 F: 01902 863 999 W: www.twdlimited.co.uk Brands: Crunch, Hifonics, MB Quart, Toxic, Audiobahn
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Vestatec Contact Name: Jon Rossiter T: +44 (0) 208 867 2347 E: jon.rossiter@vestatec.co.uk W: www.metasystem.co.uk Brands: Meta, Gentex
Vibe Audio T: 0870 765 8423 E: dealers@midbass.co.uk W: www.vibeaudio.co.uk Brands: Vibe
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