op_Mobile Electronics News August 2011 by webwax

WWW.MOBILEELECTRONICSNEWS.EU

iPOD HEAD UNIT REVIEW

AUGUST 2011

A W A R D S 2 0 1 1

T H E

I N - C A R

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

AWARDS 2011

BE A PART OF IT, HAVE YOUR SAY,

VOTING FORM INSIDE GOLD

SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

SUPPLIERS OF

DATES ANNOUNCED!

INSIDE

INDUSTRY INTERVIEW MARK BAKER

ACTIVE BASS MARKET EXAMINED

DAB UPDATE DAB WILL DEFINITELY HAPPEN

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

CONTENTS juLY 2011

44 EXPO NEWS

04 ED SPEAK

46 OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Once more the editor starts fiddling with his electricals

06-12 NEWS Hurrah! Great news about the AWARDS and next year’s EXPO

13 KENWOOD PRODUCT REVIEW Exciting new double DIN range from Kenwood

14-15 AWARDS VOTING FORM Support your industry because it needs YOU!

16-17 DEMO CAR Vibe’s presence across the pond in evidence with a Nissan Titan

20-21 CONNECTS2 COMPANY REVIEW You’ve come a long way baby – from small to large international firm

22-26 iPOD-FRIENDLY HEAD UNITS Millsy looks at full control of Apple devices single dinners

30 DAB UPDATE

What, where and when the 2012 event is happening

Arthur Deebie asks what’s so special about awards

42 INDUSTRY PERSONALITY Mark Baker from Celsus is in the chair this month

50 DOWN AT THE DEALER It’s not often we cover a sole trader – Mick Cicora

52 RAYNER’S RANTS Adam is waxing lyrical again and mentions John Lydon

53 M.E.N DIRECTORY Compiled this month by ed’s new assistant Rolan Bolan

54 V.C.E GUIDE HYUNDAI i20 gets the VCE expert treatment Charlotte Body PUBLISHER Tel: 01268 754 897 or 07903 944666 Fax: 01268 754429 email: charlotte@creativemedialtd.co.uk Martyn Williams EDITOR Tel: 07768 083748 email: edunit@edunit.plus.com

Pro’s and Con’s of DAB opinion sampled and reviewed

Shauna Peters PUBLICATION MANAGER Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: shauna.peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk

34 BEAT GENERATION

Peter Johnson ART DIRECTOR Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: peter.johnson@creativemedialtd.co.uk

Connects2 is expanding its range of DAB head units

Loraine Winter DESIGNER Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: loraine.winter@creativemedialtd.co.uk

36-42 ACTIVE BASS UNITS A comprehensive guide to products available today

37 IFITSTUFF COLUMN Jeff Scott gives us the low-down on forum activities

Contributors Adam Rayner: adam@talkaudio.net. Andy Mills (Millsy): millsy-max@hotmail.com. Bojo O’Toole: bojoot@gmail.com 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.

GO 07/11

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

ED UNIT SPEAKS

GOOD OLD DAB? A dealer raised a question at the DAB seminar at this year’s EXPO saying that he had a customer with a ten year-old DAB head unit that needed fixing – any suggestions? Paul Ellis of Source Sounds – ever the business man – shouted “sell him a new one!” Love it. The conversation went on to discuss some pro’s and con’s but the bottom line was to encourage the customer to move on. The first DAB unit I installed back in the 80s was a Grundig which had an add-on tuner box the size of a disc changer (what’s that?). Things got better once discrete components got chipped, ending in single DIN head units with built-in DAB tuners. I still use a very old JVC KD-DB711 as a kitchen radio and, with the improved DAB transmission power, this and a Blaupunkt Woodstock DAB 53 (with ‘instant

Most readers will know that I live car electronics (in an amateur stylee) as well as write about it. I recently fitted a Sony double dinner into my car because I love TomTom Live HD and hate satnavs stuck to the windscreen. At the moment though, my interior light doesn’t work but the head unit comes on when I open the door. This will hopefully be cured soon by fitting a better quality CAN-Bus interface box. There are also a couple of points peculiar to the Sony unit, one being that the data exchange system they work on is so old that it wont interface with a steering wheel telephone button and the other is that there is a chance that the TomTom will probably need resetting and updating with firmware version 10.871 to keep it working reliably. More irritating than all these issues is the unavailability of a facia trim to fill the gap between the head unit and the adaptor panel. It all started with the fact that the Sony universal trim supplied, which can be cut to suitable outside dimensions, does not fit the Sony unit for which it was designed. At the moment I’ve cut out a bit of thin vinyl but any normal trim won’t work because it has to be a tapering thickness from 5 to 6.5mm to produce a professional finish. I’m toying with the idea of cutting and shaping a piece of Corian solid work top plastic. It will take me hours to do but at least it will look ‘factory’ when I’ve finished.

record’ onto an SD card!) in my weekend sporty roadster, both perform very well. The story was rather different when they were first introduced at a time Old DAB units work better now with improved transmission – this one needed a new round bit (below panel) to keep it working maybe for another ten years?

when low power and patchy transmission coverage was the norm. Unsurprisingly, the latest more sensitive DAB sets – often with better antenna - would have performed better in those early days. Going back to the customer with the ten year-old head unit, if he was in the trade he might have splashed out a few quid

AWARDS – MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT! Don’t forget to vote for your favourite DAB product and DAB idea – check the categories that you can enter with your product vote – ‘Best Digital Radio Product’ and‘Best DAB innovation’

NEXT ISSUE – SEND YOUR LATEST INFO – BE A PART OF IT! Features: Parking sensors, entry-level speakers and a tracking update feature.

for a spare part and brought it back from the dead just as I did with my Blaupunkt DAB 53. It recently developed a skittish volume control which was down to a faulty rotary encoder (shown in the pic just below the face panel outer section). A quick soldering job and it was back in business. I got the spare part from Autosound who can still supply some parts for old Blaupunkt units (01274 688990). Sony saga continued..

MARTYN WILLIAMS

Editor edunit@edunit.plus.com

We provide seamless integration to a vehicles factory entertainment system. This includes iPod, USB, Bluetooth, Digital TV, AV Input/Output, Rear-View Camera & Video-in-Motion

DVB LOGIC FEATURES  Diversity DVB-T TV Tuner & Multimedia Interface in one device  TV Tuner functions are controllable directly from the factory system*  Dedicated input for aftermarket Rear View Camera  1 x Audio/Video Input & Output  Includes a pair of Active Antenna’s  Plug & Play Installation  Extensive Application Range Including: Audi, BMW, Range Rover, Mercedes, Porsche & VW *Subject to compatibility

iBC The intelligent Board Computer for your Smartphone

NEW

 On Board Computer, Power Meter & Diagnostics  Displays precise car data like engine temperature, torque, acceleration, boost pressure and much more*  Race timer to measure your 0-60 mph times  USB port for updates and new features  Compatible with iPhone 2G, 3G, 3GS, 4, iPod Touch and iPad from iOS V3.2  Currently available for BMW Models  Available soon for Audi, Mercedes & VW *The availability of the data depends on the vehicle model

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Web: www.media-in-motion.co.uk

CobraTrak now available with web location on demand and geofence

CobraTrak offers Stolen Vehicle Tracking with Pan European coverage as standard and a new Web Upgrade Package featuring: Pinpoint vehicle location on demand Self-set geofencing with immediate breach alerts via SMS or email Particularly suitable for commercial vehicle and fleet operators, the web upgrade option is available on both CobraTrak Plus and CobraTrak 5 for a small additional fixed annual fee

Call Cobra Sales Support now on 01932 772400 www.cobravehiclesecurity.co.uk

NEWS

MEN AWARDS 2011 SPONSORS ARE ANNOUNCED

A W A R D S 2 0 1 1

T H E

I N - C A R

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

AWARDS 2011 Connects2 is the Gold Sponsor of the MEN Awards night and will be officially launching to market their Auto-DAB Tuner interface just before the activities on Thursday October 13th. Connects2 Sales and Marketing Director Andy Simner commenting on the event said: “I am very pleased to announce our involvement with MEN as the Gold Sponsor for GOLD the Awards in October. This prestigious event will be the launch pad to the industry VOTING FORM SPONSOR of our official introduction to market of our hideaway interface ‘black box’ DAB ON PAGE 15 GOLD tuner – the Auto-DAB.” SPONSOR This will precede the Awards Dinner and Bond-style entertainment followed by a SILVER chance to out-Bond your friends in the Casino. SPONSOR Silver Sponsors of the Awards are Nemesis Technology, a major importer of communications equipment throughout the UK. Nemesis is the UK’s sole importer for SUPPLIERS OF a number of major brands including the renowned Swedish manufacturer Brodit. The Elan range of innovative audio integration products is also a part of its portfolio of related products all backed by the Nemesis Technology complete sales and technical support. Chris Chance, MD of Nemesis Technology, commented on the sponsorship of the Awards 2011. He said: “I am proud to be putting the SPONSORED BY NEMESIS TECHNOLOGY, SUPPLIERS OF BRODIT SILVER Nemesis name, a leading supplier of Brodit, Ace and Elan products as a SPONSOR sponsor of this event which is an excellent platform to increase industry awareness.” For more info contact Shauna Peters on 01268 754897 or Shauna.Peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk

BE A PART OF IT, HAVE YOUR SAY,

KENWOOD IS M.E.N PAMA IS EXPO SPONSOR CELEBRATING M E TA L D E S I G N & M A N U FA C T U R E

M E TA L D E S I G N & M A N U FA C T U R E

Following on from the success of EXPO 2011 many exhibitors have already signed up for MEN EXPO 2012 in the Olympic Year which will be sponsored by Kenwood Electronics UK. 2012 also marks the 10th Mobile Electronics News Exhibition which will again be staged at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry on March 13th and 14th. Adam Handley, General Manager of Kenwood Electronics UK Ltd says “Kenwood are proud to be the Main Sponsor of the 2012 M.E.N. Expo Exhibition, the leading trade show for the Mobile Electronics industry in the UK. This underlines Kenwood’s continued commitment to our Industry and in particular our dealer network. As in previous years Kenwood will use this event to showcase its new range, which will include a major step forward in Technology. After the success of last year’s Digital Radio seminar, MEN will be offering an expanded conference programme for 2012. Topics at the planning stage are: The Development of the DAB infrastructure., OEM Integration., Closing a sale – Sales and marketing techniques explained by the experts., Diversification - How to fit your business in with what is happening in today’s world and Future Tech - What are car manufacturers planning? The IfitStuff Installation Competition will again be staged next year, offering visitors the chance to witness the UK’s best installers battle it out for the top accolade. If you want to be a part of this competition and show the industry what you are made of then contact Jeff Scott: jeff@ifitstuff.com. An Expo party is also planned and this will take on a ‘Viva Las Vegas’ themed evening, so join us in a night of free beer, food, DJ and show girls. This will be taking place at one of the UK’s largest casinos. Visit www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu to request your free expo ticket and register online, or alternatively call our ticket hotline on 01268 754 897. SPONSORED BY

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

30 YEARS

In 1981 the Farshi family consisting of Pa (Father) Ma (Mother) and two brothers Edi and Igal set up Pama & Co and commenced their trading lives retailing consumer electronics. This small enterprise has grown into the multi million pound business it is today, operating from Pama House on Pamas own business park with full warehousing and logistics facilities. Throughout its 30 years Pama has been one of the leading lights within the mobile accessories industry, winning numerous awards for its own products and winning the Millenium and Queens Awards for innovation for its patented Plug ‘n’ Go range. Pama wishes to thank all its customers, suppliers and staff, past and present, for their support. Contact: Pama Group 0161 494 4210 www.pama.com

New Kenwood Recruit Richard Bamford has joined Kenwood Electronics UK as their Northern Region Area Sales Manager, a job which also covers Scotland and Ireland. Richard came on board at the end of July from within the industry and is lining up a busy schedule of dealer visits. If you would like to make contact, his number is 07836 226309.

NEW MUTANT HEAD UNITS

Leading the way in fitting solutions ITEM CODE: 14-441 • iPod 4 cradle USB Charge & Sync • Adjustable swivel & sides (for skins)

One of the latest additions to the Mutant range is the iPod-friendly MT7635USBi which features a CD/MP3/WMA/CD-R/CD-RW compatible deck, AM/FM-RDS tuner, front USB/ SD/MMC input, 3.5mm aux in alongside full control and ID tagging for the iPod when used with the Mutant-compatible iPod Control Lead (requires PC7-HU). The output on this unit is a healthy 4x50 Watts, it has a fold down, detachable panel, four-way equaliser, RCA line out and ISO connectors. It also has a timer function which allows the radio or playing media to continue playing for 30 minutes after the unit is switched off. The Mutant range also has a new feature-rich Bluetooth head unit with the MT7609BT. The new unit will incorporate Hands-free technology including a full keypad along with full music streaming functionality. The new head unit allows Bluetooth music streaming (A2DP), Bluetooth functionality (HFP), LCD display with scrolling text, flip down detachable front panel, CD/CD-R/CD-RW compatible, 12 AM and 18 FM RDS radio presets, USB/SD/MMC support up to 16GB, dial pad on front panel, 4 x 40 Watts and a 20 call history memory.

ITEM CODE: 10-594 • Audi A1 Handsfree SOT cable (new style Quadlock)

ITEM CODE: 50-372 • Audi A1 Fascia

The Mutant brand is not one to lag behind the competition which is why there’s a new DAB head unit model MT5068DAB with plenty of features and good performance. It has a DAB/DAB+ digital radio (Band III) tuner plus AM/FM MPX PLL conventional radio. The CD deck is CD-RW/MP3/WMA compatible and it has front 3.5mm socket, USB port and SD card slot. Power is 4x40 Watts max output with a stereo RCA line out. All this plus a fold down, detachable face panel. Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com ITEM CODE: 39-VOL-01 • Volvo S60, V60 S80 & XC 90 (<2007) • CAN services & steering control

Ian Murdoch’s New Agency ISR Consulting is a new agency set up by former Pioneer GM and Dension Sales and Marketing Director, Ian Murdoch. People who have attended a Dension or Pioneer launch in recent years will be aware of Ian’s power as a presenter, and it is in the fields of sales training and presentation skills training that ISR will initially be concentrating. Ian has a wealth of experience in the automotive and consumer electronics markets and has also partnered with the Rainmaker Consultancy, one of the country’s most experienced and innovative ad agencies, to be able to provide a full set of marketing services. Commenting on his services Ian said: “The current market situation is very challenging, and expertise is expensive. At ISR, we have the experience and knowledge to help a lot of companies and we can offer the benefits of that on a kind of ‘pay as you go’ basis, at rates that are realistic for the industry. I’ve always been very passionate about training and am looking forward to the opportunity to pass on some of what I have been lucky enough to learn from some excellent mentors over the years.” Contact: Ian on 07525 911894 www.isrconsulting.co.uk

ITEM CODE: 25-512 • Landrover Freelander II CAN interface • Front & Rear Parking, Speed & Ignition

Contact us for more information or see our website Tel: 01392 829435 Fax: 01392 829439 Email: sales@incartec.co.uk Web: www.incartec.co.uk Unit 2, Leigham Units, Silverton Road, Matford, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8HY, UK

NEWS

HEADLIGHT SOLUTION Discerning customers looking for a totally legal headlight upgrade may be interested in the Mobilecentre’s range of high performance LED headlights which have a performance around three times that of halogen combined with neardaylight colour temperature. The styling of the units offers an exclusive look combined with the performance upgrade. Mobilecentre’s best seller currently is the Model 8700 which is popular-sized seven inch unit which is selling well into the Land Rover Defender and Jeep markets. This size has been around for about 18 months, a new size launching next month is the 8630 which is 5.75 inch unit aimed mainly at the motorcycle market. The SRP for the seven inch headlight is £1250 a pair and comes with a four year warranty. Mobilecentre is the exclusive UK distributor and can offer advantageous dealer terms. Contact: Mobilecentre 0844 578 1000 www.mobilecentre.co.uk

NEW JVC DOUBLE DIN AV CENTRE New from JVC, the KW-AVX640 AV multimedia centre comes from a range of three units which feature a removable front. The new unit features a Wide Video Graphics Array (WVGA) display which provides crystal clear images from DVD, direct AV in or through the USB port and enables users to upload their own wallpaper images. The optimised viewing angle helps to lessen viewing fatigue. The 6.1 inch panel also features improved gesture slide control offering simple and intuitive access to many features and keeping the button count to an absolute minimum. With an impressive array of media formats to choose from, the KW-AVX640 will also connect with the optional JVC KS-BTA 100 Bluetooth interface enabling hands free mobile phone operation and music streaming from other Bluetooth devices whilst the USB port is compatible with an external hard drive and provides two-way control for iPod and iPhone. A front panel mounted 3.5mm stereo aux-in completes the full set of external source inputs. As a standalone unit, the KW-AVX640 provides all you need from an in-car entertainment centre however, the comprehensive range of audio and video outputs allow for versatile system integration with head unit adjustable subwoofer control a particularly useful feature. One of the most valuable features remains the unique removable front panel which protects your investment from opportunistic theft. Contact: JVC 0208 450 3282 www.jvcmobile.co.uk

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Dension Special Offers There are currently great trade offers to be had on the Car Dock for iPhone, Dension’s custom-designed cradle that will fit iPhone 3, 3GS, and iPhone 4, combined with the latest ‘Car Dock’ App (available from the iTunes App Store). This App turns the iPhone into the control centre for you all your car communication and entertainment needs. The specification includes a built-in microphone for hands-free functionality, audio through car speakers, large button display on ‘Car Dock’ App, high current charging plus easy and flexible mount options. Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

“...for complete, comprehensive and quality bass solutions...

“...Support us and our brands at the MEN Awards 2011 and give us a ‘license to thrill’...”

Look no further than this...” SUBWOOFERS PASSIVE ENCLOSURES ACTIVE ENCLOSURES UNDERSEAT ACTIVE ENCLOSURES SLIM FIT SUBWOOFERS CUSTOM FIT SUBWOOFERS BASS PACKS DSP SOLUTIONS

With our award winning choice of brands Armour Automotive offers the best range of audio brands on the market. Bass has always represented a key part of the Armour product portfolio and 2011 sees the range grow to over 160 different subwoofer solutions in stock across the 4 brands which offer every conceivable installation option. From no nonsense Mutant Audio, legendary Kicker Bass & Orion Power to the refined, yet beautifully crafted Focal Car Audio ranges, Armour has a choice for every budget. For more information on the full range of bass solutions available to you please call sales on +44(0)1420 487110. Alternatively, please email sales@armourauto.com

www.armourauto.com

AUTOMOTIVE

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

NEWS

FLI Underground Products

iPod interfaces – l

Connect, charge and control an iPod/iPhone through the OEM radio/steering wheel.

l usB/sd interfaces –

SD card / USB drive audio integration with OEM system.

l MultiMedia/rear caMera interfaces – Add video sources (Such as TV tuner, DVD player etc) to the existing OEM screen. Reverse camera input with automatic switching on reverse.

l Video in Motion interfaces –

Unlocks the original DVD or TV tuner while vehicle is in motion.

For further information/trade prices please call 020 3393 4308 or trade@xcarlink.co.uk www.xcarlink.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu 10

FLI Underground, or FU for short, is the latest brand from Midbass. FU is designed as a fast, volume selling line with the highest dealer profit margin of any budget brand on the market. It’s low cost means only a minimal investment is required to stock this exciting new range. Midbass claims that it has identified a gap in the market for a budget car audio solution that doesn’t compromise on quality or product performance to achieve its low price point. Most entrylevel brands only offer a very low quality product and are only really suitable as a speaker replacement rather than speaker upgrade. The FU range includes everything needed to upgrade factory fit audio with coaxial and component speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers, active and passive bass enclosures. Every FU product is backed up with a 12 month manufacturers warranty and is fully stocked in Midbass’s warehouse. Contact: Midbass Distribution 0121 311 9090 www.fliunderground.com

PARROT PLASTERS TRUCKS

Parrot has launched national three month campaign with adverts on the back of trucks promoting all the benefits of their hands-free and music systems and encouraging drivers to contact their Certified Installers to get one. The campaign will be split between the CK3100 and Minikit Smart, pushing the ‘Points do not mean prizes!’ slogan and the new Parrot ASTEROID plus the MKi9200 promoting the benefits of having handsfree technology paired with music connectivity. This is one of many methods of promotion Parrot has invested in to help footfall during these challenging times and are confident that these activities, supported by the continued dedication their CIP members display, will strengthen the offering of aftermarket solutions. Contact: Parrot 0844 472 2360 www.parrot.com

CONNECTS 2 MOBILE APP Connects2’s latest product is C2Mobile, an application downloadable to Apple and Android phones. Once installed it allows a quick search across Connects2’s full product guide including information, specifications, images and fitting instructions. There’s also a quick link through to C2’s Twitter news feed showing new products and for the latest videos and product demos there are links to Facebook and YouTube. Contact: Connects2 0845 2575588 www.connects2.com

GOT SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT?

NEXT MONTH’S FEATURES INCLUDE...

T F E W

l Parking sensors l Entry-level speakers l Tracking update

Then contact the editor Martyn Williams on edunit@edunit.plus.com

T F E W

DRIVING TECHNOLOGY FORWARD!!! BURY CLASSIC – THE KIT THAT TICKS ALL THE BOXES Connectivity

Discreet/Neat Install

Interchangeable Charging Tips Competitive Price

Tel: 01489 881118; Fax: 02380 406411; sales@bury.uk.com

www.bury.com/uk

Introducing the BURY Classic Bluetooth® Handsfree Car Kit With its sleek single button design, the BURY Classic offers a discreet installation and comes with built-in Interchangeable charging leads which can be positioned conveniently in the vehicle. Included in the kit are charging leads with connectors to support Apple/Micro USB/Mini USB and Small pin Nokia, Large pin Nokia. Add to that a full two year warranty and a highly competitive price and you simply can’t go wrong. Please contact BURY’s authorized distributors for further information. So in this sensitive economic climate whether you are quoting a single user or a blue chip company with a 1000 fleet vehicles, the BURY Classic with integrated charging will be the perfect offering to ensure you win the deal.

NOW WE’RE TALKING!!! UK DISTRIBUTORS www.2020mobile.co.uk www.co-star.co.uk www.dal-tec.com www.dashmount.co.uk www.kondor.co.uk www.micro-p.com www.thechameleongroup.co.uk IRELAND DISTRIBUTORS www.celtictc.ie www.tac.ie

THE ACCESSORY COMPANY

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

NEWS

PHOENIX GOLD IS BACK Celsus UK is proud to announce the exclusive distribution of the legendary Phoenix Gold range of audio hardware in the United Kingdom and Ireland. When the term ‘legendary’ is attached to any brand you know it carries with it a great deal of heritage that has earned respect from our industry based on key values of performance, reliability, quality, value and excellence. Phoenix Gold is back by way of US based company AAMP of America who have re-instated Morgan West, a member of the original Phoenix Gold team, to ensure that the new Phoenix Gold ranges are designed and built to equal and in some cases better the Phoenix Gold product of old. New additions include a 1600-watt, 5-channel flagship amplifier in our top-of-the-line Ti-Series and entirely new compact line of SD-Series full-range class-D amplifiers, super slim-mount SL-Series subwoofers and refined R3 and Ti2 subwoofers. As always, they pay homage to Phoenix Gold’s past while delivering the sound quality, long-lasting performance and dynamic looks that serious car audio enthusiasts expect and demand. With the first delivery product hitting UK shores in August and a UK sales and technical training tour soon after, this will be exciting times for all involved. Contact: Celsus 01202 664 390 www.celsusice.co.uk

NEW ROCKFORD EXTENDED FOSGATE AMP HUSHMAT The newly-launched Rockford Fosgate Prime R250-1 by Path Products is part of the Prime Series to be aimed specifically at the novice enthusiast who demands top notch quality and value at a more modest price. The Prime 250-1 is a class AB amplifier designed to drive subwoofer loads down to two Ohms with max output of 250 Watts rms. A low pass filter and Rockford’s famous Punch bass boost allows the user to adjust the bass for the enclosure and vehicle. Contact: Path Products 01844 219000 www.path.co.uk

RANGE

Since its introduction into the Armour catalogue in 2010, the Hushmat range of sound deadening solutions has been a roaring success with installers and consumers both adopting the benefits in both quality and pricing. The range continue to expand with the introduction of its quiet tape product, in a roll of one inch wide by 20 foot lengths. Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

Autoleads Stalk Adaptors

The Autoleads R&D team have been making great advances in the development of the Stalk Adaptor range and now boast over 100 part numbers in the range covering both resistive and CAN-Bus vehicles. With a further 25-30 models on the immediate development plan, the range will give the installer the coverage he needs on the applications that matter. The latest part numbers to be introduced include vehicles such as Toyota, BMW, Hyundai and Nissan Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

KENWOOD

2011|

THE ULTIMATE IN 2-DIN CAR AUDIO SYSTEMS We check out the 4 new units that make up Kenwood Electronics’ killer new 2-DIN family From a consumer point of view, there’s nothing more exciting than a 2-DIN system. Stunning looks, the huge range of features and massive value that these products boast makes a quality 2-DIN system a musthave purchase. Kenwood Electronics has dominated the market in this area for nearly half a decade, now. These 4 new units from Kenwood help to further cement their place at the top of the 2-DIN game. We catch-up with Mike Edwards, Product Manager at Kenwood, as he talks us through what’s hot about their allnew 2-DIN family…

DNX9280BT

“This is Kenwood Electronics’ range-topping navigation system. From a specification and useability point of view there’s nothing else like it on the market. Packing ecoRoute (see below), a 5.1-channel DSP, advanced speech recognition and a great looking 3D building map feature on the Garmin sat nav system, the DNX9280BT is absolutely untouchable.”

“Available across all of the Kenwood 2-DIN systems, Garmin ecoRoute will help your customer’s save fuel, and of course, money. At the press of a button, the units will determine if more fuel-efficient route exists.”

DNX7280BT

“Just like the DNX9280BT, the sweet looking DNX7280BT features a 7-inch WVGA touch-screen control system. The split screen display allows you to see and control both the audio source and the navigation map at the same time. With a 4-channel DSP built-in, the DNX7280BT is capable of delivering a sweeter sound than its rivals.”

DNX5280BT

“For 2011 Kenwood has rolled out a detachable front-panel to this mid-range product. There’s PhotoReal Junction View, an exceptionally good Parrot Bluetooth interface and super iPod connectivity.” PhotoReal Junction View avoids confusion at tricky exits by clearly showing the correct lane.

Thanks Mike! So it’s fair to say that Kenwood Electronics has got a 2-DIN system to suit every customer’s needs, and their budget. With excellent initial feedback on these products, it’s an absolutely great time to get behind the Kenwood 2-DIN product line.

DNX4280BT

“This might be Kenwood’s entry-level 2-DIN system, but its spec-list is far from basic. Boasting a slick Garmin sat nav interface, Parrot Bluetooth integration, iPod/iPhone hook-up and a greatlooking 6-inch screen, the DNX4280BT has plenty of wow factor.”

w w w. fa c e b o o k . c o m / Ke n wo o d U K

Detachable front-panel on 5, 6 & 7-series models is a really great security feature.

www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

THE IN-CAR

ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS 2011

A W A R D S 2 0 1 1

T H E

I N - C A R

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

AWARDS 2011

SPONSORED BY GOLD SPONSOR

FROM M.E.N WITH LOVE... The industries premier awards evening is returning to Sopwell House, St Albans. A glittering night for all, as hundreds of automotive revellers will be celebrating a year of achievement, the winners of this year’s M.E.N Awards will be announced at the lavish prize-giving ceremony taking place on Thursday 13 October. The awards are set to be the party of the year! Nobody does it better…

The social highlight of your calendar will take on a ‘James Bond’ theme, with a first class dinner, whilst you 007 lookalikes celebrate your success. Followed by a DJ and casino to keep you entertained. Oh and don’t forget the Bond girls! SILVER SPONSOR

SUPPLIERS OF

Please join us on

13th October at 7.30 for Champange Reception 8pm: Awards Ceremony 9.30-Late: Disco & Casino At Sopwell House Hotel, Country Club & Spa Cottonmill Lane, St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 2HQ

It’s all about the winning!

The awards are the most sought after in the mobile electronics industry, recognising excellence and exceptional performance, so make sure you are a part of it by booking your table today. Winning one of M.E.N’s prestigious awards is a sign of genuine achievement and will set you aside from your competitors, clearly demonstrating to customers that you have something special to offer. Make sure you are there to see who wins the most sought-after award in the industry!

CAST YOUR VOTE!

Please fill out the form on the right and send back or you can download it by visiting www.mobileelectronicsnewsuk.eu and return to Shauna Peters on shauna@creativemedialtd.co.uk

Book your Table Prices: Table £1550/ Per Ticket £160.00. For further information call Shauna Peters on 01268 754897 or email: shauna@creativemedialtd.co.uk Accommodation

To ensure you receive a special discounted hotel rate, contact Sopwell House reservations on 01727 750421, don’t delay as there is limited availability!

THE IN-CAR E N T E R TA I N M E N T AWARDS 2011

VOTING FORM

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

As you all know the 2011 MEN Awards are nearly upon us and we need you to nominate your chosen products and people of the year.

SUPPLIERS OF

BRODIT

A W A R D S 2 0 1 1

T H E

I N - C A R

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Below is a list of the award categories. Please add your nominations to the form provided and either post, fax or email back to us by the 1st September 2011.

AWARDS 2011

Please note that failure to nominate may mean your company will miss out on a prestigious ICE Award.

Have you got the ICE factor?

PRODUCT AWARDS Best AV Head Unit

Best Tracking – Consumer

Best Double DIN (without Navigation)

Best Hands-Free Distributor

Best Double DIN (with Navigation)

Best Digital Radio Product

Best Vehicle Interface

Best DAB innovation

Best Security Product of the Year

Best British Product

Best CAN Bus System

Best Component Speakers (over £150)

Best Headrest Product

Best Component Speakers (under £150)

Best Head Unit (under £150)

Best Full Range (over £150)

Best Head Unit (over £150)

Best Full Range (under £150)

Best Bluetooth Solution Best iPod/iPhone Solution

INDUSTRY AWARDS

Best Amp (under £150)

Sales Representative Of The Year

Best Amp (over £150)

Best Distributor

Best Cabling / Wiring Solution

Installer Of The Year

Best Hands-Free Kit

Mobile Installer Of The Year

Best Parking Sensors

Car Electronics Retailer Of The Year

Best Bass Solution (over £150)

Best Wholesaler

Best Bass Solution (under £150)

Best Advertising Campaign

Best Camera Detection System

Best Manufacturer

Best Alarm

Services to the Industry Award

Best Tracking – Fleet

Best Technical Support Staff

318C HIGH ROAD, BENFLEET, ESSEX, SS7 5HB | FAX 01268 754429 | EMAIL shauna.peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

COVER CAR

Good VIBErations VIBE took America by storm with a stormin’ Titan truck with 28 inch wheels filled with SPACE, BlackBox and BlackDeath installed by Pro-Line Extreme Fabrication in Azusa California

he VIBE Audio Nissan Titan truck has been one of their main demo vehicles in the USA for almost a year now, representing Midbass’ products at events and competitions across the country. With its huge wheels and massive audio-visual extravaganza it gets a significant amount of attention at every show it attends. The build took over 18 months and was done by Alex Sinclair of Pro-Line Extreme Fabrication in Azusa California and was first unveiled on the VIBE Audio stand at SEMA 2010. It features VIBE products and wiring throughout, including the company’s best-selling Space 12 inch subwoofers plus seven pairs

of the critically-acclaimed Space 3D speakers. There are five LCD screens in the cabin (located in the sun-visors and the roof) and a dominating 40 inch LCD screen and Xbox 360 built into the rear. The intricate fibre-glassing on the tailgate is world class in its execution and it’s not difficult to see why their name includes Extreme Fabrication. The paint was custom mixed by House of Kolor. The VIBE Nissan Titan was also the centrepiece of the VIBE stand at CES 2011, attracting massive crowds and gaining significant media attention. The Nissan Titan’s install is finished to an incredibly high standard and is the perfect vehicle to showcase the VIBE product range. The bright red paint finish complements the Titan’s massive rims which demand attention. The Titan has full gas suspension and a hydraulic actuated flat bed cover. No corners were cut in this install, with an exquisite fibreglass enclosure which includes four of the all new Space Dual 2 Ohm subwoofers powered by Deep Space Bass 1 amplifiers, fine-tuned to deliver the best possible bass performance. The Space subwoofers have been described as perfection in low frequency sound reproduction thanks to their immense motor strength, superior power handling, low distortion and near perfect linear movement.

|2011

EQUIPMENT LIST l Four SPACE 12 Dual 2ohm Subwoofers l Five SPACE 6 3D Speakers l Two SPACE 5 3D Speakers l Four Deep Space Bass 1 - 750W RMS Amplifiers l Four BlackBox Stereo 4 – 4x110W RMS Amplifiers l Two BlackDeath QB69 Speakers l One LiteAir 5 Speaker l One VIBE DeltaBox Line Driver Contact: Midbass 0870 7658423 www.midbass.co.uk The VIBE Titan features five pairs of Space 6 3D speakers and two pairs of Space 5 3D speakers which received an outstanding review by online audio magazine Stereowise, and were subsequently awarded the Stereowise Editor Choice Award 2010, which was presented at CES 2011. Stereowise described the Space speaker’s sound quality as “nothing short of stellar” and concluded “The Vibe Audio Space 6 3D component system is great for those wanting a competition sound system, or just want audiophile quality sound.” The install is rounded off by two pairs of BlackDeath QB69 6x9s and a pair of LiteAir five inch speakers. All speakers are powered by VIBE Audio’s best-selling BlackBox Stereo 4 amplifiers.

The VIBE Titan was a massive hit with visitors at both SEMA 2010 and CES 2011, gaining significant media attention from major news outlets such as Fox News and was featured in a photo shoot at CES with American R&B superstars, Boys II Men. The VIBE Nissan Titan will be representing the VIBE brand at events all over the United States throughout 2011. More information on the VIBE Nissan Titan can be found on www.Vibeaudio.co.uk.

WATCH ONLINE The Nissan Titan Install was featured by Sonic Electronix in their online video blog: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uapKCFRH77A&fe ature=channel

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

COMPANY REVIEW

CONNECTS2

TECHNOLOGY A company that has gone from car audio distributor to mobile electronics giant. Only eleven years ago Connects2 started building a business based on a humble CD changer interface and has developed into an international company perfectly poised on the brink of the new age of digital radio. Martyn Williams reports Connects2 is a true high technology company constantly developing new products, the most exciting product they have ever developed – the Auto-DAB Tuner interface - will be officially launched to market at the MEN Awards Event on Thursday October 13. Connects2 are also the Gold Sponsor of the event. Connects2 is a company with a reputation of being the leading interface manufacture for factory fit and aftermarket units. The company as we know it today was established in 2000 and has become one of the most respected manufacturers and distributors of proven technology products. The Connects2 range encompasses solutions for all aspects of mobile electronics from integration of aftermarket head units into CANBus data systems on vehicles, to the ever increasing demand for in-car use of iPod and hard drive MP3 products. At the heart of Connects2’s success is a team of experienced highly qualified hardware and software engineers to ensure that new and innovative products are developed. The development team is fully cognizant of all the latest CAN technology and work together with clients to develop products that integrate safely and seamlessly. All research and development is conducted in-house from design specification through to vehicle testing The Connects2 sales department is dedicated to providing support to both the company’s UK and international customers with a call centre on hand to deal with the daily technical and product related enquires. They are supported by the technical team who can advise on application and fitting queries. The Connects2 website www.connects2.com can be used to download fitting guides and instruction manuals. Stocking is always a consideration for most clients in business and the Connects2 has massive warehousing staffed by a team dedicated to the picking, packing and despatching of over 200 shipments per day.

Building the company I asked Sales and Marketing Director, Andy Simner about his first days with the company? He said: “I started work for AEL in 1994 in the logistics department and then moved to Connects2 when we formed the company in 2000 but I have basically worked in all areas before finally settling in Sales! “It hasn’t all been plain sailing to get where we are today. The first few years were very good and then we went through a three year development period for CAN-Bus interfaces that took a considerable amount of resource to develop. It was something we all believed in and were investing heavily but it 20

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Where it all happens took some time to bring these products to market. “Once we generated a few key accounts for our CAN-Bus products the company then began to build on itself and forged a path to further business . The reputation of Connects2 as a professional interface and integration company was firmly established. Once we became widely known, people began to seek us out and we count national retailers and car manufacturers amongst our many customers. We now have specialist partners in over 57 countries worldwide.”

Becoming an International force Andy went on to tell me about the Global change in the company, he said: “The business has evolved over the last eleven years or so from being a car audio distributor to being an accessory manufacturer and wholesaler. Our business now has a global impact. We have recently restructured the company to assist with focusing on our key areas and supporting our customers better. Our business is constantly expanding and this has required the employment of staff that are based overseas. We have sales people based in Europe and in China on the payroll. It’s hard to support the Americas and Asia whilst sitting in Tipton! It recently became obvious that we needed more resources to continue to grow at our rapid rate and therefore we are currently recruiting up to five new sales people to mainly concentrate on our export sales and OEM customer support. We have recently employed an extra person on our UK sales team that will be field-based to look after the South of the country and still need one for the North! “Being an international business has definitely helped us during the rocky economic period that we are still experiencing in the UK. Trading overseas has been a major

|CONNECTS2 advantage for us and has added stability due to very good growth in awkward times. If we had been dependent on the UK market, the results could have been quite different.

The future and Auto-DAB “One our most important developments is the launch of our Auto-DAB, the black box hideaway DAB tuner which works with existing systems. It will have its international launch September this year at the MEN Awards night at Sopwell House, St Albans. “Auto-DAB is already in demand before it has come to market and because of its potential we are going to have to gear our business very differently. There’s a big investment going into the sales force to be able to deal with the demand. We’ve also had an accompanying large growth in our production and development areas too. Nearly 70% of our labour force in the development team is deployed on DAB solutions which are destined not only for the aftermarket but also for the many OEMs that have requested specific products. “The DAB growth we expect to see over the next five years will be a significant indication of future developments. That and CAN-Bus, taking those two product areas, that’s where we see it being focussed over the next couple of years. “CAN-Bus integration is already a very big part of our business as well. For instance, our latest integration product which is already proving very popular, is for the new Ford C-Max and Focus. Here we had to make sure normal head unit functions were maintained through the steering wheel controls but in parallel we had to maintain the original Ford menu system as well. In conjunction with this the parking sensor audio would be lost without the original head unit so we had to replicate this as well. It’s not quite as complex as the Insignia product we developed but this product covers a wider range of applications so sales will be robust. “Business is good on our Connects2 interfaces and we are supplying both Car Audio Manufacturers with this product as well as the Vehicle Manufacturers directly. There are cases where the vehicle manufacturers have got a demand for the audio to be upgraded in the car but they haven’t always got a suitable solution. This is certainly true of forthcoming DAB products, manufacturers are normally looking for a solution here. “Car manufacturers are gearing up for DAB however, some are more ahead than others How far this goes is all a bit of a grey area but we hear that there are parts of Scandinavia where they are switching off FM in the near future. This is something that does start to force the hand of the car manufacturers and they have to start seriously making decisions about what they are going to do in order to maintain audio in a vehicle The UK is a big market for DAB, for sure, DAB will come but how quickly it is implemented is not known. One of the interesting things about the DAB market is that so often car audio is aimed at the younger buyers whereas this is a market with a wider age range that it appeals to. Our BEAT range models with simple clear design and functionality is ideal for this.”

Where next for Connects2? In conclusion, I asked Andy about future developments and how he saw this coming along. He said: “Head units in new cars will become more an integral part of the dash and the CAN-Bus system and will no longer be a standalone product.

The facia and interface (inset) and the C-Max dash (above). The workshop (below)

Where head units can be replaced, the interface will become more crucial for both control of the head unit and maintaining the car’s electronic systems. “DAB is definitely going to be very big and Auto-DAB will be very important. We all remember that DAB failed the first time around because nobody really got behind it. This time, everyone is getting behind it and the whole of Europe will be part of it. Auto-DAB for us is a huge part of our future and we expect it to sell strongly for at least the next four years or so, but we are also looking to see what other formats will come along – it’s an ever-changing market place after all! “So far we have exhibited Auto-DAB at several different shows worldwide including Europe, the Americas and Asia and the product has been well received.” Connects2 – 0845 257 5588 or www.connects2.co.uk

Production (left 2 photos) and facia design (far right)

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT GUIDE

iPod-Loving Single Dinners Playing iPods in cars. A simple idea, but a market that is still booming and shows few signs of slowing down just yet. Andy Mills finds out more

he CD player is dead. That’s probably not news to most people, but for some the ringing bells marking the CD player’s demise may be a surprise. The signs are all there though. High street giants HMV recently announced they were going to concentrate on selling technology and concert tickets due to the massively shrinking CD market and in many cars like the latest Ford Focus the uptake on USB connection options is almost total, signalling the importance of iPod connectivity to new car buyers. So it’s no surprise that audio manufacturers are making sure they can cater for this demand in the aftermarket too, any company worth their salt having at least one iPod ready single DIN headunit in their catalogues. Even Parrot, more famed for their Bluetooth hands-free solutions have got in on the act with their new Parrot Asteroid and see it as a way of moving the experience further on than just music playing too. “With the CK range, Parrot were already known for a great voice quality and with the introduction of the MKi range, we created a new music segment in the market which led to incremental sales for us all,” explains Parrot UK Ltd’s Sales Director, Asif Gillani. “With the Asteroid, we are taking the market to a new segment again and giving customers information and enabling them to have a Smartphone experience in their car”. Clearly, the success of the MKi range has only gone to highlight to the company the importance of increased hook-ups to and functionality with phones in cars. Even the established audio manufacturers are ramping their game up in the bid to help the iPod generation keep listening to music in-car. Considering phone network provider O2 had already sold 2 million iPhones into the UK by February 2010, it’s likely there are upwards of 5 million iPod/iPhone in circulation now, so it’s no wonder manufacturers see the importance.

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

ALPINE Alpine’s latest CDE-123R headunit offers a wealth of features and the respected Alpine quality, yet with a suggested retail of just under £200. It looks like great value considering some of those key features too, such as the fact it’s not only designed to work with iPhone and iPod, but it also works with Nokia and many other Smartphones. That includes being able to both play music and charge the devices. Additionally the CDE-123R has front and rear USB ports plus a front AUX-in for music devices and portable navigation device voice guidance. It also allows for the PND voice guidance to be mixed with level control. On top of this, the unit offers three pre-outs, which is a rarity at this price point, and has four illumination colours available to help it blend seamlessly into almost any dashboard. There are sound benefits too such as the inclusion of a CD player, 3 band parametric EQ with 10 preset EQ settings such as Jazz or Rock, and a 4x50W power output, plus it’s upgradeable to a Bluetooth hands-free unit with the optional KCE-400BT or KCE250BT cables. Contact: Alpine, 02476 719620 or alpine-electronics.co.uk

“The increasing use of iPods/iPhones and mass media storage devices as a means of playing music (and video) means it’s critical to be leading the way in that market” explains Pioneer’s Girish Janday. “We’ve seen an increase in sales and believe that digital media is the way the market has trended.” With all of this in mind, stocking a good selection of single DIN headunits capable of connecting to iPod and other media devices is clearly an essential tactic for dealers. In fact, this isn’t just a luxury item now, it’s the bread and butter of an audio dealer in the same way CD headunits were and cassette headunits were before that.

|IPOD READY SINGLE DIN HEADUNITS

BEAT The BEAT490 is a brand new single DIN iPod-ready headunit with the added benefit of being DAB/ DAB+ too. This makes it something of a unique unit in this guide and could prove to be a key point in selling the unit. Aside from that digital element, the BEAT490’s USB port allows full iPod or iPhone control, while there is also a front SD/MMC memory card slot and front AUX-in to help music from various storage options to be played. The unit maintains a CD player and offers AM/FM radio with RDS too, all powered with a 4x40W output. For the sound connoisseurs there’s a 6 preset equalizer offering Vocal, Pop, Tech, Rock, Classic and Jazz settings. BEAT also takes care of security by making the front panel detachable, meaning those keen on getting a well spec’d iPod ready headunit with the benefit of DAB can make sure they keep it away from prying fingers. Contact: Connects2, 0845 2575588 or connects2.com

BLAUPUNKT Blaupunkt can supply customers with two new units that fit the brief here; the Toronto 410BT and the San Francisco 310. The latter unit is a stylish and solid performer, offering the ability to play date via CD-R, CD-RW, USB, SDHC, SD and MMC. With the front USB port iPods and iPhones can be connected and controlled directly, and there’s also the ability to mix music with voice guidance navigation. All the functionality of a module built for use with mass storage devices are present including ID3-tag (version 2) to display file and folder names, plus there’s a powerful 4x50W power output. The Toronto 410BT, has the same inputs such as front USB port, SDHC/SD/MMC card slot and front AUX-in but as the name suggests it is also equipped with Bluetooth, allowing hands-free phone calls with phone book access of up to 1,000 entries and A2DP audio streaming. The microphone for the handsfree calling is built-in but there’s also a rear connector for an additional mic. The rest of this stylish unit is very similar to the previous model, with the 4x50W power output, same Codem radio tuner and added outputs for system building. With detachable front panels for security, both these units offer some classic Blaupunkt form and function, sure to keep any customer happy. Contact: Autosound, 01274 685411 or blaupunktdirect.co.uk

CLARION Clarion has launched three new single DIN iPod-ready headunits into the market for this year, all coming in with suggested retail prices under £200. The entry-level model with a suggested retail price of just £129 is the CZ201E, which offers direct iPod/iPhone and USB connectivity and the easy-to-use format is cited as a key selling point, as well as the price of course. There’s an additional AUX-in for use with other devices, a CD tuner and RDS-EON tuner, and a 4x45W power output. With optional CCA748 cable and VMA773 stand-alone monitor users can even watch video files from their iPod. The FZ501E moves the game on a bit by ditching the CD tuner. Coming with built-in Bluetooth and integrated microphone, users can control phone lists via the headunit controls or stream audio via mobile phone with HPF and A2DP. Traditional methods of audio playback via USB/MP3/WMA are offered, with a front AUX-in to support ancillary media players. Obviously iPhone integration is offered via the USB port an iPod video is also supported (with the optional cable and monitor mentioned already). The final unit is the CZ501E with its 4x50W per channel output from an ultraefficient MOS-FET amplifier and a high degree of sound adjustment to suit all ears. That sound can come from iPod, iPhone or any mobile MP3 device that will plug and play into the front USB. With a Bluetooth module for music streaming and hands-free calling this is a unit that concentrates on quality and key functionality with an attractive sub £200 suggested retail price. Contact: Clarion, 01793 870400 or clarion.com/gb

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT GUIDE

|IPOD READY SINGLE DIN HEADUNITS

JVC JVC’s KD-R521 CD receiver boasts a wealth of features and offers great value for money. Boasting a 4x50W maximum output, two pre-outs and a three-band parametric iEQ, the sound quality is assured. But for this guide it’s the connectivity that is key and this JVC offering allows for iPod or iPhone audio playback through the front USB, which gives two-way control meaning the Apple product can be controlled by the headunit or the other way around. MP3 and WMA files are supported and there’s the option of ID3 Tag or WMA Tag. It’s upgradeable to offer Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming too with the optional KS-BTA100 cable. With that in place the JVC headunit can employ voice recognition dialling. Meanwhile, the KD-R921 is cited as being an ‘audio dream’ by JVC, featuring a TI/ Burr Brown 24-bit DAC, gold plated RCAs, a digital sound processor including time alignment and 5-band digital EQ. That means connecting anything from a portable MP3 player to iPhone or HDD and users can listen to their MP3, WMA or WAV3 files in total splendour. Like the previous unit this one offers two-way control for iPod and iPhone, but it also adds an additional rear USB port for increased connection options. This high-end unit also includes a Bluetooth module that has Phone Book Access Profile, Phone Book Transfer, SMS Receipt Notification, Voice Recognition Dialling and the ability to connect to two phones. Two powerful performers from JVC then and worthy additions to the dashboard of any iPod fan. Contact: JVC, 0208 4502382 or jvcmobile.co.uk

KENWOOD At the beginning of Kenwood’s latest iPod-friendly single DIN headunits is the KDC-4751SD. This unit has a 4x50W power output plus radio and CD tuner, but the key points are likely to be the front USB and front SDcard slot. SD cards up to 32GB capacity can be used with this headunit, while the front USB allows for iPods or other mobile media devices to be easily connected, making it a fantastic first step for customers after connectivity. Moving the game on a bit is the KDC-5051U, offering CD tuner, 3-line full dot LCD display and direct iPod/iPhone and tuner preset keys. Sweet ergonomic design means users should find it a doddle to play their tunes from iPod or other device via the front USB, plus there’s the added bonus of having Kenwood’s new log key, which remembers the last fifteen performed actions, giving quick access to commonly used features. With the optional KCA-BT300, users can also upgrade it to make Bluetooth hands-free calls or stream music. The ultimate for the iPod/iPhone fan though is the sleek KDC-6051U unit, boasting a 5-line display, a familiar feeling click wheel and scroll bar means searching files is made quick and easy, just what you need when hooked to an iPod. The connections to USB device of iPod/iPhone is via a rear mounted flying lead, which mean users can feed it to their glovebox for out of the way functionality. Direct iPod/iPhone control is possible with the KCA-iP102 optional cable and Bluetooth functionality is also available through the optional KCA-BT300, giving dealers the chance to up-sell and customers to built the unit to suit their needs. Contact: Kenwood, 01923 816444 or kenwood-electronics.co.uk

PARROT The rather stunning Parrot Asteroid starts blurring the lines of what customers may expect from a headunit. ‘The car receiver with web service apps, voice recognition and hands-free telephone’ is what their website proudly boasts. One of the keys is the embedded ANDROID operating system that allows the use of internet applications and geolocation thanks to its 3G and GPS connectors; internet radio, music streaming radios, points of interest or navigation services. Aside from the sweet design with sleek jog wheel (which is on the detachable section of the fascia) and the hands-free calling functions, which are naturally very good i.e automatic synchronizing of phonebook and direct association to user-independent voice recognition tags, it does in fact play music via iPod, iPhone or other media storage devices too. It does this impressively too with Vocal Music Search function for hands-free music selection and a 4x55W built-in MOS-FET amp powering it. While this isn’t the company’s first foray into the single DIN market, and they are sure to continue being known for their hands-free kits, there’s no denying the stylish, modern and thoroughly unique appeal of this offering. All it may take is for people to actually see these in the flesh for traditional audio manufacturers to start feeling like they’ll have to watch their backs. Contact: Parrot UK, 0844 4722360 or parrot.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

High Performance

For Your Car

DAB On The Move

Kenwood’s latest in-car range now includes state-of-the-art Digital Audio Broadcasting technology, allowing you to enjoy an in-car radio experience like never before. With more stations available the KDC-DAB4551U & KDC-DAB41U units deliver more choice. The built-in 50wx4 MOSFET ampliﬁer serves up a powerful sound, there’s MP3/WMA/AAC ﬁle playback, iPod connectivity and a front USB/AUX-input allowing you to hook-up your MP3 player or USB memory stick.

DAB / DAB+

DAB/DAB+ decoding, as well as the latest digital chip set, means listening to digital radio on the move is free of annoying breaks and distortion. Clever technology will even switch from DAB to FM (and back again) if there’s a local signal problem. A small window ﬁlm aerial is available* ensuring the installation is simple and discrete. Once ﬁtted, sport, news and music programmes are just a touch of a button away. With 100s of stations broadcasting digitally in the UK, there’s never been a better time to experience DAB in your car. KDC-DAB4551U

iPod / iPhone

Want to have full access and control of your music library on the move? No problem. Your iPod or iPhone device can be quickly and easily connected to the units via the front USB-input for quality music playback. Searching through artist, album or song lists is quick and simple.

Bluetooth Ready

Hands-free calling and music streaming from your phone available with optional KCA-BT300 interface.

* Model Number DABA1

www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT GUIDE

|IPOD READY SINGLE DIN HEADUNITS

SONY Sony’s single DIN offerings all have the unique Tune Tray compartment behind the stereo panel to allow users to hide their digital media players. That on its own could be a great selling point. The DSX-S100 model allows devices to be stored, charged and controlled by the unit, with Sony’s ZAPPIN function making it easy to find favourite tunes by playing clips fro music collections found on compatible devices. It also has the DM+ feature to restore lost frequencies from compressed music to CD quality and comes with a powerful 4x52W output and a front AUX-in. The DSX-S200X is the later version, offering not only the USB port inside the unit but one on the outside too. A clear four lines of text on the larger screen is an added bonus, while the Advanced Sound Engine creates the ideal in-car sound field with digital sound processing. DSX-S300BTX is a Bluetooth enabled unit, allowing for hands-free calling and music streaming with its HFP, A2DP and AVRCP profiles. The interactive Phone Book Access Profile even communicates with attached phones to recognise stored numbers in the address book. On the connectivity side any type of portable music player is catered for and it has the ZAPPIN and DM+ features as well as SensMe which organises music into different moods and Quick-BrowZer for easy searching of tracks. Like the other units this also has the ‘Device inside’ alert to ensure users don’t leave their devices in the car. These unique headunits are all oozing with style and can give the performance customers want. Contact: CEL TRADE , 0116 2449846 or celtrade.com

Sony’s ZAPPIN function making it easy to find favourite tunes by playing clips from music collections found on compatible devices PIONEER Pioneer offers a wide range of single DIN iPod –ready headunits, from the DEH-3300UB with a suggested retail price of £89.99 to the MVH-8300BT with a suggested retail of £349.99. The DEH-330UB is obviously an entry-level solution, with CD tuner and a front USB to connect music devices to. It’s iPod and iPhone compatible (including iPhone4 as with all Pioneer’s latest units) and offers direct control via the CD tuner. With a 4x50W power output and Advanced Sound Retriever to get the best sound from compressed music files, this unit represents great value. The DEH-7300BT builds on the previous unit, offering the same functionality but adding a Parrot Bluetooth module and built-in microphone for hands-free calling. The slick DEH-8300SD meanwhile comes with three hi-volt RCA pre-outs for system building, gives a 5-band graphic equaliser and allows CD playback and connection to iPod, iPhone, USB device or SD card. Alternatively an MP3 player can be connected to the front AUX-in. A key point of this unit though is the iTunes Tagging function, which is a great sell for music hoarders keen to find the latest tunes. At the top end is the stylish MVH-7300 mechless unit, a solution with a 3in full colour TFT display that allows not only album cover display but also video playback. This is designed to work with iPod, iPhone, USB device, MP3 player and/or SD card and offers customisable displays, Pioneer’s Sonic Center Control for ultimate audio set-up and three hi-volt RCA pre-outs. Basically, if a customer wants a top quality single DIN unit to get great sound from and compatibility with all modern mobile media sources then this is virtually as good as it gets.

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

“...Create your Sound with the New Performance Range...”

The Performance line, innovative and dynamic, will give you thrills! This advanced technology line provides powerful and true to life sound excellence: live music in all of its dimensions

Coaxials

Components

PC100 - 100mm/4” 2-Way Coaxial PC130 - 130mm/5.25” 2-Way Coaxial PC165 - 165mm/6.5” 2-Way Coaxial PC690 - 6x9” 2-Way Coaxial

PS130 - 130mm/5.25” 2-Way Components PS165 - 165mm/6.5“ 2-Way Components

Subwoofers

Enclosures

SUBP30 - 12” Subwoofer - SVC SUBP25DB - 10” Subwoofer - DVC SUBP30DB - 12“ Subwoofer - DVC

SBP25 - 10” Subwoofer Enclosure SBP30 - 12“ Subwoofer Enclosure

Amplifiers FPP1000 - Monoblock Amplifier FPP2100 - 2 Channel Amplifier FPP4100 - 4 Channel Amplifier FPP5300 - 5 Channel Amplifier

Audio Excellence... The Focal 2011 range sees the introduction of the Integration, Performance and Elite ranges alongside the ever-popular Access, Polyglass K2 Power& Utopia; Solid & Symmetric to give you the most comprehensive Focal range ever.

“...Support us and our brands at the MEN Awards 2011 and give us a ‘license to thrill’...”

For more information and to place an order please call +44(0)1420 487110 or email

sales@armourauto.com

AUTOMOTIVE

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

MArket view

|DAB UPDATE

DABBA DO OR DABBA DON’T? There are many views on DAB developments but overall, you can be assured that Digital Audio Broadcasting is not only the future but is an irresistible force There are always doom-spreaders in every industry and one opinion sampled lately does have some sense to it, even though dealers will carry on making money by selling DAB head units. The argument was: “How can anyone in the industry properly plan for their share of upgrading the millions of vehicles that will be radio-less when the digital switchover happens if a date for said switchover remains a secret? We now learn that the date will not be announced for another 18 to 30 months. “Knowing the date is crucial because the Government will not be releasing their Digital Tick approval for equipment until the switchover date is announced. This will not affect the domestic radio makers or vehicle manufacturers too much as the consumer readily accepts what they give them but for after-fit the Digital Tick will be crucial in what will be a mostly distress purchase market.” I wonder how important any official infrastructure might be when I recently chatted with John Kleis. He said: “I’m averaging 10 of the new Kenwood DAB units a week selling them at £279 with the aerial (which works really well!) following on from radio advertising to which Kenwood have supported me with a £500 contribution.”

Kenwood offers high quality PoS material and support to go with its new DAB head unit

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Someone with Canute-like tenacity against DAB is Grant Goddard, who has written a whole book on the subject including an expose of ‘a wealth of inaccurate and distorted information published by radio industry lobbyists as part of their campaign to convince the Government and consumers that take-up of DAB radio.’

I talked to Colin Crawford, Director of Marketing of PURE, the UK consumer electronics company that started the digital radio revolution and now dominates the market worldwide. My first question was about plans for the mobile market – was Pure planning anything? Colin said: “Our plans for in-car are hotting up quite a bit commercially. Highway is the starting point for our roadmap of future products with a range of options. It’s been very successful not only because it’s a DAB tuner but also for being handy for transmitting iPod output and for being useful as a portable radio in the home.”

Colin Crawford, Director of Marketing of PURE

I had to ask Colin for an opinion of the naysayer Grant Goddard? He commented: “My issue with Grant Goddard is that he is a one-issue man. My attitude would be the same for anyone who is so polarised on one subject. He’s very unhelpful and he’s wrong. Readers need a balanced view and that’s certainly what Pure has always tried to do. It’s no good us selling DAB technology if people were going to be disappointed. On the domestic side we have sold over three million radios and the feedback we get from customers is almost universally good.” What about ‘The Switchover?’ “It is definitely going to happen. I don’t get involved in exactly what date but the key thing is that it will. This has been accepted throughout the industry now. Whether it happens in 15, 17 or 20, people will be buying radios for the home or the car expecting the switchover to occur within the lifetime of the product they buy now. Retailers need to get the message across to consumers that they should be buying a radio which should take you through the phasing out of FM. Or in a car, being capable of being upgraded to take you through switchover.” Some say that having a changeover date is crucial to their plans – what do you think about that? “About13 million people have bought DAB radios already and none of them have done it because of a threat of FM not being available. This is very much a ‘carrot’ event whereas the threat of a switchover is the stick. We are still at the carrot stage.” Pure being a world player in DAB, how do you see it developing in Europe – they have notoriously lagged behind? Colin said: “Germany will be launching a national radio multiplex which should have started rolling out on August 1 this year. Its said to be a 50% coverage at launch and reach 100% within three years. The French are now also giving solid backing to DAB and a decision has been made that by September 2013 any car bought new has to have a digital radio band. They made this law over two year’s ago and it’s one of the key drivers for the motor manufacturers. It has also been stated by the SMMT that every car coming into the UK by 2013 ought to have a DAB radio fitted. This means that there will be a closing window of opportunity for the aftermarket but it is a very big window!” Pure do a handy booklet for dealers called Digital Radio Explained. This is also downloadable from the website, www.pure.com Bojo O’Toole

CONTACT SCORPION: 01257 249 928 OR emAIl INFO@SCORPIONAuTO.COm

FIRST ClASS PROTeCTION FOR yOuR CuSTOmeRS wITh Full TeChNICAl SuPPORT

New ThIS mOONwTh AvAIlAble N ed ov • ThaTcham appr el Od m F wATeRPROO iT • moTorcycle un • caravan uniT ng • Trailer Tracki

SCORPION TRACK l FASTeST, eFFICIeNT INSTAllATION PROCeSS l The PeRFeCT PROduCT FOR yOuR mOTOR deAleR buSINeSS duRINg ThIS buSy New RegISTRATION PeRIOd l hAve yOu FITTed yOuR FIRST yeT? TRy yOuR FIRST ONe ThIS mONTh, CAll NOw FOR A vISIT ANd leARN mORe

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT FOCUS

BEAT EXPANDS RANGE The BEAT range of DAB head units is soon to consist of four models with the two exciting new models offering the same value, performance and high specification with good margins for the independent dealer.

|BEAT DAB TUNERS

Extra value is offered with every BEAT unit having a free aerial and the two new models arriving in September this year, the 390 and 490, have the advantage of full control and interfacing with Apple devices from iPod to the latest iPhone. The most important introduction of all will be the 390 – a DAB CD tuner in a double DIN format.

For further details contact Connects2 – 0845 257 5588 or visit the Beat website – www.beat-audio.co.uk The range kicks off with the popular BEAT 400 portable DAB with eight station presets - a great hassle-free way of introducing your customers to hundreds of stations that cannot be heard on the old FM stereo band such as 6 Music, Radio 1Xtra and 5 Live to name but a few. The 400 portable has a lead which plugs into a vehicle’s 12 volt socket. It interacts with the customers’ existing head unit by transmitting DAB broadcasts in FM stereo to the car’s tuner. It has a high resolution dot-matrix display showing Digital Radio data with auto-scan technology which quickly scans and finds the best signal. Other features include a headphone socket, auxiliary input for an MP3 player and an external antenna connector option (SMA socket). With a suction bracket supplied, it’s very simple to install and initialise – a great product for the person that wants DAB programmes but doesn’t want the hassle of changing the complete head unit.

Due for launch in September is the new BEAT 490 DAB/DAB+ CD tuner. It has modern styling and display with a huge specification including full control over iPod and other Apple devices including iPhone. As expected on a unit of this quality it has a front USB port, front Aux-In, SD/MMC memory card, CD deck which is compatible with CDRs and RWs, MP3, WMA and MP3 with ID3 tag. The tuner naturally covers the other bands having AM and FM RDS available. Output power is 4x40W peak and other audio benefits include an Encoder Electronic Audio Control (volume/bass/treble/balance/ fade) and a six preset equaliser (vocal/pop/tech/rock/classic/ jazz). There is also an additional bass control and the front panel has the added security of being detachable.

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

The BEAT 485 is Connects2’s entry-level DAB/DAB+ head unit, a CD tuner with AM and FM/RDS bands and a thoroughly modern design with a black finish featuring amber illumination of the buttons and display panel. It has a USB connection, auxiliary input via a 3.5mm jack socket and SD memory card input on the front. Max power is 4x40 Watts. The CD deck is MP3 (WMA)/CD R/RW compatible and the USB/ SD/MMC Memory Card is WMA compatible. It has an anti-theft removable control panel and the package includes magneticmount patch antenna.

Something the market is definitely waiting for is a double DIN head unit and this section of the market will be satisfied with the new BEAT 390 model due to be launched in September. Included in the specification is three band tuning, obviously with DAB and DAB+ and AM/FM RDS. Like the 490 it will be popular for its full control of Apple devices from iPod through to the latest iPhone. The feature list includes a USB connection, auxiliary input via a 3.5mm jack socket and SD memory card input on the front. Max power is 4x40 Watts. It has a CD deck which is MP3/CD R/RW compatible and the USB/ SD/MMC Memory Card – all WMA replay capability. Again like the 490 single DIN model it shares features such as an encoder electronic audio control (volume/bass/treble/balance/ fade) and a six preset equaliser (vocal/pop/ tech/rock/classic/jazz). Unusual for a double dinner, the whole front panel is detachable for extra security. All this, plus a roof-mount DAB antenna included in the package.

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT FOCUS

|ACTIVE BASS SOLUTIONS

ACTIVATE THE BASS Bass may not make the earth move for all your customers but it still has its attractions across the demographic from the Yoof market to the more conservative punter – Martyn Williams reports

ass is one of the most exploitable commodities in the world of car audio. As we know, the majority of cars don’t have proper low frequency bass and the OEs that do make some sort of effort – it’s often exactly that. I can only think of a few cars with original equipment that have anything like a decent bass. Our friends at GfK who survey masses of product sales trends tell us that there is some growth in some bass units if you look hard enough. GfK track EPOS sales from a huge selection of retailers in the UK and they say that consumer electronics as a whole is suffering in Britain (that’s a safe one!). Year on Year sales volumes are down 15% (value 10%). The only area that seems to have any growth is on internet purchases which grew by 5% in May 2011 compared to May 2010. Looking at an annual comparison (June to May 2010 verses 2011) subwoofers overall have fared slightly better than full range speakers (the two combined in the figures above). Subwoofer sales units decline by 11% compared to 14% for full range. Within the overall percentage reduction there are some rises for full range and for subwoofers these change slightly with units between £25 and £50 forming the growing area. For further information, manufacturers and distributors can buy into sales result sets by contacting Richard Gregory in the UK on 0870 603 8259. I asked Mike Smith, Armour’s Marketing Manager, about the bass market. He said: “Bass solutions are ever-changing but the desire for bass remains strong. The music that the end-user listens to has never lost its bass particularly with the interest in Drum n Bass, Hip Hop, Dance, Trance and House. Even new genres such as Dubstep and Nu-Rave all demand a hard bass response from the audio systems. “There is also an increasing demand for hide away bass and stealth bass; and subwoofer designs are changing to cater for it.” A word with John Kleis at his shop in Reading revealed some personal observations. He said: “We get ex-Halfords customers coming to us after things have gone wrong – usually through poor usage advice. We find the Midbass active boxes are good but there’s more profit in a bass box with a separate amp.”

ALPINE The SWE-3200 is Alpine’s latest 12 inch amplified subwoofer box fitted with a SWE-1243E subwoofer which has 500W peak power handling. It’s powered by a fully integrated PMX-T320 amplifier with 150Wrms capability. As well as Alpine’s sonic pedigree, the cosmetics are excellent with its selectable blue-illuminated window, stylised woofer protection grille and stitched Alpine logo. It has a removable port plug for sealed and vented operation and a bass boost set at 50 Hz with selectable gain of +6 and +12 dB. Overall Dimensions: 443mm(W) x 390mm(H) x 431mm/324mm(D) Alpine 02476 719620 www.alpine-electronics.co.uk

BEAT The BEAT eight inch active subwoofer is one of the new wave of cast alloy enclosure subs which are setting new standards in bass production from a small unit. Designed primarily for under-seat use with dimensions of 230x340x70mm, these units are also effectively mounted behind trim panels in the boot and other hiding places to provide conservative bass reinforcement for customers who put a premium on space and/or a low profile. This unit has a variable low pass filter 50-100Hz, and a phase reversal switch. Maximum power is 180 Watts and the packaging includes bass control remote and wiring kit. Connects2 0845 2575588 www.connects2.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

IFITSTUFF|

IFITSTUFF FORUM UPDATE Jeff Scott, Director of Ifitstuff talks about the exciting changes Ifitstuff has been continuously expanding in information, members and work load. So this year we asked a select few of our industries finest to help us and join our moderator team to help spread the work load as there just isn’t enough hours in the day! So please welcome our new moderators:- Eddie Lambe, Ian Levings, Colin Rowe & Mike Wildman who join our existing moderators Andy Wiggett, John Thompson, Danny Barker, Ash Sharma, Steve Hankinson, Paul McNeil and, ah yes, me (Admin).

Quality Local Independents! Ifitstuff.com now have the ultimate database of “Quality Local Professional” installers and we are about to shout it from the roof tops! Well, actually we aim to spread the message across the web in a way that will go viral and any other media sources that we can access.

Ifitstuff Gurus Behold the Ifitstuff Guru! A brand new category of member who scans through the forum posts a couple of times a week to see if anyone needs help on their specialist subject. They are as follows: Ian Mewse, Steve Dill-Russell, Andrew Rossall, James Patterson, Ian Mays, Mike Organ, Stephen McKee, Stuart Bruce, Steve Taylor, Steve Young, Stewart Gent, Chris Batterbee and Stuart Jackson. If you are serious about supporting your trade dealers then please contact me about representing your brand with a Guru.

Ifitstuff TV and Mobile Installer Challenge. At the MEN awards 2009 we launched the Ifistuff video industry news feature that went down a storm and the natural progression seemed obvious? And so with the help of Steelmate who very kindly help fund the production ‘Ifitstuff TV’ was born, with a chat show style set that saw some of the hottest industry guests visiting the Ifitstuff sofa including Kevin Kay from Steelmate and the technical super brain and very charming Dee Keenan. The venue for the show was the one and only Mobile Electronics Expo show at the Ricoh area in Coventry this year and along with the support of MEN and sponsors (Parrot, Locks 4 Vans and Steelmate) we held the first ever hilarious ‘Ifitstuff Prepared Mobile Installer Challenge’ that saw five engineers sprinting backwards and forwards to their vehicles racing to be the first back to the finish line with the required tool (check out the action by going to www.youtube.com and then search for ‘Ifitstuff TV’).

The ultimate database Retail & Trade search tools This amazing new database will allow your company to get work for free! It will also allow you to find installers cover all types of installations across the UK & beyond - See our advert (right) for details.

What’s next from here? At the moment I am fully focussed on the development of Ifitstuff, I have what seems like an endless list of creative projects that will firmly establish Ifitstuffs future as a major force in this industry. We currently have a full time IT programmer working day and night on development projects, a great Moderator and Guru Team and to be honest the sky is not even nearly the limit for Ifitstuff and these are really exciting times for me.

We have 2 search tools here at www.ifitstuff.com/ engineer_locator.php 1) A retail search tool, which will allow Joe public to search for a quality local professional that offers the installation type of their choice and that lives/works within 50 miles (results listed nearest 1st). 2) A trade search tool (Only seen by members who are logged into the Ifitstuff forum) where you can find a subcontractor with a very specific skill set who is willing to travel to the postcode where you need an installation or service call. Those who do good work should be rewarded and we want as many of the 5 Million UK motorists as possible who will need a DAB conversion to use this list with confidence to get a quality installation along with any other type of installation that they might want or need. Cowboys, lashbods & fly by nights need not bother to register! Quality installers get yourselves listed free of charge when you join Ifitstuff, the number one website for the trade of the mobile electronics industry (also FOC).

Go to www.ifitstuff.com NOW www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT FOCUS

|ACTIVE BASS SOLUTIONS

BLAUPUNKT The Blaupunkt GTb 8 A has one of the most useful adjustments found on any sub bass machine – a variable phase control ranging from zero to 180 degrees. In our experience the best sound has never occurs either at zero or 180 which illustrates the reason why it’s a good idea. It also has a variable low pass filter frequency control ranging from 70 to 200Hz plus the usual adjustable gain control. The subwoofer has high and low level inputs with a removable plug for the speaker hook-up wire-able to a left and right output while the low level input is via RCA phono sockets. Dimensions of this unit are 250 x 272/202 x 260mm. There’s also a cast alloy under-seat model GTb 200 which has only 71 mm of installation height and an ‘autoon’ programme detection circuit. The most unusual unit in the range is the GT 6902 which contains two 6x9 inch subs and is designed to replace boot-mounted spare wheels. It operates up to 300W peak and has variable low pass filter and phase shift. Dimensions are 570mm in diameter by 165mm deep. Autosound 01274 685411 www.blaupunktdirect.co.uk

CALIBER Stylish and powerful with a chunky attractive grille, the Caliber Active Bass Tubes are available with 10 and 12 inch (BCT110/112A) subwoofer, integrated amplifier and active crossover adjustable from 50 to 250Hz. They have speaker level inputs and RCA line-in connections and come with a remote gain control. The 10 has a max power rating of 800W and the 12 tips it to 1000W peak. Dimensions of the 10 are 550x310x330mm and the 12 is 560x370x370mm. Celsus 01202 664 390 www.celsusice.co.uk

EDGE Incredibly low price points for all three EDGE powered boxes which include a 10, 12 and dual 12 inch model with flared three inch ports with distinctive orange relief styling. They are all powered by an Edge amplifier model ED72100 and come complete with a wiring kit plus an internal channel to hide the cables. Max power is 900 Watts Dimensions of the 12 inch model are 408x338x413mm (WHD). The product has its own website at www.EDGECarAudio.com Midbass 0870 7658423 www.midbass.co.uk

FOCAL The Focal BombA 20 Access 1 Active Vented Enclosure has an eight inch sub and comes with high (with spring-clip terminals) and low level inputs and a zero or 180 deg phase shift switch. There is a bass boost control at 50Hz which is adjustable from zero to 18dB in level – a higher than average range. It has the usual main adjust level control and an adjustable low pass filter ranging from 50 to 200Hz. The enclosure has a flared vent reduced air noise with a drive unit with an all-weather glass fibre woven cone. Peak power from the integrated amplifier is 300W and the dimensions are 250x320x392mm. Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT FOCUS

FLI Vibeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FLI Trap 12 Active uses a 12 inch Fli Frequency subwoofer with Fli Loaded 250 amplifier rated at 300 Wrms or a 1000W peak. The unit has a bass boost control and crossovers built-in Vibe claim that the curved enclosure offers a perfect acoustic channel which automatically deletes enclosure resonance. The baffle boards at each end of the enclosure are angled forming a double wedge design. The double wedge offers increased pressures inside the tunnel maximising bass output. The box dimensions are 500x350x380mm (LWH) and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s packaged complete with a wiring kit. Midbass 0870 7658423 www.midbass.co.uk

|ACTIVE BASS SOLUTIONS

FUSION Fusion offer four active wedge enclosures with single or dual 12s starting with the CS-AW1120 and twin-sub CS-AW2120 entry-level models and the more expensive and higher power CP models CP-AW1120 and CP-AW2120. Common features include an eight gauge wiring kit, a variable 40 to 250Hz low pass filter, high and low voltage inputs and most useful of all, a remote level control. The CS models have peak power in the order of 450W for the

Fusion CS Series Active Wedge box

single and 750W for the double whereas the top of the range CP Series peaks at 750 and 900W respectively. Dimensions for the CS models is (LWH) 550x408x368mm and the double is 820x408x368mm. The CP models measure 567x415x384mm (single) and 836x415x384mm for the double. Fusion also does a neat and effective ported flat-sided tube with a 10 inch woofer, the model CS-AT1100 with an integrated amplifier pushing out a peak power of 360 Watts. It has a variable low pass filter ranging from 40 to 250Hz. Dimensions of the tube are 559x306x306mm. CEL TRADE 0116 2449846

KICKER The Kicker PES10C SubStation Powered Enclosure has a 10 inch Kicker Solo Classic subwoofer with a 450 Watt Class-D amplifier in a compact sealed enclosure. The larger PECVR12 SubStation houses a 400W amplifier and is fitted with a 12 inch KICKER CompVR sub in a vented enclosure. Both units feature a quick-connect wire harness and Velcro-fastened nylon straps for a simple, secure fit. They also come with a remote bass control and adjustable low pass crossover. Other useful items include a phase switch and a variable +12dB bass boost at 40Hz plus a 12dB/octave variable low pass ranging from 50 to 200Hz. They also have three automatic turn-on options. Dimensions of the 10 inch are (DHW) 127/210x337x457mm and the 12 are 286/368x406x433mm. Armour also has an excellent range of Kicker BassStation powered subwoofers combine subs, enclosures and amplifiers in a specifically designed application for optimal bass performance. The BassStation is available in a 12 inch dual-woofer box with a 200 Watt amplifier. The rest have 100W amplifiers, including a 12 inch single-woofer box and an eight inch and a 10 inch slim profile box. They all feature a quick-connect Molex power, signal and remote turn-on harness/plug for simple set-up or removal. Nylon straps with Velcro help secure the BassStation in place. All BassStations come with a remote bass control, adjustable low-pass crossover, 24dB/octave high pass at 25Hz subsonic filter, variable +6dB

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

www.celtrade.com

bass boost, phase cancelling switch and two automatic turn-on options. It also features high and low-level inputs. The eight, 10, 12 and dual dimensions are as follows (DHW): 102/168x285x430mm., 10 inch 118/195x325x490mm., 12 inch 195/285x380x800mm., Dual 12 inch 195/285x380x800mm. Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

Fusion CP Series Active Wedge box

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT FOCUS

|ACTIVE BASS SOLUTIONS

MTX Celsus market this well-established brand and their Active Subwoofer Systems with MTX majoring on two powered reflex tubes using eight and 12 inch woofers. The ROAD THUNDER eight inch powered tube model RT8PT and the 12 inch RT12PT offer excellent performance and value. The eight inch version has peak amplification of 360W and the 12 inch is in the region of 450W. Both have High output vented MTX tube enclosure . They share the same slot port design which has been developed to deliver accurate bass. They come with a remote gain control and on the unit there is a variable low pass filter with a range from 50 to 200Hz. As expected, there is a facility for RCA and high level inputs. The eight inch tube’s dimensions are 250x250x540mm and the 12 measures 365x365x550mm. Celsus 01202 664 390 www.celsusice.co.uk

MUTANT The Mutant 10 inch Engage Active subwoofer has oversized tuned ports and an integrated high power Class D externally-mounted amplifier to offer effective cooling. Carbon effect high strength MDF enclosures with Rose Gold detailing help to make it attractive to potential customers. Maximum power output is 800 Watts powering a sub with a black polycarbonate cone and a sensitivity of 90 dB and a frequency response of 34 to 450 Hz. The carbon effect vinyl covering is designed to be hard wearing and the low port tuning frequency extends output to produce a good low end performance. This is helped by using 18mm MDF construction – far better than the ubiquitous 15mm boxes. Dimensions of the enclosure are (DWH) 480x364x332mm. Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

VIBE The BlackAir Vented 12 bass reflex enclosure features a dual-flared Turboport which allows smooth airflow resulting in cleaner bass and the elimination of port noise. It utilises VIBE’s Port Plug which allows the user to acoustically-tune the box through the use of a dual-ported enclosure offering the choice of sealed, low-tuned double port or high-tuned bass reflex enclosure. Peak power is quoted at 1800 Watts which should get the cone moving. VIBE claims that its A.R.B.S.S - Anti Resonance Bass Support System isolates the enclosure from the vehicle to reduce the transfer of unwanted resonance and the ‘Pressure Wedge’ enclosure design allows the subwoofer to be mounted both facing into the vehicle and towards the rear of the vehicle allowing the user to tune the enclosure to their musical taste. The package includes a wiring kit and a remote control. Dimensions (HWD) are 375x560x427mm. Midbass 0870 7658423 www.midbass.co.uk

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

“...give your customers full factory style iPod integration without the full factory cost...” The CANBUS enabled Gateway 100* from Dension emulates the CD changer function in the vehicle** and utilises the original changer controls to operate a connected iPod or iPhone.

    

* A Dock Cable or Cradle is required ** CDC & MDI emulation

Once connected the iPod will then be operated from the radio or steering wheel controls of the vehicle.

Control external devices through the original controls Song Information and browsing on compatible vehicles Full iPod control, play and charging Retain original dashboard aesthetic 3.5mm Auxiliary Input Jack

“...Support us and our brands at the MEN Awards 2011 and give us a ‘license to thrill’...”

To place an order please call +44(0)1420 487110 or email sales@armourauto.com Also available through Daltec The Authorised UK Partner for Dension Products

Telephone - 0208 5157820 Email - sales@dal-tec.com

www.dension.com AUTOMOTIVE

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Show Time ONICS BY KENWOOD ELECTR D RE SO N O SP 12 20 M.E.N EXPO

MEN EXPO 2012 in the Olympic Year will be more special as we launch the 10th Mobile Electronics News Exhibition will take place at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry on the 13th and 14th March 2012. Here’s why you should be there… They say the best things in life are free and this is a philosophy that we at Creative Media embrace with our annual exhibition, the M.E.N Expo. Launched in 2002, the M.E.N Exhibition is the UK’s only free of charge trade show for the mobile electronics industry, bigger and better each year, it is event not to be missed.

the exhibition Sponsored by Kenwood Electronics, the 2012 Expo will bring together the industry’s key manufactures and distributors. The M.E.N Expo is a must - see for those wishing to catch up with their business contacts all under one roof. The event is also the perfect opportunity to network with your peers, recharge your enthusiasm and of course take advantage of great show deals. It is the perfect opportunity for retailers and buyers to see and hear the very latest news and products in car audio, multimedia, security and navigation for the coming year. Many companies who have attended previous shows have said it’s an essential tool to enhance their business relationships, meet new suppliers and their develop industry knowledge.

A Meeting of Minds Education and training is one of the key focuses at the 2012 M.E.N Expo and, as such a conference programme has been created to allow delegates to gather, enhance and develop their knowledge regarding primary subjects within the Mobile Electronics Industry. After the success of last year’s Digital Radio seminar, we will offer you the chance to learn about the advancements within this domain. To keep your business at the forefront and learn the best ways to promote, publicise and gain maximum exposure, we will be holding sales and marketing workshops, permitting visitors the chance to improve their skills and ability in this field, learning from the best in the market.

Conference Programme l The Development Of The DAB infrastructure l OEM Integration l Closing a sale – Sales and marketing techniques from the industries finest. l Diversification - How to fit your business in with what is happening in today’s world. l Future Tech - What are car manufacturers planning? Be sure to read future editions of Mobile Electronics News magazine, for further programme announcements! Plus product launches to be revealed!

Party - Viva LAs IfitStuff Installation Competition The 2011 Expo saw the launch of the IfitStuff Installer challenge, with an enormous response from the industry the event was a great success, offering visitors the chance to witness the UK’s best installers battle it out for the top accolade. If you want to be a part of this competition and show the industry what you are made of then contact Jeff Scott: jeff@ifitstuff.com

Vegas

party will take The 2012 Expo gas themed Ve s Le a on a Viv in a night of us n evening, so joi and show DJ d, foo er, be free g place at kin ta be girls. This will , largest casinos one of the UK’s ng mi ga e fre ing we will provid ng to take a or, if you wanti ke advantage ta n gamble, the sino tables of the many ca on offer!

If you wish to ng discuss exhibiti po at the 2012 Ex a contact Shaun @ a un a sh Peters via or ltd ia creativemed 97 48 call 01268 75

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY We have limited sponsorship opportunities available, with only Hospitality remaining. If you want to make the first and lasting impression on our guests then this is the sponsorship for you. The exhibitor’s party is the perfect opportunity to brand your company or products to your target audience, in an intimate space it enables you to create a strong presence amongst the industries leading players! Contact Charlotte Body via charlotte@creativemedialtd. co.uk or call 01268 754897

To request your free of charge expo ticket, visit www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu and register online, or alternatively call our ticket hotline on 01268 754 897 44

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

The afTermarkeT Trade show for YoUr indUsTrY

daTes annoUnced This Year will be beTTer Than eVer! WHAT’S GOING ON? SPONSORED BY

vent: At this years e mpetition o c r lle a st in ff tu •Ifits rogramme p l a n o ti a c u d e •2 day •Digital Radio s •Leading brand w party o sh r e ft a ry st u • Ind re! And much mo

To reGisTer Go To www.mobileelecTronicsnews.eU

For your free of charge exhibition ticket or call our M.E.N Expo ticket hotline 01268 754897

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

|2011

AND THE WINNER IS… Awards, If you don’t win - Pah! If you do - Hooray! Read on to discover all you need to know about the M.E.N Industry Awards - who votes and what winners should do to maximise their value. Arthur Deebie comments…

A W A R D S 2 0 1 1

T H E

I N - C A R

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

AWARDS 2011

Having worked in a variety of areas of this beloved industry of ours, I have seen and felt all of the different possible emotions and attitudes to industry awards and now, as an interested observer, I find some reactions to them absolutely fascinating whilst others border on the bizarre. Laps of honour, fist pumping and other aggressive gesticulation from companies who, after the ceremony is over, put the award in a cupboard and never think about it again. Agitated product managers and associated PR’s growing increasingly uncomfortable as they fear retribution for failing to have influenced the judging and get themselves an award and “jaded experienced professionals” cynically blaming everyone except perhaps, their own lack of effort in ensuring they are delivering a product that dealers want to vote for. A more thorough appreciation of what an award can gain may be useful at this point. Within a specialist environment, customers want the best advice. Many will only ever make one purchase of car electronics in their lifetime and want to ensure that they are buying the right thing. Specialist dealers are best placed to help such customers taking many criteria into account. However, a product which grabs attention due to a conspicuous piece of point of sale declaring it the best product the industry has to offer has surely got to help both specialist dealer and customer hasn’t it? In much larger industries, awards panels are set up which include opinion groups from all areas who have special access to products at prototype stage and are able to discuss the relative attributes with a producers development team and carry out heavy-weight technical testing. At MEN things are different. We tirelessly strive to gain responses from as many dealers as possible, across the broadest spectrum of brands. We firmly believe that specialist dealers are best placed to judge each product in our 36 categories based on first hand, day to day experience. Specialist dealers will implicitly take into account how easy a product is to sell, how long it takes to install, what extra revenue opportunities it offers, how easy it is to get hold off, how reliable the product is alongside many other attributes. By drawing attention to the best, the M.E.N awards set important benchmarks on which the industry should set its sights in order to ensure a high quality future. For those who do lift an award, your journey simply begins here it is not the end! You are now at liberty to tell the world that you have a product 46

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

or service that has been adjudged by your industry to be the best. We can help you spread the word of course, but it is the public at large who will ultimately repay you for your competence by purchasing your awardwinning product over and above something similar. So, shout loud and be proud on your website, in your advertising and within your PR and promotions messaging, equip your dealers with attention grabbing POS and enjoy the benefits of being a winner. But on the night, have fun, celebrate this glorious industry and remember that for the duration of the event at least, it is the taking part that counts.

By drawing attention to the best, the M.E.N awards set important benchmarks For dealers reading this, please do not under estimate the value of your voting contribution. You are the ones who decide what is good or bad in our industry you are the intelligence that operates between producers and consumers who may have completely different views on what makes a product the best! Get voting now, and help to shape the future.

TRADE SALES DEPT

020 8569 1543

UK’s WIDEST SELECTION OF BRANDED CAR AUDIO MODEL MODEL

PRICE

2 x 75W RMS

£54.99

GT5-402

10cm 90W

£14.99

GTO1004e

4 x 100W RMS

£94.99

GT5-502

13cm 105W

£17.99

GTO5355e

4x55W + 225W RMS

£119.99

GT5-652

16.5cm 135W

£19.99

GTO7001e

1 x 700W RMS @2ohm

£104.99

GT5-963

6”x9” 210W

£22.00

GTO14001e

1 x 1400W RMS @2ohm

£169.99

GT5-500c

13cm comps

£29.99

GTO24001e

1 x 2400W RMS @2ohms

£389.99

GT5-650c

16.5cm comps

£29.99

GT5 RANGE

GTO752e

CS-12

GTO-1202D

GT5-1204BR

GT5-2402BR

12” 1000W

12” 1200W

12” 1100W with box

Twin 12” subs with box

£22.99

£25.99

£59.00

£103.99

GTO SPEAKERS

PRICE

INFINITY

SUBWOOFERS

GTO AMPLIFIERS

MODEL

PRICE

GTO428

10cm 105W 2-way

£18.99

GTO528

13cm 135W 2-way

£21.99

GTO628

16cm 180W 2-way

£23.99

GTO6528

16.5cm 180W 2-way

£23.99

GTO938

6”x9” 300W 3-way

£26.99

GTO508c

13cm 165W components

£39.99

GTO6508c

16.5cm 210W components

£39.99

GTO6538c

16.5cm 240W components

£54.99

Ref 1260

9633i

Reference comps

12” 1200W sub

6”x9” 300W speakers

13cm – 16.5cm components

£31.00

£52.99

UK’s ONLY OFFICIAL JBL & INFINITY DISTRIBUTOR FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BE PART OF THIS GLOBAL BRAND CALL OUR TRADE SALES TEAM NOW ON

020 8569 1543

NEW

LIMITED EDITION

KENWOOD KDC-DAB4551U 4x50W, CD/MP3, built-in DAB Tuner £135.00 or £155.00 with aerial

KENWOOD KDC-BT61U 4x50W, CD/MP3/USB Bluetooth & iPod direct

Pioneer AVH-3300BT 5.8” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD Bluetooth ready

JVC KW-NT3 7.” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD European Navigation

JVC KD-R311 4x45W, CD/MP3 Front aux-input

ALPINE CDE-126BTi 4x50W, CD/MP3/USB Bluetooth & iPod direct

JVC KW-AVX830 7.” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD Bluetooth & Face-off

Kenwood DNX-5260BT 6.1” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD/Bluetooth European Navigation

FLI 12” Active 12” 1000W sub In Active enclosure

JVC KD-R421 4x45W, CD/MP3/USB Front aux input

PIONEER MVH-8300BT Mechless USB unit Bluetooth & iPod direct

Alpine IVA-W520R 7.0” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD

Pioneer AVIC-F930BT 6.1” Touch screen CD/USB/DVD/Bluetooth European Navigation

JBL GTO Bass Pack 12” 1200W sub + AmpBox & wiring kit included

£36.99

£49.00

N ECTIOLE L L O B C AILA AV DAYS 7-

£132.00

£149.99

£204.99

£234.00

£295.00

£405.00

Vibe CBR12 Active 12” 1600W sub In Active enclosure

£449.00

£109.99

£59.99

£529.00

£565.00

£90.00

Car Audio & Security, Unit 6A Bilton Way Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 3NF (10 mins from Heathrow Airport)

T+ 020 8569 1543 F+ 020 8848 7175 E+ support@caraudiosecurity.com

NEX DAY T DELIV ERY www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

47 All prices exclude VAT at current rate and are subject to availability/change without notification. Trade prices are available to CAS Account holders only. E&OE

INDUSTRY PERSONALITY

|2011

MARK BAKER, CELSUS M.E.N finds out more about the man behind the marketing of Celsus, specialist distributor of some of the most iconic products in car audio, including JL, Dynamat and Phoenix Gold What does your current job entail and what’s a typical day like? Very simply put I have two primary functions at Celsus, marketing and design alongside strategic purchasing – this encompasses our Celsus own accessory products and the fantastic brands we distribute in the UK and across Europe. This gives me a very good grasp of everything that is going on at Celsus. As a company director I also assist Paul Baker and Chris Bennett to make sure we are always moving forward and maintaining the great reputation we have for products and service. This means that my days can vary considerably from cost price analysis and forecast planning to an advert design or promotion co-ordination. There is no typical day really apart from they are all fast-paced and start in the office at 8.30am and usually involves me returning calls.

What are the best and worst things about your current job? The best thing is being able to do the work I love in an industry that I have been into since I got my first car at 17, I am in a very lucky position of being able to make a living from one of my hobbies. Also the team we have here is the best we have ever had. Having previously worked in companies with people who don’t get on, I would say it is a massive thing for me to have a fun working atmosphere. Being around people such as Paul and Chris I benefit from their years of experience in this and other industries which helps me a lot. The worst thing could be the long hours from time to time but to be honest I wouldn’t do them if a didn’t enjoy it, oh and also the fact Chris is an Arsenal fan – but everyone has their faults 

And what are the best and worst things about working in this industry? Working in this industry means that I get the opportunity to meet people, see things and go to events that I would never have thought in a million years I would get the chance to. For example if you had said to me 10 years ago when I was sat at Guildford cruise I would one day be distributing brands like JL Audio, Dynamat and Phoenix Gold I would have probably thought you were mad. Unfortunately there is one aspect of this industry which I don’t look kindly on and

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

that is what we at Celsus call the ‘race to zero’. Product quality is always going to suffer when you buy solely on price, when I source product I will definitely negotiate very hard on price but not at the eventual expense of quality or service as these are two factors we pride ourselves on.

What’s been your proudest professional achievement? When I look back to where this company has come from (building mini capacitors at our house) and how Celsus has grown into what it is today, the feeling of achievement is huge. That however is down to all involved, I think considering I’m a graphic designer being able to walk into a shop or pick up a magazine and see your work in it definitely clinches it for me.

And your proudest achievement outside of work? The three peaks challenge would definitely be up there, six of us did it back in May and

We have a couple of great projects on the horizon with our MediaDAB interface and bringing Phoenix Gold back to the UK although it hurt at the time (snow, sleet and rain!) it felt very good to know we completed it for a good cause.

And in your life to date, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? I don’t know who said it or where it is from but I once heard ‘it is nice to be important but more important to be nice’ – now it may not be the best piece of advice I have been given but I’ll never forget it.

What do you get up to in your spare time? In my spare time I am obviously into car audio, not as much the styling side of modification like I used to be but obviously the audio. I draw and paint at home as well as being into tattoos. I am into metal and rock music so go to shows whenever I can to watch both local and big bands.

And is there anything people may not know about you that you would care to share? I’m ambidextrous.

What are people at work most likely to hear you say? “Just put that on an email so I don’t forget.”

What do you think 2011 and beyond has in store for you and also for the industry? I’m looking forward to the rest of 2011 into 2012, we have a couple of great projects on the horizon with our MediaDAB interface and bringing Phoenix Gold back to the UK so it will be exciting times. The market has definitely been impacted by the economic climate however with responsible distributors and pro-active dealers there is no reason why our industry won’t get bigger and better year on year.

Any parting words? Visit www.celsusice.co.uk and always ‘Think Celsus First’

THE ULTIMATE IN CAR SECURITY IS A SNIPER! Sniper Easy Fit

Sniper X2

EASY INSTALLATION ALARM

2-WAY PAGER ALARM

Two 2 button remote controls, 120dB 6 Tone siren, shock sensor, Silent arm/disarm option, Blue status LED, Panic alarm, Low neg locking outputs

With all the features of the X1 plus a 2 way LCD pager remote control the X2 is astounding value for money. Available with and without remote engine starter.

Easy installation, only 6 wires to connect!

£18 +VAT

£39.99 +VAT £69.99 +VAT

Sniper X1

Sniper GSM

FULLY FEATURED ALARM

GSM COMMUNICATOR ALARM

Two 2 button remote controls, 120dB 6 Tone siren, 2 stage sensor, Universal CDL, Total Closure, Immobiliser, Passive arming/locking, Boot release output, Silent arm/disarm option, Blue status LED, Anti-hijack, Auto re-arm, Ignition locking, Panic alarm, Intrusion indication, Emergency override, Valet mode

Control the alarm from any phone or the two included remote controls. Calls up to two numbers on alarm Dial in to listen in to the car Car can be positioned using GSM network Dual stage shock sensor

£25 +VAT

£99 +VAT

Additional Sensors

Central Locking

Boot Release

WITHOUT REMOTE START WITH REMOTE START

SelfTrack GPS SUB FREE GPS TRACKER SYSTEM

Immobiliser Bypass

Window Closures

Battery Backup Sirens

Ideal for people that want affordable tracking but don’t want to pay the ongoing cost of subscriptions, simply track it by sending a text message. Text alerts for alarm activation, panic button, ignition on & low power. Unlocked - use any SIM

Additional Sensors

Central Locking

Boot Release

Immobiliser Bypass

Window Closures

£150 +VAT Battery Backup Sirens

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR QUANTITY

SNIPER AUTOMOTIVE

electronics WORLDWIDE

FA L C O N WORLD CLASS SECURITY

Tel: 01928 759 239

Multimedia

Tel: 01928 759 239

www.electronics-worldwide.com Login: trade Password: global email: sales@electronics-worldwide.com

www.electronics-worldwide.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu email: sales@electronics-worldwide.com

DOWN AT THE DEALER

| MC-INCAR

ONE FOR THE MONEY I’ve known Mick for over 20 years now when he started work in Peterborough for a Pioneer Blue Chip dealer and then started up on his own as a mobile installer back in 1995. By 2000 Mick had got himself a shop which sits neatly in the driveway of his house – a handy solution which was further improved by what could be described as a treble-plus garage at the end of the garden – ideal for working on cars under cover. Some remarkable installs over the years have come out of his workshop but the days of Saxos and Golfs with massive bootfuls have more or less passed, and with it a fully-staffed workshop. This doesn’t mean to say that Mick has lost the urge to customise. Only last year – as a certified Parrot installer – he became the first UK installer to win their custom installation of a Parrot device award. Since then, Mick has observed that other European installers have won with amazingly similar installs to his own. Ho-hum. During the heat of the recession Mick visited some installer friends in Florida (Mick was driving his own Ford Torino over the other

The future is in re-trimming retro cars such as VW campers, Golfs, Porsches and other classics

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Expansion plans means Mick’s place is for sale

Brilliant red Ferrari Edition Fiat 500 carpenter or anyone who needs a shop plus a generous workshop space.” One of the things that stands in the way of Mick’s plans is that there are two 3,000 sqr mtr units and the owner will only rent them as a pair – anyone interested?

PA-ME P U Score:

R TE

side of the pond when he was 16 – but that’s another story..) and was surprised to see that the custom scene from installs to tuning was still going strong. Recent market reports suggest that the US custom install business is still surprisingly robust. Although Mick will never admit that business has generally gone quite well over the years, one of the reasons for his success has been diversification – investing in ventures outside of mobile electronics but still very much in the automotive zone. Mick’s obvious

petrolheadedness means he’s had some interesting two and four wheelers over the years including one he is going to keep, a rare 964 Speedster – the one with the chopped windscreen and the bumps behind the seats. The 964 Porsche has always been a particular favourite of mine and the Speedster is the outrageous cream on top. Until the rebirth of the new Fiat 500 which has interestingly affected the market for the originals, Mick had up to ten collectable 500s on the go being rebuilt. This business is on a lower-key now, concentrating on the rarer suicide door models and cabrios. His prize possession though, which cost a fortune to build to very high standards, is a jewel-like Ferrari Edition model – perfect in every detail - yours for £20k! Commenting on this part of his business, Mick said: “The future is in modernising retro cars such as VW campers – re-trimming and other improvements.” As well as mobile electronics, he has been doing interior trimming for nearly two years now which has helped to bring in additional income. As well as classic stuff he also does leather trimming for more modern cars and does recovering of soft tops, often using more expensive mohair materials which tend to look so much better than some of the originals. Although Mick’s current house, shop and workshop setup has worked well, he’s ready to sell the lot and buy a another house to pursue his next business venture, a 3,000 square metre unit with its own yard. The reason behind his desire to move is to be able to work on vans, motorhomes and boats under cover. “My property would be excellent for lots of small businesses,” said Mick, “It would suit a

In the background, a heavy duty sewing machine and all the gear needed for trimming

Mick Cicora is a one-man business where counting the pennies and profit margins has become important in these chastened times. Martyn Williams reports

VERDICT 0: One m an band – fa r too busy mate !

Focus on Fleet Tracking Systems Private and Business Mileage now available on all Global Telemetrics Tracking sites For Further information please call 0845 833 6971 and speak to one of the Technical Team or email technical@globaltelemetrics.eu www.globaltelemetrics.eu

TRAK

TRACK & TRACE

caraudiosecurity

Call us to discuss your Fleet requirements

SmarTrack Fleet • • • •

Ideal for all 12/24 volt vehicles Online Account 3 year Warranty (Extendable to 12 years) Fully Transferable from Vehicle to Vehicle

£165 + VAT Subscriptions Annual £84 + VAT Annual inc SVR £157.50 + VAT

Become a SmarTrack Reseller call 0208 569 1543 or email: rino@caraudiosecurity.com

Prices correct at time of press

Unit 6A Bilton Way, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 3NF.

Tel: 0208 569 1543 caraudiosecurity.com www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

ADAM RAYNER

2011|

RAYNER RANTS Adam Rayner’s done with bloody musing and now wants to get right on a High Horse… I went to the University Of East Anglia where I read Environmental Sciences as part of my love of the Earth and Life Sciences. My old School of Environmental Sciences has even been in the news over their world famous Climate Unit’s alleged massage of statistics…but it was also one of only four Unis in the whole UK that had such major music acts come play there. They would play Norwich UEA then Hammersmith the very next night with the same rig. As the place was so small it was fifty/fifty full-on rock gig stage versus audience space! I recall John Lydon ranting “I want some serious hearing damage in here tonight!” to his sound engineer, when he saw how small and brick-tight it was for the PA. That was Public Image Limited or PiL, and he was really angry about my adding a graffito to his set, since he was rejecting the ‘Johnny Rotten’ name at the time. (Now he uses it to advertise butter.)

Thing is, it was a choice of the ‘LCR’ at

Anyway, it was dead left wing and dead

If you are an ASM for any maker that

UEA or else the horrid rotting barn of West

middle class and yet despite the lefty

sells stuff that fits in with any products

Runton Pavilion if you wanted a decent size

activists, most of us couldn’t care less and

categories, then grip your dealers by the

East Anglian gig venue. The Theatre Royal

passionate calls to arms for various student

attention gland and campaign their butts.

was just a bit posh and the Jacquard club

causes were met with deep apathy. We

Do they think your company sells the best

a bit ‘underground’. The piss and pigeon-

even got nicknamed the University of

amp under £150? If they agree you do, then

shit encrusted Pavilion was fit in its last years

Extreme Apathy as a result.

ask them to vote and say so. It’s easy to do

solely for the likes of Motorhead to play

And now, my exhortation to you is this.

and the more votes in, the better and more

there. It was ‘ard…

Don’t be Readers of Extreme Apathy!

representative the awards will be.

Yet that was what sparked off the pro-audio

Get thy Give-A-Damn in gear and engage

Which meanwhile I am happily booked

career for me, as I was fascinated by the

with your chosen favoured items. Give them

to compere once more and hopefully lay

equipment they used and eventually went

a pat on the back. You’ve just received the

another one right out for you. Last year

off to be a roadie, humping huge boxes

news about the better, more streamlined

was a bit odd and I was a bit sweary. This

on wheels and coiling up cables properly

MEN Awards List. We’ve even tweaked

year, it’s James Bond-themed and I reckon

afterwards.

and improved the people side of things to

the climax has to be me going with the

The UEA ‘Ents’ committee had a budget

include the hitherto unsung tech helpers

Austin Powers Bond parody films as cultural

of ten grand a term (back in the Eighties,

at distributors who save your arses while

reference and whipping off my kit to be Fat

when that was serious money) that we were

you are tits-down in some car’s foot well on

Bastard.

allowed to ‘use’ for the good of all. This

your mobile, asking about wire colours on

Now if I hear that any of you have not

meant, that since we were running full-size

the back of an AV unit so wiry it looks like

voted, I will hunt you down, while naked

gigs like Duran Duran and The Cure at their

shaggy hair.

and covered in chip grease while saying

80’s heyday peak, we were making lots of

So… I beseech thee in the Bowels of All that

in a deep Scots accent, “I’m dead sexy

lolly. So we could book, REAL big-cost acts

Is Good and Of Sonic Excellence…fucking

Meeee!” and rubbing my nipples.

and give them a generous ‘door-based’

VOTE!!!!

Now the only way to successfully rid your

based contract, only for them to find the

Often in previous years, there has been

mind of the images I have painted inside

place was so ‘intimate’ that there would be

a flurry of calls to every bloody dealer

your head, is to go sort out some opinions.

no profit for them. I recall the Go-Go’s being

who will pick up the phone and a sort of

So get off the loo (most of my readership

really ticked off about it and once, I lifted

‘retail rather than wholesale’ gathering

is bog-based I gather) and please, pretty

Michelle Collins off the front of the stage so

of opinions before the product awards

please go make your opinions count in what

she could leave after sound check, rather

in particular were decided on, in some

is the ONLY and definitely in any case the

than climb over the cables at the side of the

categories. And that’s bonkers. I know

greatest set of ICE Awards the UK has

stage, as she asked me so nicely. She was a

that swearing at you in print is not going

ever had.

backing vocalist for Mari Wilson at the time…

to persuade anyone to change how they

But the really big ones in 1982 would have

spend their coffee time but here’s

been Bow Wow Wow and Simple Minds.

a thought…..

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

Take care, now and avoid the old BOOMPH tinkle …

DIRECTORY www.mobileelectronicsnews.co.uk For as little as £17 per month, you can list your company details here. For more information, contact 01268 754 897 or e-mail admin@creativemedialtd.co.uk

C-KO International Contact: Mark Scarff T: 020 8863 8333 E:enquiries@c-ko.co.uk W: www.c-ko.co.uk Brands: C-KO , Eurologics, Necvox, Nesa/ VST, Rosen

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

Clarion (GB) Limited Contact: Sales at Clarion T: +44 (0) 1793 859563 F: +44 (0) 1793 859598 E: info@clarion.co.uk W: www.clarion.co.uk Brands: Clarion

Armour Automotive Limited Contact: Sales T: 01420 487110 E: sales@armourauto.com W: www.armourauto.com Brands: Autoleads, CTi, iO, Mutant, Radiomobile, Veba, VI, Avital, Clifford, Focal, Hornet, Kicker, Orion, Viper, Oxygen, Dension, Kinetik, Hushmat

Automonitor Mobile Multimedia Ltd Contact: Hugh J McTernan T: +44 (0) 116 275 2020 E: hugh@automonitor.co.uk W: www.automonitor.co.uk Brands: Automonitor, SAVV, Necvox, Baton, Rosen, Visteon, Britax and Westfalia

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

Autosound Limited Contact: Lee Fergus T: 01274 688990 E: lee.fergus@autosound.co.uk W: www.autosound.co.uk, www.blaupunktdirect.co.uk Brands: Blaupunkt, Bosch Car Multimedia, Funkwerk, Funtoro Mod Systems 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

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.

Drivesync - Tracking Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Drivesync - Tracking.

EDGE Audio T: 0121 311 9090 E: info@edgecaraudio.com W: www.edgecaraudio.com Brands: Edge

iGRIP® / Herbert Richter GmbH Contact: Scott Bouquet Email: s.b@igrip.eu T: +44 (0) 2081447413 E: www.igrip.eu Brands: iGRIP, Herbet Richter. Exclusively Available at Strax (UK) LTD In Car Technologies Contact: Steve Patient T: 01392 829435 E: sales@incartec.co.uk W: www.incartech.co.uk

Kenwood Electronics UK Limited T: +44 (0) 1923 816444 E: enquiries@kenwood-electronics.co.uk W: www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk Brands: Kenwood 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 Navigon AG Contact - Anthony Mills T: 07971 526616 F: +49 40 370 88 480 E: Anthony.mills@navigon.com W: www.navigon.com Navman Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Navman

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. Parksafe UK Contact: Mick Barber T: 01773 746 591 F: 01773 743 251 E: Sales@Park-safe.co.uk w: www.Park-safe.co.uk Brands: Parking and Rear View camera systems

Dashmount Contact: Steve Taylor T: 01883741460 E: sales@dashmount.co.uk W: www.dashmount Brands: Dashmount, Bury, Nokia, Parrot, Adapt, Brodit, Autoleads, Elan, Kram, Park Control, Steelmate. DMC Business Machines PLC Contact – Steve McLean T: 0844 736 1144 E: steve.mclean@dmcplc.co.uk W: www.dmcplc.co.uk/auto Brands: Handsfree Car Kits – Nokia, THB Bury, Parrot, Motorola Parking Sensors – Steelmate, Veba Reverse Camera Kits – Veba GPS Camera Detection – Novus, Event Recording Systems – Novus Vehicle Lighting – Haztec, Ring Installation Accessories – Autoleads, Hirschmann, Bloomice, Wallen & More!

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

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.

Audiovox Incaar Systems GmbH Contact: Damian Trybuszewski T: 01483 722 531 E: info@audiovoxincaarsystems.com W: www.audiovoxincaarsystems.com Brands: Audiovox, Audiovox Incaar Systems, AIS

Parrot UK Limited T: 0844 472 2360 E: sales.uk@parrot.com W: www.parrot.com Brands: Parrot

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, Parking Sensors, Speed Pulse Generators & Installation tools. Scorpion Automotive Ltd Contact: Dianne or Philly T: 01257 249928 E: info@scorpionauto.com W: www.scorpionauto.com Brands: Scorpion Security, Toad Security, Sigma Security, Stirling Security, Scorpion Parking sensors, Scorpion Track Stolen vehicle and fleet management tracking Select Products Contact: Matt Hurst T: 01233 62 32 36 E: matt@selectproducts.co.uk W: www.selectproducts.co.uk Brands: Select Products, Inigma 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

For less than £17 per month, you can list your company details here. For more information, contact 01268 754 897 or e-mail shauna.peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

VCE GUIDE

|INSTANT EXPERT

2010 Hyundai i20 FITTING Rear Sensors The attraction of the Hyundai to customers is understandable with its clean lines, low emissions, economy and best of all, a five-year warranty. Despite a wealth of toys fitted as standard equipment it does lack parking sensors and luckily it’s quite easy to address this lack of an accessory for easy parking..

Other options are a-plenty with a good choice of power units. There are three engines available, the all-new 77bhp 1.2 litre unit or a 99bhp 1.4 litre. The larger motor can be specified with a four-speed automatic gearbox. There’s also a 1.4 litre oilburner, which is available in 74bhp and 88bhp states of tune. The economy engine can return up to 64.2 mpg. The 2010 Hyundai i20 shown in the pictures is relatively easy to mount rear sensors onto as there aren’t any obstructions behind the rear bumper to hinder the installation.

(1)The inner sensors can be mounted 20 centimetres from centre and three centimetres above the top edge of the number plate recess. The outer sensors can be mounted 40 centimetres from inners and nine centimetres from the upper bumper crease. The next step is to remove the rear slam panel trim where you will find an existing grommet (2) for cable entry then simply remove the nearside trim panel (3) to gain access to the wires (4/5) needed and also storage area for the junction box. The reverse wire can be found behind light cluster which is a green wire in the loom. The buzzer can be placed on top of inner wing (6) which was then hidden behind the panel but is still clearly audible from the driver’s seat. The sensor system junction box (7) was positioned at the bottom of wheel arch and secured with Velcro double sided tape.

Compiled by Kevin Deguara Installation by Andrew Rossall, Blackpool Communications 07976 757573 www.v-c-e.co.uk

CSS A company with a vision PARK SAFE

ELITE

IVANHOE TEXTILES

Parksafe is a well known brand throughout UK and Europe and continues with success offering a 3 year warranty on all their reversing and Camera solutions, they cater for all customer requirements: from 4 eye entry level unit to a resin potted filled waterproof Commercial system www.Park-safe.co.uk

Elite is a brand that offers all Industries a range of workshop consumables from electrical terminals to 12 way fuse holders. Download their latest Product Guide: www.cssaftermarket.co.uk/ index-2.html

CSS are known for their Automotive carpet supplies, having 30 years with the industry has helped them develop a range of products that suit every customer requirements from Trunkliner to Acoustic textiles, offering a wide range of colours. www.cssaftermarket.co.uk/ index-6.html

CSS supply an extended range of products that suit all industries.

Visit our new website www.cssaftermarket.co.uk