MMSA News Feed

New heads-up display car navigation add-on technology shows a virtual path in the sky

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:58:41 +0000

A new concept for HUD (Heads-Up Display) across a vehicle's windscreen has been developed and demonstrated by US company Making Virtual Solid. It has the potential to provide 3D GPS navigation in such a way that the path to follow appears in front of you as if part of the landscape, rather than as an extension of the icons and mapping you currently see on your Sat Nav display. Click on the title link for the full story.

Digital TV tuner offers enhanced in-car entertainment

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 5 Oct 2011 12:26:03 +0100

With the final countdown to digital television’s switch over in 2012 underway, British motorists can get ahead of the game and enjoy the full benefits of progressive programming on the move, following the launch of the Clarion DTX501E in-car digital TV receiver. Click on the title link for the full story.

Clarion back in motorsport with Peugeot's UK rally team

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Thu, 5 May 2011 12:56:52 +0100

Six years after last sponsoring the Peugeot World Rally Championship team, Clarion GB has again joined forces with the ultra-successful marque, pairing with Peugeot UK in their bid to win the 2011 Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC). This year's punishing 12-round tarmac and gravel rally series takes place across seven countries, with the Peugeot team running the spectacular Peugeot 207 S2000 developed by Peugeot Sport in France. Click on the title link for the full story.

After 25 years, Clarion GB moves premises but stay in Wiltshire

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Thu, 5 May 2011 12:02:19 +0100

After 25 years at its location in Hillmead, Swindon, Clarion GB (Clarion Car Audio & Multimedia products) has moved to new premises in nearby Wootton Bassett. It's scary that I can remember reporting on the opening of their offices - and at that time also production line - at Hillmead a quarter of a century ago. The premises were impressive and remained so, with a lovely japanese garden courtyard at its centre that I admired every time I visited. But it was time for Clarion GB to move on. Click on the title link for the full story.

DAB Digital Radio, what's really going on? Report on the present & future for DAB

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:53:20 +0100

DAB Digital Radio in the UK, what's really going on? That is the question answered in a report commissioned by the Mobile Media Specialist Association from Crew Green Consulting Ltd. The report, published exclusively on the association's website, looks at why, how and when Digital Audio Broadcasting developed in the UK, and its benefits and shortcomings, especially in relation to vehicles. Readers can get an insight into how DAB's sound quality really compares with FM and CD, the workings behind DAB transmission and reception technology, and what the future may hold for digital radio through developments such as DAB+, DMB, DRM, DRM+ and Satellite Radio.

Thumbs up for Government funded apprenticeships for the car electronics industry

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:43:17 +0100

Could you employ an apprentice? Do you want to be an apprentice? Or do you know someone who wants to be an apprentice in the car electronics installation industry? The Government has just announced funding for an extra 40,000 apprentices, opening up opportunity for our industry, and the Mobile Electronics and Security Federation (MESF) is now able to offer Government funded apprenticeships. Click on the title link for the full story.

Car Audio "represents sensational value"

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 8 Mar 2011 09:55:57 +0000

The enduring value of upgrading a car's audio system makes it terrific value when compared with the high price of live music entertainment, according to mobile music maestros Clarion, and we think they have a point. While the equipment has improved even more, prices have tumbled. On the other hand, a ticket to a major music event such as the 2011 Glastonbury Music Festival can cost around £200, the same price as Clarion's latest impressive CD/radio, the CZ501E. Click on the title link for the full story.

Trevor Mollett, a father figure of the UK car electronics industry, passes away

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:13:42 +0000

Trevor Mollett, described by someone who knew him well as "the greatest character our 'industry' has ever known" died on the 26th February 2011 after a prolonged illness. Those of you in the industry, and perhaps past customers of Trevor's business in Essex - Molsons - won't need any reminding of what a character Trevor was. Those who never knew him have for sure been deprived of the pleasure of spending time in the company of a man who was a showman and universally held as amongst the kindest of men. Click on the title link for the story.

New concept in Digit-All Control - Finger Motion Car Stereo

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 09:43:35 +0000

A new device lets drivers control their car stereo by finger movements while their hands are still gripping the steering wheel. The control signal is adjusted using an index finger, allowing the driver to control the volume of the car stereo or other items, such as the air conditioning. The technology, which is still in the experimental stage, uses finger gestures to operate a system that uses electromagnetic sensors in the dashboard to detect finger movements. The system reads the shapes your finger draws in the air, explains the Technology Review (published by MIT). Click on the title link for the full story.

At just £99 or less, Clarion's car CD upgrade packs a few surprises

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:09:22 +0000

Clarion's new entry-level stereo claims to punch above its weight. At under £100 you wouldn't expect to find it amongst the heavyweights, but the CZ101E features CD-R and CD-RW playback, MP3 and WMA file compatibility and a 3.5mm mini jack AUX input on the front fascia to support a stand-alone MP3 player, as well as front/rear/subwoofer pre-outs for system building, and EQ and sub low-pass filter. Click on the title link for the full story.

Pioneer aims at the tech savvy car audio enthusiast with introduction of new flagship models DEH-9300SD and DEH-8300SD

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:55:47 +0000

Pioneer completes its new 2011 in-car CD-tuner line-up with the introduction of the DEH-9300SD and DEH-8300SD high-end models. They allow you to listen to music stored on an iPod, iPhone, CD, USB device, SD card or portable MP3 player; all of which seamlessly connect to these new multimedia units. Click on the title link for the full story.

MMSA Secretary calls for 'new blood' to steer the association and help shape the future for the UK independent car electronics specialists

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:59:37 +0000

Secretary of the UK Mobile Media Specialist Association has issued a call for people within the car electronics industry to get actively involved in the association at every level, from director to regional chairpersons and retail members. In an impassioned plea, he said "The Mobile Media Specialist Association desparately needs new blood to steer the association and help shape the future for the independent car electronics specialists in the UK." Click on the title link for the full story.

Suits You! New 2011 Clarion in-car multimedia units available in your size

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:02:59 +0000

Whether single DIN or double DIN, the latest 2011 in-car multimedia stations from Clarion have every customer covered. With an emphasis on connectivity and compatibility, the Clarion VX401E and VZ401E claim to deliver a fluid integration between mobile and in-car entertainment, with both units boasting full audio functionality of iPod, iPhone and other supported devices, with USB and Bluetooth interface. Click on the title link for the full story.

'One Look Navi' from Alpine - the terrific new INE-S900R satellite navigation and entertainment system with split screen display.

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Thu, 2 Sep 2010 17:09:03 +0100

Alpine's INE-S900R 'ONE LOOK NAVI' continues the move towards double-DIN size units and has an interface that allows drivers to display two applications of their choice on the screen, giving the ability to combine navigation features with Bluetooth phone use, rear camera views, and audio/video playback. Click on the title link for the full story.

The Rise & Fall of the UK Sound-Off Scene

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:48:13 +0100

One time IASCA and ECAP autosound competition European head judge, Kevin O'Byrne, tracks what he sees as the reasons for the demise of the car audio competition 'sound-off' scene in the UK after successful years in the early Nineties. Click on the title link for the full story.

Garnish Launches Revolutionary 3D Finishing Process

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 19 May 2010 12:10:55 +0100

Exeter-based company Garnish UK has launched a process for applying images to non-porous, complex-shaped, three dimensional objects. The Garnishdip method, adapted from a water transfer process, can be used to impart images on to objects measuring up to one meter square. It has been trialled on all sorts of items, from vehicle door mirror casings, alloy wheels and trim parts, to cycle helmets and electric guitar bodies. Click on the title link for the full story.

UK radio switchover 2015: the Digital Radio widget - another chunk of fools gold from the politicians?

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:22:18 +0100

In 2015, the government proposes to have national radio stations removed from FM coverage and say that a 'widget' or 'converter' would be made available to convert car radios to be able to accept the DAB digital signal. The concept that you'll be able to buy something that seamlessly makes it able to receive DAB signals - as technologically clever as our electronics manufacturers may be - is akin to suggesting it would be practical to move the Alps to Greece to cool the country in summer. Click on the title link for the full story.

IXOS High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet, meets Automotive Connection System specification for in-vehicle HD

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:07:26 +0000

The pace of technology in the audio/visual and home theater markets shows no sign of slowing, with ever higher definition HD dictating who has the edge in the marketplace. This is sure to lead to a demand for HD content distribution in the Automotive field, and this is being addressed by the HDMI 1.4 Automotive Connection System specification and by cable manufacturers such as IXOS. IXOS leads the race when it comes to HD cabling, with the new IXOS Certified High Definition 2160p Quad-HD cable able to meet the demands of all v1.4 components for car and home, including components with Ethernet capabilities. Click on the title link for the full story.

Pioneer opens up Internet Services Platform - helps compatibility, offering consumers seamless connectivity in home and car

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 8 Jan 2010 11:18:21 +0000

One of the early announcements of interest from this year's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas (2010 CES) came from Pioneer Corporation, that announced it's opening up its PAIS platform for connected devices (i.e. networked, internet connected products) to other device manufacturers, with the potential to "help grow adoption and differentiation, especially in the automotive space". The PAIS platform is a device portal that handles the interface between the myriad of Internet services and connected devices. PAIS is designed to handle multiple device and application types including in-vehicle telematics, MIDs, TVs, home theatre and smartphone Apps. By creating a common, stable method for accessing the wide array of Internet service APIs, the industry can offer consumers what they want - that their devices work together, whether in the home, car, train or on foot, regardless of manufacturer. Click on the title link for the full story.

AutoSound & Style Show Launched

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 8 Jan 2010 11:14:39 +0000

Creative Media has launched a new UK Consumer Show to supplement their already successful annual trade expo. 'AutoSound and Style' will take place at Stoneleigh Park near Coventry (UK Midlands) on Sunday 7th March 2010. The Trade Expo, now in its seventh year, will take place on the 8th March. The two shows will bring together major companies involved in all aspects of the automotive aftermarket, from the very latest high tech infotainment products to wheels, paint and bodywork and engine tuning services. Click on the title link for the full story.

Alpine In-Car Media Hub Offers iPod integration & Bluetooth

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 9 Oct 2009 11:04:25 +0100

Alpine U.K. have taken the wraps off their new iXA-W407BT double-DIN Media Station, a CD Mechanism-less design featuring iPod and iPhone capability, integrated Parrot Bluetooth and a 7-inch, high resolution touch-screen display. Its built-in 4 x 50W amplifier makes it a one-box solution but with plenty of upgrade options. Click on the title link for the full story.

Noisy drivers targeted by Police in the South West - first ticket issued for measured 93 dB using NTI kit

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 9 Oct 2009 11:01:40 +0100

Anti-social drivers are being targeted by the police force of Devon and Cornwall in an attempt to curb excessive noise from modified cars and altered exhaust systems. The introduction of sound measuring kits, including the NTi Audio Acoustilyzer AL1, at each of the regional force’s roads policing centres, means officers can deal effectively with noise pollution from vehicles in known problem areas. Click on the title link for the full story.

Persistence rewarded at UK EMMA 09 Finals

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 9 Oct 2009 11:06:45 +0100

The weekend of September 5/6th saw the year's popular Trax event at Silverstone, and the show was host to the UK national finals round of EMMA UK's 2009 Sound-Off season. Having shown continuous growth in competitor numbers throughout the season, the national autosound finals attracted 43 entries and provided a significant added feature for visitors to the Trax event, with an attendance thought to be around 15,000. Click on the title link for the full story.

Mobile Internet available in Volkswagen as WiFi goes on the road

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:35:09 +0100

In the United States, Autonet Mobile has announced an agreement to equip the Volkswagen Routan with 'uconnect web', an in-car internet service. It could stimulate interest in retro-fitting of mobile WiFi services to vehicles here in the UK. It promises to deliver a reliable and easy-to-use internet access and allows passengers to use all of their own WiFi enabled devices such as laptops, netbooks, Nintendo's DS, Sony's PSP, iPod touch and other devices on the road. Click on the title link for the full story.

50 Competitors makes Modified Nationals busiest EMMA autosound event of season so far

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 1 Jun 2009 10:13:27 +0100

The Modified Nationals show attracted 50 cars to compete in the EMMA UK autosound competition event that took place alongside the main car show. Spread across two days, all the EMMA categories were represented, including four SPL categories, and the competition was fierce. Click on the title link for the full story.

Alpine launch first Double-DIN iPod Digital Media Station

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 22 May 2009 12:10:19 +0100

Alpine Electronics has launched the iXA-W404R, its first 2-DIN ScrollView, touch control, in-car Digital Media Station or "media hub". The unit claims to offer "an enhanced iPod® experience in the car" with new ways to navigate through your iPod's content. But it goes way further, with options to add a navigation module (with mapping viewed on the W404R's screen), reversing camera and handsfree phone use via Bluetooth. And its USB input allows lots of devices to be hooked up, not just the iPod and iPhone. Click on the title link for the full story.

In-Car DMB/DAB Will Feel Heat from Internet Radio

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 11:04:09 +0100

A report from Strategy Analytics predicts that the European Digital car radio market will hit 9 Million units by 2015, but they suggest that in-car DMB/DAB will come up against stiff competition from Internet Radio and Podcasting in the eyes of the consumer. Click on the title link for the full story.

Integrating iPod and iPhone still a key feature in-car as Alpine launch new models

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:46:24 +0000

Reinforcing even more the importance of being able to hook up Apple's lil'darling players in the car, Alpine have launched its latest, third generation iPod Digital Media Receivers. The iDA range offers seamless control over all digital music sources, but specifically iPods and iPhones. These head units meet Apple's "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" specifications.
Also newly introduced from Alpine is the KCE-425i, a powerful little black box which enables you to update your current AV in-car system so you can watch movies stored on your iPod. Click on the title link for the full story.

Harman shows energy-efficient Infotainment System at Geneva Show

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 3 Mar 2009 11:30:38 +0000

Harman International's automotive division has today (March 3, 2009) unveiled a next-generation audio and infotainment system at the Geneva Motor Show. The system blends what Harman claims to be "exceptional energy efficiency with uncompromised performance" . The new system is showing in the Rinspeed iChange "zero emissions" concept car, designed by Rinspeed, Inc.

Pioneer Corp feels the crunch, 10,000 jobs to go

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:06:04 +0000

Pioneer Corporation, the Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer, is set to cut 10,000 jobs as its forecast loss for the last financial year has had to be revised upward to a record 130 billion yen (£968 million). It will also close its television operations - including a plasma panel-making factory in the UK - as the downturn in consumer demand for electronics continues.
Even Pioneer's success in automotive audio, video and satellite navigation products has been hit, with the company having to revise a previous10 billion yen forecast profit for the year, to a likely loss in the region of 12.5 billion yen.

Alpine Works With iPhone

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 3 Feb 2009 10:33:51 +0000

Alpine Electronics is putting a big push behind the UK consumer launch of its latest head units that offer full compatibility with Apple's iPhone and the various iPod models. The CDA-105Ri is the latest to be rolled out in the UK and adds radio, CD and audio file playback via USB, as well as the iPod and new iPhone compatibility.
The CDA-105Ri offers a similar function to the iPod itself when searching for music, giving quick, convenient control over all your songs. Compatibility covers the iPod 4G-5G, iPod nano 1G-3G, iPod classic, iPod touch and the iPhone. In addition, the new 105Ri allows you to connect a USB memory stick via a port on the rear of the unit. MP3, WMA and AAC file formats are all covered. Songs are automatically arranged in alphabetical order for ease of selection. A USB cable and iPod adapter are included. Click on the title link for the full story.

JVC launches innovative in-car Sat Nav and A/V system KW-NX7000

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:35:06 +0000

JVC has introduced a fully featured double-DIN size in-car navigation and A/V system with a removable front - the entire 7-inch colour screen detaches from the front panel of the new KW-NX7000. The unit comes complete with mapping for 30 European countries burnt into its internal flash memory. In entertainment mode, it's ready to play multiple formats from CD and DVD discs, including WAV, WMA, MP3 and AAC audio files and DivX. There's also a USB port which will directly control an iPod digital media player.
Click the headline to read the full story.

New push for DAB national UK stations to launch in 2009

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:00:21 +0000

We could see more national digital radio stations launched for the UK this year if an initiative by Digital One, the company licensed to broadcast DAB digital radio across Great Britain, is successful.
The catalyst for this latest push is the publication of a report from the Digital Radio Working Group to the Government at the end of last year. The report highlighted how new national radio stations could help boost the take-up of DAB.
Not too many would argue with that, but at a time when initial funding and ad revenue are probably harder to come by than at any time in the last few decades, Kevin O'Byrne asks if we will see anyone willing to make the investment in DAB. Click the headline to read the full story.

TomTom and Pioneer Go Large at CES 09

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:20:23 +0000

TomTom bags "Best of CES" Awards from U.S. Press
TomTom, one of the leading providers of navigation systems both in Europe and the U.S., has received industry recognition from two leading publications for its GO 740 LIVE, TomTom's first 'connected' portable Sat Nav.

Pioneer adds true grit to new subwoofer series
Pioneer has launched new lines of subwoofers under the series names of Champion Pro, ib-Flat Shallow and Champion. Each of the new models is claimed to have been reinforced with an application of basalt rock in the cone production process - along with other innovations, will it be enough to raise Pioneer to the high table of in-car subwoofer design?
Click on the main headline for more on both these stories.

CES 2009 News Briefs

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:16:37 +0000

We've put together a collection of relevant news stories coming out of the 2009 International CES trade show in Las Vegas. Click the headline for the full stories.
New EFX amps, speakers and high-end HEXAD cables - Scosche Industry's high-end aftermarket car audio accessories brand introduces an enhanced range of speakers, amplifiers and accessories at CES, including new Hexad Series high-end cables said to be class-leading.
Clarion launches first HD-ready Radio, the VZ309 - broadly equivalent to DAB in Europe, HD Radio is now available to listeners across more than 80% of the USA. Clarion's new baby allows connection of an HD Radio digital audio tuner but it doesn't stop there for this impressive in-car multimedia station.
Clarion Take to the Sea too - Clarion has also announced the introduction of an all-new line of multimedia units designed for the marine market, including the CMV1, claimed to be the marine industry's first watertight head-unit to offer video playback on a front panel colour display. It is packed with features and was selected as an Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Award honoree at CES.
Case Logic - 25 years since they stopped cassette tapes from rattling - It all started for Case Logic in Boulder, Colorado, in 1984 with a simple goal: to stop cassette tapes rattling around on the floor of the car while traveling to the region's famed ski slopes. Today, Case Logic offers more than 350 products to help organise and protect the ever-growing number of things we need to carry.
Putting on a show for Alpine's Birthday - Alpine Electronics of America was also celebrating, as 2009 is the company's 30th year in the U.S., and they put on a show with two impressive new demo cars on their stand.
Phone calls and digital music combine in Parrot's new MKi - Parrot unveiled its new MKi range of hands-free Bluetooth "music kits" with iPod/iPhone/MP3 integration. This allows drivers to make and take calls while giving them the option to play their digital music files through the vehicle sound system, whether via iPod/iPhone connector, USB, 3.5mm input or by streaming their music wirelessly via Bluetooth. Displaying CD album covers and even the caller's photo is possible, and the units use advanced voice recognition and voice synthesis (text-to-speech) to respond and react to spoken commands.

Exhibitors request CES attendance be pegged at 2009 levels

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:06:25 +0000

Over 2,700 companies from around the world showed new products and innovations at the 2009 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and, perhaps surprisingly, the expected fewer number of visitors was seen as a positive by those looking to meet serious buyers.
Quality over quantity was the message, as the CES organisers were asked to work towards restricting future attendance to 2009 levels. "When you have fewer people to the show, but they're the right people who want and are capable of doing real business, everybody wins, and the 2009 CES delivered," said Sharp USA Vice President Judah Zeigler. Click the headline for the full story.

Alpine debuts iPod Media Station at CES

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Fri, 9 Jan 2009 09:28:10 +0000

Alpine has announced the upcoming introduction of the new iXA-W404 in the US, its first 2-DIN touch-screen Digital Media Station dedicated to use of the iPod and iPhone. It features a brand-new touch-screen graphical user interface (GUI) that works in a similar way to the iPhone® and iPod Touch. It also allows several additional add-on units to be controlled, including an optional sat-nav module.
The iXA-W404 meets the specifications for "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" compatibility. As a dedicated iPod receiver, it does not have a CD/DVD disc drive; instead, it has an AM/FM tuner and a high-speed USB input for optimal iPod/iPhone connection and digital audio from the iPod. Users can also connect USB memory devices and MP3 players via the USB input. Any iPod with a 30-PIN dock connector is compatible with the iXA-W404.
The touch-screen lets users quickly browse through their file collection by lightly dragging the on-screen album covers with their finger, similar to on the iPhone/iPod Touch. Click the headline for the full story.

AXIS brings new CDT amp to the UK

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 7 Jan 2009 17:21:47 +0000

AXIS has launched American brand CDT's new amplifier, the SQA-4100, in the UK. World renowned for superior sounding component speakers, this is CDT's first foray into the UK automotive amplifier market.
The highly flexible Class AB 4-channel SQA-4100 is the first in a range of four amplifiers planned. It is delivered with an individual "birth certificate" showing actual measured performance data. Click the headline for the full story.

Updates from the 2009 Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Wed, 7 Jan 2009 13:44:47 +0000

The CES takes place every year in January in Las Vegas and is probably still the world's biggest consumer electronics trade show. Most of the major manufacturers make sure they have something new to show at CES, and car audio and related in-car electronics still features high at the event. We'll bring you news updates on the most interesting and relevant stories coming out of the show. Click the linked text to read more on all these stories.

VIBE Coming to America
In a distribution tie-up with Metra Electronics, UK car audio supplier VIBE is now entering the US market. VIBE has been in the UK market for more than 15 years and is established as a leading brand in Europe. It will now be available in the USA, Canada and South America through Metra's established network of distributors. CES booth 11219.

GENAUDIO to change "the way the world will listen to audio"
It's a pretty bold claim GenAudio has as the headline on its press release given out at CES. In the US such marketing claims seem to be regarded as legitimate 'artistic licence' when talking about new products or technologies, whereas in Europe we tend to immediately consider it bullshit... but it was sufficiently interesting for me to want to at least read it over. GenAudio Inc. has launched its AstoundStereo Expander, with the promise of 10 Million free music downloads from emerging and platinum artists, processed with the new AstoundStereo technology. The music downloads and a 30-day trial of the software expander (for MAC or PC) are available from the web site through January. Click the main heading link for the fuller story.

Pioneer gives GM Amplifiers cosmetic boost
Pioneer have given two of their GM Series amplifiers a cosmetic boost. The GM-6400F 4-channel model, and the 2-channel GM-5400T, get a cosmetic makeover, with a splash of red on each side of the RCA and speaker terminal inputs for added appeal when displayed in custom installations. The heat sink shrouds have been revamped to complement the aesthetics of the GM-D8400M and GM-D7400M Class D mono amplifiers in the same series. Click the main heading link for the fuller story and picture of the GM-6400F.

EMMA European Autosound Update Xmas 08

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 11:29:46 +0000

EMMA, the European Mobile Media Association responsible for staging autosound contests and shows all over Europe and beyond, has announced its 2009 Head Judge training and Industry Forum.
The deadline for signing in for the 2009 Head Judge training, which will be taking place in Germany from February 25 to March 1, is January 28. Hotel rooms are being organised in the Kaiseralm Congress Hotel, Bischofsgrun.
In addition to the HJ training, several forums will be organised for industry members and distribution company representatives. All manufacturers, distributors and interested guests who would like to develop closer ties with the EMMA Network are invited to join in.
There is more information on all this, including forms to download, at the EMMA website www.emmanet.eu or emmanet.com.

EMMA Europe has also announced its updated Competition Rules for 2009. Currently in beta version, the 2009 Rulebook and accompanying Sound Quality Tracks are available for download from the web site. The final printed version is scheduled for publication the first week of March. Also, the new ESPL disc is expected to be ready at the same time. All information about the 2009 Rules is available online, and for additional information you can contact the EMMA office at info@emmanet.eu.
Information about the forthcoming events at the annual Car + Sound 2009 show in Sinsheim, Germany, as well as details of the EMMA 2009 Eurofinals, will be issued shortly and we'll try to make sure we bring these to you via the MMMSA news feed service.

Alpine launches 2009 iPod/iPhone compatible head units

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 11:01:46 +0000

Alpine Electronics has announced the UK launch of their new 2009 head units compatible with Apple's iPhone and iPods. The CDE series - CDE-104BTi, CDE-103BT, CDE-102Ri and CDE-101R/RM - are CD/Radio receivers with iPod and USB music file control. The head units offer full speed connection for iPods and iPhones.
All the models provide the same 'Quick Search' function, where music can be located by album, artist, song, play-list, genre, audio book or composer. They also have a front USB port for use with memory sticks.
The CDE-104BTi and CDE-103BT have built in Parrot Bluetooth modules, offering the convenience of having phone conversations relayed through the system and can be updated to support future handset models. It enables you to display the phonebook, received calls, and display missed calls and dialled numbers.

Clarion Double Up

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:55:00 +0000

See double with Clarion's new DUZ388RMP double DIN CD-Receiver. It provides a front-loading CD slot, radio with 18 FM and 6 MW/LW station presets, and CeNet (Clarion's connectivity system) for optional integration of a 6-disc CD multi-changer.
The DUZ388 offers excellent support for playing back downloaded music files. There's a USB connector for a USB memory stick, and the player's built-in USB file reader is compatible with WMDRM 10 format files.
The player also offers direct iPod control and playback of AAC files, plus there's a 3.5mm mini jack connector for other portable audio players.
The CeNet system allows you to connect the optional BLT583 Bluetooth device, for transfering mobile phone content seamlessly to the head unit, whilst calls are safely relayed to hands-free mode.

Tough Sat Nav protection from Case Logic

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:51:54 +0000

Portable Sat Nav units are hugely popular, but it's not nice if you happen to drop one or get it scratched while carrying it. Case Logic have launched an extremely well made range of Sat Nav carry cases available to protect your investment.
We've been sent the Case Logic GPSP2 case, designed for 4.3" Sat Nav units. As it happens, it's a perfect fit for the Clarion MAP680 that we have for longterm test. Its hard inner shell offers great protection, and the MAP780 or MAP680 fit perfectly even with the rear bracket fitted.

Looking for that familiar building? Now see it with the new portable Clarion Sat Nav

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:40:07 +0000

We've seen plenty of new arrivals on the Portable Sat Nav scene but the new models from Clarion really do add a new dimension. These are the first to map buildings, landmarks and elevation changes in 3D. With comprehensive lane information and turn-by-turn voice prompts (text to speech), these claim to deliver the clearest, most convenient route advice yet.
The MAP780 (Europe) and MAP680 (UK & Ireland) draw buildings in the foreground and background. Buildings close to the driver appear see-through as you approach them. Both PNDs utilise digital elevation model data to draw height and depth features, with hills and mountains rendered in 3D, racing game style.
Clarion has also incorporated comprehensive lane information, with all lanes available rendered in 3D and the one needed highlighted.
These Bluetooth-equipped models also display SMS text messages on-screen, as well as giving seamless touch-screen access to a paired phone or PDA. MP3/WMA playback is also possible via a built-in music player.

Navigation Dock 'n' Roll with Alpine

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:32:10 +0000

The Dock 'n' Roll from Alpine is claimed to be the first of its kind in the industry. The Dock 'n' Roll package combines one of two of Alpine's Mobile Media Stations - the IVA-W205 or IVA-W505R - with the latest version of its Blackbird portable navigation system to create one integrated navigation solution.
Both the IVA-W205R and IVA-W505R are double DIN size, incorporating CD/DVD and the capability to play music directly from your iPod. The IVA-W505R is also Alpine IMPRINT ready and allows you to play iPod movies via the unit and watch them on the high-resolution display. Both are Bluetooth enabled, offering hands-free calling that delivers the caller's voice through the vehicle's speakers.

Alpine introduce portable Sat Nav with RDS TMC, MP3 playback and fixed system integration

admin@mmsa.org.uk — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:18:53 +0000

Alpine's Blackbird (PMD-B100P) is a high-end navigation system which can be taken from one car to another or even be used on foot. It can also be combined with a fixed Alpine system and therefore be fully integrated. It has a built-in radio data system (RDS) TMC tuner, a 4GB disk-drive with pre-loaded maps of Western European, and a 3.6-inch digital LCD touch screen.