Stillwater Designs’ SoundGate division has released an integration kit for Zune players that allows the portable music player to deliver music to a vehicle’s audio system by plugging it into the head unit’s auxiliary input. The kit also charges the player. The SoundGate Zune Cable Pack provides everything a customer needs for Zune entertainment.

The package comes with the CORE microprocessor made for Zune, a minijack-to-RCA cable, a minijack-to-minijack cable, a cigarette-lighter charger and a two-wire power cable for optional hardwired installation. The kit is available now and retails for $79.95. For more information, contact Stillwater Designs at (800) 256-5425 or visit www.soundgate.com.

SoundGate’s iO PLAY streams music, navigation and hands-free calls through a vehicle’s stereo system using Bluetooth A2DP and HFP profiles. The device uses a control console mounted in the vehicle and an iO-designed 60-watt Class D amplifier. A specialized ground-loop isolation chip allows for improved sound quality and reduces interference.

For non-Bluetooth devices, the 3.5-mm Bluetooth adapter (sold separately) plugs into the device and streams wireless music through the vehicle’s audio system. The iPod/iPhone Bluetooth adapter (sold separately or bundled with the iO PLAY) is compatible with most iPods. The iO PLAY retails for $269.95. For more information, contact Stillwater Designs at (800) 256-5425 or visit www.soundgate.com.

The Pacific Accessory Corp. (PAC) has shipped its OS-4 radio replacement module for GM LAN vehicles. The OS-4 is for General Motors vehicles utilizing the 29-bit LAN data system and allows for the retention of OnStar functionality such as adjustable volume control and the factory Bluetooth in many 2009 GM models. The interface also retains the use of a factory installed back-up camera, parking assist sensors and warning chimes. To retain rear-seat entertainment, the GMRVD cable (sold separately) is required.

The module also retains factory XM satellite service with an aftermarket radio. Other retained features include vehicle speed sense, parking brake, reverse trigger and illumination. Also available are a GM antenna adapter and a pre-wired output harness for PAC’s steering wheel control interfaces. The OS-4 retails for $219.90. For more information, contact PAC at (714) 835-3022.

Ventura Technology has introduced a Bluetooth interface for Audi that uses Parrot technology to integrate hands-free calling into the MOST network of Audi vehicles. The kit would be paired with a Parrot CK3100 car kit to integrate the CK3100’s features with the vehicle. The interface kit includes a module with programmable DIP switches and a USB connection; a fiber-optic harness; interface harness; and Parrot CK3100 module.

The kit offers support for steering wheel controls and MMI console controls. Compatible vehicles include the 2008 A4 and S4; 2008 A5 and S5; 2006-2008 A6; 2004-2008 A8; and 2007-2008 Q7. The kit retails for $499. For more information, contact Ventura in Monterre, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, at 52-81-8374-44-03 or visit Ventura Technology’s site.

Peripheral Electronics is shipping the iSimple TranzIt (IS77), an interface that allows for direct iPod or iPhone connection to a factory or aftermarket FM radio. This interface utilizes an “antenna bypass” that’s similar to the signal switch boxes used on video game systems to send a signal directly into any FM car stereo.

The driver designates a radio preset (87.9 FM or 88.3 FM) as an iPod channel, plugs in an iPod and the iSimple TranzIt turns on. To browse and select tracks, the operator simply uses the iPod or iPhone clickwheel or touch screen controls. The IS77 can also be used in conjunction with an iPhone to play streaming online audio from such services as Pandora, AOL Radio or Last.fm. The IS77 provides battery charging for all dockable iPod and iPhone models. The unit’s suggested retail price is $89.95. For more information, contact AAMP of America at (727) 572-9255.

Stillwater Designs is shipping its Kicker RS Series component speaker systems. The RS65.2 (with a 6.5-inch midrange woofer) and RS60.2 (with a 6-inch midrange that also fits 5.25-inch space) uses copper-clad aluminum wire to reduce heat within the motor. Each system’s 1-inch tweeter pair can be installed in a flush, angled, surface or coaxial mount–the latter allows for the removal of phase plugs from the midrange speakers’ centers to screw in special adapters and tweeters. RS-Series tweeters exude a wider dispersion pattern for greatly increased detail in high frequencies.

The two-way bi-ampable passive crossovers have 18 dB octave highpass and 12 dB octave lowpass filters at 3.5kHz to optimize output. A tweeter output-level switch determines volume. The RS60.2 retails for $399.95; the RS65.2 retails for $449.95. For more information, contact Kicker at (405) 624-8510, ext. 248 or visit www.kicker.com.

Maxxsonics is shipping the Crunch “Ground Pounder” GPV Series subwoofer. The dual voice-coil subwoofers features a design that separates the two spiders to produce maximum excursion outward and inward, while maintaining optimal control. The result is increased output SPL and durability, according to the company.
The rubber surround provides long excursion while the heat-dispersing ported nickel-plated back plate and ultra-rigid stamped-steel basket, with a protective rubber magnet wrap, ensure durability and reliability. The cosmetics are enhanced by a one-piece cone and dust cap, which also add to the impressive power handling capabilities. The subwoofers are offered in 12- and 15-inch sizes and retail for $330 and $375. For more information, call Maxxsonics USA at (847) 540-7700.

Retrosound’s Gen 2 Model One Radio is an AM/FM classic-car radio that offers flexible mounting options with an InfiniMount shaft/bracket system (patent pending), rear-mounted USB input for MP3/WMA digital file playback from popular flash devices and two front/rear auxiliary inputs that can recieve a satellite radio or MP3 player. Direct-fit options are available for most classic cars, and Retrosound is now offering metal knobs as an option on their radios. For more information, contact Retro Manufacturing at (888) 325-1555 or visit www.retrosoundusa.com.

Planet Audio has introduced the Apocalypse Series amplifiers that’s a cosmetic cousin of the Big Bang Series amplifiers. Five digital models ranging from 3000W to 700W offer a pair of two-channel and four-channel system solutions. The amps shipped earlier this month, according to the company. Planet Audio is also releasing an accompanying line of Apocalypse full-range speakers and double-stacked SuperSubs. For more information, contact Planet Audio at (888) 990-1236 or visit www.planetaudiousa.com.

Soundstream Technologies has introduced the XXX-18 subwoofer for sound competitors, according to the company. The 18-inch woofer, a relative of the company’s XXX-15, tips the scales at 91 pounds and ships “freight only” in a wooden crate. The XXX-18 is optimized for large vented enclosures, according to the company. Suggested volumes are included for 4ft^3, 6ft^3 and 8ft^3. It’s rated to handle 10,000 watts RMS and can be paired with Soundstream’s XXX-15000D amplifer, according to the company. For more information, contact Soundstream at (323) 724-4600 or visit www.soundstream.com.