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Monday, October 3, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
Orion XTRPRO124 Test Review by Performance Auto & Sound Magazine
Test Report: Orion XTRPRO124
Written by Gary Springgay
For some people, simply having decent bass in their cars just isn’t enough. These folks want their bass low, loud and proud. Whether you’re cruising along the boulevard or fighting for bragging rights in the SPL wars, Orion has created a series of woofers with you in mind. Meant to be some of the highest output woofers this side of a full-on SPL competition vehicle, the XTRPRO series are built to play loud and sound good doing it. One of the most popular models in the series is the XTRPRO124, and we thought we’d take a close look at it and see what makes it special.
Features
The XTRPRO124 is a 12” dual four-ohm voice coil subwoofer, and is designed to be used in sealed or vented applications. After unpacking the woofer, the first word that came to mind when looking at it was tall. From the tall and narrow “Symmetrical Tuned” long throw surround, to the nearly 3” deep stacked magnet assembly, to the 6.5” overall mounting depth, everything about the XTRPRO124 says tall. And tall can be good, because it generally means more opportunity for high excursion, and that means more output.
Examining the construction and features from the top down, I noted the tall surround is secured to the cone with adhesives and stitching, another sign that the woofer is built for high performance use. The entire cone is made of a paper/carbon blend to reduce ringing and cone resonance. An injection molded poly dustcap trims out the center of the radiating surface. The woofer also includes a stylish ABS trim ring to hide the mounting screws and trim out the look of the woofer nicely.
Moving down below the cone, pair of linear Nomex spiders holds the former precisely in the magnetic gap, and also serve as a mounting surface for the heavy duty insulated tinsel leads that are stitched to the spider to prevent lead slap issues at high excursion. Providing the drive for the woofer is a 2.5” four-layer copper voice coil, wound on a vented aluminum former. All of this technology resides within the confines of a robust cast aluminum basket, which incorporates four large vented areas as part of the Orion “Tri-Cooling” system. The cooling system is designed to manage air flow through the voice coil by integrating vents in the former, the basket area above the magnet but below the spider, and the large vented pole piece. Of course the better the air flow, the greater the thermal reliability of the woofer will be, and Orion has definitely focused their engineering on this critical area.
The XTRPRO124 basket is nicely finished in a matte black powdercoat and the basket features sleekly integrated set screw type terminals that will easily accept 10 gauge wires. I’ll admit it was nice to see something a bit different in the sea of spring loaded terminals found on most everything else these days.
There’s one other thing I felt was worth noting about the XTRPRO series, and that is the very useful owner’s manual that comes with these woofers. Not only are all the Thiele-Small parameters listed, but there are very detailed instructions and plans for enclosure design included as well. In a day and age where so many companies are cutting corners on things like manuals, this one is certainly useful and nicely done.
Listening
After the usual break in period and following the recommendations in the excellent and detailed owner’s manual, I mounted the woofer in a 1.5 cubic foot sealed enclosure, and wired it to my reference system with the coils in parallel for a two ohm load. With the gains adjusted and the subwoofer crossover point set to 100Hz, I sat down and began my audition of the XTRPRO124. I already expected prodigious output from the Orion woofer, but man this thing plays LOUD. And while loud is good, to be really recognized as a high performance product, a woofer has to sound good too. Turns out I had nothing to be concerned about, because the bass was tight, really deep, and well-defined. The sound from the XTRPRO124 was really musical and natural sounding without adding a bunch of its own resonance or “ring” to the music. One of the tracks I use frequently when evaluating woofers is “My Maria” by Brooks and Dunn. The kick drum in this track is very well recorded, and has excellent definition. On a good system you can hear the attack as the batter strikes the drumhead, and the full, warm resonance of a properly tuned bass drum. The XTRPRO124 passed this test with ease, and went on to sound great on everything from Jennifer Warnes to Nelly.
As I listened, I grew more impressed with the performance of this “SPL” woofer. In the sealed enclosure I was using, the bass was very linear and I did not have to increase the volume to hear the bass detail. But when I did “get on the knob”, the sound never got boomy or sloppy sounding. From rock to hip hop, classical to country, the Orion XTRPRO124 sounded excellent. When pushed hard with bass heavy music at high power levels the woofer retained its control and composure, and delivered good sounding, loud bottom end.
Measured Performance
After spending a lot longer listening to it than I had originally planned, the woofer was allowed to cool overnight, and the next morning I moved it into the lab for some measurements. After completing the measurements of the woofer, I was happy to see that my data closely correlated with the published data in the owner’s manual which is a good indicator of build quality and consistency. The numbers indicate that the woofer can also be used effectively in a vented enclosure, but unfortunately I had run out of time, so I didn’t have the opportunity to try it. But if the sealed performance is any indication, in a vented box, this thing will really haul the mail! Quite honestly though, it sounded so good in the sealed enclosure that I’d be reluctant to give up any of the control and low frequency extension just for more output. But, if SPL is where it’s at for you, by all means give the vented option a try.
Conclusion
I knew that the XTRPRO series woofers were designed to handle power and play loud. But what I didn’t know is that the woofer would also sound as good as it does while doing it! If you’re looking for a good sounding, musical woofer that also likes to stretch its SPL legs, the XTRPRO124 fits the bill. And with a street price of around 200 bucks (U.S.), it’s also great bang for the buck.
Viper SmartStart App Coming to Windows Phone 7
VISTA, Calif., Sept. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Directed Electronics is proud to announce that it is working with Microsoft Corporation to develop a version of Directed's award-winning Viper SmartStart app for Microsoft's Windows Phone 7. The product should be widely available for Windows Phone users later in the year.
The vast potential of the new app on the powerful Windows Phone 7 platform was demonstrated today at Microsoft's sold-out BUILD Conference, which is taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center through September 16.
"We're very excited about partnering with Microsoft to extend Viper SmartStart products to the Windows Phone 7 platform," said Mike Simmons, Executive VP of Directed Electronics. "Our developers were able to quickly bring the app to Windows Phone 7 because they are so familiar with the Microsoft environment. We look forward to collaborating with Microsoft in other areas, including jointly developing advanced solutions for the cloud connected car."
"Viper SmartStart has been on our radar screen for Windows Phone 7 since it launched," said Jeff Sandquist, Senior Director of Developer Relations for Microsoft. "The app has changed the way smartphone users interact with their vehicles, and Microsoft is very pleased that this innovative app will be available to millions of Windows Phone users."
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Viper SmartStart Rate Plans & Features
- 2-Way confirmation of commands received at vehicle.
- Smart Alerts sent via push notification or text messaging (SMS).
- Security alert messages (for security/RS or security systems only)
- Error messages if command not executed at vehicle (all Viper systems)
- Vehicle personalization – add a picture or change the name.
- Dealer locator – find the nearest dealer quickly and easily using the Find a Dealer tool.
- App passcode protection
- Password management
- Button confirmation sounds
New features:
- SmartPark – Remembers where you parked your car everytime you lock your doors. Provides directions back to your car. See a demo!
- Viper Motor Club – Free 24/7/365 roadside assistance is included with all SmartStart Secure service plans. That's a $79/year value included at no additional charge
- Smart Alerts – Customers receive a text message to their smartphone if their alarm triggers (with compatible security systems)*.
GPS Secure features
- SOCIAL CHECK-IN: Text or e-mail the vehicle’s location with one-touch, or check-in to update a social network
- SPEED ALERT: Request a notification when a vehicle exceeds your specified setting
- LOCKDOWN ALERT: Receive a notification if the vehicle is moved without permission
- LOW BATTERY ALERT: Receive a notification when battery is low
GPS Premium features
- SMARTFENCE: Creates a secure zone around the vehicle so the user will be alerted if the vehicle leaves the zone
- HOTSPOT: Adds a virtual Do Not Enter zone around a location so the user will be alerted if the vehicle goes there
- SCHEDULING: Schedule time frames and curfews for notifications
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
DIRECTED ELECTRONICS PARTNERING WITH POLICE TO FIGHT AUTO THEFT WITH VIPER SMARTSTART GPS
Viper SmartStart GPS (model number VSM250) has all the features of the award-winning Viper SmartStart – plus compelling GPS features that enhance family safety and vehicle security. It can be integrated with a Viper security or remote start system to enable features like remote start, lock and unlock, panic, trunk pop and security alerts. However, Viper SmartStart GPS can also be installed as a stand-alone unit, offering the following location based features on smartphones using the Viper SmartStart app:
VEHICLE LOCATOR: Press a button on the smartphone and receive vehicle’s current location, speed and direction
SOCIAL CHECK-IN: Text or e-mail the vehicle’s location with one-touch, or check-in to update a social network
SPEED ALERT: Request a notification when a vehicle exceeds your specified setting
LOCKDOWN ALERT: Receive a notification if the vehicle is moved without permission
LOW BATTERY ALERT: Receive a notification when battery is low
All of the above features are included in the SmartStart GPS Secure Service Plan starting at just $5 a month. Other features can be accessed with the Premium Secure Service Plan, starting at under $6 a month, including:
SMARTFENCE: Creates a secure zone around the vehicle so the user will be alerted if the vehicle leaves the zone
HOTSPOT: Adds a virtual Do Not Enter zone around a location so the user will be alerted if the vehicle goes there
SCHEDULING: Schedule time frames and curfews for notifications
According to Kevin Duffy, President of Directed Electronics, “Viper and our other vehicle security brands have been in the auto theft prevention business for decades. We see unique opportunities to partner with law enforcement with Viper SmartStart GPS, which can be a powerful deterrent against auto theft, alerting officers immediately when a bait car gets stolen and where it is headed – right on their smartphone.”
Police departments interested in receiving a Viper SmartStart GPS unit can contact ken.gammage@directed.com or call (760) 599-1325.
For more information visit http://www.directed.com/
Saturday, May 14, 2011
SmartStart GPS Now Available for Android Smartphones
SmartStart GPS is now available for smartphones running the Android operating system. We released Viper and Directed v2.2 apps with SmartStart GPS features and Home Control support to Android Market yesterday afternoon. This means anyone with a compatible Android smartphone can now enjoy the latest SmartStart features and upgrades, including:
- SmartStart GPS (when used with DSM/VSM250 systems)
o Includes alert programming for standard SmartStart GPS features: over speed, vehicle movement (Lockdown), low battery
o Alerts for Premium features not fully functional in this release (SmartFence, HotSpot) but will be for next release by end of the month
- Home Control (when used with compatible Alarm.com-powered home security systems)
- Enhanced user feedback & error messaging
- In-app Help pages covering all key features
- Alert tab fully functional
- Alerts track phone time settings now
- On-screen login button provided
- Compatible with Android v1.6 OS and newer (dropped support for v1.5 with this release)
SmartStart GPS Service Plans - US
GPS Secure 1 year $ 69.99 Locate vehicle, Lockdown, Speed alert, Location sharing, Low battery alert
GPS Secure 3 years $ 179.99
GPS Premium Secure 1 year $ 89.99 All of the above, plus Smartfence, HotSpot, Scheduling
GPS Premium Secure 3 year - Special ** $ 199.99
* Before discount
** Regular price = $239.99
Links for the updated apps are:
- https://market.android.com/details?id=com.directed.android.viper
- https://market.android.com/details?id=com.directed.android.smartstart
Friday, May 13, 2011
DEI Holdings To Be Acquired By Charlesbank Capital Partners
Vista, CA – May 12, 2011 – DEI Holdings, Inc. (PinkSheets: DEIX.PK) today announced that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by funds affiliated with Charlesbank Capital Partners in an all-cash transaction. Under the terms of the merger agreement, holders of the outstanding common shares of DEI Holdings will receive approximately $3.79 - $3.81 per share in cash. The price represents a premium of approximately 142% to DEI Holdings‟ closing share price on May 12, 2011. The total enterprise value of the transaction, including debt assumption, is approximately $285 million.
The merger agreement was unanimously approved by the full Board of Directors of DEI Holdings.
Troy Templeton, Chairman of the Board, said, “We are pleased to announce this agreement as it delivers significant value to our shareholders. In addition, it is a clear endorsement of DEI Holdings and of the hard work and commitment of each and every one of our employees. Charlesbank is a well respected private investment firm whose substantial resources and experience will enable the company to invest in its future growth. After a thorough assessment, based on independent financial and legal advice, we concluded this transaction will maximize value for the company‟s shareholders. We are also pleased to have successfully negotiated for a robust „go-shop‟ provision that allows us to entertain alternative proposals.”
Michael Choe, a Managing Director of Charlesbank, said: “We are very pleased to participate in the next chapter of the company‟s growth. DEI Holdings‟ strong management team and brand equity combined with its proven multichannel strategy position the company extremely well to expand its business, both in the U.S. and internationally.”
The transaction will be financed through a combination of equity and debt. Charlesbank has secured committed debt financing from General Electric Capital Corporation and OPY Credit Corp., an affiliate of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
Following completion of the transaction, DEI Holdings will remain headquartered in Vista, CA, and maintain its offices in Maryland and Canada. The company will continue to be led by its existing management team, including James E. Minarik, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Kevin P. Duffy, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
Funds affiliated with Trivest Partners, which own approximately 9.2 million common shares, representing approximately 36% of total shares outstanding, have agreed to vote those shares for approval of the merger. However, in the event that the merger agreement is terminated, Trivest Partners will be released from this obligation.
The agreement permits DEI Holdings to solicit, receive, evaluate, and enter into negotiations with respect to alternative proposals for a 35-day “go-shop” period from the date of the merger agreement. DEI Holdings, with the assistance of an independent financial advisor, will actively solicit alternative proposals during this period. DEI Holdings does not intend to disclose developments with respect to the solicitation process unless and until its Board of Directors has made a decision. The merger agreement provides Charlesbank with a customary right to match a superior proposal. There can be no assurance that this process will result in a superior offer or transaction. If there is no superior offer, the transaction is expected to close in late June 2011, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions. Completion of the transaction also requires approval by a majority of the outstanding DEI Holdings common shares.
Greenberg Traurig, LLP is acting as legal advisor to DEI Holdings in connection with the transaction. Goodwin Procter LLP is acting as legal advisor to Charlesbank.
About DEI Holdings, Inc.
Headquartered in Southern California, DEI Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of some of the most respected brands in the consumer electronics industry. DEI Holdings is the largest designer and marketer in North America of premium home theater loudspeakers (sold under the Polk Audio® and Definitive Technology® brand names), and consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart® and other brand names). DEI Holdings is also a supplier of mobile audio sold principally under the Polk Audio® and Orion® brand names. DEI Holdings markets its broad portfolio of products through many channels including leading national retailers and specialty chains throughout North America and around the world. Founded in 1982, the company has operations in California, Maryland, Canada, Europe and Asia. For more information on the company, visit http://www.deiholdings.com/.
About Charlesbank Capital Partners
Charlesbank Capital Partners is a middle-market private equity investment firm managing more than $2 billion of capital. Charlesbank focuses on management-led buyouts and growth capital financings, typically investing $50 million to $150 million per transaction in companies with enterprise values of $100 million to $750 million. The firm seeks to partner with strong management teams to build companies with sustainable competitive advantages and excellent prospects for growth. For more information on the firm, visit http://www.charlesbank.com/.
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