Product Spotlight: Alpine i407-WRA-JL

If you’ve been paying attention over the last few years, you’ll know that the folks at Alpine have been offering many different audio system upgrade solutions for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles. These offerings range from head unit replacement solutions to complete audio systems with amplifiers and subwoofers. In this Product Spotlight, we will look at the i407-WRA-JL radio upgrade kit. Let’s check it out!

What is the Alpine i407-WRA-JL Kit?

The i407-WRA-JL is a radio upgrade kit for 2018 and newer JL chassis Jeep Wranglers and 2020 and newer JT chassis Jeep Gladiators. The kit includes an Alpine iLX-407 source unit along with mounting brackets, a radio trim kit, a new auxiliary input jack, all the wiring harnesses, a camera interface module, and an iDatalink Maestro RR integration module. The concept was to provide retailers with a package with everything needed to upgrade the entertainment system and prevent surprises in the installation bay.

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kit Features

The included dash kit and brackets take care of ensuring the radio is mounted in place of the stock source unit and looks great. The dash kit is molded to fit the complex shape of the dash for a clean, factory-like appearance.

In terms of integration, the factory-installed backup camera on these Wranglers and Gladiators uses a communication protocol called Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS). This signal isn’t directly compatible with aftermarket radios. As such, the i407-WRA-JL kit includes an interface module that converts the LVDS signal into a composite signal so the camera will work with the included iLX-407.

The kit also includes an iDatalink Maestro RR interface. This data interface and harness allows the new radio to plug into the wiring connectors from the original radio and provides access to the Jeep’s data network. Information like vehicle speed, engine RPM and much more can be displayed on the radio. The climate control settings are also adjustable from the face of the new radio.

One item worth noting is that if your Jeep is equipped with the factory amplifier, an optional interface module called the KCX-F200INT is available to let the new radio connect properly.

Alpine iLX-407 Features

The double-DIN iLX-407 is the radio at the heart of the i407-WRA-JL kit. This radio features a 7-inch anti-glare touch screen with a resolution of 800×480 pixels. The hard controls are along the bottom edge of the front panel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, as is Bluetooth for hands-free streaming or phone calls. The tuner in the unit offers support for HD Radio, which dramatically improves the quality of FM radio. There’s an HDMI input on the rear of the chassis, so you can theoretically connect a gaming system or a laptop, if you want. There are two camera inputs and support for the SiriusXM SXV300 tuner module.

If you want the best sound quality from your music, playing digital audio files from a USB drive is the way to go. The iLX-407 supports MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and WAV audio formats with a maximum sampling rate of 48 kHz. The unit will also play AVI, MP4, MPG, MOV and WMV video files with H.264 or MPEG-4 video encoding. The maximum video file size is 4 gigabytes.

Audio Processing Features

The deck includes a four-channel amplifier rated at 16 watts per channel and in compliance with the ANSI/CTA-2006 standards for car audio amplifier power specifications. The triple preamp outputs are rated for up to four volts.

The iLX-407 is impressive in its audio processing features. It has a simple five-band graphic equalizer to let you fine-tune the system to your listening preferences. The more advanced crossovers offer adjustable slopes from six to 24 dB/Octave and filter frequencies from 20 to 200 Hz with high-pass filtering on the front and rear channels and a low-pass filter for the subwoofer output. There’s also a level control for each output, which many source units overlook. Oh, and the subwoofer level control can be adjusted from 0 to 15 with a polarity inversion option to potentially help the subwoofer’s output blend with the woofers in the dash and overhead sound bar.

The Time Correction setting screen allows your installer to dial in delays to each of the six outputs (which include the four built-in amplifier outputs) in 1 millisecond steps or set distances to the speakers in 3.4 centimeter steps. There are three presets available to store different Time Correction configurations. This is ideal if you want one alone in the vehicle or have a passenger, which requires different settings.

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kits

Alpine offers four Jeep-specific radio upgrade kits, including the i407-WRA-JL and a similar solution for older Wranglers called the i407-WRA-JK, covering 2007 through 2018 applications. If you want something fancier, the I509-WRA-JL and I509-WRA-JK kits include a 9-inch weather-resistant display, more advanced audio processing, and wireless smartphone connectivity.

If your Jeep is lacking in the audio department, visit a local authorized Alpine retailer and ask about the available Jeep-specific solutions. You can find an authorized retailer using the Store Locator tool on the Alpine website. For more information about the audio upgrade solutions available from Alpine, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE

At their heart, most remote car starters are the same. When you press a button on a wireless remote, a remote start controller integrated into the vehicle will start the engine. In reality, the features of the remote and the controller play a significant role in determining the usability and features of the starter system. We will look at the Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE remote key in this Product Spotlight. Let’s check it out!

What is the Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE Remote Car Starter?

Compustar offers its dealers several different remote kits and controller modules so that they can piece together a remote car starter solution that offers the features you want at a number of price points. The 2WG18 kit is an affordable two-way remote kit, making it a popular solution.

Two remotes offer bidirectional communication with the remote start controller. Unlike one-way remotes, a two-way unit will notify you when the doors lock or unlock or when the remote start process has begun. The 2WG18 remotes have three LEDs across the top. They also have a built-in beeper to provide audible confirmation that the command has been executed.

Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE — The compact Pro 2WG18 remotes LEDs and integrated beeper let you know that commands from the remote have been executed.

The 2WG18 remotes have three buttons, one for lock, one for unlock and one for remote start. If you have a vehicle with a power trunk or tailgate release, the 2WG18 remotes will control up to two auxiliary outputs. Pressing the start button and the lock button twice activates auxiliary output one. Tapping the start button and then the unlock button twice will activate auxiliary output two. If you have a minivan with a power sliding door, this second output can be used to open it remotely.

Other features accessible by holding multiple buttons simultaneously include Turbo Timer activation, horn or siren chirp confirmation toggling, ignition-controlled door locks and more.

Under ideal conditions, the remotes offer up to 3000 feet of range. This means you can remote start the vehicle from the check-out at the local grocery store, from the table at your favorite restaurant, or anywhere inside your house.

Compustar Pro Remote Features and Components

The Pro 2WG17 LTE kit comes with a pair of remotes. There’s the main two-way three-button remote, and a secondary one-way companion remote. They look the same, but the second remote doesn’t have the two-way communication.

The kit also includes the antenna to connect to the controller and an FT-TEMP temperature sensor. This sensor lets the controller know the temperature inside the vehicle. Your installer can program the remote starter to activate optional outputs for the rear window defroster, heated seats or heated steering wheel if it’s below freezing when you start the vehicle.

All Compustar remotes are weather-resistant. Should you drop your keys in a puddle or a slushy snowbank, they will be OK. Further, because this is a Pro-Series solution, the remotes are backed by a three-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

DroneMobile Smartphone Control Solution

The kit also includes a DroneMobile X2-LTE smartphone control interface module. This computerized communication device allows you to send commands from the DroneMobile app on your smartphone to the vehicle over the cellular data network. The vehicle will confirm the command has been executed on the app, just like a two-way radio-frequency remote.

The DroneMobile system has additional features like GPS-based locating and tracking that are unlocked with more premium service plans. If your kids borrow your vehicle and you want to know where they are, a quick tap on your smartphone screen shows their location and speed if they are moving. You can configure location-based alerts as well. This is an excellent feature for commercial tracking applications. Geofences are an ideal solution if you want to know when a specific vehicle leaves the office. Your authorized DroneMobile retailer can explain all the options and the cost of the service plans.

The Industry’s Best Remote Car Starter Solutions

If you want an affordable two-way remote starter for the family SUV, a Compustar system with the Pro 2WG18 remotes is a perfect solution. Drop into a local Compustar retailer today to find out what options will make your vehicle more comfortable on a cold winter or hot summer day.

Compustar remote starters are designed to work with most vehicles equipped with a key or push-to-start ignition system. Likewise, they offer industry-leading safety interfaces for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. Finally, they work with most gasoline, diesel and even hybrid vehicles.

You can find a retailer near you by visiting the Compustar website and using their dealer locator tool.

Follow Compustar on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to stay up to date with all their new product releases and educational videos.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: DroneMobile XC Connected Dashcam Security System

Thieves frequently target vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, Lexus, RAM, Chevrolet, and Honda. These vehicles are often stolen for their parts or exported overseas. Well-integrated anti-theft systems like those from Compustar greatly reduce the chances that a thief will drive off in your vehicle. However, vehicle owners have long sought the ability to monitor their vehicle and its surroundings using their smartphone. The DroneMobile XC connected dash cam is the perfect solution. Let’s check it out!

What is DroneMobile?

DroneMobile is a smartphone interface created by Firstech, the parent company of Compustar and Arctic Start. DroneMobile allows you to use an app on your smartphone to communicate with, monitor and control your vehicle from almost anywhere on the planet. If the shock sensor on your Compustar alarm is triggered, the DroneMobile app will notify you within seconds. If someone opens a door, you’ll get an alert. If a thief is trying to cut off a catalytic converter, you’ll know about it.

DroneMobile hardware works with a remote car starter or security system to add smartphone control. Door lock, trunk release, and, when applicable, remote starter activation are as simple as tapping the screen of your Android-based smartphone or iPhone. The communication is bidirectional, so you’ll be advised when the command is executed. This feedback lets you know the car is locked and safe in your driveway for the evening.

DroneMobile XC is the only dash cam we’ve reviewed that offers this level of functionality and integration with aftermarket remote start or alarm systems.

GPS Locating Services

The DroneMobile system offers services at various feature levels. The basic package provides door lock and remote start control. You also get security alerts from an optional (but highly recommended) DAS-II security sensor. This means that impact, motion, or tilting will result in a nearly instant phone notification. You can also monitor the temperature inside the vehicle and keep an eye on battery voltage.

Upgrading to one of the Premium plans adds location-based alerts and monitoring. If the system reports that your vehicle has moved from where you parked it without authorization, you can tap the map screen to view its current location. You can set Geofences around specific areas to monitor usage. Several of the top programs include full breadcrumb trail tracking with turn-by-turn updates.

High-Speed Communication

One of DroneMobile’s best features is its speed. Factory-installed smartphone control systems, such as MyMazda, can take more than 30 seconds to relay a command to the vehicle. It’s incredibly frustrating to have to wait that long. DroneMobile uses the fastest LTE services and Amazon cloud servers to execute a command in a second or two. Often, they can be faster than a key fob remote control. That’s truly impressive.

Live Video Feed

What makes the DroneMobile XC so special is its integrated camera system. It includes a Sony Starvis 2K QHD camera that monitors everything in front of the vehicle while you are driving. Videos are stored on an included 64GB microSD memory card.

What sets the XC apart from other dashcams is that it can use the onboard LTE modem to transmit video to the DroneMobile app on your smartphone. Using artificial intelligence, your phone can warn you when someone walks in front of your vehicle. You can turn on the video feed to see who is lurking around your vehicle. You can even speak with them. If it’s the neighbor kids, you can ask them to be careful around your pride and joy. If it’s someone more nefarious, you can alert them that the police have been notified and that the vehicle is being tracked.

The DroneMobile XC features many of the same capabilities as the DAS-II security sensor. So, impact, tilt, motion or glass breakage will immediately trigger an alert.

DroneMobile XC Installation

The DroneMobile XC mounts to the front windshield and can be mostly hidden behind the rearview mirror. It starts recording video as soon as the vehicle is started. Your DroneMobile retailer can add the optional RC1 rear camera to capture what’s happening behind your car or truck as you drive. Another option is the IR1 interior camera. A second camera capturing what’s happening inside the vehicle is a wise investment if you drive a taxi, limousine, Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare service. The IR1 includes infrared LEDs, so it can see in the dark without lighting up the interior. Only one additional camera can be added to the DroneMobile XC.

For the DroneMobile XC to control your vehicle, you need a remote car starter or security system from Compustar or one of its sister products. This system must be integrated into your car or truck to monitor door locks, the hood, trunk and ignition. If you want remote starter features, then a controller with remote start functionality and a vehicle data interface will be required.

A local authorized DroneMobile and Compustar retailer can tell you the total cost of the system, including professional installation and configuration. Likewise, they can review the prices for the DroneMobile XC service plans to help you choose an option that provides the features you desire.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Compustar 2WG17 Remote Kit

Compustar was one of the first brands to allow consumers to choose a remote control package to accompany their remote start controller. Previously, we looked at flagship-level solutions like the PRO T13 and PRO R5. In this spotlight, we’re taking a closer look at the new and more affordable 2WG17 remote package. Let’s check it out!

What’s Included with the 2WG17:

The Compustar 2WG17 remote bundle includes:
A pair of three-button remote controls
A Drone X2/LTE module
An antenna with cable
A temperature sensor

Your authorized retailer can recommend the most suitable system controller for your vehicle. If you’re looking for full-featured performance, something like the CM-X is a popular and capable choice.

2-Way Remote Control

Taking a closer look, we see that the remotes included in this kit differ from each other. The primary remote, model 2WG17R-FM, is a two-way unit. It features three buttons, and three LED indicators located just above the top button. These LEDs confirm when a command like locking or remote starting is successfully received and executed by the vehicle control module.

The LEDs also indicate the remaining engine runtime when the vehicle is running via remote start:

All three LEDs flash when 100% of runtime remains
Center and right LEDs flash at 50%
Only the right LED (start icon) flashes at 25%

Don’t be fooled by the remote’s simple three-button design. Lock, unlock, and remote start are directly accessible, while advanced functions are handled through intuitive button combinations:

Trunk release: Press and hold the unlock button for 2.5 seconds
Auxiliary output 1: Press start, then double-press the lock button
Auxiliary output 2: Press start, then double-press the unlock button

These outputs can be programmed to control functions like sliding doors, tailgate glass releases, or additional lighting.

Using other button combinations, you can also control features such as siren chirps, shock sensor settings, valet mode, ignition-controlled door locks, passive locking, and turbo timer activation. This makes the remote highly customizable to fit your specific needs.

Compustar 2WG17 Remote Kit — The main remote includes LEDs to confirm when commands are executed using 2-way communication with the vehicle controller.

1-Way Remote Control

The secondary remote, model 1WG17-FM, offers similar core control functions but does not include 2-way confirmation LEDs. It’s a great backup remote or a simpler option for another household driver.

Both remotes feature up to 3,000 feet of range thanks to Frequency Modulation (FM) signal transmission. That’s enough to start your vehicle from inside a small apartment, office building, or even across a massive parking lot.

Another standout feature is that both remotes are water-resistant. It should keep functioning without issue if you accidentally drop your key fob in a puddle or snowbank. This durability adds a layer of everyday peace of mind and extends the lifespan of your investment.

Drone Smartphone Control

The 2WG17 package includes a Drone X2/LTE module for smartphone control. When paired with the DroneMobile app, you gain full access to your remote start system from virtually anywhere your phone has internet access.

You can:

Lock or unlock the doors
Start or stop the engine
Release the trunk
Activate auxiliary features

Whether at the office or vacationing in another country, you can easily check the vehicle’s status or control it. On the beach in Mexico and want make sure the doors are locked – it’s as simple a tapping an icon in the DroneMobile app.

GPS tracking is also enabled with a compatible service plan. If your vehicle is moved—say, loaded onto a flatbed—you’ll receive a notification. You can then alert authorities and provide your vehicle’s location in real time.

Retailers can walk you through the available service plans and help you select one that matches your needs.

Ready to Roll in Comfort

The included temperature sensor allows for automatic climate-related activation features. For instance, you can:

Automatically turn on the rear window defroster when starting the vehicle in cold temperatures
Trigger heated seats or a heated steering wheel

The product specialist helping to configure your system can tell you which factory features in your vehicle are compatible with these automatic activations. These small touches add significant comfort and convenience during extreme weather.

Add Comfort with a Compustar 2WG17 Remote Car Starter

Whether you live in Montana or New York and dread frigid winter mornings, or you’re in Florida or Texas and want to avoid stepping into a sweltering vehicle, a remote car starter from Compustar ensures your ride is comfortable every time you get in.

The 2WG17 remote kit offers high-quality, affordable functionality. It combines convenience, rugged durability, and peace of mind thanks to two-way command confirmation. It’s a smart upgrade for any vehicle.

For more information on the Compustar 2WG17 remote kit or any of Compustar’s remote car starter and vehicle security solutions, drop by a local authorized retailer. You can find a shop near you using the dealer locator tool on the Compustar website. Be sure to follow Compustar on Facebook, Instagram, and, of course, on YouTube to learn about the new technologies they bring to the market.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate TMS69

Where once the domain of only a few specialty brands, motorcycle audio speakers are now available from dozens of brands. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean all the offerings sound good and play loudly. This Product Spotlight will examine the Rockford Fosgate TMS69 6×9-inch bag lid speaker set to explain what differentiates them from the other offerings in this category.

Rockford Fosgate TMS69 Specifications

The TMS69 set includes a pair of motorcycle-specific 6×9-inch speakers and hex-head mounting screws. Rockford Fosgate rates the speakers as capable of handling 100 watts continuously with peaks up of 200 watts. The speakers have a nominal impedance of four ohms and an impressive 1W/1M efficiency of 89 dB SPL.

For those into analyzing and understanding Thiele-Small parameters, the TMS69 woofers have a resonant frequency (Fs) of 75 Hz, an equivalent compliance (Vas) of 16.8 liters, and a total Q (Qts) of 1.63. The Xmax specification, which is measured at 10% THD using Klippel transducer evaluation equipment, is 3mm. Unless you know another manufacturer used 10% THD, you can’t compare this number with their maximum linear excursion specification.

Designing a speaker for an outdoor application, as you’d find on a motorcycle, is no easy feat. The Rockford Fosgate team spent countless hours cruising Arizona highways to audition dozens of samples of the TMS69 during the development process. The goal was to tailor the frequency response to what enthusiasts would enjoy while compensating for exhaust, wind, and tire noise. While most speakers in this market are marinized car audio speakers, the effort put into making the TMS69 truly unique is impressive. If you are looking for a speaker that sounds good at 75mph, you’re in the right place.

Rockford Fosgate TMS69 — he TMS69 speakers are designed to sound amazing on your Harley-Davidson, even at freeway speeds.

TMS69 Bag Lid Speaker Features

Motorcycle speakers differ from typical car audio speakers in several ways. First, they are designed with efficiency in mind. Getting more output for a given amount of power dramatically reduces how much current the amplifier driving the speakers consumes. This is crucial on a motorcycle where power is limited. Rockford Fosgate uses a low-mass polypropylene woofer cone with a high-Q suspension design. This will maximize output through the midbass region to ensure the drivers pack a punch; no pun intended.

Thermal power handling is also crucial, as the speakers are typically installed in airtight Harley-Davidson saddlebags. This means they can get quite warm. TMS69 speakers feature a huge 1.4-inch diameter voice coil to help dissipate heat efficiently.

These speakers have a shallow design, so they don’t take up valuable room in the saddlebag. Mounting depth is specified as being only 2.8 inches deep. The compact size is achieved thanks to a high-efficiency neodymium magnet structure. A second benefit to speakers that use Neodymium magnets is weight reduction. Each TMS69 weighs about a pound. Ceramic-magnet speakers, albeit cheaper, can be five times as heavy. Rockford Fosgate chose the Neodymium route because it’s much lighter than a traditional speaker with a large ceramic magnet, while still producing the same output. Added weight, especially at the top of the saddlebag, can affect the handling and stability of the motorcycle.

Materials and Design

When you look at the top of the TMS69, you’ll first notice the low-profile 25mm dome tweeter with a phase disc integrated into the grille. The disc helps ensure even sound dispersion at extreme frequencies. The small vertical waveguide around the sides of the tweeter help direct the output towards the driver.

To ensure the speakers are 100% water resistant, Rockford Fosgate has implemented a synthetic rubber surround between the tweeter post and the polypropylene woofer cone. This ensures water can’t get into the motor assembly should you get caught in the rain.

The last feature worth noticing is the massive amount of cone area afforded by the Vertical Attach Surround Technique surround. The way the surround attaches to the vertical sides of the basket allows the radiating surface to be much larger than competing products. In short, you get way more effective cone area and output for your money compared to other offerings.

Element Ready Design

While other products may claim water resistance, Rockford Fosgate takes building speakers for outdoor applications seriously. They use the term “Element Ready,” which means the speakers are water resistant and UV resistant. This means they won’t dry out and crack after prolonged sun exposure. The speakers are also subjected to vibration and impact testing to ensure all components remain secure. A solid design is crucial for a motorcycle, which experiences intense vibrations from the lumpy camshafts. The ultra-rigid glass-fiber reinforced polymer plastic frame is an example of putting durability at the forefront of the design.

Harley-Davidson Installations

The TMS69 speakers are available as stand-alone options. However, they are the heart of the popular and often imitated bag lid speaker kits; the TMS69BL14 for 2014-2023 Harley-Davidson® touring motorcycles, and TMS69BL9813 for 1998-2013 H-D® touring models. The kits feature a cutting template that allows your installer to modify the existing bag lids to accept the 6×9 speakers using the provided mounting brackets and grilles. This eliminates the need to try to paint-match aftermarket lids. If you want to bring the sound system on your Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Road Glide, Electra Glide, or Road King to life, these kits are a perfect upgrade.

Enhance Your Motorcycle Audio System with Rockford Fosgate Speakers

If the stereo system on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle doesn’t put a smile on your face when you crank the volume, drop by a local authorized Rockford Fosgate retailer and ask about an upgrade that includes the TMS65 fairing speakers, TMS69 bag lid speakers and their impressive amplifiers. You can find a local authorized retailer using the dealer locator at on the Rockford Fosgate website. Be sure to follow the gang from Tempe, AZ, on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to learn about the products they offer and the incredible events they attend.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Alpine i407-WRA-JL

What is the Alpine i407-WRA-JL Kit?

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kit Features

Alpine iLX-407 Features

Audio Processing Features

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kits

Product Spotlight: Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE

What is the Compustar Pro 2WG18 LTE Remote Car Starter?

Compustar Pro Remote Features and Components

DroneMobile Smartphone Control Solution

The Industry’s Best Remote Car Starter Solutions

Product Spotlight: DroneMobile XC Connected Dashcam Security System

What is DroneMobile?

GPS Locating Services

High-Speed Communication

Live Video Feed

DroneMobile XC Installation

Product Spotlight: Compustar 2WG17 Remote Kit

2-Way Remote Control

1-Way Remote Control

Drone Smartphone Control

Ready to Roll in Comfort

Add Comfort with a Compustar 2WG17 Remote Car Starter

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate TMS69

Rockford Fosgate TMS69 Specifications

TMS69 Bag Lid Speaker Features

Materials and Design

Element Ready Design

Harley-Davidson Installations

Enhance Your Motorcycle Audio System with Rockford Fosgate Speakers

Customer Reviews

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