SEMA 2024: DS18 Outshines The Competition

SEMA 2024: DS18 Outshines The Competition

SEMA 2024 was EPIC! #TEAMDS18 came in LOUD, and the energy was unreal! Of course: the products turn heads and get the crowd going, but there were some surprises that even we didn’t see coming! From show-stopping displays to moments that’ll be talked about forever, this was more than just another SEMA.

DS18's Interactive Booth Experience at SEMA 2024

2024 Slingshot SLR: SLG-V2

Taking center stage at SEMA 2024 was our show-stopping 2024 Slingshot SLR, fully outfitted with our latest SLG-V2 audio components.

Here’s how we transformed this Slingshot into the ultimate audio machine: 

  • Front-Stage Audio Domination
Leading the charge was our SLG-WFCC8 Waterfall Console Pod and SLG-FKP6V2 Front Kick Panel Pods, seamlessly integrating into the Slingshot’s unique layout. The WFCC8 houses 8” speakers and super bullet tweeters; and the FKP’s house 6.5” speakers and super bullet tweeters that cut through wind and road noise. The integrated waterproof construction and customizable LED lighting ensure your setup not only sounds great but also looks the part during those late-night cruises.

 

  • Surround Yourself with Sound
At the heart of the setup were our SLG-HD6V2 Headrest Pods and SLG-AR6V2 Armrest Enclosures, wrapping the driver and passenger in an immersive 360-degree soundstage. The headrest pods can fit two 6.5” DS18 speakers on each side, delivering crisp mids and highs that envelop you in rich audio. Pair that with the armrest enclosures, each housing a 6.5” speaker, and you’ve got crystal-clear, punchy sound that fills every inch of the Slingshot’s cabin.
  • New Additions for 2024: Fender Pods & Under Dash Subs
    And that’s not all—we introduced brand-new Fender Pods that bring the party outside the car with space for two 8” speakers and a tweeter on each fender. These new pods take the Slingshot’s sound to the next level, allowing the crowd to hear your ride coming from blocks away!
For that deep, bone-rattling bass, we added our SLG-UDSD6LD-20UP Under Dash Subwoofer Enclosures, housing two ZR6.4D subs. The result? Punchy, distortion-free bass that hits hard and clean, overcoming the challenges of the Slingshot’s open-air design with waterproof, UV-resistant construction.

 

  • Rear-Stage Bass Impact
    To truly bring the BOOM, we fitted the Slingshot with our SLG-RSUB10LD Rear Storage Compartment Subwoofer Enclosure, loaded with a marine-grade NXL-10SUB. This subwoofer doesn't just hit hard—it’s built to withstand the elements, delivering thumping bass that keeps the vibe going, no matter the conditions. 

These upgrades make every ride feel like a front-row concert. The integrated LED lighting transforms your Slingshot into a rolling spectacle, perfect for nighttime cruising.

2024 Two Custom Harleys With The NVY Motorcycle Series

Next to the Slingshot, two stunning Harleys—one neon green Road Glide and one sleek blue Street Glide—featured the latest from our NVY Series.

These motorcycles were fitted with the ultimate sound solutions, including our new NVY components and the fan-favorite PRO-CF Series. Whether cruising down the highway or revving up at the show, these bikes delivered the deep, resonant sound that enthusiasts crave.

Revolutionary Marine and Powersports Audio Solutions

At SEMA 2024, DS18 took the spotlight with the all-new NVY Series and our cutting-edge NXL-IQ Series, showcased across two jaw-dropping bikes that stole the show.

  • Game-Changing NVY Series: Built for Extreme Conditions

We brought our unreleased NVY-10PROMB-4 mid-bass woofers and NVY-M8DC hybrid coaxial speakers to the party. The NVY Series is all about blending durability with exceptional sound clarity. Designed with Kevlar cones, Neodymium magnets, and IP65-rated water resistance, these speakers are engineered to thrive in the harshest environments—whether you’re tearing up the trails or cruising the coast. The NVY-M8DC speakers even come with built-in digital LED lights, adding a splash of color to match the beat of your music.

  • NXL-IQ Series: Immersive Audio, Anywhere

We decked out our booth and demo bikes with the NXL-IQ6 and NXL-IQ8 marine-grade coaxial speakers. These beasts are built to withstand the elements with IP65 water resistance, UV-stable construction, and precision-engineered components like floating bullet tweeters and Neodymium magnets. Paired with integrated LED lighting, they don’t just sound good—they look incredible, too.

This year’s SEMA was just a taste of what’s to come. Stay tuned as we continue to make the world LOUD!

Amplifier Innovations for Every Vehicle Type

DS18 expands audio breakthroughs with its latest amplifier technologies at SEMA 2024. These new offerings showcase our dedication to powerful and reliable sound systems in every vehicle.

The SMD Series: An Amplifier For Every System

When it comes to bringing the heat in car audio, DS18 and Steve Meade Designs have teamed up to create the SMD Amplifier Series—an absolute game-changer in high-performance audio. Whether you're building a show-stopping ride or just want to turn heads on the street, this lineup has the power, clarity, and durability to make it happen. There is an AMPLIFIER FOR EVERY SYSTEM!

Each amplifier in the SMD Series is engineered with premium Korean components and Sky High Car Audio’s OFC internal wiring, guaranteeing top-notch reliability and performance:

  • SMD-8500.1D: The powerhouse of the lineup, pushing an earth-shattering 8500W RMS at 1-ohm with a unique clear half-top design and dual cooling fans to keep it running cool even at max output​.
  • SMD-5000.1D & SMD-3000.1D: Perfect for those looking to maximize bass performance, delivering 5000W RMS and 3000W RMS respectively. These monoblocks combine raw power with precision, featuring built-in digital/analog voltmeters and customizable RGB lighting​​.
  • SMD-2000.1D: Built for versatility with 2000W RMS at 1-ohm, this amplifier is all about efficiency. It’s designed for audiophiles who want to push their sound systems to the limit without sacrificing quality​.

The SMD Series isn’t just about raw power. It’s about precision and customization:

  • Full-range and 5-channel options: The SMD-2800.5 covers all bases with a mix of Class AB and Class D channels, delivering pristine highs and powerful lows—all while supporting complex setups like subs, tweeters, and midbass combinations​.
  • Multi-channel flexibility: The SMD-500.4AB, 300.4AB, and 200.4AB amplifiers offer 4-channel configurations designed for front, rear, or full-range setups. These amps prioritize clarity and detailed sound, with the ability to bridge channels for even more power​​​.

What sets the SMD Series apart? It’s all about the details:

  • Smart heat management: Reverse-mounted boards with dual fans ensure these amps stay cool, even under heavy loads.
  • Personalized LED lighting: Match your setup with customizable RGB lights for that extra visual pop.
  • Built-in VM-1 voltmeters: Keep an eye on your power draw in real-time with integrated digital LED voltmeters.

This series is all about pushing boundaries. It’s for those who live and breathe car audio. DS18’s SMD Series offers LEGENDARY performance—LOUD and clear.

DS18’s FRP Series: FULL-RANGE-POWER

DS18’s FRP Series is setting a new standard in car audio amplification by combining compact design with massive power output. These micro digital amplifiers pack serious punch while maintaining efficiency, making them perfect for any setup that demands both performance and space-saving design.

Key Features:

  • Hi-Level Inputs & Tiffany RCA Connections: Seamlessly integrate with your existing system for uninterrupted performance.
  • Advanced Surface Mount Technology: Engineered to withstand vibrations and harsh conditions, ensuring consistent audio quality.
  • Full Variable Crossover Filters: Customize your sound to perfection, whether it's for bass, mids, or highs.
  • Durable Protection Coating: Shields the internal components from moisture and corrosion.
  • Real-Time Feedback: LED indicators for power, protection, and clipping status keep you in the know at all times.

Designed for Versatility & Durability

Whether you’re pushing powerful subs or maximizing your mids and highs, the FRP Series amps are versatile enough to handle it all. The Bass Boost feature ensures rich, deep low-end frequencies, while the built-in fan keeps temperatures in check during long, intense sessions. And with short circuit, thermal, DC offset, and voltage protection, you can trust these amps to deliver reliable performance ride after ride.

Compact & Easy to Install

Despite their powerful output, the FRP amplifiers are compact enough to fit into tight spaces, making installation a breeze. Available in three colors—blue, titanium, and red—these amps blend seamlessly into any audio setup.

Experience the DS18 Difference with the FRP Series—unmatched power, precision, and performance in a compact package.

Unreleased!
We recently showcased our never-before-seen 4-channel and 8K models, making waves in the audio community! These amplifiers are perfect for everyone who loves it LOUD. The DS18 FRP Series sets a new standard in car audio with unmatched power and compact design.

Special Guests

We had Chloe Yonker, aka @thecumminscowgirl, lighting up the booth with her stories from the diesel world and why she swears by DS18 for all her builds. And the best part? Fans got the chance to snag exclusive DS18 shirts signed by Chloe herself.

Then, of course, Steve Meade (@meade916) came through to officially launch the SMD Series! The crowd was hyped as Steve shared why he’s all in on DS18. Plus, he didn’t leave without hooking fans up with an autograph on their EXCLUSIVE DS18 X SMD merch.

SEMA was packed with live demos, product launches, and events you had to see to believe.

Thank You!

Wow—what a ride, #TEAMDS18! SEMA 2024 was an absolute blast, and none of it would’ve been possible without you. From the die-hard audio enthusiasts who came through, to those who just had to stop by Booth #10413 to see what all the hype was about—thank you. You made every moment electric!

We came in LOUD, and it was your energy that made it all worthwhile. Whether you were there to check out our latest amps, test the marine audio setups, or snag some exclusive autographed gear from Chloe Yonker and Steve Meade, your support means the world to us.

As we look forward to what’s next, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come. Because at DS18, we’re just getting started—pushing limits, setting new standards, and always keeping it LOUD.

From all of us at DS18: Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.

And hey, if you thought this was epic, just wait—2025 is going to be even LOUDER. Until then, keep it LOUD, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok for exclusive updates and sneak peeks at what’s coming next.

Here’s to the love of LOUD—we couldn’t do it without you.

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