By David Clarke

highspeedhijinks

No matter how many times I’ve seen it done in the movies, or crudely done on Mythbusters, I still think life-size remote control cars are cool. Apparently, one person out there is even smart enough to build one without being funded by a military contract or production company. That person is Dave Phipps. Dave is the kind of guy who has his irons in two fires–he’s an electronics whiz and a car nut.  So when Dave bought this 1969 GTO convertible for $400 25 years ago, he saw a clean slate to combine the best of both worlds. Using a wireless controller called “Redeye” synced to his iPod Touch, Dave is capable controlling all sorts of functions on his GTO: he can fire up the ignition, rev the 428ci engine, open the servo-actuated doors and trunk, roll down the power windows, put the convertible top down, adjust the radio settings, and arm his car alarm.  Sadly, steering and braking aren’t yet on list, but give this guy time, I’m sure it’s coming soon. For more of the details and a video on how this all works, Ben at Jalopnik has you covered.

By John Coyle

Editor

In case anyone is wondering, that isn’t a picture of a in-dash navigation system. Because pics of in-dash nav systems—even ones with motorized screens and all the bells and whistles—are about exciting as plain toast or alcohol-free wedding receptions. But stay with me, and I’ll explain why the image is appropriate. It’s no secret that traditional car audio companies—you know, the kind that sell CD players, massive amps and crack dealer grade subs—have been hurting in recent years. Unsurprisingly, aftermarket electronics companies have been looking for a way back into consumer’s rides, and in-dash nav systems look to be the most promising products. Because while a freestanding unit might be able to give you directions, it won’t be able to integrate your iPod, work with your Bluetooth phone, or play DVDs. And after they’re in? Well, according to Tony Mercado, one of Kenwood’s marketing guys, once the aftermarket companies get into the dash, it’s a lot easier to for them to "start working their way back to the truck," and sell more traditional components like amps and speakers. Since more car manufacturers are offering navs as factory equipment, offering an aftermarket solution might equate to putting a band-aid on gushing artery, but only time will tell…      

Personally, I’d rather have a crappy system than worry about someone smashing a window to rip out my head unit. So over the years, I’ve adopted a simple theory on vehicle security: have a tape deck, leave the doors unlocked, and keep nothing of value inside the car. Seriously, even crackheads know tape decks are worthless. That’s why I found Eran Abramson’s post about a fake tape deck faceplate so awesome. Just pop it over your CD player and ta-da, your stereo is now safe. Better still, his post features a link to a complete tutorial on how to make one for your ride. Bravo Eran!

What?! It’s the last day of the January? Where did the month go?? Oh yeah, I remember… CES 2008 and the relaunch of the new SoundDomain.com! We had quite a busy month and over the next few it’s going to get better and better. But to hold you over until then, you should check out the hot news over at SoundDomain. Here’s what you missed yesterday:

• America, F&#K Yeah! InPhase Audio had these patriotic sub boxes on display at CES. Not quite what I’d rock in my trunk, but I can appreciate the pride!
• The mad scientists over at JML Audio just wrapped up an install on a hopped-up IS300. This bad boy pumps out 540HP to the wheels and is loaded with an audiophile-quality install of the highest caliber.
• Navigon’s 7100 portable navigation device is quite possibly the new king of the streets! It’s sexy and loaded with features to make your life a much better place. Find out how!
• Cadillacs 2009 CTS-V is going to come equipped with an Alpine radio the features a pop-up nav screen, 40GB hard drive, DVD capability, USB 2.0 and more, all wrapped into one of the sexiest dashboards I’ve ever seen.