New product highlights from IBEX 2016

From audio to engines to accessories, dozens of new products made their debut at the 2016 IBEX show in Tampa.

Several of the best products were honored with IBEX Innovation Awards. Here are some of the other top products on the show floor this year.

Suzuki DF150AP and DF175AP

Suzuki Marine introduced the DF150AP and DF175AP, two new models in its AP-Series. These new 150- and 175-horsepower inline four cylinder outboards feature Suzuki Precision Control drive-by-wire throttle and shift, as well as Suzuki’s Selective Rotation gear case.

The new DF150AP and DF175AP boast the largest displacement in their respective horsepower class, Suzuki says. Engine performance is enhanced by a 10.2:1 compression ratio that generates optimal power, contributing to an “impressive” hole-shot and mid-range acceleration. A newly developed Semi-Direct Air Intake System, boosts power by providing cooler airflow to each cylinder.

Volvo Penta ergnomic controls

Volvo Penta of the Americas showed off its new-generation mechanical controls for gasoline sterndrives. The new controls feature ergonomic levers and grips, tactile switch functions and sleek aesthetics.

“In line with our Easy Boating strategy, the new ergonomic controls will make for easier boat driving by operators of all genders with hands of all sizes,” said Marcia Kull, vice president of marine sales for Volvo Penta of the Americas. “The new design also presents a modern, clean appearance and provides greater durability in the marine environment.”

The new controls will be available for all OEMs in January. The mounting scheme and cable nesting will be nearly identical to the current controls, minimizing changeover costs to boatbuilders.

Built-in features include power trim and tilt, neutral safety switch, neutral lock out, neutral warm up and lanyard-style safety stop switch. The controls come with a 20-ft. wiring harness and will be covered by the Volvo Penta two-year warranty if installed by the boatbuilder.

Garmin GPSMAP 276Cx

Garmin International Inc. released the GPSMAP 276Cx, an updated and upgraded edition of its 276C, originally launched in 2004.

The 276Cx now features both GPS and GLONASS for better performance in heavy cover, optional external antenna support (sold separately), HotFix for faster satellite acquisition and wireless connectivity features. There’s a larger, sunlight-readable 5-inch display, as well as a barometric altimeter and 3-axis compass, which were not present in the 276C.

The GPSMAP 276Cx comes preloaded with a worldwide basemap with shaded relief, as well as a subscription to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery to see real-life terrain views right on the device. Additionally, the GPSMAP 276Cx is compatible with a variety of optional maps including Garmin HuntView, which provides satellite imagery, landowner and parcel information. Other supported maps include Garmin TOPO maps, BlueChart g2 HD marine charts, custom maps, raster maps and turn-by-turn routing on City Navigator and TOPO US 24K maps. The device’s 8 GB of internal memory can also be expanded using a microSD card.

Ameritex SST bimini top

Ameritex Fabric Systems, a member of the Taylor Made Group,  showcased its new SST Bimini Top.

“S.S.T. stands for self-supporting top,” said Don Zirkelbach, president of Ameritex Fabric Systems. “Bimini tops of the past were shaky, even when locked in the open position. They required multiple support stanchions and bothersome straps that needed adjustment, flapped in the wind, and got in the way. The design of the SST Top eliminates those straps.”

The reengineered design makes the top stable with only two support stanchion. The addition of threaded eye-ends locks the deck mounts down tight, reducing rattling to almost nothing, even when a boat is moving. The result is a sturdy bimini top with no obstructions aft or fore so fisherman can fish without rods being impeded and drivers have better visibility, the company says.

Lippert Components pontoon furniture

LCI introduced its Platinum Series replacement pontoon furniture, with a monochromatic design and multiple density foam packs.

The series features premium marine vinyl that resists mold, mildew and UV rays. The line also features aluminum and stainless steel hardware, large, dry storage areas under the seats, and durable polyethylene, rotationally molded frames that offer support, style and resist warping. The series includes 17 items – benches, corners, helm stations, chaises, cup holders and a variety of seats available in dove grey and beige.

SeaStar Xtreme

SeaStar Solutions introduced its new Xtreme line of side mount and single and dual top mount controls.

The Xtreme side mount control features a redesigned handle with a new ergonomic grip that comfortably fits a wide variety of hand sizes. The neutral interlock lifter is located beneath the grip and the trim switch is now more naturally operated by the thumb. Throttle friction can also be adjusted to match the user’s preference.

The same enhanced ergonomics and improved switch placements can be found on the new Xtreme single and dual top mount controls. In addition, both single and dual top mount controls offer optional neutral lock-out lifters, which protect against the control being inadvertently knocked or bumped into gear.

A new center console side mount Xtreme control is also available. This control features a specially designed low profile handle that is easy to operate without being in the way. The trim switch location has also been positioned for easy activation.

New Xtreme controls deliver the same 2.38:1 mechanical advantage of other SeaStar controls and are made of corrosion resistant materials.

Aquatic AV SiriusXM, Bluetooth & USB Media Player

Aquatic AV introduces the new Aquatic AV SiriusXM, Bluetooth & USB Media Player, a rugged unit designed to play music wirelessly via a Bluetooth enabled smartphone or MP3 device, or via USB connection. Wired connections can also be made with stereo 3.5mm Jack or RCA inputs.

A2DP Bluetooth allows wireless audio streaming and two-way communication between Apple and Android devices and the Media Player, to view track information, songs, artists, playlists and genres on the 3″ color LCD display. Album artwork is available when paired via Bluetooth with Apple devices, using IAP (Information Apple Protocol) Bluetooth.

The AQ-MP-5UBT-S also features an onboard 288W amplifier capable of powering up to 8x speakers, or a combination of speakers and subwoofers, high-quality 4V RCA (phono) pre-outs for connecting an external amplifier or powered subwoofer, an FM/AM radio with 30x pre-set memory and clock function. The unit will charge USB devices and devices with a USB connector. A dummy faceplate/dust cover and a surface-mount, waterproof USB socket are included.