Monday, January 03, 2011 -- MECA has announced that its Rules & Ethics Committee has been working since the middle of October to evaluate and revise its Rule Book for the 2011 season. The organization has announced that there are a few changes to its rules, which are geared to provide the fairest contests at Sound Quality League and Sound Pressure League events, the group stated.

In the Sound Quality League category, MECA announced a number of changes. First, there will be two new SQ evaluation tracks to be used along with Chesky Ultimate Demonstration Disc: Bringing Back the Funk (Brian Culbertson) and Suitcase (Keb Mo). Next up are revised installation rules and score sheet with clarified language and a focus on safety, craftsmanship and appearance. There will be a new Stock Install class that focuses on beginner and basic SQL systems. Beginners will have a dedicated Install class, with emphasis on safety, craftsmanship, and appearance, MECA stated. Another change is the addition of the SQ2, the two-seat sound quality, class for vehicles that qualify as Stock, Street and Modified Street. MECA said it added this class due to interest and involvement in Sound Quality.

In the Sound Pressure League category, MECA also announced changes. First, the Drive-by SPL Parade has been revamped and is now called "Park & Pound," where all windows and doors in a vehicle can be open. This evaluation includes a sound pressure level test with the TermLab sensor placed 6 ft. in front on the passenger side of the vehicle. Commercial music tracks must be used, with no foul language, to produce concert-type dB levels. Next, AS Competitors must attend State Finals or designated Regional to win State Champion titles. The organization stated that it made this change to keep the “true Amateur spirit and excitement of competition alive” for its newest members.

MECA’s 2011 Rule Book is available as a PDF download for free at: www.mecacaraudio.com/2011rulebook.pdf.

Lastly, MECA said that this is its 13th season, with events coast to coast. Check out www.mecacaraudio.com for the latest information from MECA on its club activities. MECA said that if you are interested in working with MECA to plan a MECA event or series of events, contact Commissioner Steve Stern at 615-851-7428 or via email at mecacaraudio@comcast.net.