GRAPEVINE, TX (03.18.25) – JVC Mobile Entertainment made headlines at Hotshots Reloaded 2025 with their groundbreaking Direct Replacement line of products. The event, which was hosted at the Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center, featured two breakthrough head units: KW-Z800AW and KW-Z1000AW, which are set to transform aftermarket car audio integration. The venue itself was held at an off-site location called Crashed Toys auction house in Dallas, Texas. Many attendees commented on the venue was a perfect choice due to the fun aesthetic of the location.
JVC contracted heavy hitters within the industry to offer the very best within their respective fields. CMA Networks was contracted to provide their world class services in recording and helped JVC expand their video resource library. Dean and Fernando; renowned car audio installers and internet personalities associated with Five Star Car Stereo, were invited to do a live installation of the new product category, Direct Replacement. And Chris Teerlink of Provobeast; a successful YouTube creator was invited to provide his expertise on how to make an impact in your online presence.

The main portion of the event had Josh Bowen, Marcus Vasconcellos, and Kelvin De Leon Rivera of JVCKENWOOD offering insight on this new product category while also doing a deep dive on the features and form factor. The live installation performed by Dean and Fernando demonstrated the ease of installation and provided an understanding of the actual application of the products. While Saturday offered a close look on this new product category; Sunday shifted the focus and discussed various strategies on how to drive success for attendees. Chris Teerlink of Provobeast spoke at the event, offering a unique point of view about marketing on social media platforms. Being a successful YouTube influencer, his perspective was extremely valuable in increasing presence on these platforms. Within that same time Steve Cote and Kelvin De Leon Rivera offered valuable knowledge and resources attendees can use to expand their customer base.

The newly launched Direct Replacement receivers set a new standard in the industry, offering seamless installation and expanded vehicle compatibility. Contrary to other aftermarket options, these models prevent the need for big dash kits and extensive changes. Josh Bowen, JVCKENWOOD Marketing Manager, pointed out the revolutionary nature of this new category, noting:
“This product will change the car audio industry for the better; it gives us hope for the future of aftermarket receivers by adapting to the new footprint that the OE manufactures have put in place for quite some time now.”

The event garnered tremendous attention, with aftermarket industry professionals eager to understand how the KW-Z800AW and KW-Z1000AW will revolutionize the aftermarket industry. JVC officials took the participants through the game-changing design, pointing out its ability to streamline installations and enhance product lines for installers and retailers. With Direct Replacement, JVC isn’t just introducing another head unit—they’re changing the way the business of aftermarket receiver replacement is done.
For direct replacement or custom installations, these solutions provide a premium, OEM-quality upgrade with performance and features customers demand today. The response at Hotshots Reloaded 2025 confirmed that the Direct Replacement category is set to make waves across the industry. Installers, retailers, and car audio enthusiasts alike can look forward to a smarter, more efficient, and better-integrated solution for aftermarket upgrades.
For more details on Direct Replacement receivers, visit us.jvckenwood.com









