Next Stop, San Francisco: Modus Heads to the Bay Area as Official Audio Sponsor of 2026 Demo Days Showoff

OXNARD, CA (08.14.26) – After a great start to the Demo Days Showoff 2026 season in Los Angeles, Modus is headed to The Bay Area for the second event of the season, held August 22-23 at Alameda Point as the official audio sponsor for Demo Days Showoff 2026 season.

“Our award-winning 2025 season set a high bar, and 2026 is already off to an even better start,” said Joz Wang, Vice President of Marketing for Modus. “The crowd at our Los Angeles event was amazed by what our PREACT™ technology makes possible. It’s delivering a level of high-end, high-power audio that people haven’t heard in an EV before.”

During the seven Demo Days stops throughout 2026, Modus will exhibit its Cybertruck build alongside key representatives and dealers and will make it easy for attendees to learn how and where to purchase a system.

Modus’ PREACT™ (Power Responsive Energy Amplification Current Technology) is designed for modern vehicle electrical architectures. It operates across a wide 9–58V range and enables high-power audio integration without forcing traditional workarounds. EVs offer something combustion engines never could: quiet cabins paired with abundant electrical power, creating an ideal platform for truly immersive, audiophile-grade sound.

The Modus Cybertruck installation achieves several industry firsts, showcasing Modus’ patented PREACT™ current-averaging technology operating directly on Tesla’s 48V DC electrical system. The system is capable of delivering 6,000 watts (RMS) of audio power without requiring voltage inverters or additional batteries, an industry first for EV audio. This was made possible through Modus’ patented PREACT technology in the new Mezzo amplifier line, which operates with unprecedented power efficiency at higher voltages.

For more on the Modus Cybertruck build, view this video:

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com .

Synergy Marketing Agency Celebrates 8 Year Anniversary

HOUSTON, TX (08.14.26) – David Toliver, Principal and CEO of Synergy Marketing Agency, launched the company in 2018 with a clear vision: to provide manufacturers, retailers, and independent 12volt specialists with more than traditional sales representation. With a background in installation and 25 years of experience in consumer electronics B2B sales, David brings a unique combination of technical knowledge, sales expertise, and firsthand industry experience to every relationship.

Under David’s leadership, Synergy Marketing Agency has earned multiple Rep Firm of the Year awards from Morel Hi-Fi, along with recognition from several other manufacturer partners. These awards reflect Synergy’s commitment to building strong brands, developing dealer relationships, and delivering measurable results in the field.

Synergy Marketing Agency, with David behind the wheel, hits the road ready to show products and do demos.

“We consider ourselves to be more than just a manufacturer’s representative. That means we focus on being more of a business partner, consultant, and an extension of our retailers’ and independent 12volt specialists’ businesses” Toliver stated.

David takes a hands-on approach to the business and spends much of his time on the road, working directly with dealers and industry partners throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Whether he is helping a dealer develop a product strategy, supporting a new installation opportunity, training sales teams, or introducing the latest products and technologies, David believes that strong relationships and real-world support are the foundation of long-term success.

With deep roots in the installation side of the industry and decades of B2B experience, David understands the challenges facing today’s specialty electronics dealers. His goal is to help manufacturers and dealers work together more effectively while creating opportunities for growth on both sides of the relationship.

For more information about Synergy Marketing Agency see:
www.synergyagency.net

Power Your Audio with Street Loud Sound from Autotek

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.14.26) – When it’s time to upgrade your audio system, don’t settle for average. STREET MACHINE speakers are engineered for those who want real output, real clarity, and real durability in every mile.

Featuring coaxial, shallow coaxial, and a component speaker system — every STREET MACHINE speaker is made with premium tweeter hardware, durable frames, and epoxy-infused natural fiber spiders.

Designed with Neo-Mylar soft dome tweeters, STREET MACHINE speakers deliver crisp, clean highs that cut through road noise, while Alpha-Cellulose poly cones bring smooth, natural midrange and punchy, consistent midbass to life.

Whether you’re replacing factory speakers or building something bigger — STREET MACHINE is made to fit your ride and elevate your speaker game.

To learn more, click here.

The 12volt Central Studio’s Marketing Ball Puts Your Company’s Marketing In Play

SHREVEPORT, LA (08.13.26) – In today’s AI driven and social media world it is more important than ever for members of the 12volt industry to connect with industry members and consumers. These activities are more important than ever to drive in-vehicle automotive upgrades awareness and business for brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or appreciate the separation of mid range and highs on a smartphone or laptop. The in-store experience is more important than ever!

Sean Davis put the Mid-State Distributing Marketing Ball in place showcasing a XK Glow motorcycle lighting kit.

In-person trade and distributor shows are terrific to connect and show new products in one-on-one settings. Trade show and distributor show attendance over the last years has diminished. The KnowledgeFest Detroit was recently rescheduled. The 12volt Central Studios can put a company in their own customized booth using the 12voltSTP and deliver the message to the 12volt industry with The 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members must realize marketing in a 24/7 journey.

Please email mike@12voltnews.com for more details to get your company’s Marketing Ball in play!

SEMA Battle Of The Builders Expands To Motorcycles With New Bike Builder Shootout

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.13.26) – SEMA has officially opened entries for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers, introducing a new Motorcycle category and the all-new SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout.

For more than a decade, SEMA Battle of the Builders has recognized the industry’s most talented vehicle builders, providing a platform to showcase the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation behind some of the most innovative custom builds in the world. For 2026, the competition will expand its reach to include motorcycles, giving custom bike builders a dedicated opportunity to compete and earn recognition on the industry’s biggest stage.

“Motorcycles have always been a vital part of the customization community, and we’re excited to officially bring these builders into the SEMA Battle of the Builders spotlight,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “The Bike Builder Shootout creates a new platform for motorcycle builders to showcase their craftsmanship, creativity, and passion while competing alongside some of the most talented custom bike builders in the industry.”

The new SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout will feature a dedicated Motorcycle competition recognizing standout custom bikes from builders across the country. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of motorcycle industry experts based on craftsmanship, design innovation, and overall execution. The inaugural judging panel will include Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles, Jeff Holt of V-Twin Visionary, and Pat Patterson of Led Sled Customs, three respected leaders in the custom motorcycle community with decades of combined experience building, designing, and promoting motorcycle culture.

Motorcycle judges will review submissions before selecting the Top 10 finalists. Those finalists will then help determine the Top 3 category winners and select the overall Bike Builder Shootout champion, creating a competition judged by the builders and industry experts who understand the craft firsthand.

“The motorcycle community has always been built on creativity, craftsmanship, and a passion for creating something unique,” said Judge Chairman Bob Kay. “The Bike Builder Shootout gives builders a dedicated platform to showcase the time, skill, and innovation behind their machines while being recognized alongside some of the most talented builders in the industry. We’re excited to be part of a program that celebrates the people pushing motorcycle customization forward.”

The new Motorcycle category joins the four existing automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BF Goodrich Young Guns. Automotive finalists will continue to compete in their own competition and will have a separate Battle of the Builders overall winner.

The expansion into motorcycles reflects SEMA’s continued commitment to growing opportunities across the specialty equipment industry and expanding the powersports presence at the SEMA Show. As SEMA continues to develop its powersports footprint, the Bike Builder Shootout highlights the innovation, craftsmanship and creativity driving the future of customization.

Attendees at the 2026 SEMA Show will be able to experience the Bike Builder Shootout and Battle of the Builders competition live in Central Hall, which will showcase some of the most innovative vehicles and builders in the industry. Registration details for the SEMA Show are available at www.semashow.com/register.

The 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers will take place during the SEMA Show, Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. For more information or to enter the competition, visit www.semabotb.com.

Massive Audio Introduces the DSP48 Advanced Digital Signal Processor

LOS ANGELES, CA (08.13.26) – Massive Audio is proud to announce the launch of the DSP48, a powerful 4-input, 8-output digital signal processor engineered to give car-audio enthusiasts and professional installers precise control over every part of an audio system.

The DSP48 combines advanced sound-processing capabilities with a straightforward mobile interface for iOS and Android devices. Users can tune, configure, and manage their systems wirelessly through Bluetooth without relying on complicated desktop software.

“Many digital signal processors provide powerful features but make system tuning unnecessarily difficult,” said John Velez of Massive Audio. “We designed the DSP48 to deliver professional-level control through an interface that is easier to understand and faster to use.”

Advanced System Control

The DSP48 provides four input channels and eight independently adjustable output channels, allowing installers to configure complex multi-amplifier and multi-speaker systems.

Key features include:

  • 4-channel input and 8-channel output
  • Selectable 1- to 15-band parametric equalization
  • Bluetooth control through iOS and Android devices
  • High-pass and low-pass crossover controls
  • Selectable crossover frequencies, filter types, and slopes
  • Digital time alignment
  • Independent output-level and phase adjustment
  • Six memory presets
  • USB/MP3 media playback
  • Three programmable remote-output sequencers
  • Installer password protection
  • High-level and RCA signal inputs
  • Built-in 8-volt line driver

The programmable remote-output sequencer can activate amplifiers in separate stages, helping reduce electrical surges and unwanted turn-on noise in large multi-amplifier systems.

SEMA Fest Announces 2026 Musical Lineup Featuring The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World, 311 And The Alive

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.12.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, today announced the musical lineup for SEMA Fest, taking place Friday, Nov. 6, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Headlined by multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring, the lineup also features anthemic alt-rockers Jimmy Eat World, genre-blending rock reggae outfit 311, and California rock band The Alive. Together these chart-topping, arena-caliber acts will bring their catalog of massive hits to SEMA Fest, delivering the ultimate intersection of high-octane and high-decibels, a one-day celebration of the long-standing bond between music and car culture that closes out SEMA Week with an unforgettable public experience.

Early bird pre-sale tickets are available July 15, with the general on-sale kicking off this Friday, July 17, at 10 am PT via www.semafest.com. General admission and VIP concert access tickets are available, as are combined tickets, offering entry to both SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday public access. This exclusive bundle gives automotive enthusiasts rare access to the world’s largest automotive aftermarket trade event – typically reserved for industry insiders – alongside performances from some of today’s biggest bands.

“SEMA Fest represents where our industry is headed, at the crossroads of innovation, lifestyle, and cultural relevance,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “By bringing together the world’s premier automotive gathering with iconic music, immersive automotive experiences, and enthusiast access, we are creating a powerful platform that expands the reach of car culture, strengthens engagement with new audiences, and sends SEMA Week out on a high-energy, high-impact note.”

SEMA Fest serves as the official “closing ceremony” of SEMA Week, transforming the world’s premier automotive trade show into a massive public celebration and extending the energy of the SEMA Show into a day-long experience.

The day begins inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, where attendees can explore the SEMA Show floor, including 2,000-plus exhibiting brands and vendors, thousands of custom builds, and the latest in automotive products and technology.

As the day continues, the action moves outdoors for the legendary SEMA Cruise and high-intensity motorsports demonstrations that keep the excitement building throughout the afternoon.

Then, as the sun sets, attention turns to the SEMA Fest Stage, where live music and automotive adrenaline come together in one immersive environment. The automotive excitement continues into the evening with featured vehicle displays and motorsports performances that keep car culture front and center through the final encore.

2026 Musical Lineup
Multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as “Self Esteem,” “Come Out and Play,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” and “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy).” Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the 1990s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.

Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with “The Middle,” which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early 2000s.

311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States, and remains known for crowd favorites such as “Down,” “Amber,” and “All Mixed Up.”

The Alive rounds out the bill with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate, and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush, and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge, and attitude.

Featured Experiences
The evening’s adrenaline will be amplified by world-class automotive demos, including drifting demonstrations from OPTIMA and the high-energy Globe of Death.

Supercar Saturdays Florida returns to SEMA Fest with a curated showcase of rare hypercars and exotic vehicles following its debut SEMA Fest appearance in 2025, where it presented an exclusive hypercar and supercar display.

For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit www.semafest.com.

Turn an Older Audi Into a Modern Driving Experience with ZZ2

BOCA RATON, FL (08.12.26) – Upgrade your Audi without replacing the Factory Experience

“A customer loves their Audi, but the technology feels dated.”

What if you could give your customers’ Audi the technology of a brand-new vehicle—without sacrificing the factory look, controls, or functionality?

In our newest product demonstration, Steve Cope, ZZ2 Sales Manager, walks through one of our most popular upgrades: transforming a 2016 Audi A6 equipped with the factory 6″ display into a modern 10.25″ DIZZPLAY HD touchscreen.

During this hands-on demonstration, Steve explains why DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement is much more than just another aftermarket screen. Designed specifically for BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles, DIZZPLAY preserves the factory systems your customers already trust while delivering the modern connectivity they expect.

In this video, you’ll learn:
✔ Replacement without being too intrusive, while preserving the factory aesthetics.

✔ How DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement retains factory Bluetooth, microphone, steering wheel controls, and OEM integration.

✔ The benefits of the ultra-fast zOS operating system and MFI Certified Chip made for iPhone.

✔ Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto functionality.

✔ Why dealers are choosing DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement over generic Android screen solutions.

✔ How a simple upgrade can completely transform the driving experience.

The result is a larger, high-definition touchscreen that looks like it belongs in the vehicle from the factory—only smarter, faster, and more connected.

DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement combines OEM integration with wireless smartphone connectivity, HD touchscreens available in multiple sizes, front and rear camera support on select models, USB media playback, and a 3-year warranty backed by U.S.-based technical support.

Whether you’re introducing DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement to your showroom, adding it to your installation catalog, or helping customers modernize older luxury vehicles, this video is an excellent resource for learning how to present its value with confidence.

▶ Watch the Full Product Walkthrough on YouTube
Explore the features and discover why DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement is becoming the premium screen replacement solution for Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz owners

To learn more, click here.

HEW Powered Subwoofer Systems from Hifonics

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.12.26) – HEW Powered Subwoofer Systems are loaded with premium ELITE Series subwoofers, engineered to deliver deep, commanding bass that hits harder than ever. This isn’t just sound — it’s low-end punch you feel in your chest. Unlock richer layers of heavy bass impact, adding intensity, punch, and authority to every track with HEW.

With a built-in high-output amplifier engineered to deliver clean, controlled bass right out of the box, every HEW Powered Subwooferbrings serious power, commanding volume, and precision sound that transforms your system. Designed for seamless installs in tight spaces without sacrificing impact — this is ELITE BASS, built to hit harder.

For more info, click here.

Deaf Bonce Returns as Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (08.11.26) – The dB Drag Racing Association is proud to welcome back Deaf Bonce by Alphard Group as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals, taking place October 3–4, 2026.

As we begin announcing the companies supporting this year’s Finals, we’re excited to start with a partner that has helped shape the sport for years.

After a full season of competition, the world’s loudest competitors will hit the lanes for the final event of the year, competing for Championship Trophies, Championship Rings, and ultimate bragging rights. The 2026 Finals will feature several formats of competition, including dB Drag Racing, Bass Race, Top Dog, Freestyle, and Psychlone.

It’s fitting that Deaf Bonce will once again be there to support the competitors when it all comes down to this final weekend. With a worldwide reputation for producing competition-proven subwoofers, amplifiers, and speakers built for serious performance, Deaf Bonce has become a familiar name in high-level car audio competition. Their continued investment in the car audio community and unwavering support of dB Drag Racing has made them an integral part of the Finals experience.

Vladimir Mukhin of Deaf Bonce shared:

“We’re proud to return as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals. Every season leads to this moment, where the best competitors come together to push the limits of performance. We’re excited to support the competitors and be part of another unforgettable Finals weekend.”

We appreciate Deaf Bonce’s continued partnership and commitment to our competitors, promoters, and the entire car audio community.

And there’s even more happening in Indianapolis.

The 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals will be co-located with IASCA and ISPLL in Indianapolis, bringing multiple organizations of car audio competition together under one roof for an exciting weekend of competition.

The dB Drag Finals will feature concurrent competition locations in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Spruce Grove, Alberta. Competitors at both locations will compete against one another through the Term-LAB measurement system, allowing competitors in different locations to participate in the same Finals competition and compete for the same Championship titles and awards.

Stay tuned as we continue unveiling the outstanding sponsors and partners helping make the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals the loudest weekend of the year.

October 3–4, 2026
Indianapolis, Indiana & Spruce Grove, Alberta