Custom Audio Concepts Revved It Up With A 3-Day Harley Stereo Sale

LIMA, OH (08.15.24) – The Custom Audio Concepts 3-Day Harley Stereo Sale took place Thursday through Saturday, August 8th thru 10th. The company’s store is located at a very busy intersection in Lima OH. A row of 8 tents was positioned outside along with numerous tables stacked high with specials under tents for customers to check out. Two 20’ tall Memphis Audio air dancer were waving on each end on the line of tents greeted bikers who rolled in for the event.

The weather was terrific as bikes rolled into the event.

Mark Wallace, Custom Audio Concepts GM, who orchestrated the event offered, “We had a super strong event. We killed it! Over the course of the event we had over 250 bikes on the large parking area. When others around may be slowing down we are moving forward. I have been in this industry for 26 years and seeing an event busy, busy… and making the register ring with strong sales, is the way it is supposed to be.”

Owner Nate Gast (L)  and GM Mark Wallace shown with one of the four special displays that were made for the event.
This custom designed display was made so attendees could listen to the rear speakers as seated on a bike listening to the system on the front display.

Continuing, Wallace added “We had a special offer for bikers who rode in for the event. We offered a $20 Gift Certificate along with the offer of an image of the biker on his hog. We prepared a custom company backdrop. When bikers pulled their ride in front we snapped an image for the biker to show their friends. We snapped dozens and dozens of bikers in front of our custom backdrop. We may have done in 3 days what some stores may do in two or three weeks.”

A biker pictured in front of the custom display.
The team pictured in front of the custom display. Standing Nate Gast is on the far right and Mark Wallace is in the center.

“What Mark Wallace and his team are doing in the small market of Lima is astounding. It is, to me, the number one story in our Ohio Valley territory. He partners with Memphis Audio and Hertz and has definitely outkicked his coverage area. Rusty North and I were onsite. Owner Nate Gast and Mark definitely think outside the box” Ed Dalesandro, End Result, related.

So many hot bikes were at the event.
So many hot bikes were at the event.

Brands on site with tents included Memphis Audio, Hertz Audio and Soundstream. Cicada, Euphoria and Rockford Fosgate were showcased. Jay Tingley from Online Marketing was in the house with Soundstream. Ed Dalesandro and Rusty North with End Result supported their brands Memphis Audio and Hertz.

“There were 7 store staff members working the event. We promoted the event on Facebook and Instagram with targeted ads” Wallace concluded.

Custom Audio Concepts is owned by Nate Gast and sells home and car audio plus associated automotive aftermarket products.

Visit customaudioohio.com or @conceptscustomaudio on social media for more.

The SEMA Show Countdown Has Begun

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.15.24) – Exhibitors are sharing what they will feature in their booths at the 2024 SEMA Show. Below are some of the latest announcements you will find in the Online Media Center:

Armordillo: CoveRex Inflatable Bed Topper
Coker Tire: All-new Coker Classic Star Series Tires
Inspired Overland: Ultra-Lightweight Carbon Fiber Rooftop Tent
Phoenix Truck Bed Covers: The Blackbird – Fully Automatic Truck Bed Cover
Tmat Products: Grid-based Cargo System for Trucks, Vans, and SUVs
Vapor Trapper: High-Quality Charcoal Vapor Canister

  • The second annual SEMA Fest will take place at a new location on the Las Vegas Convention Center grounds and will feature musical headliners Cage The Elephant and Sublime, along with Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey.
  • The 2024 SEMA Show Education program has expanded to offer attendees exclusive certification courses. Presented by SEMA Education and Legacy EV, the “Electric Vehicles 101” and “High-Voltage Safety Certification Training” education sessions will help attendees boost their knowledge and understanding of EV powertrains and safety.
  • Nominations are now open for SEMA’s new Visionary 8 program, which recognizes the future leaders of the automotive aftermarket industry. Nominations can be submitted until August 30.
  • The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund issued $99,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to help 46 individuals currently working or planning to pursue careers in the automotive aftermarket industry. The program has awarded more than $3 million since its inception.
  • Matt Daigle has joined SEMA as Director of Communications in support of the organization’s public and government affairs efforts, based in Washington, D.C. He coordinates communications strategies and executions with SEMA’s marketing, councils, membership, political action committees (PACs), and other internal teams.

Visit sema.org for more.

IASCA Worldwide At 2024 Surf City Soundoff

EAST WENATCHEE, WA (08.15.24) – IASCA Worldwide Inc. will once again host a Triple Point World Record Event at the Surf City Soundoff on August 17 and 18, 2024. The Chinook Winds Casino in Lincoln City, Oregon, has teamed with IASCA for a number of years to create the largest car audio event in the Northwest and one of the largest car audio events in the country.

Image from the 2022  event at the Chinook Winds Casino In Lincoln City, OR.

Through the course of the years together, the Chinook Winds Casino and IASCA Worldwide have donated to great causes. More than $20,000 has been donated to Angels Anonymous through entry fees, raffle tickets and t-shirt sales.

Event sponsors include Sonic Audio in Tualitin, Oregon (Top Headliner Sponsor), along with Headliner Sponsors Sight & Sound car audio, Car Toys and B2 Audio and over 40 other sponsors.

“I’d really like to thank all of our sponsors. Every year they step up and make the show that much better.” said IASCA President Travis Chin “I have been involved with the Surf City Soundoff and Chinook Winds Casino for over a decade and always look forward to being part of the show. This year promises to be the biggest event yet and it has a great reputation as one of the ‘go to’ IASCA events of the year.”

For more information on IASCA Worldwide, visit iasca.com or contact President Travis Chin at travis@iasca.com.

For more information on the Surf City Soundoff and Chinook Winds Casino, visit https://www.chinookwindscasino.com/entertainment/events/surf-city-soundoff/.

The Car Audio Depot Takes The In-Store Experience To The Next Level Inside and Outside

MODESTO, CA (08.14.24) – The Car Audio Depot is a family owned business located in the heart of Modesto CA. For 26 years the Randy Leibenson family and the 10 Member team have served the community and surrounding area with top level mobile electronics products and knowledge along with the best customer service. Jorge Deras is the store manager.

In this digital driven cyber world it is more important than ever to drive store traffic into brick and mortar retail stores. The Car Audio Depot takes the in-store experience from the outside to the inside as they connect with consumers. From the street the store stands out beginning with a large monitor mounted under the eaves on the corner of the building. A large painted company logo is also presented on the outside of the building.

The Car Audio Depot branding stands out brightly under the sunny Modesto sky.

“On the large outside monitor we spotlight brands like ARC Audio along with store events such as Black Friday sales and car shows. As a company all team members contribute our everyday activities to drive sales and in-vehicle enjoyment for our
customers,” Liebenson stated.

Sparkling floors lead customers into the center of the 4000 sq ft showroom.
These two images show the wide selection of products plus the detailing of branding inset into the showroom floor.

The entrance to the store is very well identified in the parking lot marked with convenient parking lines. All of the above guides consumers into the best part of The Car Audio Depot….the amazing showroom. Very well positioned displays showcase the wide selection of mobile electronics products, marine audio, OEM integration, lighting, security and accessories. A large installation area provides ample room for all vehicles and the company’s strong marine category.

Check out the selection of images below from around The Car Audio Depot. Many say an image is worth 1000 words.

Completed customer project vehicles are showcase outside and in multi-panel social media posts interior upgrades are also spotlighted for social media followers to experience.
The marine category is strong at The Car Audio Depot and multi-panel social media post are made spotlighting the marine category projects also.

All 12volt retailers have digital options to create a network of social media followers to drive store traffic for the in-store experience. Proactive 12volt retailers utilize those digital social media platforms which turns into profitable business. The Car Audio Depot definitely utilizes these digital marketing tools with regularity to showcase new product and company activities.

A large 12volt Central Studios HATS Off to The Car Audio Depot as they work to drive in-store traffic and sales.

Visit caraudiodepot.com for more.

Crunch V-Drive Amplifiers Bring Patent Pending VU Meter Technology

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.14.24) – Compact and small design meets ALL-NEW innovative Crunch VU Meter Technology ONLY AVAILABLE in the ALL-NEW for 2024 Crunch V-DRIVE amplifier line. Get ready to embrace a higher quality sound in a smaller amplifier footprint with V-DRIVE amplifiers. Creating more space and opportunity in the tightest and smallest areas in vehicle builds and setups – Crunch V-DRIVE amplifiers bring out concert detail in audio, powering your music with higher listening quality and sharper details.

Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales, commented, “We are very excited to unleash V-DRIVE amplifiers innovated with the ALL-NEW PATENT PENDING VU Meter. Get ready to tune your amplifier and capture the best audio for your vehicle setup with the VU Meter on top of the amplifier heat sink. With a black finish and accented Crunch red end panels, every Crunch V-DRIVE amplifier brings quality design paired with innovative audio performance making heavier power.”

ABOUT THE CRUNCH V-DRIVE AMPLIFIER LINE
Every Crunch V-DRIVE amplifier brings a vehicle concert experience that powers your audio with clean levels of LOUD, steady performance of undistorted clarity, and immersive listening that transforms music with richer playback. The ALL-NEW PATENT PENDING VU Meter technology is placed on top of every Crunch V-DRIVE amplifier and allows for convenient tuning for capturing the best possible sound from your Crunch car audio installation or setup. Easily fine-tune your audio from on top of every Crunch V-DRIVE amplifier heat sink with an immersive PATENT PENDING VU Meter display.

V-DRIVE amplifiers are available in mono, 2-channel, and 4-channel configurations and feature undistorted power in a smaller space that will take audio to new levels for richer listening. With an included electronic equalizer, control of every V-DRIVE amplifier output with an onboard electronic crossover tailoring specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers. Remaining compact and flexible for installation space, V-DRIVE amplifiers promise to deliver on fitting in the tightest of areas, giving your audio setup with more options to build around.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

  • PATENT PENDING VU METER TECHNOLOGY
    Embrace easy and convenient control in fine-tuning every V-DRIVE amplifier on top of the heat sink and capture the best sound possible.
  • ELECTRONIC EQUALIZER
    Control of amplifier output with on-board electronic crossover to tailor specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers.
  • OUTPUT DEVICE TECHNOLOGY
    Proprietary Crunch SPEED-FET MOSFET components maximize power efficiency while improving sound quality and minimizing distortion.
  • HEAT SINK
    QTD (Quick Thermal Dispersion) Technology assures amplifiers make huge power while running cool with undetectable musical distortions.
  • OUTPUT CONNECTIONS
    Nickel-plated brass connection with hex-set screw terminals allow for secure connections while resisting erosion.
  • LED SYSTEM PROTECTION CIRCUITRY DIAGNOSTICS
    Monitor overload and speaker-short protection with illuminated indicators on the amplifier end panel.

Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics, mentioned, “This ALL-NEW line of Crunch V-DRIVE amplifiers delivers on new innovation and PATENT PENDING VU Meter technology while elevating music to new details of sound and performance. The PATENT PENDING VU Meter is going to change the amplifier audio game and I’m excited for everyone to experience the ease and accessibility of fine-tuning your amplifier.”

Crunch V-DRIVE amplifiers raise the bar in new VU Meter innovation and offer more space in any car audio installation. Redefine every Crunch jam session with an amplifier line that makes MORE POWER, offers MORE SPACE, and delivers on NEW INNOVATION.Crunch V-DRIVE HAS ARRIVED!

Make sure to contact your sales representative or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.

See complete line details on the Crunch website at crunchcaraudio.com.

Altitude Series Amplifiers By AudioControl

CLEARWATER, FL (08.13.24) – AudioControl, the award-winning designer and manufacturer of premium audio equipment, proudly introduces the Altitude Series—a new line of amplifiers that sets a new benchmark for power and affordability.

Elevate Your Audio Experience
The Altitude Amplifier Series features a sleek aluminum chassis with a matte anodized finish for superior heat dissipation, delivering powerful performance and exceptional sound quality.

Arriving at Altitude
Recognizing that clean, reliable power is essential for any great audio system, AudioControl engineers designed the Altitude Series to deliver efficient power in a compact, easy-to-assemble chassis. This smart approach ensures high audio quality while keeping the amplifier affordable, allowing enthusiasts to invest in premium speakers without sacrificing performance.

 “The Altitude Series was engineered to deliver AudioControl’s signature power and clarity in a sleek, stunning chassis—without the premium price tag,” said Gary Bell, Director of Audio at AudioControl. “We’re thrilled to finally introduce these high-performance, high-value amplifiers to our friends and customers. They embody our commitment to bringing world-class audio to everyone.”

Models Included in the Altitude Series:

  • A600.4 (4-channel)
  • A1100.5 (5-channel)
  • A800.1 (Monoblock)
  • A1500.1 (Monoblock)

Key Features:

  • High/Low Input Modes
  • GTO™ Signal Sense
  • Linkwitz-Riley Crossovers
  • Start-Stop Compliance
  • High Power Output in a Sleek Chassis
  • ParaBASS® Low Frequency Contouring
  • Valet Mode Option
  • Optional Remote Level Control (ACR-1)
  • EV Compatibility up to 17V
  • Spike Mode (Select Models)

New Heights of Innovation
The Altitude Series amplifiers deliver exceptional performance through innovative design and advanced manufacturing techniques. An anodized chassis improves heat dissipation, enabling efficient material usage, while a unique two-piece extruded aluminum chassis streamlines the manufacturing process. Cast end caps add to the sleek design, and the innovative chassis assembly process further enhances production efficiency. These cutting-edge design innovations ensure that the Altitude Series provides high-quality sound without compromising affordability.

Unleash the Full Potential of Your System
Pair Altitude amplifiers with AudioControl’s PNW speakers and Space or Spike subwoofers to create a soundscape that delivers pure, uninterrupted power. The Valet Mode feature safeguards the system by limiting the maximum volume to 25%, protecting the investment.

Altitude amplifiers are fully compatible with start-stop systems and electric vehicles, ensuring outstanding performance in any environment. The potent “Spike Mode” allows connection of three 4Ω subwoofers at 1.33Ω, unlocking even more power from the Altitude amplifier. Fine-tune the bass with ParaBASS® for a custom audio experience tailored to individual preferences.

Visit https://www.audiocontrol.com for more.

Tesla Upgrades Enhance Tesla Owners Time On The Road

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (08.13.24) – San Francisco-based Tesla Upgrades is offering a variety of products that will enhance Tesla owners time on the road. Vince Miranda and the Audio Xperts team in Vacaville CA recently added Tesla Upgrades products to the company’s Tesla.

The Audio Xperts Tesla ready for the Tesla Upgrades.

The Audio Xperts team has been on the cutting edge of Tesla product installations from the beginning. The Alpine Specific Tesla products are creating even more opportunities for 12volt retailers to connect with Tesla owners to offer upgrades. Now Tesla Upgrades has arrived.

The Audio Xperts Tesla ready for the Tesla Upgrades.
Check out one of the Tesla Upgrades lighting options.

“We wanted to offer additional add-ons when installing audio, sound treatment options and more. Also the other way is if a client wants the lighting or other Tesla Upgrades options we could offer audio and sound treatment too. I checked out the new product offerings from Tesla Upgrades at the recent 2024 X Takeover event and.really saw all the add options that we can offer Tesla owners” Miranda related.

This past week a Tesla Upgrades team member traveled to Vacaville to do installations on the Audio Xperts Tesla. Mark and Kyle worked in the Audio Xperts installation bay along with Miranda and representative from Tesla Upgrades.

The door opening Tesla Upgrades option in action.
With the touch of the icon on the screen, front and rear trunk openings already with Tesla Upgrades.

“We added the interior lighting upgrade and lighted automated door opening handle upgrade along with front and rear trunk opening options. The interior lighting upgrade takes time in the Tesla driver’s seat experience to a new level. I can’t wait to show these Tesla Upgrades to my fellow Tesla owners” Miranda concluded.

For more Tesla Upgrades info see visit tesla.upgrades and teslaupgrades.net.

Autotek Mobile Accessories Bring Out More From Your Sound

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.13.24) – DEMAND MORE from your audio and CUSTOMIZE ULTIMATE CONTROL through Powered Forward mobile accessories. Bring out more from your audio with Autotek Mobile Accessories that enhance playback. Audio needs attention when it comes to fine-tuning music to sound the way you want it to.

The ATEQ7B 7-Band Equalizer brings customization into your songs and turns all of your audio into a higher-quality sound. This 1/2 DIN ISO mount chassis 7-Band Equalizer (with 9-volt line driver) features separate controls for the Master Volume, Subwoofer Volume, Front to Rear Fader, and a selection of auxiliary inputs, so you’ll obtain any desired sound you crave to hear for any genre of music. Explore your audio further with the ATEQ7B Equalizer!

Three Stereo RCA outputs drive Front, Rear, and Subwoofer audio amplifiers while Subwoofer output uses a built-in 18db per octave electronic crossover fixed at 80Hz or 120Hz. Demand audio in higher quality with the ATEQ7B!

Learn more HERE about ATEQ7B 7-Band Equalizer.

The ATK2/3X Crossover adds more customization to every audio listening session with deeper fine tuning for perfecting playback. Additionally – this 3-way active crossover includes remote bass control for bringing out more levels of bass performance, selectable 12dB front and rear crossover, phase shifts, and low pass output for customizing the subwoofer amplifier system. Take on more options for dialing in sound the way you want it.

Showcased in a silver finish to make a bold statement wherever placed in your car audio setup, the ATK2/3X Crossover allows you to perfect and fine-tune your audio to get it exactly where you need it to be. Embrace more control of your sound with phase inverter, phase shifts, and so much more.

Learn more HERE about ATK2/3X Crossover.

Pioneer and Specialty Marketing Hosted 3-City Training Series

MECHANICSVILLE, VA (08.12.84) – In April this year, Mechanicsville VA based Specialty Marketing, announced the expansion of the company’s distribution territory for Pioneer Electronics to drive business across the Eastern US territories.

Pioneer training sessions were recently conducted in Flushing NY, Jersey City NJ and Paramus NY. Jeffrey Shultz, Pioneer Eastern Regional, conducted the training sessions along Specialty Marketing’s Larry Appelblatt who set the training schedule in place with dealers in the area.

Jeffrey Shultz (L) and Larry Appelblatt are shown at the Flushing NY training session with product winners on the right.

The Tuesday night, August 6th, training in Flushing got the 3-City training swing started. “We had a good turnout of about 25 people on a rainy night at the Good Fortune restaurant. Jeffrey and I felt people were very engaged with what we were talking about. We also had Metra contributing to the turning, but due to the storms in Florida Rick Vanway was not able to make it and had to cancel. We went over the new Pioneer head units and the very next day orders began to be placed” Appleblatt commented..

The second training stop was at the Hibachi Grill in Jersey City. Attendees connected with the latest from Pioneer and enjoyed a great buffet.

The second stop on the 3-City training tour was on Wednesday night, August 7th in Jersey City at the Hibachi Grill. “It was another great Pioneer and Metra training. Great food plus a well received training by Jeffrey and myself. We again went over the new Piner head units, which were a big hit. The Specialty specials for the attendees went over very well” Appelblatt related.

The final stop on the training tour at the Hampton Inn in Paramus was attended by 25 and Larry Appelblatt and Jeffrey Shultz were flanked by prize winners at the end of the event.

The 3-City tour wrapped Thursday night, August 8th, at the Hampton Inn in Paramus. 25 attendees were in the house who learned about the two new Pioneer headunits plus Metra kits. “It was a fun night with friends and dealers. Chicken cutlets, ham and cheese hero sandwiches, along with beverages, were served. Like all the stops lucky dealers also took home prizes” Appelblatt concluded.

The lead panel on the screen at the training sessions spotlighted legendary Pioneer trainer Harry Kroll.

“During the 3 training sessions nearly 100 Pioneer dealer staff members attended and engaged to learn about the latest in Pioneer’s lineup. Dealers connected with Larry and placed a significant number of orders following the trainings. The Pioneer partnership with Specialty Marketing is going very well” Shultz stated.

Harry Kroll, longtime Pioneer trainer, was recognized with a graphic on the opening panel of the training presentation.

Visit usa.pioneer and specialtymarketing.com.

J’s Alarms 3X dB Drag Fresno Wrapped Four Event 2024 Series

FRESNO, CA (08.12.24) – The J’s Alarms 3X dB Drag event took place on Saturday, August 3rd  wrapping the 4 event season in Fresno, CA at the retail store location. This was the last event of four events in 2024 for J’s and ended with a $500 Deathmatch prize. The event started at 8 AM on Saturday August 4th with a full lineup of and formats.

As the event wrapped competitors, along with Doug, Stockton and J gathered for a group image.
Judge Doug Stockton and J are all smiles as the event wrapped.

Doug Stockton was a judge for this event which was the last event that he would judge at Js. His first event judging at J’s was in 2001. “J was was a competitor over 30 years ago before he opened his business J’s Alarms. J certainly understands the benefit of sound-offs competitions to create excitement for his business and drive traffic” Stockton related.

The J’s Alarms location in Fresno was filled with competitor vehicles.
The Ruthless competition vehicle shown prior to the Deathmatch.
Moses checks out the Deathmatch $500 Prize with J.

“It was a hot day at 106 degrees and even hotter competition between 30 competitors. This was the last event of the of the four and they were all exciting but different. The Deathmatch was certainly TFL for many. Mario started off strong with Ruthless but began to fade as the time ticked forward. Moses lowered the volume soon after beginning and saved the battery to win the $500 Deathmatch prize with his Toyota Land Cruiser” J, Jose Sanchez, related.

Visit jsalarms.com for more.