LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.28.24) – Your customer’s off-road audio experience is about to receive an upgrade with ULTIMATE CONTROL. MB Quart Powersports UTV Dash Kits enhance every listening session exclusive for Polaris RZR and Polaris RANGER.
Get ready for your customers to receive more control with the MB Quart GMR7V1 source unit innovated for the ALL-NEW Polaris RZR and Polaris RANGER dash installation kits. Obtain complete outdoor audio control!
WATERPROOF. TOUCHSCREEN. CARPLAY.
The GMR7V1 is a 7-inch waterproof, touchscreen, Apple (and Android supported) CarPlay source unit. The flagship leader in MB Quart source units is leading the way with more customizable audio features that add depth to every MB Quart listening experience. CONTROL meets CUSTOMIZATION!
The GMR7V1 brings more control and integration with your customer’s iPhone or Bluetooth device. Using a master knob control button for easy navigation of options and sub-level buttons within a full touchscreen 7-inch display – the GMR7V1 features selectable audio sources that include Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, AM/FM, Weather Band, two USB inputs, and an Aux input.
Integrating four built-in auxiliary switches and full RGB lighting controller that adds color under every button, the GMR7V1 source unit also includes two camera inputs and one video output. Have your customers control even more of their sound through every listening session with dual-zone and full audio adjustments that control the volume in two different areas separately. Included Sub-level Control and a 10-band equalizer allow for an enhanced listening experience.
Upgrade your customer’s MB Quart audio system to the GMR7V1 waterproof touchscreen Apple CarPlay source unit and have them embrace more audio features, user-friendly control, and a larger touchscreen that enhances every MB Quart install on their Polaris RZR or Polaris RANGER vehicle.
Learn more HERE about the GMR7V1 7-inch waterproof touchscreen CarPlay source unit.
ATLANTA, GA (06.27.24) – SkillsUSA prepares students for the workforce and students in the Mobile Electronics Division are competing for recognition at the National Competition in Atlanta. The conference is taking pace at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta June 24th-28th and has attracted over 6500 competitors in 110 competitions.
KICKER Audio is a strong supporter of the SkillsUSA initiative. Aaron Malin, TECH Force Global Training Manager, has participated in previous SkillsUSA National Conferences. Malin and Jacob Luckey, KICKER Global Trainer, arrived in Atlanta onTuesday and spent the day setting up for the 2024 Skills USA Conference.
Aaron Malin (L) and Jacob Lucky from KICKER flank Scott Dilbeck from Sky High Car Audio, who will judge in the radio installation competition.
“Each student prepared to perform to their best abilities for the judges at regional events in states across the US. Some of the stations included soldering, wiring speakers and identifying components. Students were judged on their proficiency in those particular skills and only the top qualified for this year’s Convention in Atlanta. KICKER participated in local (Stillwater) and state (Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater) Skills USA competitions this spring in preparation for the National Competition” Malin stated.
Jacob Lucky sets up one of the competition stations.
Continuing “Wednesday morning all got underway with the competition sessions with a lot of excitement throughout the center. Scott Dilbeck from Sky High Car Audio is in the house and helped with set up and judged a radio installation session. James Simpson from Vickers AV and Soundsations is on site helping with judging. Industry vertean Bryan Gary volunteed and also helping with judging. Erin Smith came from Savannah Technial College too. One competitor from last year came to judge this year.”
KICKER has a wide selection of products in display in their area.
SkillsUSA works to bring motivated individuals to the workforce and teach them lifelong skills. There were local, state and national competitions with all states participating, according to SkillsUSA.org. Its mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.
Erin Smith from the Savannah Technical College returned to the Skills USA competition.
The 12-volt industry is in need of more sharp-minded employees to bring new ideas to the table. The overall employment of mobile electronics installers and technicians is projected to show little to no change from 2021 to 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics years.Through SkillsUSA, students have the opportunity to learn valuable lessons and make lifelong friends.
“It is always exciting when you see the ‘lightbulb’ moment as something really clicks in the mind of a student. The ‘ah hah!’ that lets you know they really got it! Last year at the national competition in Atlanta, one young man was so excited to introduce me to his mom and siblings after we really connected during his job interview competition. He experienced my admiration and his family’s proud moment, all at the same time” Malin concluded.
“Students not only receive valuable skills from these events, but also priceless communication skills. From difficult interviews, to speaking with industry professionals and presenting their skills they also learn difficult communication skills” stated Chris Jack, Technical Chairperson for mobile electronics installation, for SkillsUSA. “My father always said that “I don’t care if you’re going to wipe up dirt off the floor, wear a suit and tie to an interview…no matter what it’s for.”
Jack added “Along with KICKER’s continued strong support we recently received support from 12volt companies DB Drive, DOW Technologies, VOXX Electronics and Vickers AV for the National Convention in Atlanta.
For more information, visit SkillsUSA.org or contact Chris Jack who handles the 12volt portion of SkillsUSA. Email Chris Jack at cnjacklausd@aol.com
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.27.24) – Embrace your sound through PRO LEVELS of performance when space is tight in your vehicle installation or setup through the innovation and power of Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifiers! Delivering LOUD AUDIO with unparalleled detail in a smaller size, Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifiers infuse sound with PRO POWER while staying flexible enough to fit anywhere in your install.
Taking your audio to new thrills of Colossus performance and sound – Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifiers signify ULTIMATE POWER in a smaller heat sink. Get ready for your songs to transform within deeper details and cleaner clarity, and obtain Colossus levels of audio performance!
The entire line of Colossus Mini models features monoblock and 4-channel amplifiers (like the PRO Series of amplifiers). Including the HCM-3000.1D Colossus Mini amplifier that creates 3000 watts of PRO POWER sound and the HCM-400.4D that makes 400 watts of clean Colossus Mini audio — every Colossus Mini amplifier is fueled with Colossus innovation that pushes audio to the peak of performance.
Incorporating full-range Class-D chipsets (including the mono models) – all Colossus Mini amplifiers are compatible with a wide range of drivers, especially pro-style speakers. Colossus Mini amplifiers incorporate a smaller footprint design that enables them to be placed in motorcycles, UTVs, and other automotive vehicles – all while still creating Colossus sound.
Multi-layer printed circuit boards (PCB) with surface mount components require fewer parts and result in a cleaner design and finish. Fly-cut CNC stylized badging showcases the Hifonics and Colossus logos in a CNC machined aluminum presenting a sleek and stylish finish. The air-core transformer power supply is more effective for higher frequencies and energy loss due to its open-core design.
Embrace PRO SOUND and POWER with Colossus Mini where you need it the most in your vehicle installation. Colossus Mini amplifiers power your music with PRO SOUND technology and take audio to deeper thrills of playback!
Learn complete Hifonics Colossus Mini amplifier line details HERE from the Hifonics website
DANVERS, MA (06.26.24) – Auto Sound in Danvers MA hosted an Alpine Experience event on Tuesday, June 18th
Alpine’s Colette Beaudoin and Colin Vargo were onsite to orchestrate the day’s event positioned in front of the Auto Sound’s busy street location. The Alpine Experience Silverado was featured with an Alpine tent and multiple Alpine flags waving in the breeze. A bright red Miata was positioned close by and loaded with an Alpine system.
“Colette and Colin brought both of their vehicles. The Alpine Silverado featured the incredible Optim8 that all need to hear to believe. Colette had her Subaru that was loaded with an equally impressive system” Andy Sussman, Director of Operations, related.
Ron Needleman invited followers to come check out the Alpine Experience in this live Instagram post when all was set up.
“Bring your music with you and enjoy the Alpine Experience like you’ve never heard your music before” Vargo stated in his segment of the live video post.
Continuing “The Auto Sound Mazda Miata featured an Active Alpine 3-way setup along with dual 12” Alpine subs molded into the rear after a convertible top was deleted. The Mazda is powered by triple Alpine amps and big screen 511 in the dash. We had a super turnout and all enjoyed the Alpine Experience.”
A custom Mazda Miata also rocked with Alpine for attendees to experience.
In Alpine blue this classic pickup loaded with Alpine is pictured by the Alpine Silverado as the day began.
After all was set for the event to begin a live Instagram video was streamed that really set the stage for the event with co-owner Ron Needleman inviting followers to come check out the Alpine Experience. In his time in the live video Vargo invited all to bring their favorite music and come take a seat in the Silveratio for a listening experience they had never previously experienced.
Attendees also got a chance to check out Alpine in this Jeep out front.
“The Alpine Experience at Auto Sound definitely connected with customers. When customers listened to their favorite music in the Silverado their eyes got wide and they were thinking….WOW my ride doesn’t sound like this!” Vargo offered
Special pricing for Alpine products was offered along with a raffle and all enjoyed hamburgers and hot dogs from the grille.
The Alpine Exerience 2024 at Auto Sound in Danvers MA set the stage for the 2025 Alpine Experience.
NORTH ANDOVER, MA (06.26.24) – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is thrilled to announce the details for KnowledgeFest Dallas 2024, one of the premier events for the mobile electronics industry.
Due to construction at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center KnowledgeFest will be held at one of Hilton’s premiere resort locations, Hilton Anatole Dallas from September 20-22. Renowned for its upscale amenities including several restaurants, Top Golf, a water park, and newly renovated accommodations, the Hilton Anatole promises a world-class setting for this pivotal industry gathering.
KnowledgeFest was previously held at Hilton Anatole during 2014-2016. This year will mark the 15th year that KnowledgeFest will be in Dallas since produced by MEA.
Recognizing the growing Truck Accessory category, registered attendees will have the chance to win a Ford F-150 outfitted with cutting-edge aftermarket technology from top brand manufacturers.
KnowledgeFest is the industry’s leading educational and networking event, bringing together professionals and enthusiasts from across the mobile electronics sector to learn about the latest technologies, trends, and business strategies.
Register now and join us at KnowledgeFest Dallas 2024 for three days of innovation, celebration, and industry excellence.
For more details about registration, accommodations, sponsorship opportunities, and event schedule, please visit KnowledgeFest.com.
JASPER, IN (06.26.24) – Meyer Distributing, Inc., a leader in automotive specialty products marketing and distribution, announces the addition of its Roseburg, OR crossdock. The crossdock will have a direct feed from Meyer’s Hermiston, Oregon distribution hub, which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories, 4×4/Off-Road, crash/collision, and RV parts in the region.
“Meyer continues to expand inventories significantly in RV, Towing, and Marine parts in our Northwest Megahub,” states Ben Johnson, Meyer’s RV, Towing, and Marine Sales Manager. “Whatever your need, Meyer has it for your RV or boat in the Northwest. Call our dedicated RV and Towing sales team today at 800.222.3325 or our Marine Specialists at 800.828.6834!”
“The Roseburg, Oregon dock will significantly improve deliveries to Southern Oregon, and we’re excited about the expansion of our Northwest infrastructure,” states Jeff Braun, CEO of Meyer. “Meyer will continue to focus on organic growth and investing via acquisitions to bring the best brands to market for our customers. Any wholesale only distribution company that might be interested in entertaining an offer should reach out to acquisitions@meyerdistributing.com.”
MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MO (06.25.24) – On Saturday evening June 22nd well over 300 vehicles rolled onto the lot outside of The Car Audio Shop store in Maryland Heights MO. Dan Castro and Shawn Montgomery were behind the wheel of this event to bring the car audio community together in the suburb of St. Louis.
Chris Pace sets a demo in the JBL trailer.
Castro and Montgomery related “This was really our first event and it was terrific. The parking lot in front of the store was absolutely packed. Chris Pace had the Arrowhead Sales JBL trailer out front. Tommy Spears had a great rig with Ground Zero and Richard Wong drove over 600 miles from Dallas to demo his Tacoma for attendees. We had our shop truck outback with other shop cars spotted around. We had food with two food trucks on site so everyone at the event had a fun filled evening enjoying music!”
Attendees rolling into The Car Audio Shop. Other retailers in the center were closed making room for the large Saturday night crowd.
Attendees were set to stay cool during the event.
Chris Pace, Arrowhead Sales, offered “Dan and Shawn had me right out front with the JBL trailer. Through the night attendees were able to experience the great lineup of JBL and Infinity speakers that were live and rocking in the trailer. We Dared All To Listen. The Car Audio Shop event capped a very busy week and it was a great way to see a proactive dealer connecting with consumers.”
The Car Audio Shop showroom was open but sales were not the main thing on the agenda. Letting consumers know the brands they stock and the quality of work they deliver was something that provided a tremendous amount of visibility for marketing their brand to the local car audio community.
Attendees open their hoods for all to see their aftermarket upgrades.
Groups of cars with hoods up were spotlighted across the venue.
Another event is tentatively scheduled for October.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI (06.25.24) – The Progressive Group is very pleased to introduce Mike Marshall, our new Regional Sales Manager for Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. Mike joined us this past March and is off to a fantastic start!
Mike has a 38-year history in the mobile electronics industry, beginning with a position at K’s Merchandise in Springfield, Illinois in 1986. He was enthusiastic about the industry and gained a wealth of product knowledge, resulting in a manufacturer’s representative position in St. Louis, Missouri three years later, specializing in Kenwood products.
A career working at the manufacturer level for Clarion and Rockford Fosgate followed, during which he traveled to 24 countries to train dealers.
“I wrote six technical training manuals and trained thousands of students throughout my career,” Mike explained. And his accomplishments continued to grow, establishing his reputation as a highly respected expert in consumer electronics. Mike continued, “I was fortunate to become an Alpine Rep Principal for 10 years, during which I established Alpine in the RV and Marine industry.”
On Monday morning, Mike Marshall was on the road in Iowa to get the week started meeting with 12volt retailers in the MINK states.
With such an esteemed professional resume and reputation to match, it’s no wonder The Progressive Group had Mike on their list of top candidates to replace Brian Sandberg, manager of Progressive Group in the West, when he decided to retire. Once Mike came on board, he immediately fit in with The Progressive Group’s team attitude and customer-focused goals.
“The reason I came to the Progressive family is my 38-year history of knowledge and passion for the mobile electronics industry,” Mike explained.
Along with his dedication to helping dealers and staff, in his spare time Mike also enjoys biking and auto racing.
LOS ANGELES, CA (06.25.24) – Fantazy Motorsports of Thousand Oaks and Northridge, California, a premier auto salon, announced today that former VP at JL AUDIO Carl Kennedy has been named CEO. Founder George Armanious shared that, “Carl’s vision and experience make him the ideal candidate to refine our existing operation and expand to more communities throughout California.” Catering to exotic vehicles such as Ferrari, McLaren, Rolls Royce, Porsche and others, Fantazy has developed a dominant foothold in the massive Tesla community.
Following more than 2 decades in pivotal roles at JL AUDIO from launching a legendary Home Division to running Global Sales for more than a decade of dramatic growth, Kennedy now sets his sights on reimagining a California motorsports legend.
Fantazy is entering their 20th year and has long been known as a 1-stop facility for paint protection, high end audio, ambient lighting, wheels & tires and bespoke customizing. When asked about his plans for Fantazy Motorsports Kennedy said, “our overarching commitment to this demanding and savvy clientele is to provide peace of mind as they entrust us with some of their most precious investments.” He added that this mission statement has served him well across a wide variety of industries.
HOUSTON, TX (06.24.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers announces the opening of its 25th store in Texas. Tint World East Houston, owned and operated by Ben Mugi, offers a comprehensive selection of premier automotive styling and performance services, including window tinting, paint protection films, ceramic coatings, and professional detailing.
Attention grabbing window graphics under the entryway overhead great customers.
“Drivers and vehicle owners in the Houston area and throughout Texas continue to seek the premium products and services Tint World is known for,” Mugi said. “They also recognize the value and convenience we add to their experience and trust Tint World as the go-to shop for all their automotive aftermarket needs. Tint World’s reputation and visibility, combined with the unbeatable franchise systems and support they offer, make this the number one franchise opportunity in the industry.”
Ben Mugi, the franchise owner, behind the sales counter in the showroom.
Tint World East Houston, located at 12741 East Fwy, Houston, Texas 77015, serves East Houston, Pasadena, Baytown, Deer Park, Channelview, Cloverleaf, Galena Park, and Jacinto City. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about services provided by Tint World East Houston, call (713) 347-9081 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/tx/east-houston-176/.
The distinctive Tint World, yellow and black color theme, is evident throughout the location.
“The growing number of loyal customers in Texas who recognize the high quality and value that Tint World offers are driving tremendous growth for us throughout the state,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The passion and commitment of dedicated, hard-working franchisees like Ben help us continue to deliver a world-class experience to every driver. We’re excited to see him represent our fast-growing brand in such an important market.”
12VoltNews.com 