Feel the Difference in Your Sound Through Colossus

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (01.28.26) – Feel the difference in your audio game through an upgraded speaker sound stage within Colossus Classic speaker innovation. Colossus Classic speakers bring out deeper details of your sound while maintaining the core of higher quality playback – undistorted music. Transform audio levels to BIGGER sound with COLOSSUS!

Delivering highs that are more defined and consistent mids throughout every song, your music will feel new, fueled through Colossus Classic speaker technology. A lightweight blue woven fiber cone enables every Colossus Classic speaker to have a fast midrange response, for a cleaner and more precise soundstage of listening.

To learn more, click here.

PowerBass On Site At The Monster Energy SuperCrossA2 In Anaheim

ANAHEIM, CA (1.27.26) – PowerBass was on site at the AMA SuperCross event at Angel Stadium in Anaheim on Saturday January 24th in the Privateer Paddock Booth. Erik Harbour, along with Juan Quintana and PowerBass models Jordan, Amanda and Serra were set up in the large booth that attracted a lot of traffic at the family friendly event. PowerBass sponsored the Privateer Paddock area and had a display set up underneath the large tent.

Action on the track at Angel Stadium kept the crowd cheering.

The Monster Energy AMA SuperCross Round A2 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim took place in front of a sold out crowd. The consumer event was on the grounds adjacent to the stadium where many people also enjoyed the vendor booths. Attendance at SuperCross events across the country continues to grow.

In the Privateer Paddock booth, PowerBass had a lot of products on display.
The PowerBass XL-PS200 Bluetooth speaker pods are natural for bikes.
PowerBass models Jordan, Amanda and Serra headed out with some more swag for attendees.

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, related “We were back at the event in Angel Stadium again this year for the two evets and the turnout was terrific at both events.. We want to do as much as we can this year to maximize PowerBass’s presence at these events that provides so many branding opportunities for us.”

Continuing “The PowerBass Bluetooth product category was a huge hit as PowerBass did live Instagram posts to find winners for product giveaways in the booth during the day. Attendees were checking out the e-bike giveaway and the XL-PS200 Bluetooth speaker pods as well entering to wins prizes. Scanning the QR Code was another way to win prizes. The winners wore their PowerBass lanyards with big smiles walking around the event. We had tunes rockin’ in the booth too.”

For more see powerbassusa.com.

Firstech Canada Appoints Phil Maczuga – Director of Brand and Supply Chain

SASKATOON, SK (01.27.26) – Firstech Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Phil Maczuga as Director of
Brand and Supply Chain, effective January 26, 2026. This appointment supports the company’s continued growth and reinforces its commitment to delivering strong operational and brand support to partners across Canada.

“Phil is a proven leader with a deep understanding of both brand strategy and supply chain operations,” said Bryan Sack, President of Firstech Canada. “Having worked together previously, I am confident in his ability to contribute meaningful insight and execution as we continue to evolve as an organization.”

Phil Maczuga

Phil brings extensive experience in strategic planning, supply chain management, and operational alignment. His background will play an important role in supporting Firstech Canada’s long-term objectives, enhancing efficiency, and strengthening consistency across the organization.

Commenting on his appointment, Phil Maczuga stated, “Firstech Canada continues to demonstrate strong leadership within the industry through innovation and a clear partner-focused approach. I am excited to join the team and contribute to its continued
growth while supporting the company’s partners nationwide.”

In his role, Phil will be responsible for aligning brand initiatives with supply chain strategy to support scalability and sustained growth.

Phil can be reached at 204-230-1983 or pmaczuga@myfirstech.ca

Visit myfirstech.ca for more.

Drive Discus Power with DA2 from Maxxsonics

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (01.27.26) – Engineered for accurate, clean sound and optimized power delivery, DA2 amplifiers elevate your customer’s entire MB Quart audio experience. With top-mounted controls for quick and easy tuning, the DA2 series delivers legendary Discus power and precision in a sleek, compact design that’s perfect for tight installations.

Every single model in the Discus DA2 amplifier line features Class-D amplification for efficient, clean output, rugged construction to handle Marine and Powersports environments, and top-mounted controls that make tuning a breeze — even in tighter or compact spaces.

Feel the difference in power today with DA2 innovation!

To learn more, click here.

N&H Electronics Hits The Road With Dealer Stops On The Gulf Coast

HATTIESBURG MS (01.26.26) – N&H Electronics is a very proactive distributor that works closely with dealers in their territory. Team members make trips on the road delivering products and connecting with dealers along the Gulf coast.

Tuesday and Wednesday last week Scott Rogers and Michael Femino each made a trip to make deliveries and connect with  dealers. Scott Rogers headed west out of Hattiesburg and made dealer stops in South Louisiana. Mike Femino headed east and made stops along the Gulf Coast. At all of the those stops, in addition to delivering orders, there were discussions about working with the dealers to connect with consumers to drive traffic into their stores.

The N&H van and loaded trailer ready to hit the road.

Scott’s stops were at Tony’s Auto Salon in Metarie and RD Audio Slidell Louisiana. At Tony’s Scott met with LB, Nguyan Thanh, who related that N&H has been a key business partner for years and all at N&H are always engaged to to support his business. dB DBX amps and installation products were included in the products delivered.

At RD Audio in Slidell Scott spent time with Rodney Naquin and delivered a dB Drive order. RD Audio sells car audio, window tinting, security and upholstery in the New Orleans suburb and works with N&H for many products.

Mike Femino made stops at Mobile Techniques in Wiggins and and Wise Choice Audio in Ocean Springs Mississippi. At Mobile Techniques Mike spent time with Chad and delivered the order including KICKER Speakers. The well designed car audio display really draws attention in the Mobile Techniques showroom.

In Wise Choice Audio in Ocean Springs Mike spent time with Greg Wise Jr. The order delivered included PowerBass products. Scott Rogers is celebrating 36 years at N&H and related Wise Choice Audio was a strong dealer when he joined N&H.

Rogers and Femino relayed that each spot there were conversations that dealers need to put their store’s message in front of their community on social media and spotlight hot vehicles out front of their stores. Sitting behind the counter waiting for customers to come in is not working. The in-store listening experience along with professional installation are not available on the web.

“At N&H we realize how important it is to work closely with, and to support, our dealers. Our vendors know how important it is to support brick and mortar retailers in this web-based and AI driven world. Stay tuned for more about our 2026 Dealer Show” Ricky Gibson related.

For more visit nandhelectronics.com

IASCA To Host The 2026 Sound Quality Championship At AXPONA 2027

EAST WENTACHEE, (01.26.26) – The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) announced it will host the 2026 Sound Quality Championship at AXPONA in April 2027 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. Building on a successful sound quality event at AXPONA in 2025, IASCA identified the show’s venue, audience, and infrastructure as an ideal environment for a premier championship-level competition.

IASCA SQ cars will be on display and available for demos.

“AXPONA is an exciting event for spectators and our competition members,” said Travis Chin, president of IASCA. “With over 11,000 spectators, AXPONA is a great opportunity to showcase the best competition sound quality vehicles to other audio enthusiasts from around the world.”

The AXPONA Car Audio Showcase.

IASCA Sound Quality vehicles will be on display and available for demonstrations throughout the three-day event in the Hi-Fi Car Audio Showcase. AXPONA will also feature hundreds of high-fidelity listening rooms, thousands of products in the Expo Hall, the Ear Gear Experience, the Car Audio Showcase, live performances, educational seminars, and cutting-edge audio demonstrations.

Cutting-edge audio installations are available for the Ear Gear Experience.

“AXPONA is all about celebrating innovation and exceptional audio experiences, and IASCA’s Sound Quality Championship aligns perfectly with that mission. We’re excited to expand this collaboration and give both IASCA competitors and AXPONA attendees an unforgettable showcase in 2027,” said Liz Smith, Event Director, AXPONA.

AXPONA 2026 is scheduled for April 10–12, 2026 and the IASCA 2026 Sound Quality Championship at AXPONA is slated for April 9–11, 2027. IASCA’s SPL Championship is tentatively planned for fall 2026, with additional details on the event format and season-long points accumulation toward championship invitations to be announced at a later date.

For more see iasca.com.

Metra Electronics Brings Expert Training to Las Vegas KnowledgeFest

HOLLY HILL, FL (01.26.26)Metra Electronics is heading to Las Vegas, Nevada to host training sessions at KnowledgeFest, February 3-5 at the Paris Hotel. Metra will showcase their latest aftermarket installation products at booth #401. A fully customized Ford Lightning featuring Heise LED, Metra, and VIBE Audio products will also be showcased at the booth. Metra’s training sessions will cover new products launched at the 2025 SEMA Show, including all-in-one premium vehicle-specific audio kits with VIBE speakers, Metra’s next-generation radio platform, PROSCENIUM, new and updated dash kits, Heise LED vehicle accent lighting, and much more!

Training sessions include:

“Metra’s 2026 New Products Overview” on February 3rd at 1:30 PM

This session offers an overview of Metra’s 2026 product lineup, highlighting new and updated dash kits, speaker adapters, harnesses, and integration solutions. Attendees will explore the latest Install Bay accessories, iBeam camera enhancements, Heise Lighting innovations, Vibe Audio speakers and plug-and-play kits, Axxess category expansions, the new AXRSC category, and recent updates to the Metra Online website.

“Metra & Vibe Audio Kits” on February 3rd at 2:45 PM & February 4th at 5:30 PM

This session highlights Metra and Vibe Audio’s vehicle-specific audio solutions, featuring new direct-replacement speaker kits for BMW, Mercedes, and Tesla. It also explores plug-and-play audio kits for select trucks and SUVs, and provides an overview of RTA-based tuning concepts used with Axxess DSP and Vibe DSP amplifiers.

“PROSCENIUM: The Car Radio, Re-Imagined” on February 4th at 4:15 PM & February 5th at 10 AM

This session introduces PROSCENIUM, Metra’s next-generation radio platform. Topics include OEM-quality materials, dual screen sizes, compatibility with Metra 95-style dash kits, built-in programmable interfaces, custom GUI design, wireless and wired CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, SiriusXM readiness, and vehicle CAN system communication.

Metra’s customers can register for the KnowledgeFest event at no cost using Metra’s VIP code, available by request from their sales representative. Once registered for the event, attendees will also need to register online at KnowledgeFest.com for each training session they will attend.

Rydeen Mobile Electronics Appoints 35-Year Industry Veteran Rex Berfield as National Sales Manager to Drive Strategic Expansion

TORRANCE, CA (1.23.26) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics, a global leader in advanced vehicle safety and solution-based technologies, is proud to announce the promotion of Rex Berfield to National Sales Manager. This strategic appointment marks a new commitment in Rydeen’s mission to jump-start a new era of brand growth, sales organization and market leadership.

With over 35 years of deep-rooted experience in the 12-volt sector, Berfield brings an experienced track record of managing large-scale manufacturing and distribution networks. Previously serving as Strategic Sales Manager, his promotion to a national leadership role reflects Rydeen’s commitment to the 12-Volt industry and accelerating market penetration within established and emerging sales channels.

Rex Berfield

“Rex’s profound understanding of the mobile electronics landscape is an important asset that aligns perfectly with our high-intensity growth plans,” said Phil Maeda, CEO of Rydeen Mobile Electronics. “By elevating Rex to our National Sales Manager, we are installing a proven architect of sales networks who understands how to translate cutting-edge technology into tangible value for our partners and consumers nationwide.”

In his expanded role, Berfield will oversee Rydeen’s national sales initiatives; focusing on solidifying the existing sales network and building new communication frameworks. His primary objective is to eliminate market friction and ensure Rydeen remains the definitive choice for vehicle safety and driver-assist solutions.

“I am honored to lead Rydeen’s national sales efforts at such a perfect moment for the brand,” said Rex Berfield. “Our focus is on constructing a “sales engine” that empowers our existing dealer network and delivers responsive, customer-first solutions. We are not just selling products; we are engineering a safer driving experience through innovation.”

Berfield’s promotion is effective immediately as part of Rydeen’s broader strategy to enhance internal capability and mentor the next generation of industry leaders.

Visit rydeenmobile.com for more.

Modus Conducts Trainings During 2026 KnowledgeFest Las Vegas

OXNARD, CA (1.23.26) — Modus is proud to announce it will be exhibiting during KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, one of the mobile electronics industry’s largest educational events and trade shows, held at The Paris Hotel & Convention Center from Feb. 3–5, 2026. During the event, Modus will conduct multiple trainings on its revolutionary audio technologies.

“This training session features Modus’ patented PREACT™ Current Averaging Technology, a unique approach to managing amplifier current for improved efficiency, consistency, and real-world performance,” explained Jason Digos, Senior Sales Trainer at Modus. “Designed for installers and sales professionals, the class explains how PREACT adapts to varying vehicle electrical conditions, maintains stable output under load, and differs from traditional power management designs. Attendees will gain practical insight into system benefits, application considerations, and how to clearly communicate PREACT’s value to customers.”

Modus will conduct two training sessions:
• Session 1

  • Location: Palace 6
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, February 3 at 1:30 PM
    • Session 2
  • Location: Palace 6
  • Date & Time: Wednesday, February 4 at 5:30 PM

Digos is a veteran car audio professional with more than 30 years experience in installation, system design, product development, and technical training. He has held leadership roles across the mobile electronics industry and is widely respected for bridging technical expertise with real-world performance.

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

SEMA Applauds Rescaling of Federal Enforcement for Emissions Tampering

WASHINGTON, DC (1.23.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is applauding the Jan. 21 announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that it will exercise its enforcement discretion for Clean Air Act violations related to tampering with onboard diagnostic (OBD) devices on vehicles and no longer pursue criminal charges in such cases.

  • This announcement only reflects the enforcement discretion of the current administration. The statutes of limitation for such violations goes beyond the term of any single president or administration, and future administrations may view such enforcement differently.

“This is a welcome end to overly harsh penalties for violations that are otherwise addressed through civil enforcement,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA believes in following the law, and federal law is clear with regards to tampering of emissions systems or profiting from the sales of products that enable such behavior. SEMA remains committed to working with federal regulators at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ensure our industry has a voice in the development of policies impacting compliance with federal and state laws with regards to emissions and safety, and creating a path for our industry to continue its innovation.”

BACKGROUND

  • OBD tampering involves altering a vehicle’s electronic systems or software, primarily to defeat emissions controls or commit mileage fraud, both of which are illegal under federal and state laws in the U.S.
  • Violators are subject to significant civil penalties (up to $37,500 for each part or component) and, until this announcement, even criminal prosecution, with the potential for prison terms.
  • SEMA has invested heavily through its SEMA Garage program to provide its members with pathways to navigate federal and state emissions.
  • The SEMA Certified Emissions (SC-E) program is a documented pathway for demonstrating that an aftermarket part doesn’t increase the emissions of a vehicle on which it’s installed. The program was designed around the guidance of the EPA’s Tampering Policy as a means to offer aftermarket companies:
    • An accelerated path to emissions compliance, allowing products to be legally sold in 49 states prior to receiving a California Air Resources Board (CARB) EO
    • Create an industry-wide standard for “reasonable basis”
    • Create a centralized database for compliant products
    • Provide legitimacy to the claim “EPA compliant”
    • Establish a path to compliance for certain products that are unable to receive a CARB EO

For more information, visit www.sema.org.