MasterTech Expo 2026 Expands Hotel Availability

TEMPE, AZ (1.22.26) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce that due to year-after-year growth, it has increased hotel availability at Delta Hotels Phoenix Mesa for MasterTech Expo 2026, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Event registration is also now open and attendees can take advantage of early bird pricing for a limited time.

“The 2025 MasterTech Expo experienced remarkable growth in all facets of the event, and during planning for the 2026 Expo, we realized quickly that more local hotel availability for attendees was needed,” explained Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This was a direct result from the feedback we had received from both manufacturers and attendees after our immensely successful 2025 Expo, and so we want to ensure all attendees and manufacturers have the opportunity to take advantage of great lodging pricing and close walking proximity to the Mesa Convention Center.”

As one of the main reasons for MasterTech’s continued growth the past year, the 2026 Expo will also include the “Dino’s Git-Down Show & Shine Car Show”. Taking place on Saturday, March 14 from 12:30pm – 5:00pm at the Mesa Convention West Parking Lot, the event is open to top hot rod builders, automotive customizers, and hardcore enthusiasts.

MasterTech is more than a trade show, it’s a community. The event combines hands-on training, industry insights, and product innovation in a way that connects directly with what professionals want and need. That’s why manufacturers and attendees alike choose MasterTech as their go-to event.

Don’t miss out on four days of high-value training, networking, and inspiration. Secure your spot now and lock in early bird pricing.

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com.

Importel, Wet Sounds And SiriusXM On Day 3 And Day 4 At The 2026 Toronto Boat Show

TORONTO, ON (1.21.26) – The 68th Annual Toronto International Boat Show is happening January 17th through the 25th at the Enercare Centre in Toronto’s Exhibition Place. Importel and Wet Sounds are in the center of the action in booth G561. Importel’s Ricky Lima and Bill Truax, along with Paul Zlatar from ATG, are in the booth connecting with attendees.

On Day 3 it was time for product highlights as Wet Sounds unleashed the power of the Wet Sounds Portable Speaker engineered to deliver premium, high-performance audio for any environment. Whether hosting a poolside party, enjoying a beach day or embarking on an outdoor adventure this rugged, portable ensures music sounds incredible every time.

The large booth spotlights Wet Sounds’ wide selection of marine products including amplifiers, speakers and marine receiver along with wake tower speakers and IP67 rated portable radio. Wet Sounds catalogs and swag items are also available. In the adjoining booth SiriusXM Canada brand partner is spotlighting the SXV300 Connect Tuner.

Key features of the Wet Sounds Portable Speaker include powerful audio performance which boosts 126dB of rich, crystal clear sound to fill any space indoors or outdoors. Pro-grade SKAA wireless audio to experience minimal latency and professional grade audio quality for the ultimate listening experience. Bluetooth connectivity streams music seamlessly from your device with a 60 foot range for uninterrupted play.

With an IP67 weatherproof and dustproof rating, the Wet Sounds Portable Speaker thrives in marine, powersports and outdoor environments. The Portable Speaker is a stackable design weighing 25 pounds so this speaker features an ergonomic handle for easy transport and interlocking stackable capabilities. The integrated LED lighting adds vibrant atmosphere to events with customizable LED lights that can be adjusted to the listeners’s liking. Listeners can connect up to 4WS-L units for an incredible outdoor concert experience.

On Day 3 Ricky Lima spotlighted the Wet Sounds Portable Speaker in the booth.

On a huge show floor there are over 500 exhibitors and 1000 boats available for attendees to check out the latest products to get ready to make waves during the marine season 2026.

Importel is focused on the 12volt installation car audio and electronics including marine, powersports and motorcycle. With locations in Toronto and Edmonton the company supplies everything retailers and installers require to run a successful business. For over 40 years Importel staff members have shopped the world to find their customers the very best values available anywhere…. price comparisons will prove this to be correct.

On Day 4 Kelly Holley, Director of Sales & Marketing, spotlights the SiriusXM Onyx EZR Boombox bundle. Check out the cool hat swag available in the booth.

“This is one of the largest shows in North America and next year we want to go even bigger” Lima, National Sales Manager, related.

Watch for much more to come from Importel. For more info, visit www.importel.com.

BOSS Elite Conducts Trainings, Features New Look and Expanded Line at KnowledgeFest (Las Vegas) 2026

OXNARD, CA (1.21.26) – BOSS Audio Systems is proud to announce it will exhibit during KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, held at The Paris Hotel & Convention Center from Feb. 3-5, 2026. During the event, BOSS Elite will conduct a training on its revolutionary audio technologies as well as feature a number of its new and expanded line of speakers, amplifiers, and source units.

“KnowledgeFest 2025 in Atlantic City was an extraordinary success for our Elite line, and we can’t wait to showcase the brand in Las Vegas,” said Colin Ross, BOSS Elite Associate Brand Manager. “For the past couple years, Elite has continued to gain traction and a dedicated following across the country as we continually roll out new products across our speaker, amplifier, and source unit lines. KnowledgeFest is about connecting with installers and industry pros so that we can continue to learn from them and innovate in both the short and long term.”

The BOSS Elite product lineup will be spotlighted on the KnowledgeFest show floor.

This year in Las Vegas, Elite is featuring its new 6.5-inch BE652C and 6×9-inch BE692C speakers. Ready to order, these two-way coax speakers are the latest in the Elite lineup, and perfect complements to the line’s amplifier and source unit lines also featured during the show. Available in Q2 2026, Elite will also feature its new BE452C 4-inch and BE275C 2.75-inch 2-Way coaxial speakers, the 1.4-inch Tweeter Kit, the BE692K 6×9-inch Component Speaker Kit, and 6.5-inch Component Speaker Kit.

On display during the show and now available, Elite’s lineup will also showcase its powerful amplifier lineup, including the 5-channel 830W BE830.5D, 4-channel 600W BE600.4D, mono 600W BE600.1D, and mono 400W BE400.1D.

Lastly, Elite’s highly popular source units will take center stage during KnowledgeFest, as well.

Also during the show, Boss Elite will lead an in-depth car audio training focused on the engineering and technology behind the Elite lineup. Explore advanced amplifier architecture, speaker design, and system integration that align with high-end competitors. Learn how Elite delivers consistent power output, refined acoustics, and durable construction, equipping your team with confident, informed product knowledge for elevated system recommendations.

The training will be conducted:
• Location: Palace 6
• Date & Time: Tuesday, February 3 at 2:45 PM

KnowledgeFest stands as a cornerstone event for the mobile electronics industry, offering more than 50 hours of educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. The event draws hundreds of industry professionals eager to explore the latest technologies and advance their technical expertise through manufacturer training sessions.

Visit BOSS Elite during KnowledgeFest 2026 in Las Vegas at booth # 511.

For more information about B.I.G. or to become a dealer, please visit sales.bossinternationalgroup.com.

High-Impact, Performance-Driven Discus DA2 Amplifiers

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (1.21.26) – Discus DA2 amplifiers set a new standard for Mobile, Marine, and Powersports applications, featuring top-mounted controls for quick access and effortless tuning. Feel the difference in power that innovative engineering brings to your MB Quart system.

The Discus DA2 lineup uses Class-D amplification for efficient, powerful, and ultra-clean output. Rugged construction keeps your sound strong in harsh Marine and Powersports environments, while the streamlined top-panel layout makes tuning simple even in the most challenging installations. Embrace Discus innovation TODAY!

To learn more, click here.

MUSWAY USA Welcomes New Director of Technical Support & Inside Sales

MURRIETA, CA (01.20.26) – MUSWAY USA is proud to welcome Christopher Sinh as our new Director of Technical Support and Inside Sales, strengthening our commitment to dealer success, product excellence, and real-world performance.

With over 8 years of hands-on industry experience and more than 20 years of car audio knowledge, Chris brings deep technical expertise, genuine passion, and a dealer-first mindset to the MUSWAY USA team.

“Car audio isn’t just my career — it’s my passion. DSP tuning, system design, and extracting the best possible sound from every vehicle is what drives me. Every build is a new canvas and a new challenge. Now as part of the Musway USA family, I’m excited to work directly with dealers and end users to showcase what Musway products are truly capable of delivering. At its core, music is a universal language — and Music is the Way.”

Born and raised in San Diego, Christopher earned his Bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, with an emphasis in Business Management and Marketing, before relocating to Orange County to pursue his career in the car audio industry full-time. This combination of technical skill and business understanding allows him to support dealers not just with tuning and troubleshooting, but also with sales support, product positioning, and customer success.

In his new role, Chris will be actively working with MUSWAY dealers nationwide, providing:

  • Advanced technical support
  • DSP tuning guidance
  • Product training and education
  • Inside sales support
  • Dealer consultation to drive growth

He’s not here to sit behind a desk — he’s here to roll up his sleeves, pick up the phone, get in the installs, and help our dealers win.

“We’re building something special with MUSWAY USA,” says Andrew Bishara, CEO of Global Audio Marketing and MUSWAY USA. “Adding someone with this level of passion, knowledge, and dealer-focused mindset elevates our entire support system. Our dealers are going to feel the difference immediately.”

Please join us in welcoming Christopher Sinh to the MUSWAY USA family.

Visit muswayusa.com for more.

Massive Audio Launches Massive Audio HIPPO H84XR

LOS ANGELES, CA (01.20.26) – Massive Audio proudly announces the release of the HIPPO H84XR, an 8-inch high-output subwoofer engineered to deliver deep, powerful bass with precision and durability in compact installations. Designed for car audio enthusiasts and professionals alike, the H84XR combines 1000 watts RMS power handling with a rugged build and advanced motor design, giving users punchy low-end performance without sacrificing space or reliability.

John Velez, Sales Manager, pictured with the new MASSIVE AUDIO H84XR in the company’s Los Angeles office.

Precision-Built for Power and Performance

  • 8″ subwoofer optimized for compact box applications
  • 1000 watts RMS / 2000 watts peak power handling for deep, authoritative bass
  • Dual 4-ohm, 2.5″ voice coils for flexible wiring options
  • Heavy-duty cast aluminum basket with vented motor for improved heat dissipation
  • Foam surround and reinforced dust cap for increased excursion and reliability
  • Designed for both sealed and ported enclosures

A Versatile Performer for Any Build

The H84XR brings Massive Audio’s Hippo Series tradition of durability and sound precision to a compact size that’s perfect where space is at a premium — from custom car installs to SPL-ready systems.

“The H84XR proves that big bass doesn’t have to come from a big driver,” said John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio. “Its power handling and build quality gives installers and enthusiasts a subwoofer that performs well in real-world applications and competitive environments alike.”

Availability

The Massive Audio HIPPO H84XR is available now through Massive Audio’s network of authorized dealers and distributors. For purchase inquiries, system compatibility guidance, or dealer opportunities, contact jvelez@massiveaudio.com or (626) 523-8954.

Mobile Solutions Presents “Digital Fab MasterClass”

TEMPE, AZ (01.20.26) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce its Digital Fab MasterClass, scheduled for Jan. 23-26, 2026 at the company’s headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

“Our Digital Fab MasterClass is where old-school craftsmanship meets future-ready innovation,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “This immersive four-day workshop is engineered for fabricators, builders, and designers who want to elevate their interior and fabrication skills to an elite, professional level.”

This hands-on experience blends advanced digital fabrication technologies with high-level craftsmanship to deliver precision, efficiency, and OEM-quality results. Attendees will design and build a complete take-home project using modern fabrication techniques, advanced upholstery processes, and digital manufacturing tools—learning the same methods used by today’s top builders and award-winning shops.

What You’ll Learn During the Digital Fab MasterClass:
• Digital Fabrication & Future-Forward Techniques

  • New process: advanced 3D printing techniques that deliver professional, repeatable results
  • 2D & 3D CAD/CAM workflow efficiency using Fusion, Aspire, Corel, and Light-Burn
  • Live scanning and surfacing demonstrations featuring Peel 3D technology
  • Expert-level laser cutting and engraving techniques with hands-on instruction
  • Basic-to-advanced drawing examples focused on shape creation and precision line work
  • Accent lighting and layering strategies for maximum visual impact
  • Custom trim techniques using aluminum machining, acrylic fabrication, and composite
  • materials

Is your 3D printer just an expensive paperweight? Not after this class. Participants will learn practical, real-world methods to optimize equipment, streamline software workflows, and achieve consistent, high-quality results using accessible tools and proven processes.

Don’t Miss: Elevated Finishes & Professional Styling:
• Surface texturing techniques using paint and coatings
• Pressed metal grille and insert forming
• Shadow trim and specialty visual effects, including marbling and wood grain
• Veneer and vinyl-wrap techniques for OEM-level design execution
• Professional methods for finishing panel backs with serviceability and refinement in mind

Featured All-Star Guest Presenters:
• Dean Beyett – 5 Star Car Stereo
• Wesley Cato – Anything Car Audio
• Gabrielle Williams – Peel 3D
• Anthony Medina – Medina’s Interior Shop
• Gary Bell – Stinger Solutions

“This MasterClass moves attendees firmly into the Future Fab mindset—combining design, digital automation, advanced materials, and high-end finishing techniques that set elite shops apart,” Schmitt added. “Participants leave with greater confidence, expanded capabilities, and a finished project that demonstrates what’s truly possible.”

The Digital Fab MasterClass will be held Jan. 23–26, 2026, from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

Seating is extremely limited to ensure maximum hands-on instruction and personalized attention.

For more information, please visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.

Importel And Wet Sounds Are Making Waves At The 2026 Toronto Boat Show

TORONTO, ON (1.20.26) – The 68th Annual Toronto International Boat Show is happening January 17th through the 25th at the Enercare Centre in Toronto’s Exhibition Place. Importel and Wet Sounds are in the center of the action in booth G561. Importel’s Ricky Lima and Bill Truax, along with Paul Zlatar from ATG, are in the booth connecting with attendees.

The large booth spotlights Wet Sounds’ wide selection of marine products including amplifiers, speakers and marine receiver along with wake tower speakers and IP67 rated portable radio. Wet Sounds catalogs and swag items are also available. In the adjoining booth SiriusXM Canada brand partner is spotlighting the SXV300 Connect Tuner.

Importel had the Wet Sounds booth set on Day 1.
Importel partner SiriusXM Canada was set in an adjoining booth.

On a huge show floor there are over 500 exhibitors and 1000 boats available for attendees to check out the latest products to get ready to make waves during the marine season 2026.

Paul Zlatar from ATG and Ricky Lima (R) pictured in the booth.

Importel is focused on the 12volt installation car audio and electronics including marine, powersports and motorcycle. With locations in Toronto and Edmonton the company supplies everything retailers and installers require to run a successful business. For over 40 years Importel staff members have shopped the world to find their customers the very best values available anywhere…. price comparisons will prove this to be correct.

Wet Sounds tower speakers grabbed attention.

“This is one of the largest shows in North America and next year we want to go even bigger” Lima, National Sales Manager, related.

Watch for more to come from Importel.

The 12voltCentral Studios Puts You Company’s Marketing Ball In Play

SHREVEPORT LA (01.19.26) – The 12volt Central Studios offers multiple ways for 12volt industry members to connect across the 12volt community and with consumers while delivering fresh industry news. Custom QR Codes, the 12voltSTP Tool and 12volt Central Studio offer easy to use opportunities to connect with industry members and consumers. A SMARTPHONE is all it takes!

With a SMARTPHONE the 12voltSTP Tool works with an image txt plus a few words and PRESTO it can happen. The number is 318-469-2526.

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 mids and highs on a smartphone or laptop.

Many 12volt industry members only use a QR Code to scan a restaurant menu. QR Codes have so many positive ways for 12volt industry members to utilize this positive technology.

The 12volt Central Studios staff has created a new tool that works across the board. A high-quality glasses and screen cleaning microfiber cloth, with a custom QR Code, is the answer. Screens on mobile devices tend to collect smudges of all kinds. With this cleaning cloth a custom QR Code linking to a company’s website can be created and printed on the cloth to be seen by users several times a day as they clean their screens. The 6” by 6” cloth fits in a pocket or rests on an office desk. Even used by an installer in the install bay during a head unit installation.

Trade shows and consumer events are terrific venues to hand out the cleaning cloth to attendees. Driving pre-event attention to an exhibitor’s booth is also an option. The cloth is also much less expensive, and easier to ship than T-Shirts. Reps on the road could give a dealer his cleaning cloth to continue visibility for his company’s website and brands.

Your 2026 marketing ball can get in play with the staff member holding a product and sending a few words. Presto, we can make it happen.
In-Studio examples.

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 12volt Central Studios can put companies in their customized studio to connect and deliver their important marketing messages.

This actual post was made as Sean Davis stood in his office at Mid-Stare in Chicago in front of the XK Glow wall display and sent an image. 12volt staff members created this setting.

Industry members must realize marketing in a 24/7 journey. Budweiser and Coke spent millions with TV ads over the Holidays. Again, a SMARTPHONE and utilizing The 12voltSTP Tool, can put a company’s marketing ball in play!

Please email mike@12voltnews.com for more details.

Wayne Harris to Feature Legendary “Terminator” Hearse During 2026 MasterTech Expo

TEMPE, AZ (01.19.26) – Automotive audio pioneer Wayne Harris will feature his world-famous Terminator vehicle during a special live interview during MasterTech Expo 2026, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., offering attendees a rare look into one of the most iconic builds in car audio history.

Open to all MasterTech attendees and exhibitors, the Terminator will be on hand and the featured session will take place March 12 from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM in the Delta AZ Ballroom.

Harris has been a driving force in the 12-volt automotive audio industry since the early 1980s. A designer, engineer, entrepreneur, and innovator, he has earned multiple Design & Engineering awards, he holds several patents for audio technology innovations, and was named one of the Top Ten Most Influential People in Car Audio from 1987–1992.

Originally built in the mid-1980s – well ahead of its time – the Terminator featured groundbreaking concepts including one of the first true symmetry-based system layouts, including six Power 1000 amplifiers and a rotating amplifier rack that redefined what was possible in mobile audio design. The vehicle pushed extreme power levels for its era and became a benchmark for competitive audio builds.

The Terminator Vehicle
The Terminator began life as a 1960 Cadillac hearse before Harris transformed it into one of the most legendary show vehicles in automotive audio history. Packed with massive subwoofers, multiple drivers, and staggering power output for the time, it helped shape early competition culture and left a lasting impression on anyone who experienced it in person.

Today, Harris has been carefully modernizing, refurbishing, and rewiring the Terminator, preserving its original spirit while ensuring it remains period-correct. Decades later, the vehicle remains a cultural icon, still talked about by competitors and enthusiasts who remember seeing – and hearing – it dominate early car audio events.

Live Interview & Walk-Through
Attendees will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear directly from Harris as he walks through the history, design philosophy, and technical innovation behind the Terminator.

The session will be hosted by Matt Schaefer and Gary Bell of the Old Fashion Podcast.

For anyone passionate about car audio history, innovation, and legendary builds, this is a moment not to be missed.

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com.