TEMPE, AZ (12.19.25) – 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.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (12.19.25) – ALL-NEW for 2025 — BRUTUS BRL amplifiers are the Hifonics flagship amplifier line, as they push sound into new boundaries of BIGGER POWER and PERFORMANCE — while creating unmatched audio detail and quality. GET READY FOR BRL POWER!
Setting a new benchmark in HIGH OUTPUT POWER — BRUTUS BRL amplifiers are innovated with a built-in VU meter and Intelligent Power Management System that pushes audio performance to the NEXT LEVEL of sound. BRUTUS BRL is built to dominate audio!
The Hifonics BRUTUS BRL series is engineered to maximize power efficiency while providing raw, undistorted power to drive subwoofers and speakers to their full potential of sound. An iron core transformer power supply assists in the ultra-low EMI design and brings BIG POWER GAINS in every beat and rhythm.
Whether it’s the BRL1200.4 for high-fidelity multi-channel setups or the thunderous BRL6000.1 in bass-heavy installs, BRUTUS BRL amplifiers transform your customer’s sound.
CHICAGO, IL (12.18.25) – Mid-State Distributing has been distributing the ZAPCO and ESB Audio lines since July of this year. Sean Davis, Branch Manager, related “The reaction from dealers across our territory has been very positive. When we learned that the President of ZAPCO and ESB Audio would be making an international trip to come to our facility we were so excited.”
Sean Davis is flanked by ZAPCO and ESB Audio president in Vincenzo Biasella and his wife in the Mid-State showroom.
Vincenzo Biasella and his wife arrived late morning on Tuesday the 16th. Vincenzo was so happy to tour our our facility, including the warehouse, to see our large stock of ZAPCO and ESB Audio inventory. We also have inventory in our Fargo and Omaha locations to support retailers in their territory. During our sit down conversations we talked about business overall and put plans in place for 2026 and beyond.
ESB Audio is an Italian speaker company with over a half century of electronic acoustics history. Over the last 55 years ESB Audio has navigated the winding road of high fidelity and through its evolution. Through that evolution ESB Audio has acquired a wealth of experience and knowledge that is rarely encountered elsewhere.
ZAPCO is dedicated to the pursuit of Audio Fidelity. At ZAPCO the company has been doing the the same thing for over 40 years ….constantly searching out innovative ways to bring better sound to the automotive aftermarket environment.
LINCOLN, NE (12.18.25) – Another Tint Shop Toy Drive is in the books. “This year‘s donations did not meet expectations and we were bummed. With the recent higher cost of living, Thanksgiving being more expensive than usual and Christmas shopping in full swing we were concerned. Once again, our customers and friends came in strong the last week of the drive and that helped” Owner Keith May related.
Donated toys are stacked on the counter at the Tint Shop in Lincoln.
Continuing “We had numerous customers and friends stop in just to donate without having any vehicle to schedule. We are amazed every year by the number of toys and monetary donations that come in for this worthy cause. All toys and cash were dropped off at the Kampout For Kids the night after the event was over.”
The Tint Shop was founded in 1996 by the May family and provides tint services for auto, commercial and residential. The company also offers paint protection services. The Tint Shop is a Premier 3M Film company.
“Everyone was incredibly appreciative for everything. Not only did we end up with the pile of toys, but also had gift cards plus cash!. Once again our partnership with local radio to get the word out across the community worked very well. We want to take some time to thank everyone that scheduled a vehicle, dropped off a toy or donated cash. It’s all going to make sure that every kid has something to open on Christmas. Thank you all from all of us here at the Tint Shop” May concluded.
NEW YORK, NY (12.18.25) – Pandora revealed its highly-anticipated annual list, Artists to Watch 2026: The Pandora Ten. For the past decade, the streaming platform has identified a group of ten emerging artists across all genres that it believes will break through in the coming year and shape the sound of 2026 and beyond. Pandora continues to put its support behind the next generation of rising stars and remains dedicated to discovering and amplifying artists throughout their musical journey. This year’s Pandora Ten showcases the artists whose voices embody the creativity, innovation and passion of the future of music.
By leveraging a combination of advanced listening data analysis, along with human curation and insight by Pandora programmers, the platform was able to accurately predict artists’ launch to stardom and lasting impact. Over the years, Pandora’s predictions have included Post Malone in 2016; Lizzo and Dua Lipa in 2017; H.E.R. and Ashley McBryde in 2018; Summer Walker and Rauw Alejandro in 2019; Doja Cat, Roddy Ricch, and Tones & I in 2020; The Kid LAROI and Tate McRae in 2021; PinkPantheress in 2022; Kim Petras and Coco Jones in 2023; Tyla and Reneé Rapp in 2024, Alex Warren and Zach Top in 2025.
“Pandora has long been a destination for music discovery, and we’re proud to continue elevating the next wave of breakthrough artists,” said Steve Blatter, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Music Programming at SiriusXM and Pandora. “Powered by human tastemakers and data-driven listener insights, this year’s selections feature a variety of artists we believe are ready to break out and resonate in a big way.”
Along with the Pandora Ten, Pandora highlights emerging artists across various genres such as Country and Latin.
Here is the next Pandora Ten, the artists to watch in 2026 and beyond. Listen to all of them HERE.
The 2026 Pandora Ten:
Cil- Singing with the kind of soul you can’t teach, Cil isn’t afraid to pour her heart out on a track as she untangles messy relationships, the turbulence of mental health, feelings of betrayal, premonitions of lust, and life-changing epiphanies without filter or apology. The Colorado-born and Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter has unassumingly emerged as a phenomenon on her own terms with a hard-hitting, yet hypnotic R&B Pop sound. Following support slots for the likes of Stevie Nicks and Dua Lipa, Cil is “on the cusp of Pop stardom” (V Magazine) and ready to take center stage. Cil has connected strongly with the Pandora audience on multiple songs from her latest EP, don’t hold me accountable.
CORTIS- CORTIS is the first boy band in six years to debut under BIGHIT MUSIC, the powerhouse label behind global groups like BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and is bringing a fresh new take to the K-Pop genre. Their debut album, COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES, is a dynamic five-track body of work that showcases their versatility and bold artistic vision, reflecting their commitment to defy expectations and create music on their own terms. Their first official single, “What You Want,” was released on August 18th of this year and since the album’s release, Pandora has seen almost all of their songs, especially “GO!,” perform very well across the platform and resonate with listeners.
EJ Jones- Memphis-based soul singer EJ Jones is the next rapidly emerging artist to enter the Southern Soul genre, which has exploded throughout 2025 with viral moments, and he has gained popularity since releasing his captivating single “Too Good.” EJ’s unique sound blends a powerful, passionate voice with a timeless old-soul feel, showcasing a sound that resonates across generations. His new original single “Gas Station Love” is a heavy hitting emotional ride through EJ’s mind and soul and is getting dedicated support and spins on Pandora’s R&B stations like PLATINUM and R&B/Soul.
Florence Road- What makes Florence Road so instantly magnetizing isn’t just frontwoman’s Lily Aron rich, oaky vocals, but the dynamic she shares with her best friends, guitarist Emma Brandon, bassist Ailbhe Barry and drummer Hannah Kelly. Shortly after the four of them became alternative music’s most thrilling new band, they garnered a strong social media following with the mixture of silly videos that displayed their friendship and cover songs performances. Since opening for Olivia Rodrigo in their homeland of Ireland, Florence Road has seen strong momentum with their songs “Break the Girl,” “Goodnight” and “Miss” resonating with Pandora listeners across stations like Alt XL, New Alt, The Stack and Alt Pop.
Gavin Adcock- With over 135 million streams on Pandora and dedicated support on The 615: Today’s Country and Country Grit stations, Gavin Adcock is quickly becoming the face of the Country Rock revival. SiriusXM’s The Highway also had early support of five of his songs, and his explosive momentum throughout 2025 has made him one of the genre’s fastest-rising and most talked-about new artists. Gavin was hand-selected by Morgan Wallen himself as the direct support on his 2025 and 2026 tour run and brings a bold, rebellious energy to the country scene with his mix of Southern rock grit and unapologetic lyricism. Known for his viral rise and rowdy live shows, Gavin channels the raw spirit of the South.
Ian Asher- Ian Asher has rapidly risen in the Dance music scene with his signature blend of house beats, catchy vocals, and global influences. The 24-year-old producer gained massive recognition in 2023 with his viral remix of Jain’s Makeba, which became the most-used sound on Instagram and TikTok, surpassing 3 billion plays online. Following up on his success, Ian has since worked with chart-topping DJs like Oliver Heldens on their rework of “Mas Que Nada” and Galantis on their cover of “Runaway (U&I),” as well as global hitmakers like Phantogram on their rework of “Black Out Days (Stay Away).” MIXR, Pandora’s flagship EDM station, first discovered Ian in 2023, with his collaborations now having reached 4.5 million streams on the platform.
Kami Kehoe- Kami Kehoe has never been one to wait for permission. At just 22 years old, the Los Angeles–based singer, songwriter, and drummer has blazed a fearless musical path with her chameleonic, hard-charged Rock sound. Her latest EP Kandy, out now via Atlantic Records, Coup D’Etat Recordings, and 10K Projects, showcases her continued evolution as an artist, driven by the same freedom and fearlessness that have defined her journey so far. Also, appearances with Daughtry and P.O.D. this fall have gone viral, resonating with fans everywhere. Kami has earned approximately 1.2 million streams on Pandora, driven by Hard Rock flagship station, DECIBEL!, as well as continued spins of her single “Dopamine,” on SiriusXM’s Octane.
Kane Rodriguez- Kane Rodriguez, a rising star from Houston, Texas, is one of the artists representing the new wave of Regional Mexican music, gaining the most recognition both among industry peers and within the music community. Kane has spent 19 weeks on Pandora’s Top Spins chart with his hit, “Se Volvieron Locos” and has hundreds of millions of global streams. Inspired by his roots and community, he connects with a bicultural generation through authentic and heartfelt storytelling and his music blends traditional corridos with contemporary sounds. Kane was also one of the top thumbed-up artists on Pandora’s Activados station in 2025, which highlights the next generation of artists pushing the boundaries of Música Mexicana.
Peter Burton- Peter Burton is a California-based singer-songwriter and worship leader whose music leads listeners to hope. Drawing from his own journey of overcoming mental illness, his songs reflect the tension between blessing and suffering, pointing to the faithfulness of God. Through heartfelt lyrics and melodies, Burton shares a message of hope personified in Jesus Christ—the foundation of his life and artistry. Peter has sustained strong streams on Pandora’s New Christian and Today’s Christian Hits.
Pluto- Pluto, born and raised in Atlanta, started writing rhymes at 14 and began self-recording music shortly thereafter. She gained popularity from her 2025 viral single, “Whim Whamiee,” which helped land a deal with Motown Records. Additionally, Pluto has several other viral hits including “Pull Yo Skirt Up,” and “What Da Fuk,” which were all supported heavily across Pandora’s Hip-Hop stations. This past October she released her debut project, Pluto World, and her raw talent, distinct voice, and self-made style resonate with listeners and fans on Pandora.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (12.17.25) – Maxxsonics is proud to announce a series of strategic personnel advancements within the organization as the company continues to strengthen its leadership team and expand global operations. Three long standing team members have stepped into new roles with increased responsibilities, and one new addition has joined the company to support its continued growth.
These updates come on the heels of a highly successful 2025, reinforcing Maxxsonics’ commitment to pushing sales boundaries, amplifying innovation, and preparing for strong growth into 2026 and beyond.
Gina Kim has been promoted to Director of Credit. With a strong history of performance and leadership within Maxxsonics, Gina will now oversee all credit operations, guiding financial decision making and ensuring the company maintains robust credit management practices. Her expertise and deep understanding of customer accounts will be instrumental in supporting Maxxsonics’ long term financial strategy.
Mark Lieber has been promoted to Director of Product Development. Mark has been a critical part of Maxxsonics’ product innovation efforts. In his new role, he will lead the product development team, drive new product strategy, and oversee execution from concept through launch. His technical background and market insight will continue to shape the future of Maxxsonics’ product portfolio.
Luis Larralde has been promoted to International Sales Manager. Luis has consistently delivered strong results in his sales responsibilities, and his new role will expand his leadership into global markets. He will oversee international sales initiatives, strengthen partner relationships, and support Maxxsonics’ mission to grow its global footprint.
In addition to these internal advancements, Maxxsonics is pleased to welcome Alexander Burgess, who joined the company in August of this year. Alexander brings a data driven, process focused approach to Maxxsonics as Director of Supply Chain, contributing to ongoing initiatives and supporting our commitment to providing an amazing audio and customer experience. “These changes reflect our continued focus on investing in talent and fostering growth from within,” said Brian Sherman, President of Maxxsonics. “Gina, Mark, and Luis have demonstrated exceptional dedication and hard work at Maxxsonics, and we’re excited to see them step into these expanded roles. We also welcome Alexander, whose addition strengthens our team as we head into a new year of innovation and growth.”
With a renewed focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric development, Maxxsonics is shaping its future with purpose — and preparing for its strongest year yet. Maxxsonics looks forward to the continued success and leadership that Gina, Mark, Luis, and Alexander will bring to their roles and to the organization as a whole.
Sherman added, “We’re looking toward 2026 with excitement, starting with these role changes that will place us for even greater success. The foundation and partnerships we built this year have set the stage for new product ideas and solutions, bold thinking, and reaching horizons we haven’t explored before.” As Maxxsonics continues to evolve its product lineup across its entire family of audio brands and expand its impact across key markets, the new internal leadership structure will enable deeper collaboration, sharper execution, and faster advancement across all business units.
For complete details on Maxxsonics and their entire family of audio brands, visit maxxsonics.com
SHREVEPORT, LA (12.17.25) – 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 business into brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or experience the separation of highs and mids on a smartphone or laptop.
As David Toliver got to hit ready to hit the road this week the Synergy Marketing website is available for all to check out with the custom QR code.
Scott Rogers let’s all see the N&H line card as a Christmas present with a quick scan of the custom QR code.
The 12volt Central Studio staff has created a new tool that works across the board.… a custom QR code for industry members. The custom QR code can take industry members or consumers right to a specific website and message.
A quick scan of this QR code, and you could see the latest industry news from the 12volt Central Studios.
There are so many ways for industry members to utilize a custom QR code. It could be printed on a business card or some type of flyer that a retailer could have on their counter or an industry member could have on site in their booth at a trade show. The possibilities are almost endless and all it takes is for an individual to take out their phone, tap the camera icon and open the QR code. From that point the website owner’s message or offer is front and center.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (12.17.25) – ALL-NEW for 2025 — BRUTUS BRL amplifiers are the Hifonics flagship amplifier line as they push sound into new boundaries of BIGGER POWER and PERFORMANCE — while creating unmatched audio detail and quality. GET READY FOR BRL POWER!
Setting a new benchmark in HIGH OUTPUT POWER — BRUTUS BRL amplifiers are innovated with a built-in VU meter and Intelligent Power Management System that pushes audio performance to the NEXT LEVEL of sound. BRUTUS BRL is built to dominate audio!
The Hifonics BRUTUS BRL series is engineered to maximize power efficiency while providing raw, undistorted power to drive subwoofers and speakers to their full potential of sound. An iron core transformer power supply assists in the ultra-low EMI design and brings BIG POWER GAINS in every beat and rhythm.
Whether it’s the BRL1200.4 for high-fidelity multi-channel setups or the thunderous BRL6000.1 in bass-heavy installations, BRUTUS BRL amplifiers transform your sound. LEVEL UP TODAY!
SHREVEPORT, LA (12.16.25) – Christmas 2025 is just 10 days away. Holiday lighting outside the store and in the showroom can be a big ticket to drive sales for brick-and-mortar retailers. The in-store experience is more important than ever as the ever-growing AI universe and online activity continue to add challenges for brick-and-mortar retailers across all categories.
The Sassy Massey Toy Drive in Glenolden, PA gathered hundreds of toys plus over 200 people in the store.
Avenue Sound in the Big Apple grabs attention with this great signage on the shore front.
Proactive 12volt retailers across the U.S. are taking steps to create a holiday theme at their stores. These efforts help attract consumers and create an engaging in-store experience. Social media posts spotlighting these activities are extremely important in driving awareness and foot traffic.
Crank up the Holiday tunes on SiriusXM
Proactive 12volt retailers have strong cards to play when it comes to driving business. The “In-Store Listening Experience” and “Professional Installation” are powerful aces that can be played every day. Demonstrating top-quality sound through orchestrated live demos in the showroom is one of the most effective tools available. Concertgoers spend billions each year to enjoy live music experiences, and proactive 12volt retailers can deliver that concert experience inside a consumer’s daily driver—without the big-ticket price or the hassle of crowded arenas.
Let’s Spotlight your store for Christmas with a 12volt STP Tool!
Offering expert installation is another key advantage. Installation professionals understand the critical aspects of speaker placement, system staging, and tuning. Educating consumers on the importance of professional installation helps ensure the delivery of a true concert-quality listening experience in their vehicles.
WASHINGTON, DC (12.16.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is celebrating the U.S. House of Representatives introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act (H.B. 6688) by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and cosponsored by Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.), and Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.). SEMA worked closely with lawmakers from both parties to secure bipartisan support for the legislation, which ensures that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after vehicles are modified. This legislation is critical to being able to safely make common modifications, including installing bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, installing larger wheels and tires, or installing a winch or aftermarket bumpers, without compromising the functionality of ADAS.
The bill is timely, because a forthcoming federal mandate that new, Model Year (MY) 2029 vehicles feature automatic emergency braking, bringing important safety systems to all new vehicles sold in the U.S.
The ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish ADAS guidelines to create modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles starting in model year 2028. The bill also requires NHTSA to create guidelines that establish ADAS test procedures that aftermarket businesses can properly test and validate that the vehicle systems have been properly calibrated.
“SEMA thanks Rep. Harshbarger for her leadership and Reps. Vasquez, Obernolte, and Torres for their strong support for ensuring vehicles with ADAS can be modified without compromising the integrity of these important safety systems. The introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act is a landmark moment for anyone who owns, repairs, or modifies a vehicle,” said Jim Moore, SEMA Vice President of OEM and Product Development. “Americans deserve confidence that those critical systems will work as intended for the entire life of their vehicle, even after repairs or customization. Currently, the industry lacks clear standards governing ADAS calibration, and aftermarket businesses and vehicle owners need access to the necessary calibration information and procedures needed to keep modern safety features functioning. This bill marks a critical step forward in the name of vehicle safety and is a major step forward in protecting the American people’s right to modify the vehicles they own.”
BACKGROUND SEMA’s research indicates that more than 50 million cars and trucks in the U.S. are modified or accessorized each year, a number that both underscores the urgent need for ADAS standards that account for real-world vehicle modifications, and the significant number of consumers who modify their vehicles.
Beginning in MY 2029, all new passenger cars and light trucks must be equipped with certain ADAS technology, specifically automatic emergency braking under NHTSA’s FMVSS 127 rulemaking. The ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act is critical to ensure that these advanced safety systems continue to work properly even after vehicles are repaired or modified, and pathways to compliance are clear as ADAS becomes standard on every vehicle.
SEMA has invested over $25 million in the SEMA Garage to help the aftermarket stay ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology. With facilities in Diamond Bar, Calif., and Plymouth, Mich., the Garages provide advanced tools, OEM data, and dedicated ADAS labs that support product development and groundbreaking research on how modifications affect modern safety systems.
The SEMA Garage hosted over 70 professionals from the customization, collision, and repair industries for a symposium to address the most growing and pressing challenges associated with ADAS calibrations, creating a clear, industry-wide roadmap to ensure ADAS functions safely and reliably in every vehicle.
SEMA has released a series of white papers examining how aftermarket modifications affect ADAS performance across popular vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, Ford Bronco, Toyota Tacoma, and the Ram 1500. The research provides clear, data-driven insight into how changes such as lift kits, wheels, and suspension components influence sensor reliability. The findings help manufacturers, installers, and enthusiasts understand when recalibration is needed to preserve full ADAS functionality.
12VoltNews.com 