Author: 12VoltNews

RetroSound Introduces Europa, An Authentic Aftermarket Radio for 1960s-1970s Classic Mercedes Vehicles 

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HENDERSON, NV (03.10.23) – The RetroSound Europa is an all-new design by Retro Manufacturing inspired by the sophisticated style found in the 1960s-1970s Mercedes vehicles. The replica knobs, large push-buttons, elegant chrome trim, and pinstriping perfectly complement the interior style of these classic Mercedes vehicles while updating their audio technologies to today’s standards. A new DIN-Kit is included with the Europa Radio Face to provide an easy installation and OEM appearance. The DIN kit also allows the Europa to be installed in any application with a single DIN opening making it a great choice for other European classics from the era that originally had a single DIN radio. 

Joe Rock, Retro Brand Manager, proudly shows the new Retro Sound Europa authentic aftermarket radio for 1960s-1970s Classic Mercedes Vehicles in the company’s Henderson Nevada HQ.

 The Europa is compatible with all RetroSound Radio Motors giving Mercedes fans all the features of a modern car stereo. Available features include HD-Radio technology, built-in Bluetooth, Made for iPod /iPhone compatibility, USB inputs for flash drives and media devices, and non-volatile memory. The Europa is SiriusXM-Ready connecting directly to an SXV300V1 Connect Vehicle Tuner without needing special cables or adapters. The SXV300V1 tuner adds SiriusXM broadcasts to a RetroSound radio and integrates with the radio’s display and controls. The 32,000-color display allows users to browse through media by artist, song title, or album, with the option to customize the display color to match their gauges. A selectable AM/FM Tuner with USA, EUR, AUS, JAP, and RUS tuner frequencies lets users set their specific broadcast region, with 30 presets to store favorite stations. The Europa is also available with DAB+ for consumers outside North America and receives crystal clear digital broadcasts in regions where DAB+ is available. A powerful built-in 300-watt (peak) amplifier pushes plenty of power over four channels with RCA pre-outs and a subwoofer output for customers that want to expand their audio system further. 

The Europa Radio will be available in 2023 at www.retromanufacturing.com. 

Pete and Barbra Muller of Tint World Awarded Franchisee of the Year by International Franchise Association

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LAS VEGAS, NV (03.09.23) – The International Franchise Association (IFA) today named Pete and Barbra Muller, owners of two Tint World Automotive Styling Centers locations in Orlando, Florida, as two of its 2023 Franchisees of the Year. The Mullers were honored at the 63rd IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas for being outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators.

“Franchisee of the Year recipients represent the best in franchising,” said Matthew Haller, president and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “This is the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and local business owners like Pete and Barbra exemplify the power of franchising and its positive contributions to communities around the world.”

Pete and Barbra Muller are flanked by representatives of the International Franchise Association during the recent 63rd IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas, NV.

The Franchisee of the Year Award, sponsored by IFA’s partner Paychex, recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their service to their communities, fostering a strong and vibrant workforce, opening the doors for career growth and entrepreneurship, and supporting their fellow franchisees.

“Tint World offers outstanding support and innovative franchise systems that have driven our success in Orlando,” Pete Muller said. “We’re proud to deliver Tint World’s premium products and services to the automotive community here and committed to continuing to meet their high standards and expectations into the future.”

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

“Pete and Barbra are dynamic representatives of the Tint World family, and their success reflects their passion,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “They provide a great example of the opportunities available through our innovative system and strategy.”

There are approximately 800,000 franchised businesses across the U.S., providing over 8.4 million direct jobs and generating over $800 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities.

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Introducing the RetroSound Dallas, Officially Licensed Radio Face for 1985-1986 Ford F-Series Trucks and Broncos

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HENDERSON, NV (03.09.23) – Joe Rock, Retro Brand Manager, proudly shows the new Dallas Radio Face for Ford F-Series and Broncos 1985-1986 in the company’s Henderson NV HQ.

The RetroSound Dallas Radio Face is the latest officially licensed Ford Radio Face by Retro Manufacturing, designed to replicate the original factory radio in 1985-86 Ford F-Series trucks and 1985-86 Ford Broncos. Dallas’s subtle and straightforward design features replica black plastic knobs, rounded push-buttons, and a thin seek bar, finished in matte black with the official Ford logo for added authenticity. The Dallas mounts directly into the factory opening in these vehicles with the included mounting kit and vehicle-specific wiring harness for an easy installation and OEM appearance.

Joe Rock, Retro Brand Manager, proudly shows the new Dallas Radio Face for Ford F-Series and Broncos 1985-1986 in the company’s  Henderson NV HQ.

The Dallas is compatible with all RetroSound Radio Motors giving Ford fans all the features of a modern car stereo. Available features include HD-Radio technology, built-in Bluetooth, Made for iPod /iPhone compatibility, USB inputs for flash drives and media devices, and nonvolatile memory. The Dallas is SiriusXM Ready connecting directly to an SXV300V1 Connect Vehicle Tuner without needing special cables or adapters. The SXV300V1 tuner adds SiriusXM broadcasts to a RetroSound radio and integrates with the radio’s display and controls. The 32,000-color display allows users to browse through media by artist, song title, or album, with the option to customize the display color to match their gauges.

A selectable AM/FM Tuner with USA, EUR, AUS, JAP, and RUS tuner frequencies lets users set their specific broadcast region, with 30 presets to store favorite stations. The Dallas is also available with DAB+ for consumers outside North America and receives crystal clear digital broadcasts in regions where DAB+ is available. A powerful built-in 300-watt (peak) amplifier pushes plenty of power over four channels with RCA pre-outs and a subwoofer output for customers that want to expand their audio system further.

The Dallas will be available in 2023 at www.retromanufacturing.com.

The Value of SEMA Show Face-to-Face Meetings

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.09.23) – The SEMA Show is driven by connections, and brings exhibitors, buyers and media from around the world together for the automotive aftermarket’s most valuable, in-person, transformative business experience.

The Las Vegas Convention Center is annually reshaped into the definitive gathering place of the world’s professional automotive community, where the industry’s sights and sounds combine to create an energy that fuels the imagination, sparks new trends, expands business relationships and drives the industry forward.

Exhibitors have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with buyers from all segments of the aftermarket, and can conduct multiple meetings each day to create new business, or reinforce existing customer relationships. Meeting face-to-face is the ideal way to build trust and to communicate ideas more clearly, and it helps avoid potential distractions or the technical difficulties that can disrupt online meetings.

Here are some additional advantages of meeting in person.

  • When you meet in person, you can read body language, see facial expressions, use context clues and better get to know someone’s personality.
  • The automotive aftermarket prefers to meet face-to-face, without potential distractions or technical difficulties.
  • It’s more effective to brainstorm, generate ideas and discuss what is working, and what is not, face-to-face.
  • Conducting business in person provides the opportunity to engage in purposeful small talk, deepening relationships, loyalty and trust.
  • Research shows face-to-face requests are 34 times more effective than those sent by email, and that a physical handshake promotes cooperation and influences negotiation outcomes for the better. (MIT’s Human Dynamics Lab)
  • According to a study by Forbes Insight, 85% of people say they build stronger, more meaningful business relationships during in-person meetings and conferences.
  • According to a study by the Harvard Review, 95% of people say face-to-face meetings are a key factor in successfully building and maintaining long-term business relationships.

The 2023 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, October 31–November 3. For more information about the 2023 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com. To exhibit, get started at www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

The MasterTech Expo Day 2 Continued Strong at the Mesa Convention Center

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MESA, AZ (03.08.23) – The MasterTech Expo 2023, that exceeded its targets for exhibitors and attendees in its second year, continued strong on Day 2. Its expansion over the 2022 show enabled larger class sizes and more attendees.

The main hall was a gathering area for attendees to see a wide variety of custom fabrication projects.
Chip Foose and MasterTech Expo host Bryan Schmitt are center stage in this session.

MasterTech Expo 2023 featured special guest Chip Foose, renowned vehicle designer and builder, who conducted a live design session for attendees on the main show floor, backed by a video wall that allowed attendees to see his work up close.

The sophomore show also added new technology as well. The Master Design and School of Fab courses both centered on demonstrations matching OEM design, styling tips and materials use when adding equipment and enclosers to a factory interior.

Garry Springgay conducting “SubSonic” in the Modern Tech track.
Marcus Vasconcellos (R) covering new KENWOOD products and applications for motorcycles as the cruising season is here.

“We’re extremely pleased with the turnout and excitement happening at our second show,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo. “It’s both exciting and gratifying to see so many industry participants find value in what we are doing here at the MasterTech Expo in the Mesa Convention Center. We look forward to a better and more fulfilling presentation each year.”

In the outdoor exhibit area the Team Nutz crew checked out the latest from MEMPHIS AUDIO. Mark Schleipfer (L)-Powersports Division Manager and Nick LoMonaco (3rd)-MEMPHIS AUDIO President showed Ed, Tom and Ben the lineup on Day 2.
JVC debuted a Polaris Ranger loaded with new powersports amps and speakers… custom installed by Brad’s Car Tunes.

Planning for the 2024 trade show and training exhibition has already begun as show organizers look at additional spaces near the Mesa Convention Center to house more classes and vendor attractions.

For more information, or to attend MasterTech Expo, visit mastertechexpo.com.

GoFast Solutions Announces the 2023 Mobile Expo April 12th in MassMutual Center – Springfield, MA

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SPRINGFIELD, MA (03.08.23) – GoFast Solutions is excited to announce the official date for the 2023 Mobile Expo… April 12th at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA from 8 AM – 6 PM.

“The Mobile Expo is the traditional kick-off to the season,” said David Prinz CEO of GoFast Solutions. “As the weather starts to turn and the days get longer, consumers are anxious to break out recreational vehicles [cars, ATVs, boats, motorcycles, etc.] that were stored for the winter.”

“The one constant in our industry is CHANGE. We feel that it is a responsibility of a true distributor partner to provide our customers with the tools they need to navigate the changes and succeed. This is why we have challenged our vendor partners to provide level 2 training for their brands at the GoFast 2023 Mobile Expo.”

David adds, “When I had my retail store, I was always looking for new ways to generate income in the shop. With that in mind, we are focusing on helping our customers explore new opportunities to add to their core business, maximize the space that they already have, and ultimately increase profit. This isn’t a typical car stereo show, it’s a business show geared towards small business owners specializing in the automotive aftermarket industry.”

This One-Day Only Live Show will Feature:

• Keynote Speaker Steve Greenfield Founder and CEO of Automotive Ventures
o “The Future of Automotive Retail”
• Chris Cook MEA President
o “Pulse of the Industry”
• Live Training & Presentations
o P&S Detailing’s featuring Social Media Sensation Syndi Gwinn
o Solar Gard Featuring Tint “Yoda” Ismail Pereira
• New Product Launches
• Catered Breakfast & Lunch
• Cocktail Hour
• Prizes & Giveaways
• Networking Opportunities

The GoFast Solutions 2023 Mobile Expo is being held LIVE & In-Person at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts on April 12th, from 8 AM – 6 PM.

Register for the 2023 GoFast Mobile Expo at https://expo.gofst.com/

Introducing The Epicenter Edición México from AudioControl

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CLEARWATER, FL (03.08.23) – For nearly three decades, The Epicenter has been revolutionizing the world of music by delivering powerful, rich bass tones that bring life to every genre imaginable. But it is among the fans of Mexican music and culture where The Epicenter has become a beloved symbol of excellence in sound, with the authentic and powerful bass it brings to the mix.

“To celebrate this special connection between Mexico and its music, we are proud to present The Epicenter Edición México. Featuring the iconic colors of the Mexican flag – green, white and red – adorned with vintage-style native glyphs and illuminated in a vibrant tricolor logo, The Epicenter Edición México maintains the renowned sound quality and unmatched bass restoration that have made The Epicenter an integral part of listening experiences worldwide.”

Accompanying every unit, a certificate of authenticity with matching serial number will provide customers with peace of mind, knowing that they’ve received an authentic AudioControl Epicenter Edición Mexico.

The Epicenter Edición México reflects our dedication to creating products that enhance music lovers’ listening experience. We firmly believe that this special edition of The Epicenter will offer fans an immersive and truly unique experience, enriching their enjoyment of the music they know and love – now with a distinctive Mexican flair!

Additionally, this product is offered at an affordable price point of $199.00 MAP ($279.00 MSRP) making it accessible to customers of all budgets.

We are now accepting preorders! To ensure that our customers have access to this exclusive product, orders will be capped at 10 pcs per account/store location—so don’t wait! This item is intended for brick-and-mortar retailers only, not to be sold online.

For more information about The Epicenter Edición México or any other products, please contact your AudioControl sales rep or visit our website.

The Highly Anticipated 2nd MasterTech Expo Is Underway and Exceeding Attendance and Exhibit in Metrics

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MESA, AZ (03.07.23) – The MasterTechExpo 2023 has exceeded its targets for exhibitors and attendees in its second year. Its expansion over the 2022 show has enabled larger class sizes and more attendees. Planning for the 2024 tradeshow and training exhibition has already begun as show organizers look at additional spaces near the Mesa Convention Center to house more classes and vendor attractions.

MasterTech Expo 2023, running March 5th-8th at the Mesa Convention Center, has added several new attractions, including a larger concert venue, allocations for more exhibitors, three new award categories and additional automotive aftermarket classes. Special guest Chip Foose, renowned vehicle designer and builder, will conduct a live design session for attendees on the main show floor, backed by a video wall that will allow attendees to see his work up close.

Attendees gathered in front of the stage Sunday evening before the open ceremonies.
This packed session post from @cartronicstn shows the Monday part 1 of 4 classes on custom fab and mastering center consoles.

The sophomore show adds new technology as well. The Master Design and School of Fab courses will both center on a fully digitized vehicle that will be used to demonstrate matching OEM design, styling tips and materials use when adding equipment and enclosers to a factory interior.

“The weather is great in Mesa AZ… JBL and Infinity are on display. The JBL Arena X Tundra is on display with an Arena X demo studio. We are seeing super action in our booth and invite all at the MasterTech Expo to check it out” Shawn Spedding related.
Ed Nuttall, Ben Bjerke and Tom Mays (L to R) from Team Nutz, flew into Phoenix from Pittsburgh early Sunday morning to attend the MasterTech Expo.

“We’re extremely pleased with the anticipated turnout and excitement building around our second show,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo. “It’s both exciting and gratifying to see so many industry participants find value in what we are doing. We look forward to a better and more fulfilling presentation each year.”

The Team Nutz crew from Pittsburgh-Ed, Ben and Tom- attended the Wet Sounds training presented by Carl Campbell on Monday evening.

For more information, or to attend MasterTech Expo, visit mastertechexpo.com.

This article supplied by MEDIAWire and updated.

Wet Sounds Unveils a Concept Vehicle at MasterTech 2023

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MESA, AZ (03.07.23) – Wet Sounds has taken a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and modified it to house a full Wet Sounds audio system that is on display at MasterTech. This concept is to appeal to the Jeep and aftermarket community as a plug-and-play system as these owners are seen to modify their vehicles for off-road applications. This vehicle is equipped with: 1x SYN-DX6-DSP 6 channel marine amplifier, 1 SYN-DX4-DSP 4 channel marine amplifier, 4x ZERO Series 6 6” high-output coaxial speakers, 2x ZERO Series 12 XZ 12” sealed enclosure subwoofers, and 2x REV 12 HD 12” marine tower speakers.

This concept vehicle has all new, never before seen modifications. The entire kit utilizes the factory mounting locations. There is no cutting or modification of the vehicle. New speaker grilles were created that integrate into the factory mounting locations. The design matches the aesthetics of the factory interior. The goal was to make it easier for the user to install and reveal a seamless installation. ZERO Series component speakers were created specifically for the Jeep to be able to sit stylishly in the dash.

The Wet Sounds modified 2023 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon setup at the MasterTech Expo.
The Wet Sounds interior speaker system set for demos in Mesa AZ.

DSP Amplifiers were used so that the ZERO Series speakers could be optimized for the vehicle. This DSP tune, specified for this Jeep Wrangler, will sound the best that it can, right out of the box. A roto-mold enclosure was designed to house 2x ZERO Series 12” subwoofers and the amplifiers to set at the base of the back trunk area. This enclosure still provides enough airspace around the amplifiers for heat dissipation.

The Wet Sounds speakers utilize the factory mounting locations.
Exterior graphics draw attention to the Wet Sounds audio system in the Jeep at the MasterTech Expo.

To mount the REV 12 HD tower speakers, aluminum mounting brackets were built to utilize the factory threaded mounts on the roll bar. These tower brackets are currently only designed for a hard top Jeep, but there are future designs in the works. A new wiring harness was designed specifically for Jeep vehicles and it is compatible with any aftermarket radio or OEM integration pieces. For user discretion, a tower and subwoofer master control unit was added to the center console.

The Team Nutz crew from Pittsburgh-Ed, Ben and Tom- attended the Wet Sounds training presented by Carl Campbell on Monday evening.

This plug-and-play design was created in hopes to appeal to the Jeep and aftermarket community that would be a simple upgrade option or add on, making it more available to buyers.

Wet Sounds hosted a Training Session at MasterTech on Monday, 3/6 called “Marine Tips & Tricks You Wish You Knew”.

Carl Campbell, Wet Sounds National Training Director, supplied the images and information for the onsite MasterTech Expo images.

Visit wetsounds.com for more.

RDV Automotive Technology Unveils New Wireless Carplay Hardware Platform

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POMPANO BEACH, FL (03.07.23) – RDV Automotive Technology the go to company for Wireless CarPlay integration is proud to announce the release of a brand-new hardware platform for the RDV Wireless CarPlay interfaces. The NEW CP1 platform uses the highest quality and newest chipsets available.

Rich De Sclafani proudly displays the new Wireless CarPlay hardware-the CP1 platform.

Rich De Sclafani the owner of RDV said about the new upgraded hardware being released. “I am extremely excited to launch this upgraded hardware platform. The new chipsets are a big upgrade over the previous generation and the improvements are substantial. The new hardware is faster, smoother, more responsive, provides a more stable WiFi and Bluetooth connection, uses the OEM in applications where an aftermarket mic was required and is less expensive than some of the SKU’s the new hardware replaces. I strive to offer the highest quality products and the best 24/7 support in the industry.”

The NEW CP1 line of products offer the highest quality and best warranty in the industry. With over 25 years of experience, we stand behind our products 100%.

These kits offer the most seamless integration available by using all your OEM radio controls and OEM Microphone.

Visit RDVFL.com for more.