SAWYER, MI (03.24.26) – The Mobile Electronics Competition Association (MECA) recently concluded a high-impact judge training session in Sawyer MI reinforcing its commitment to technical precision and industry-wide collaboration.

Commitment to Consistency
A group of nine dedicated participants attended the session, including new recruits entering the judging ranks and veteran officials completing their biennial updates. The primary objective of the training was to ensure consistent judging standards across the organization, a vital component in maintaining MECA’s reputation for fair and accurate competitive evaluation.

Industry Support & Team Building
In a show of industry solidarity, Brett Barnes of Prodigy Audio was in attendance to support the MECA team. Barnes’ participation focused on team building and leadership, bridging the gap between manufacturer expertise and competitive officiating. His involvement underscores the importance of a unified industry front in elevating the car audio experience for competitors and fans alike.

The “MECA Family” Atmosphere
Highlighting the community-driven spirit of the organization, the training was hosted by Bud and Shannon Ballinger. To promote a collaborative and relaxed environment, the Ballingers hosted the event in a local Airbnb rather than a traditional classroom. This unique setting was chosen to foster the “MECA family” atmosphere, encouraging mentorship and a shared passion for mobile electronics.

Consistency is the heartbeat of what we do,” said a MECA representative. “By bringing our judges together with industry leaders like Brett Barnes in a setting that feels like home, we ensure they are not just learning the rules, but also the culture of integrity and family that MECA stands for.”

For more information on upcoming events or to learn how to get involved, visit www.mecacaraudio.com

DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.24.26) – The SEMA Show has officially issued the “First Call” for automotive aftermarket manufacturers aiming to secure their footprint at the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nev. Companies looking to take advantage of Priority Space Selection should submit their exhibitor applications by the March 27, 2026, deadline.

The SEMA Show remains the premier global event for automotive aftermarket, and the Priority Space Selection process is the best way for exhibitors to influence their specific location on the floor plan. With more than 153,000 attendees, 2,600 media and content creators, and 70,000 buyers and decision-makers expected to attend in 2026, the demand for high-visibility real estate is expected to be at an all-time high.

“The SEMA Show floor is more than just an exhibit space; it’s a strategic asset for brands,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice president of Events. “Submitting by the March 27 deadline ensures that our partners have the best opportunity to position themselves in front of the global buyers and media that define this industry.”

Why the March 27 Deadline Matters:

• Priority Ranking: Applications received by this date are assigned a selection time based on seniority points.
• Strategic Positioning: Early applicants get first pick of hall placement, corner spots, and high-traffic corridors.
• Integrated Marketing: Early registrants gain immediate access to SEMA’s promotional tools and pre-Show media opportunities.

Following the March 27 priority deadline, the space selection process will begin. While the SEMA Show will continue to accept applications after this date, those submitted by the deadline are guaranteed a position in the initial selection queue to secure their preferred location on the 2026 Show floor.

Prospective exhibitors can submit their applications at www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

MESA, AZ (03.23.26) –The MasterTech Expo 2026 once again proved why it is the premier hands-on event for aftermarket fabrication, installation professionals, and shop owners. With more than 40 educational sessions, high-energy live competitions, and attendees representing 15 countries across six continents, this year’s event, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., set a new benchmark for innovation, craftsmanship, and community.

“From intensive training workshops to nonstop networking and live demos, the 2026 expo brought together the industry’s top fabricators, technicians, and manufacturers for a weekend focused on advancing skill sets and pushing creative boundaries,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This year’s revamped Build-Off format and elevated competition structure drove massive engagement both on the show floor and across social media. The combination of real-time fabrication, expert-level execution, and audience interaction created a dynamic environment unlike anything else in the industry.”

Standout Competitions Take Center Stage

Two major competitions captured the attention of attendees and dominated social media conversations throughout the weekend.

The MasterTech Build-Off headline event featured a high-stakes live fabrication battle sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. Two teams of three competed over sever total hours (3.5 hours per day) to design and build a fully finished subwoofer enclosure, complete with trim panels, lighting, and fine installation details.

Massive HD screens broadcast every cut, adjustment, and design decision, creating an immersive, high-adrenaline experience for spectators. Hats off to both the Red and Silver teams—true brotherhood was formed. With an incredibly close margin in voting, the Silver Team took home the top honor.

Special recognition goes to Dalton Trainer, Austin Moore, and Chris Britton—all under 32, representing the next generation of elite fabricators making a serious impact on the industry.

Over two days, eight competitors for the Clean Wire Challenge were tasked with building a fully customized amp rack in just 3.5 hours, using materials and equipment supplied onsite by leading manufacturers, including Stinger and SoundsGoodStereo.com. The completed builds were displayed for attendee voting, showcasing precision wiring, creative layouts, and execution at the highest level.

2026 Winner: Pablo Cruz

Industry Awards Recognize Excellence

The expo celebrated outstanding achievements across the industry:
• Clean Wire Tech: Isai Hernandez
• Fabricator of the Year: Dave Koz, Titan Motoring (Nashville, Tenn.)

• Recognized for advanced, high-end builds and integration of 3D modeling techniques.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Andy Wehmeyer, President of AudioFrog
• Honored for decades of influence, including 17 years at Harman and leadership as one of the industry’s foremost DSP experts.
  • Best Sounding Vehicle 2026: Orca Design & Manufacturing, built by Sage Weir (Sounds Good Stereo, Mt. Juliet, Tenn.)
• Honorable Mention — third-time award recipient
  • Best Training Experience: MSC
  • Best Booth Experience: MSC

Global Reach and Industry Impact

MasterTech Expo 2026 welcomed distributors and dealers from around the world, including: United States · Canada · Mexico · Puerto Rico · Peru · Germany · Italy · United Kingdom · South Africa · Taiwan · The Philippines · Malaysia · Singapore · Australia · New Zealand

This international presence continues to reinforce the expo’s role as a global hubfor knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaboration.

A New Standard for Live Experience

The Clean Wire Challenge further highlighted the importance of precision and craftsmanship, delivering continuous inspiration for technicians at every level.

Looking Ahead

With record energy, growing international attendance, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, MasterTech Expo continues to raise the bar for what an industry event can deliver.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (03.23.26) – Massive Audio is spotlighting the H82XX, an 8-inch Hippo Series subwoofer built for enthusiasts who want serious output, durability, and musical control in a compact format.

Key Performance Highlights

• 8″ subwoofer rated at 1400 watts RMS / 2800 watts peak.
• 2.5″ dual 2-ohm voice coil for flexible wiring and strong thermal handling.
• 170oz dual-stacked strontium motor with vented back plate and basket for heat dissipation.
• Cast aluminum basket, heavy-duty triple tinsel leads, and direct input wire connection.
• Kevlar-reinforced cone, fiberglass woven dust cap, foam surround, and 15mm X-max for controlled excursion.
• 90.1 dB sensitivity with sealed and ported enclosure guidance available in the user guide.

“The H82XX was built for listeners who want serious low-end response from a compact woofer without giving up musical accuracy or daily reliability.” – John Velez

Built for Real-World Installs
The H82XX brings the Massive Audio Hippo Series approach to an 8-inch format that works well where space matters. Its motor strength, cone rigidity, and cooling design help deliver clean, authoritative bass for custom builds, daily drivers, and output-focused systems alike.

Dealer and Product Information
For product details, enclosure guidance, and dealer inquiries, visit Massive Audio or contact your Massive Audio sales representative John Velez. H82XX is part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to high-performance audio solutions built for enthusiasts and professionals.

Visit www.massiveaudio.com for more.

Aaron and Jacob –STILLWATER, OK (03.20.26) – KICKER strengthened its commitment to technical education by visiting Franklin Technology Center in Joplin, Missouri, on February 19. KICKER Training representatives Aaron Malin and Jacob Luckey conducted an interactive session with automotive students as part of the SkillsUSA national workforce program.

This was the second time KICKER has partnered with instructor Joe Flynn’s class in the last three years. The session included an overview of KICKER, fundamentals of car-audio systems, listening demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Students assisted in setting up the KICKER’s SkillsUSA amplifier and subwoofer training rigs. Several pairs of KICKER earbuds were awarded as prizes to participating students.

“We enjoy working with the students at the technical schools,” Malin said.  “Many don’t know that car audio can be a very exciting and lucrative career. Everyone loves music!”

Flynn, the automotive mentor at Franklin Technology Center, noted, “Our students had a great opportunity to learn from Aaron and Jacob, who taught them the science behind mobile electronics and the proper way to wire and set up an audio system for the best performance.”

KICKER’s outreach highlights the company’s dedication to inspiring the next generation of mobile-audio enthusiasts and professionals. Through such initiatives, KICKER aims to showcase the rewarding opportunities in the car-audio industry and support hands-on learning in automotive technology programs.

Visit kicker.com for more.