Author: 12VoltNews

Modus Conducts Trainings During 2025 KnowledgeFest Atlantic City

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OXNARD, CA (05.28.25) – Building on its recent industry momentum, Modus is bringing its revolutionary audio technology to the East Coast market at KnowledgeFest Atlantic City, one of the mobile electronics industry’s largest educational events and trade shows. The event, taking place June 6-8 at Harrah’s Resort & Convention Center, brings together hundreds of industry professionals for comprehensive training and networking opportunities.

“I’ve spent over 20 years working with dealers and installation technicians up and down the East Coast, and one thing has always stood out – these folks know their stuff and they’re always pushing for better solutions for their customers,” said Jason Digos, Senior Sales Trainer at Modus. “When we were developing our products, we listened to what technicians and shop owners were asking for – better efficiency, more reliable performance, and solutions that work as well on the water as they do on the road. That’s why I’m especially excited to be at KnowledgeFest Atlantic City. It’s a chance to show our friends in the industry how we’ve tackled these challenges head-on with some pretty amazing technology. Plus, there’s nothing better than getting to geek out with other audio enthusiasts who are as passionate about great sound as we are.”

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.

During KnowledgeFest Atlantic City 2025, Modus will conduct two specialized training sessions:

  • Friday, June 6; 3:00pm

Instructor:  Tony D’Amore

Topic: How can an amplifier be more than 100 percent efficient?

  • Saturday, June 7; 5:30pm

Instructor:  Rob Osheaski

Topic: Marine Applications with Modus

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

Pioneer Electronics Inc. Appoints AJ’s Audio Distributing Inc To Cover Alabama, Tennessee And Mississippi

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TORRANCE, CA (05.28.25) – Pioneer Electronics Inc appoints AJ’s Audio Distributing, LLC’, located in Gadsden AL as the Pioneer Distributor for Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, representing a key milestone in Pioneer’s new go-to-market distribution strategy designed to enhance reach, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

To celebrate, Pioneer Electronics Inc excited offers a grand prize giveaway! Dealers who place a minimum order of $1000 with AJ’s will be entered into a drawing to win one of two DMH-W3000NEX receivers. This is an amazing opportunity to expand your inventory of Pioneer products, build your partnership with AJ’s, and potentially win an exceptional Pioneer in-dash receiver.

One winner will be selected each month from June through August 2025.

AJ’s Audio Distributing is a family-owned distributor that has well over 30 years of experience in this industry. Currently distributing over twenty lines, AJ’s takes pride in offering Pioneer to all its dealers. They value dealers like family and offer weekly specials. Operation out of Gadsden, AL with over 50,000 sq ft of warehouse space.

For inquiries, please contact Jaysam Odeh, Pioneer Team Lead and a 12-year industry veteran, at 256-547-9896 or visit www.ajsaudiodist.com

Pioneer is committed to supporting AJ’s Audio Distributing, LLC in this growth phase, providing the necessary resources, and backing to ensure a seamless and successful transition.

2025 SEMA Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.28.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced the newest members of its prestigious Hall of Fame: Luanne Brown, George Lathouris, John McLeod, and Larry Pacey. The industry is invited to welcome them into the Hall of Fame at the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala on July 25 in Universal City, Calif.

“The automotive aftermarket industry has grown in remarkable ways thanks to the contributions of this year’s Hall of Fame inductees,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “Through their leadership and innovation, they not only changed the course of the industry’s history but inspired and shaped the success of those around them.”

Luanne Brown

Fueled by entrepreneurial drive and deep technical expertise, Brown founded eTool Developers in 2001, building proprietary platforms that filled critical gaps in website development and product data management. Her work empowered manufacturers, resellers, solution providers, and rep agencies to adapt to an ever-changing digital landscape, streamlining operations, improving data exchange, and driving real business growth.

Brown served as a SEMA Board Member from 2008-2015 and has held leadership positions in multiple SEMA communities, including SEMA Cares, the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), and as board liaison to the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO). She has been a long-standing and supportive SEMA PAC member over the years and is vice president of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF).

“To be honored in this way by my industry family is amazing. I am very grateful for SEMA. This is the highlight of my career,” said Brown.

George Lathouris

A 45-year industry veteran, Lathouris is well known for his personal and professional success that has been built on customer relationships and partnerships. From his first job at American Speed Equipment in the late 1970s to his last position as vice president at The Warn Group, Lathouris is recognized by peers for always putting the customer first and exceeding expectations both with the customer and his fellow employees.

Lathouris was named the 2013 SEMA Person of the Year, served as SEMA Light Truck Accessories Alliance (LTAA; now the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance) chair from 2009-2013, and is credited with driving considerable growth of the SEMA Pinewood Derby benefiting SEMA Cares charities.

“I was stunned. Time seemed to pause, and I thought in that instant that I was able to stand alongside of all of the great men and women who’ve made our industry such a powerhouse throughout the years,” said Lathouris on receiving the news he’d been inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame.

John McLeod

McLeod has been actively involved in the automotive and SEMA communities for over 23 years, starting from his earliest days working with Classic Instruments in custom automotive builds in the late 1990s, culminating with his acquisition of the company in 2001. Under his leadership, Classic Instruments evolved from a small niche operation into an industry cornerstone, continually pushing boundaries of design, technology, and quality standards in automotive instrumentatio

McLeod’s personal ethos—founded on quality, integrity, and community service—shaped his influential tenure volunteering within and leading the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). His Education Days and Builders Panel initiatives fostered a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing, as well as provided industry veterans an opportunity to pass on critical insights, enhancing the professionalism and knowledge base of the automotive community.

“When you look at the list of members like Dave McClelland, Smokey Yunik, Brian Applegate, Carroll Shelby, and so many more amazing people that are my heroes—people I have looked up to for so long—I am honored to share this space with them,” said McLeod. “I am hopeful that I can inspire at least one young person to be part of such an amazing industry like so many of them did for me.”

Larry Pacey

Pacey’s 55 years of industry experience began in 1969 when he opened National Carburetor Exchange in a 600 sq. ft. building, rebuilding and installing carburetors in South Florida. Over a five-year period, the business evolved into a retail parts store handling many performance lines in addition to the carburetor line. In 1974, the business became a warehouse distributor carrying all performance lines and selling wholesale only. The business’s name changed to National Auto Parts Warehouse Dba National Performance Warehouse (NPW), and in the early 1980s it continued to expand into traditional auto parts, with additional warehouses in Orlando and West Palm Beach, Fla.

Pacey’s vision united many regional distributors under one larger, more sustainable umbrella. Today, NPW operates in over 1,500,000 square feet of warehouse space with 23 distribution centers. NPW services over 30,000 accounts in North America and several international markets. Pacey served on the SEMA Board of Directors from 1994 to 1996.

“After giving what I have given to this amazing industry, it feels like a full-circle moment for me,” said Pacey. “I am also elated to be able to share it with my wife and my sons because I could not have done it without them. I would also like to thank SEMA for this prestigious award and all the great employees at NPW that have helped me for 56 years.”

In addition to formally inducting Brown, Lathouris, McLeod, and Pacey as SEMA Hall of Fame members during the 2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala on July 25, the event will include recognition of the newly elected and outgoing SEMA Board members.

Tickets are on sale at this link.

Brian Mitchell And Arc Audio Connected Across A 4,500 Mile Journey

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MODESTO,CA (5.27.25) – It’s well known across the 12volt industry that Brian Mitchell is a road warrior traveling across the US showcasing his custom Arc Audio builds. Mitchell‘s extraordinary recent trip included the KICKER SQ@HQ event in Stillwater, OK and from there to the PNWCEE in Seattle. When the event in Seattle wrapped, it was back ARC AudioHQ in Modesto CA. During that nine day trek May 14th thru 23rd Mitchell and Chewy in the Chevrolet pickup pulled the 30′ Arc Audio trailer. That first leg was 1611 miles behind the wheel. Chewy is Brian’s pet bull dog that is a regular at all events.

The first fuel stop, of 15+ on the trip, was in Tehachapi CA.
The 3 legs of the Arc Audio journey mapped out.

The KICKER SQ@HQ at KICKER’s world headquarters was orchestrated by KICKER Brand Promoter Ernie Ficklin to connect area IASCA and MASQ competitors for a competition that also included many enthusiast from the area. The event began early Saturday May 17th morning and wrapped that evening, following the Award ceremony. “It was terrific to welcome Brian to our SQ@HQ event. His personal dedication to the 12volt industry connects to KICKER’s mission to connect consumers with enjoyment while driving their rides. Arc Audio’s presence definitely contributed to the success of our first SQ@HQ.”

Open road in Arizona headed east to Stillwater OK.
All was set early Friday morning.
Chewy was resting Friday morning after the long drive.

In an amazing story of fate, Brian Mitchell’s Copper 12volt won the top award at the event. KICKER founder Steve Irby autographed the KICKER square sub that was featured on the Money Round Trophy crafted by Mark Eldridge. Within hours Saturday evening, Mitchell had loaded everything and departed for the 1951 miles to be on site at the PNWCEE in Seattle for Monday.

Once arriving at the Double Tree in Seattle the 12volt Copper Arc Audio car was showcased at the hotel entry. During the 3-Day event Mitchell was very active in training sessions plus showing products in the booth on the shelf floor. Networking with 12volt industry members also was a important element of the event.

Late in the afternoon Steve Irby autographed the Money Round Trophy that Brian Mitchell won just a few hours later.
This gas stop in Denver headed northwest to Seattle.
Out the window in Oregon a couple hundred miles from Seattle.

When it came time to prepare to leave for the Arc Audio HQ in Modesto, there was a big surprise… The Arc Audio trailer had been stolen from the hotel parking lot. Authorities were notified and within hours the Arc Audio trailer was located. The trailer have been robbed of Mitchell‘s tools and there were no tires on the trailer. The trailer graphics also experience damage. Between the loss of the tools, cost to replaced the tires along with the damage to the $6000 graphic on the trailer the total loss approached $15,000.

Miraculously Mitchell was able to make all of the necessary adjustments and actually returned to Modesto early on Friday morning after driving the 827 miles through the night.

The Arc Audio Copper 12volt positioned at the Double Tree entrance.
The Arc Audio table spotlighted new products on the event floor.
Brian Mitchell conducting a Tuesday training session.

Mitchell related “After looking back at the nine days it was a terrific experience in terms of what we were able to accomplish to showcase the Arc Audio brand. The KICKER SQ@HQ event was so very well organized. Everything ran very smoothly and it was an exceptional experience to actually receive the top award that included an autograph woofer by KICKER founder Steve Irby. While there, I was also able to visit the amazing museum located in KICKER’s global headquarters.”

Concluding “The PNWCEE event in Seattle was also very successful. There with our booth on the show floor and time spent with training sessions, plus networking, we really did a lot to connect industry members and dealers with all we’re doing with the Arc Audio brand to connect with consumers and drive business.”

A 12volt Central Studios thank you to IASCA’s Travis Chin, MASQ’s Robert McIntosh, KICKER’s Ernie Flicklin and Brian Mitchell for all their input to create this Arc Audio Journey coverage.

Based on MapQuest date the 4389 miles was 65 hours behind the wheel for the trip. Not sure that average of 67MPH can be be correct.

Visit arcaudio.com for more.

KICKER Hosted The First Audio Competition Ever At Global Headquarters

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STILLWATER, OK (05.25.25) – In a first for the mobile-audio manufacturer, KICKER® provided the necessary space and played an active hosting role in the sound-quality event on May 17th. In a nod to its SQ and SPL successes during the 1990s and 2000s, the brand has collaborated with long-time league IASCA and relative newcomer MASQ, along with fellow industry authorities Alpine® and KENWOOD®, to host the “KICKER SQ@HQ” event at Stillwater Designs® global headquarters in Oklahoma on Saturday, May 17th.

“Partnering with MASQ and IASCA made perfect sense for both KICKER and the industry as a whole,” said KICKER Brand Promoter Ernie Ficklin. “The event turned out to be a Livin’Loud win-win situation for everyone involved.”

Early Saturday morning, all was set up and ready to go.

The triple-points IASCA (International Auto Sound Challenge Association) and MASQ (Mobile Audio Sound Quality) single-day events began the morning of May 17 on the large the KICKER HQ grounds. Representatives from Alpine and KENWOOD were on hand, as well as sound-quality judges, independent mobile-audio dealers and food trucks. The event was free to the public. The event wrapped Saturday evening after judging was completed with the awards ceremony.

The parking area around KICKER HQ was lined with show cars.

IASCA’s Travis Chin flew in from Washington State to lead the IASCA activities. “The KICKER SQ@HQ was terrific for IASCA. There was a solid turnout of IASCA team members from the area. The KICKER crew did a super job with setup. Everything ran so smoothly. A huge thank you to KICKER” Chin stated.

This image shows KICKER demos for attendees checked out.

MASQ’s Robert McIntosh related “Just a super event. Sure were a LOT of spectators…several hundred thru the day and that was fantastic to see people connecting with music in their rides. We had over 30 competitors overall with 20 being in the money round and 6 competing in the 2 seat. Mark Eldridge at MSE created some really classic trophies and we thank him very much. And a huge thank you to all at KICKER for making their HQ space available and their help getting the word out in Stillwater to attract attendees.”

KICKER founder Steve Irby autographing the Money Around Trophy, which was awarded to Brian Mitchell.


Brian Mitchell pulled the Arc Audio trailer from California to compete in the KICKER SQ@HQ event…that’s 1461 miles.. his famous pit bull Chewy navigating. ”I have been in the lanes at competitions across the US and nothing compares – the layout at the KICKER SQ@HQ. All the grounds really spotlighted the KICKER World HQ. I arrived on Friday and had a chance to visit the Museum and studios. The sparkling bright yellow Metropolitan will be in my mind for years. Thank you to all at KICKER” Brian offered.

Mark Eldridge, MSE, created these very unique awards for the event.

To add to Mitchell’s journey the Arc Audio Copper Volt competition car won the top award….The Money Round Trophy featuring an 8” Square Woofer that was autographed by KICKER founder Steve Irby. This trophy will certainly the center stage in Brian Mitchell’s large trophy collection.

KICKER opened the Visitors Center for the day, which showcases various KICKER-infused customs and the ridiculous Wall of Boom – the massive 14-by-20-foot display housing 28 subwoofers and 46 additional speakers with 18 amplifiers powering them. The KICKER XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle) and other KICKER demo vehicles lined one complete side of the parking lot and were open for those who wanted to check them out. KICKER also had visits from past audio champions that propelled the brand nearly 30 years ago.

The entry to the KICKER Museum is just the beginning of the experience.

“As car-audio manufacturers, we believe we can play a crucial role in focusing more on these competitions, which we hope will help to drive the industry forward,” Ficklin continued. “Our company’s (geographical) position, located in the heart of the USA, providd us with the opportunity to make this happen.”

Stay tuned for news of future KICKER SQ@HQ events.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile- and home-audio aftermarkets at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers.

www.kicker.com.

Transform Your Tesla Experience with TEZspex at EV Fest 2025!

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TORRANCE, CA (05.27.25) – TEZspex, the innovative brand dedicated to enhancing Tesla vehicles with premium accessories, is excited to announce its participation in the EV Fest 2025. The event will take place on Saturday, May 31, from 12 PM to 4 PM at Long Beach City College in Long Beach, California.

“EV Fest is the perfect opportunity for us to connect with Tesla owners of SoCal and showcase our range of top-tier accessories designed to elevate the driving experience,” said Ruben Torres, National Sales Manager for TEZspex. “Our aim is to provide solutions that enhance comfort, convenience, and performance while keeping the stunning OEM look of Tesla vehicles.”

This year, TEZspex will be featuring a fully upgraded Tesla Model Y at the festival, showcasing an array of accessory innovations set to transform the driving experience. Attendees can explore products like:

  • 8.8” Front Display W/ CarPlay & Android Auto: high-def display for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y with steering column-mount.
  • Auto door handles (RGB wireless): featuring customizable RGB ambient lighting and smart detection.
  • Motorized Soft Closing Systems, Soft Closing Frunk and Soft Door Locks: for smooth operation of doors, frunks, and trunks.
  • Electric Sunshades, Portable refrigerator and Ventilated Seats: designed to maximize comfort during hot summer drives.
  • Footrest, Rear Seat Folding Table and Rear console 7.0 Control Systems: for comfort and style.
  • And many more premium accessories aimed at enhancing the Tesla experience!

“At TEZspex, we are passionate about meeting the needs of Tesla enthusiasts,” added Torres. “Every accessory we create is engineered for seamless installation and integration into Tesla vehicles, empowering owners to personalize their rides with ease.”

Join TEZspex at EV Fest 2025 for a chance to connect, explore groundbreaking products, and take your Tesla driving experience to the next level.

Visit https://tezspex.com for more.

Absolutely Creative Customs Wins RDV Prize On The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 323

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12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (05.24.25) The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 6.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 323rd time on Friday morning on May 23rd. The Wheel landed on the RDV space and the Absolutely Creative Customs slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

Click to view.

We reached out to the lucky winning in Boulder CO. Left a message for the owner Joe Loschke that a RDV prize will be headed their way. The store works on Automotive, Aircraft and boats in the area. Their custom work posts on Instagram are amazing.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the 12volt marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, THINKWARE, Race Sport Lighting, EBS Audio, King Boxes, Massive Audio, Q Power and VIPER. 12volt News and 12voltBeat $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK,  Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME,  Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA,  Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA,  Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting  Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD,  Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY,  Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA, Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA,  Joe’s Cycle Therapy in Somerset MA, Cal Custom Audio in Tracy CA, NWA Audio in Bentonville AR,  XT Audio in Miami, Tim’s Audio in Newport OR, Build’s By Paul in Litchfield AZ, DAW Discount Audio in Paramount CA and M12 Audio in Bluefield WVA,  Jam City Pros in Caddo Mills TX, Finishline Shop in Lumberton NJ, Genuine Custom Audio in Riverside CA,Ballistic Autowerks in Hagerstown MD, Jeff’s Custom Car Audio in Royce TX, Pitbull’s in Houston, Aspen Sound in North Spokane WA, CP Designs in Jarrell TX and D&B Sales in Ft Wayne IN, Precision Custom Audio in Riverview FL, The King of Custom, Active Sound in NC,  Car Stereo Plus in Sumter SC,  Audioworks DE in Newark DE, Active Sounds in NC  Speed Car Audio in Dallas, Voodoo Customs in Luling LA,  BK Customs 616 in Grand Rapids MI, TPD HiFI in Broken Bow OK, HiFi Crusin’ in Hattiesburg MS, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX Intense Kustom Audio in Brentwod NY, California Audio in West Valley UT, H A  Ross Entertainment and Voodoo Customs in Haltom TX.

Congratulations to all.

The House Of Electronics Show 2025 Beat The Weather

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MORTON GROVE, IL (05.23.25) – The House of Electronics invited all to attend the company’s Annual Dealer Show on Tuesday, May 20 at 6 PM at the Morton Grove location. A huge outdoor show in the parking lot was planned to showcase over 45 vendors setup to show their latest products. A car show, One Sound Off competition, 2 live bands, raffles and delicious food from the grill were on the schedule.

Light rain and cool temperatures did not dampen in the crowd.

The Chicago weather did not cooperate and many last minute changes had to be made for the event. Through the day, the weather forecast did not get any better. Then after noon Teg Manchanda started getting calls from dealers. He relayed to the 12volt Central Studios “Mike, this is incredible. We are getting calls from dealers that wanted to make sure the show was still going on. Because of the bad weather forecasts dealers said everyone’s store was slow. So we’ve been getting calls right and left asking if they could they bring all their employees and installers. We said certainly. Dealers arrived and we had a great turnout.”

The large tent offered a dry space for displays, dinner and a place for industry members to connect.
The bands were forced to set up and play undercover. All enjoyed the sound from their garage studio!

Continuing “The weather they have in fact worked in our favor as some dealers brought their whole teams. Manufacturers were very impressed that we had such a great turnout given the circumstances. The Pioneer rep, Carl Smith, let me know it was amazing and that he actually met with over 45 dealers.”

The bands Crooked Step and KARMIK rocked out. The food was extra delicious and the sound-off competition ended up going until 11 PM. We had six raffle winners and at the end of the show everyone left very happy.

The food tent was set up right next to the band area.
Everyone definitely went back for seconds of the delicious street tacos!!

Concluding Teg stated “More good news, it took us a couple of days after the show to get all the orders shipped and delivered. We are certainly so appreciated for the great dealer turn out, support from our vendors and representatives. Also a huge thank you to our entire House of Electronics team that worked so hard to make the successful 2025 Dealer Show come together and beat the weather.”

Visit www.houseofelectronics.com for more.

The Thinkware Dash Cam Display Drives Sales at SoundCrafters

Posted on by in Industry.

SOUTH DAYTONA, FL (05.23.25) – Virtually every consumer that walks into a 12volt retailer’s store is a candidate for a dash cam. Dash cam products offer so many safety and real time accident liability protection opportunities. The category should be showcased in each retailers showroom.

SoundCrafters in South Daytona has taken that to the next level. Store manager, Anthony St Thomas and the team has put together a great Thinkware display that is spotlighted in the showroom. The full-featured Thinkware U3000 dash cam is ready for fast and complete demos.

During a recent road trip, Scott Hochmuth, Real Performance Marketing Principal and ThinkWare rep in the Southeast, made a stop at SoundCrafters. As he was in the store Scott and Anthony snapped this image by the display.

Anthony St Thomas and Scott Hochmuth (R) pictured at the display.

Anthony St Thomas related “Since setting up the ThinkWare display our dash cam sales have gone from a few a month to as many as two or three a day. Our team supplied power to the display board where the U3000 is on display. Now we can easily show customers a quick and easy full demo and spotlight the video quality. In addition now to ThinkWare dash cam can record sales presentations for training purposes as well as showroom surveillance.”

“The display with the ThinkWare U3000 available for live customer demos is terrific….so much better than the salesman saying ‘Our dash cams are in the glass showcase over there and you can read the features on the box. I will let all our dealers know how SoundCrafters’ sales have grown,’” Hochmuth commented.

St Thomas joined SoundCrafters as an installation technician, and now six years later, he is a store manager along with wearing other hats. The SoundCraters team functions as a family and treat every consumer coming in as a family member.

Since Paul Papadeas founded SoundCrafters 46 years ago…. providing the best possible performance, style and sound experience that a 12volt specialty retailer can offer is still at the top of the top of their list.

Visit thinkwarestore.com and soundcraftersdb.com for more.

SEMA Celebrates End of EV Mandates in the US

Posted on by in Industry.

WASHINGTON, DC (05.23.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) today is rejoicing in the successful, bipartisan effort to end EV mandates, the result of a monumental, years-long effort to educate voters and lawmakers on the importance of preserving vehicle choice in the U.S. By halting a California-led effort to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles through EV mandates for 40% of the nation’s population, the Senate, and before it the House of Representatives, has shown courage in the face of radical policymakers and exhibited confidence in American innovation and ingenuity borne out of the automotive aftermarket industry.

  • California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation jeopardized a significant sector of the American economy. A third of the specialty automotive aftermarket is based on ICE technology. Today’s Senate vote to end California’s national EV mandate and ICE vehicle ban protects $100 billion of annual economic impact to the nation’s economy and the more than 330,000 American jobs these policies threatened. With its actions, Congress has safeguarded this important hub of innovation and American engineering prowess, providing stability for millions of American households employed by the aftermarket. 

“SEMA thanks the lawmakers from both sides of the aisle who stood up for Americans’ freedom to determine which vehicles are best for them,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “We thank those in the nation’s community of automotive enthusiasts and the aftermarket businesses who engaged in the advocacy process, many for the first time, to remind lawmakers that this is the United States of America, not the United States of California. Congress’ vote gives the nation’s automotive marketplace much-needed stability, which will deliver renewed investment and sufficient resources to aid our industry in doing what we do best: innovating the future of automotive technology.

“This victory would not be possible without the courage and fortitude shown by Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson to look beyond the opposition’s lies and underhanded effort to undermine the will of the people,” Spagnola said. “We look forward to President Donald Trump putting an end to this nightmarish EV mandates policy with his signature and thus fulfill an important promise he made to the American people.”

SEMA STEERS THE CONVERSATION ON EV MANDATES AND ICE VEHICLE BANS

SEMA was, and never will be, anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans’ rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry’s ability to design, manufacture, and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.

Beginning in 2023, SEMA led a national effort to educate voters and lawmakers on the damage of EV mandates on families, the working class, and American small businesses. In February, when the effort to overturn the California waiver kicked into high gear, SEMA mobilized an army of advocates to:

  • Send more than 56,000 letters to lawmakers in the House and Senate
  • Build a coalition of 335 small businesses for an April letter urging House and Senate leadership to hold votes to put an immediate stop to the implementation of the ACC II regulation
  • Host aftermarket business leaders and automotive influencers for 56 in-person meetings in Washington, D.C., with lawmakers and their staffs
  • Dominate the digital media landscape with countless memes and posts on the harms of EV mandates, reaching more than 2 million voters in key states, and running online ads that put pressure on lawmakers and staff around the Capitol

Along the way, states not named California got wise to the harms of EV mandates. Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Vermont each backed off pledges to follow California’s emissions policies while North Carolina, Texas, Ohio, West Virginia, and eight other states passed SEMA-supported “ban the ban” legislation to ensure such mandates never take effect again.

This follows a significant financial investment by SEMA to educate voters throughout the 2024 presidential campaign via its Driving Force Action SuperPAC, with ads running the battleground states of Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.