BB Distribution Postpones VIP Expo, Reaffirms Presence at CMA Expo in Toronto

EDMONTON, CANADA (03.11.2020) – With the growing global impact of the coronavirus on production, parts procurement, shipping and product delivery mixed with port bottlenecks and Canadian rail disruptions, the BB
management team has made the difficult decision to postpone the upcoming BB VIP Expo.

This decision comes with some silver lining: the ten-year celebration of the BB VIP Expo and Installer IQ School 8.0 is planned out and ready for re-launch when most appropriate to ensure product deliveries and sales success with our partners.

“The BB Team is proud of what we have built over this past decade and we look forward to bringing together our dealers and vendors with our world class industry event building business, partnerships and delivery knowledge rewarding the people who consistently support BB Distribution year after year,” said Dave Berry, owner and CFO.

Dealers and industry partners have a great opportunity to meet with the BB Team and our choice group of vendors next month at the Canadian Mobile Audio Expo April 5 to 7 in Toronto.

B Distribution is proud to be a major sponsor of the CMA exhibiting with major vendors including:

“BB Distribution continues to invest time, energy and resources to ensure the CMA Expo will be fun and knowledgeable for all our dealers, partners, competitors and the industry as a whole,” said Jason Haberman, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We will be hosting our highly regarded and popular TEK TraX at the CMA Expo and we are looking forward to supporting and seeing everyone at all the upcoming shows and training events.”

BB Distribution will be hosting the TEK TraX – an experience in technology, entertainment, knowledge and training – at the CMA Expo on Monday April 6. Early Bird Pricing for registration ends March 15. Dealers can register at the link below:
https://mailchi.mp/bcf0d99c7359/the-time-is-now-to-register-cma-expo-5803319

The CMA Expo has also secured a group reservation at the Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre. Group rates go for $173 per night. BB will be assisting with hotel room expenses for dealers. Reservations can be made at the link below:
https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservationlink.mi?id=1576179565241&key=GRP&app=resvlink

The official cut-off date is March 13. After this, any remaining unused rooms will be released.

View the complete CMA Training schedule below:
https://cmaexpo.ca/#schedule

For more information, please contact Jason Haberman at j.haberman@bbdistribution.ca.

Visit www.bbdistribution.ca and visit cmaexpo.ca for more.

Car Audio Distributors Launches Auto Shield Alarms

DALLAS, TX (03.11.2020) – Car Audio Distributors based out of Dallas, TX has launched a new Alarm Company entitled: AUTO SHIELD. Auto Shield has been in development for almost five years. In early 2019, Auto Shield introduced into the US Market three models of Non-Remote Start Alarms. Now, it has introduced five models of Remote Starts (with and without security.)

Auto Shield differentiates itself from other Brands in a number of ways.

  1. Auto Shield will NOT be sold on the Internet (making the Brand profitable for Dealers.)
  2. Auto Shield remote start alarms come equipped with Tilt Sensors into the Brain.
  3. Auto Shield alarms also come equipped with BOTH: Positive and Negative door locks (whereas most manufacturers only come equipped with Negative door locks.)
    Auto Shield is currently looking for Dealers

Visit AutoShieldSecurity.com for more.

The Full Line-up of Auto Shield is as Follows:

AS-975-2W – Remote Start with 2-Way Chrome Pager (Variable RGB Display,) 1 Mile Range, Built-in Relay Pack
AS-775-2W – Remote Start with 2-Way Chrome Pager (Variable RGB Display,) 1 Mile Range
AS-675-2W – Remote Start with 2-Way Pager and built-in Tilt Sensor
AS-675-1W – Remote Start with 1-Way Remote
AS-625-1W – Remote Start and Keyless Entry Only
AS-475-2W – Basic Alarm with Keyless Entry and 2-Way Pager
AS-375A – Basic Alarm with Siren
AS-275A – Basic Alarm / Keyless Entry without Siren.

All Roads in the Northeast Lead to the GoFast Solutions Mobile Expo

SPRINGFIELD, MA (03.10.2020) – The GoFast Solutions Mobile Expo 2020 is set for Wednesday, March 11th at the MassMutual Center in Springfield MA. Over 3 dozen top 12volt and aftermarket automotive brands will show their latest products. In addition there will be six time slots through the day for product and training sessions. Each product time slot will feature 4 separate vendor sessions in meeting rooms adjacent to the Expo exhibit hall.

Jim Ciccio, GoFast Solutions Merchandising Manager, related to 12volt News “We have a solid plan in place with a goal to make this the best Mobile Expo ever presented in the Northeast. We have tremendous vendor support and feel the MassMutual Center in Springfield is a spectacular venue for our dealers and vendor partners. Spring is right around the corner and time for car audio, cycle, marine and power sports seasons. GoFast Solutions has been strong in the power sports category and we plan to highlight the category at the Expo.”

Brands exhibiting at the Go Fast Solutions Expo include Kenwood, Metra, Kicker, Escort, Firstech, ADS, Alpine, HushMat, Oracle, Sony, SounDigital, Memphis Audio, Triton, VAIS Technology, BrandMotion, DS18, Diamond Audio, SolarGard, Dual, PUTCO, SiriusXM, VOXX, Omega, Crimestopper, Rydeen, Audio Control and Race Sport Lighting, Kleinn Air Horns, Waylens, Rockford Fosgate and Fortin.

See the website expo.gofst.com for the day’s schedule plus training and presenter information.

Paul Trueman, SiriusXM, relayed to the 12volt News “I will be set up at the GoFast event to speak with dealers about great programming and promos. Right now the greatest SiriusXM live concerts from the last decade are being featured. The first was Paul McCartney Live at the Apollo on Monday, March 9th.

Matt Herald, Trent Partners area representative, stated to 12volt News “We have 8 brands exhibiting at the event… ADS, Audio Control, Kenwood, Kicker, Kleinn Air Horns, Race Sport Lighting, Rydeen Mobile and Diamond. Seven of these vendors will have staff on site from the company to take dealers through their product lines. Kleinn Air Hours just released 2 new Jeep Specific Air Horn products that we will cover.

Rob Ferro, Mr DS18, is flying in from the DS18 HQ in Florida. DS18 is a new line that recently arrived in the GoFast Solutions warehouse. Ferro stated “I will show everyone that at DS18 “We Like It Loud!”

Audio Control’s Chris Bennett is flying in from Seattle WA. Kicker’s Eastern Regional Matt Matheson and National Trainer John Meyers are traveling from Stillwater Ok for the event.

Rydeen Mobile’s Phil Maeda will be in the house. Outside the Rydeen Mobile van will showcase the company’s latest safety and convenience devices.

See the website expo.gofst.com for the day’s schedule plus training and presenter information.

The GoFast Solutions Mobile Expo 2020 is set to be a terrific event… Watch for much more from the 12volt Central Studios.

Kleinn Intros Jeep Wrangler JT & LJ On-Board Air System with Train Horn

TUCSON, AZ (03.10.2020) – Kleinn Air Horns has released a new Vehicle Specific Onboard Air Systemand Train Hornfor the Jeep WranglerTJ andLJmodels. Like all Kleinn vehicle specific systems, the kit is a direct fitinstallation.The USA-made mounting bracketsmake it easy to install the kit with common hand tools.

The kit includes the Kleinn exclusive model 6450RC waterproof air compressor capable of inflating 37″ tires, powering small air tools and air lockers. Included with the kit is a quick-connect tire inflator with digital gauge and storage bag as well as all the necessary hardware and fittings for a professional installation.The TJXTREME includes the model 220 dual train horn.

Click here to visit the TJXTREME product page.

  • 100% Bolt-on – No cutting or welding required (Drilling is required)
  • Heavy-duty model 6450RC waterproof air compressor
  • Model 220 dual train horns produce 154.2 decibels
  • 150 PSI operating pressure
  • 1.5-gallon air tank with Cortec™ Anti-Corrosion interior coating
  • Custom engineered vehicle specific mounting brackets
  • Powers air lockers, small air tools and air horns
  • Quick connect tire inflator with digital gauge and storage bag

Visit kleinn.com for more.

Alphasonik Introduces Noise Canceling Headphones to Personal Audio Lineup

GARDENA, CA (03.10.2020) – Alphasonik has announced that the new V80BN Wireless Headphones are available and shipping. The new V80BN over the ear headphones are Alphasonik’s first with Alphasonik ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and AlphaBass Technology. AlphaBass Technology enhances the overall frequency response without distortion at higher levels. When an original music source is compressed it loses frequency elements that add detail and depth to your favorite music.

AlphaBassTechnology restores these to produce a higher quality sound that is closer to the original recording, letting you listen to music the way it was meant to be heard.  No matter where you are, the powerful 40MM drivers put you in the center of the music and let you immerse yourself in the true sound.

FEATURES:

  • Long Battery Life-Enjoy up to 20 hours of battery life.
  • Wireless Freedom-Bluetooth 5.0 and 33ft. transmission distance.
  • Alphasonik Active Noise Canceling (ANC) Technology- ANC Technology virtually eliminates unwanted ambient noise.
  • AlphaBass Technology-Restores music to a higher quality sound that is closer to the original. Listen to music the way it is meant to be heard.
  • Clearer Calls-Advanced Microphone system provides clear calls even in windy or noisy environments.
  • Exceptional Portability and Comfort-Side swiveling earcups and foldable headband make it easy to store in supplied case. Soft leatherette covered earpads and headband provide a snug, comfortable fit.

With a soft, comfortable leatherette headband and form fitting around ear cushions for longer, more enjoyable listening sessions, Alphasonik ANC (active noise cancellation) letting you enjoy music, movies or phone calls in peace – everywhere in both wired or wireless mode, Bluetooth 5.0 technology, and intuitive ear cup mounted controls make adjusting volume, changing tracks, and managing incoming calls easier than ever.

For more info, visit www.alphasonik.com or contact Enrique Avalos at enrique@alphasonik.com.

Aunex Enters the Global Market

CHINO, CA (03.09.2020) – In May of 2019 Industry Veteran Steven Bach created and launched a new audio electronics brand called Aunex, Inc.  Now, 9 months later Aunex is ready to support itsdealers and distributors worldwide.  “After 25 years of working in the audio industry, it was time that I took this leap of faith and branched out on my own.  I entered the 12volt audio industry in the mid 90’s starting at a company called Marathon in South Gate, California which later became Massive Audio,” stated Steven. From Massive, Steven joined PowerBass in their early start up stage at year one of the company. From PowerBass, Steven found his way to Crossfire Car Audio and eventually returned back to PowerBass where he held the company’s Vice President position for more than 10 years.

“At PowerBass, I took great pride leading both the Sales & Marketing Team along with overseeing the company’s Product Development Team. During that time, I learned a great deal about what it took to manage a diverse group of seasoned Sales professionals and an equally talented Acoustic and Electronics Engineering staff,” said Steven.

Steven Bach – Aunex President pictured visiting the company’s suppliers in 2019 to ensure production schedule is met and product quality is rigorously tested.

Now that times have become increasingly challenging for retailers, distributors and manufacturer reps with diverse competition from online marketplaces, to the way brands continually fight the race to zero mentality, Steven decided it was time to put his years of networking to the test and form his own company.  Aunex will be positioned as a limited distribution line while setting its priority on dealer direct model. “When I started to take a deep dive with various retailers, one of the main concerns most dealers mentioned was price protection.  Our industry business model continues to evolve with the growing trend of consumers making their purchases online.

“I can understand our dealer’s frustrations if they lose a sale from the internet.  There are a large number of consumers who believe they will get the best deals online, so when they visit their local retailers, they ask product questions, get a feel for the products they are interested in and then proceed to make their purchases online. As such many retailers have adopted new ways to combat the seemingly unbeatable internet prices. Despite that, pricing challenges are still often hard fought. With Aunex, one of the ways we will be supporting our retailers is not allowing any online sales; protecting the margins of our dealers is one of our main priorities,” said Steven.

Gilbert Munoz – Aunex Warehouse & Shipping Manager fulfilling the first batch of orders.

However, to not have distribution in the US can limit product availability for dealers that are on the Southeast and East coast, therefore Aunex will limit its’ distributors to a few key partners that can help facilitate those dealers that need product in timely manner.

“I am very proud of what the talented staff of Aunex has accomplished within the past 9 months. Everything from product planning, product development & rigorously testing to packaging, manuals, website development are all done in-house and to see our first shipments leave last week is one of my greatest achievements,” stated Steven Bach.

Aunex’s first product category which consist of Amplifiers, Equalizers, DSP and Accessories are now ready to ship.  “Our team presently is tasked with expanding our line to include Speakers, Midranges, Subwoofers and Enclosures to complement what we have already engineered.  We will start to introduce these new categories in stages starting in 2021,” said Steven.

If you are looking for a company that will offer cutting edge products, backed by a team of professionals whose job it is to engage and support its’ customers, then it is time to Declare Your Independence and contact the Aunex staff to become an Authorized Aunex Dealer.

“Look out for more press releases from Aunex, Inc. as we start our mission to Making The World Sound Better, One System At A Time.”

Visit www.aunexusa.com for more.

KENWOOD Invests in 12 Volt Future with 2 Industry Mogul Hires

LONG BEACH, CA (03.09.2020) – KENWOOD USA has hired Rob Voorhies as Sales Manager – Special Markets, and Tim Hill as Midwest Region Sales Manager.  With these positions, KENWOOD is committing to expand its focus on growth and guidance for the future of the 12 Volt industry.

Voorhies brings 30 years of consumer electronics industry experience, serving in various roles including Regional Manager, National Sales Manager, GM of Special Markets, and VP of Sales & Marketing.   Through his Manufacturing and Distribution experience, Voorhies has the background necessary to immediately power into action for KENWOOD’s Special Market Channels. “I am thrilled to be back at JVCKENWOOD,” said Voorhies. “I look forward to capitalizing on the growth of our cutting-edge technologies.” 

Hill has been an active part of selling KENWOOD products for over 40 years. Leveraging his background in Retail Sales, Installation, Store Management, then as a Manufacturer’s Sales Rep, he then opened his own rep firm in 2003, of which he represented KENWOOD since onset, earning the KENWOOD Rep of the Year Award 16 times.  “I’m ecstatic for the opportunity to work for a company that shares my passion for and cares so much about their dealers and the 12 Volt industry as whole,” said Hill.  “I can’t wait to begin meeting with our reps and dealers in the Midwest to find new and creative ways to help them grow their business.”  

“The chance to add Hill to the KENWOOD team wasn’t even a question, as I personally hired him as a KENWOOD Sales Rep in 2003 and am confident in his ability to seamlessly transition in his new role,” stated Mike Roberts, KENWOOD VP of Sales & Marketing.  “And with Voorhies extensive background and previous experience at our company, we know without a doubt that he is the best choice for leading the way for our Special Markets Channels.”  

Voorhies will be based out of Washington and can be reached at rvoorhies@us.jvckenwood.com.  Hill will be based out of Michigan and can be reached at thill@us.jvckenwood.com.

Visit us.jvckenwood.com for more.

Planet Audio Shipping New Rear-View License Plate Mount Camera

OXNARD, CA (03.09.2020) – Planet Audio is now shipping a new high resolution rear-view license plate mount camera. The PCAM40B has an MSRP of $24.99 at planetaudio.com and select online retailers. 

“Our new PCAM40B is not just for the safety minded, but also for those on a budget,” stated Jason Hannon, Planet Audio brand manager. “This weatherproof, high resolution color, wide-angle view camera stays hidden by being mounted behind the license plate with existing license plate mounting screws for easy installation. In today’s world, you can never be too safe, and the PCAM40B is the ideal unit to view and keep track of the world around your vehicle.”

Click here to visit the PCAM40B product page.

Additional features and specifications include:

  • On-screen Display Distance Guide
  • Low light visibility
  • NTSC output
  • Warranty – 1-year and 60-day hassle free returns

Visit planetaudio.com for more.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Is Rolling In 2020…Earmark Car Audio and Marine Wins

SHREVEPORT LA (03.07.20)  WTF…Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Just over 4 months ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel winner is Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX. The Wheel landed on the JBL space and JBL TUNE120 Ear Buds will be headed to Joe Parker at his store in Lewisville. We know Joe will enjoy the JBL Tune120’s around the store and on the lake.

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

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Precision Power, JBL, Power Acoustik, Farenheit, Wilson Electronics and Image Dynamics. SpellBrite, a manufacturer of in-store signage, also has a space. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Click to view.

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 and Audio Security in Houston TX. Congratulations to all.

JR Garcia pictured with the Cadence speakers in his Fresno CA store…Extreme Performing Audio. Garcia was the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel winner…spin number 63.

WTF….Where’s The Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel Friday, March 13th.
Want to enter for future spins? It’s easy – when making an Instagram post for your store include the hashtag #12voltspin to make sure your company has a slip in the jar. There are over 1100 #12voltspin posts on Instagram.  

With 18 chances to WIN, the 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is ready to shower a lucky weekly winner with one of the cool prizes.

Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!

Race Sport Lighting Dealer of the Year Award to Tint World Jacksonville NC

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (03.06.2020) – Tint World Store 079 received the Race Sport Lighting Tint World Store of the Year Award at the recent Tint World Franchise Convention in Fort Lauderdale. Race Sport Lighting CEO Steve Jergensen presented the award to David Pelletier in the Race Sport Lighting booth on the show floor. Team members Cameron Pelletier and Tyler Oingler, from the award winning Jacksonville store, were also present along with Neil Halprin-NH Sales and Marketing, Race Sport Lighting Account Manager.

Tint World Store 079 received the Race Sport Lighting Tint World Store of the Year Award. Race Sport Lighting CEO Steve Jergensen (R) with David and Cameron Pelletier ( 2nd & 3rd R) holding the Award. Tyler Oingler (L) from Store 079 is pictured with Neil Halprin-NH Sales and Paul Pirro from Tint World HQ (3rd L).

Halprin stated “The Jacksonville Tint World Store 79 really embraced the lighting category. It was a real pleasure to present their team with the Race Sport Lighting Tint World Store of the Year Award.”

Mike Perkins (R) and Mike Butler pictured by the Race Sport display with the Tint World Award in the Store 079 showroom. Mike and Mike make the lighting magic happen.

David Pellletier related to 12volt News “This was our first Tint World Conference and it was a terrific experience as we spent time with other franchise store personnel, attended presentations and spent time seeing vendors on the show floor. We see Race Sport as the lighting category leader and feature the category in our showroom. Race Sport Lighting displays, and banners, grab the attention of customers in the store. The lighting category offers so much potential for growth. LED headlights, underbody and interior lighting are all seeing strong sales at our store.”

Tyler Gentry (L) and Ruel Hinds pictured with the Tint World Social Media Achievement Award they helped Store 079 earn at the Tint World Conference.

To drive the lighting category the Jacksonville NC store hosts a ‘Get Lit Cruise’ event in the evening of the 2nd Saturday of each month. Customers meet at the store and, as a group, cruise to popular spots in the area. The store also actively engages with area car clubs and at events.

David Pelletier pictured at the sales counter in Tint World Store 079 in Jacksonville, NC.

Tint World Store 079 is proactive in their approach to marketing. A strong social media initiative earned the store a second Tint World Award during the Fort Lauderdale Convention… an Award for Social Media Achievement. Store events, like the ‘Get Lit Cruise,’ definitely drive consumer awareness and sales.

Great to see Store 079 ‘Get Their Shine On!’

Visit racesportinc.com and tintworld.com for more.