AXPONA and IASCA Announce Inaugural Car Audio Showcase at AXPONA 2025

CHICAGO, IL (03.14.25) – January 22 2025 – AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), the largest high-end audio event in North America, is excited to announce the debut of its Car Audio Showcase at the 2025 edition, which will be held from April 11-13 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. In partnership with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA), AXPONA is expanding its footprint to include the growing trend of high-fidelity car audio, offering car enthusiasts and industry professionals a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge car audio systems and innovations.

“The Car Audio Showcase is a groundbreaking addition that taps into the increasing demand for high-fidelity audio systems in vehicles. As in-car audio technology has evolved dramatically over the past decade, car audio enthusiasts are looking for the same clarity and precision they experience in their home systems,” said Liz Smith, AXPONA. “The Car Audio Showcase will bring these high-end systems into the spotlight, offering attendees an immersive experience like never before.”

“We’re thrilled to be part of AXPONA’s inaugural Car Audio Showcase. Our IASCA team can’t wait to demonstrate the incredible potential of car audio and show the world what’s possible when passion, precision, and technology come together. We’re redefining expectations of automotive sounds and encourage seasoned audiophiles and novices to swing by the showcase for a demo session,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA.

A New Level of Sound at AXPONA

This year’s Car Audio Showcase will feature a thrilling Sound Quality (SQ) competitionlive demonstrations, and interactive exhibits highlighting some of the best in-car audio technology from top-tier manufacturers and dealers from around the world.

AXPONA’s live Sound Quality (SQ) competition will feature manufacturers and consumers who will compete for top honors in achieving unparalleled sound clarity and precision in custom-built car audio systems. Competition vehicles will be on the expo floor in a designated area and also be available for spectator demos throughout the show.

Attendees will be able to engage directly with leading car audio brands and see their innovations up close. With interactive displays and hands-on demonstrations, visitors will witness the performance and capabilities of cutting-edge products firsthand. Notable exhibitors include:

  • Apex USA
  • Audio Wave, USA
  • Coherence Systems
  • ESB Audio
  • Delorean
  • Harman International
  • Malbork
  • Zapco

Open to the public, AXPONA offers a variety of ticket options for attendees.

TICKETS:

1 Day – $30 online, $35 onsite

Multi-Day – $60 online, $95 onsite

Gen Z Pass – $15 online, $20 onsite

All general admission tickets grant access to the exhibits including Listening Rooms and Exhibit Hall, as well as educational seminars, live music, and special events.

AXPONA opens Friday, April 11 10am-6pm; Saturday, April 12 10am-6pm; and Sunday, April 13 10am-4pm.

For more information on ticketing and ticketing options, please visit www.axpona.com/register.asp

Hertz Marine Launches Capri: The Industry’s First Hi-Res Audio Certified Stereo

NASHVILLE, TN (03.13.25) – Hertz Marine, the renowned Italian producer of premium marine-grade audio equipment, today announced Capri, the latest addition to its line of marine stereos and the industry’s only unit to be Hi-Res Audio certified.

In a market where boaters invest heavily in amplifiers and speakers, the stereo – or source unit – has long been the weakest link, offering 16-bit/44.1 kHz CD-quality audio at best. Capri solves the performance issues of traditional marine stereos by offering 24 bit/96 kHz playback and an extended audio band up to 40 kHz to support lossless audio. This quality and performance lead Capri to be the only source unit to receive a Hi-Res audio certification, demonstrating its ability to reproduce even subtle details and nuances you’d hear in the recording studio.

Further building on Capri’s ability to maximize performance of a boat’s audio system on all levels, it offers 280 watts of high-fidelity powerwith a built-in amplifier and four zones of independent control each with their own subwoofer and a customizable eight-band digital equalizer (EQ).

“When boaters invest their money in a premium audio experience, they deserve a source unit that stands up to and exceeds their expectations,” said Pietro Pantaleone, president of Elettromedia, the parent company of Hertz. “Capri is our answer to this long-standing industry gap. With Capri, every note, detail and nuance of your favorite music is reproduced with stunning clarity. With independent control over four audio zones, a robust weatherproof design, and a suite of advanced connectivity options, Capri is more than an upgrade—it’s the core to provide boaters the premium audio experience they deserve.”

Designed to be more than a stereo, Capri is the definitive multimedia source unit that completes the premium boat audio ecosystem:

  • Bridges the Premium Audio Gap: Designed to complement top-tier marine audio systems, Capri eliminates the weak link in your audio chain, delivering a cohesive, high-fidelity experience.
  • Industry-First Hi-Res certification: Capri is the first marine stereo engineered for hi-res performance both wired and wireless, ensuring every musical detail is captured with breathtaking clarity.
  • Engineered For Maximum Performance: Built-in Class D amplifier that delivers 280 watts of high-fidelity power to speakers and subwoofers (4 x 70 W RMS @4 ohms). Capri’s use of Class D amplification is particularly beneficial for boater’s as it provides higher efficiency, lower power consumption, reduced heat dissipation, and a compact size.
  • Personalized Listening Zones: Four independent audio zones with dedicated subwoofer control and a customizable eight-band digital EQ lets boaters tailor their listening experience to the moment.
  • Dynamic Visual Command with Multimedia Support: A 4.3” full-color TFT IPS display provides a better image quality and refresh rate compared to LCD screens. This makes Capri visible even in bright daylight and dimmable for effortless navigation in low-light conditions. Capri is also a true multimedia source unit with video support for external cameras like Hertz’s HM CAM W01.
  • Unmatched Durability: With an IP67-rated chassis with ASTM-D4329 standards for UV resistance and ASTM-B117 for salt fog operability, Capri is engineered to perform season after season, no matter the conditions.
  • Seamless Connectivity: Enjoy a global AM/FM tuner with Radio Data System (RDS), Weather band, DAB+, Bluetooth 5.1, Aux-In, and USB 2.0—ensuring effortless integration with your devices.

Hertz Marine’s Capri (MSRP: $875.00) is available today. For more information and full product details, visit hertz-audio.com.

Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren Announce Extension of Their Successful Partnership to Include the McLaren Formula 1 Team

CARLSBAD, CA (03.13.25) – Bowers & Wilkins, the renowned high-end audio brand, together with luxury supercar maker and Formula 1 team McLaren, today announce an extension to their strategic long-term multi-year partnership which sees Bowers & Wilkins become Official Audio Partner across McLaren Automotive and the McLaren Formula 1 Team.

This new partnership chapter continues the decade-long collaboration between McLaren Automotive and Bowers & Wilkins. Since 2015, Bowers & Wilkins has been a partner in the development of high-performance audio systems for McLaren supercars, bringing cutting-edge sound performance. Bowers & Wilkins’ relentless pursuit of perfection, inspired by founder John Bowers, mirrors the unyielding precision and performance demanded in Formula 1 racing. McLaren’s own unrelenting approach was born of visionary founder Bruce McLaren’s desire to design and build the world’s most accomplished racing cars. Both brands’ determination to exceed the limits of what is possible is evident in their respective approaches to performance and design excellence.

The McLaren Automotive partnership is built on firm technical foundations. Bowers & Wilkins’ revered engineering team work closely with counterparts at McLaren Automotive to create and optimise the audio system found in the company’s supercars, including the recently announced McLaren W1. The W1’s audio system features premium audio technology designed to integrate into the interior’s InnoKnit fabric and carbon fibre architecture, utilising the very latest advanced speaker technologies developed in Southwater, home to the Bowers & Wilkins research and development team and only 30 miles away from the McLaren Technology Centre.

“Exceptional audio performance is key to further enriching the engagement of a McLaren. Specialist engineers from McLaren Automotive and Bowers & Wilkins have worked in partnership since 2015 to develop and deliver the sound technologies that ensure the levels of audio system excellence our customers demand.” Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Chief Commercial Officer, McLaren Automotive.

By extending the partnership into the McLaren Formula 1 Team, the brands are further highlighting the depth of their relationship. Building on a successful award-winning range of co-designed products, including the Px8 McLaren Edition and Zeppelin McLaren Edition, new projects are in development to further appeal to the Formula 1 team’s substantial global fanbase.

Additionally, Bowers & Wilkins products will play a crucial role in the team’s extensive travel, relaxation and pre-race preparation needs throughout the season.

“We’re delighted to welcome Bowers & Wilkins to McLaren Racing, building on their partnership with McLaren Automotive. Both brands share a commitment to innovation and technical excellence, and we look forward to creating exciting new products for our fans together.” Nick Martin, Co-Chief Commercial Officer, McLaren Racing

Speaking on behalf of Bowers & Wilkins, Tom Henderson, Marketing Director for Licensing and Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to continue and build upon our highly successful car audio development programme as well as continuing to explore co-branded product opportunities, building on the success of the Px8 McLaren Edition and Zeppelin McLaren Edition with products and storytelling that connect us to the exciting world of McLaren Racing.”

Learn more at www.bowerswilkins.com.

Audiopipe Introduces The New TXX-BDX-15 Competition 15” Subwoofer

MIAMI, FL (03.13.25) – Elevate your audio system with the TXX-BDX-15, a high-performance 15-inch competition subwoofer designed for superior sound quality and durability. Featuring three powerful magnets for increased power handling and enhanced voice coil ventilation, this subwoofer ensures optimal performance under extreme conditions.

The Audiopipe TXX-BDX-15 features 3 powerful magnets.

With a peak power of 4,000 watts and 2,000 watts RMS, it delivers deep, distortion-free bass. The aluminum basket, ultra-stiff PP dust cap, and black stitched surround provide exceptional durability, while the multi-connect terminals allow for easy wiring in parallel or series configurations.

Mauricio Duran shows the new Audiopipe TXX-BDX15 high-performance 15” competition subwoofer in the company’s Miami Florida warehouse. “Our amazing new subwoofer is in stock and ready to ship” Mauricio related.

The TXX-BDX-15Features include

  • Peak Power: 4,000 Watts | RMS Power: 2,000 Watts
  • Impedance: Dual 4-Ohm and 2-Ohm configurations available
  • Magnet System: Three-magnet design for increased power handling (375 Oz)
  • Voice Coil: 3″ 4-layer high-temperature black aluminum (BASV) voice coil with enhanced ventilation
  • Frequency Response: 28Hz – 1,100Hz
  • Sensitivity: 87dB
  • Aluminum Basket: Powder-coated black for durability and optimal sound quality
  • Cone & Surround: Thick, non-press paper cone with a sand-blasted finish and reinforced black stitching surround
  • Vented Holes on T-Yoke: Improved heat dissipation for better performance
  • Patent Pipe Multi-Connect Terminals: Simplifies wiring in parallel or series configurations
  • Mounting Depth: 9-1/2″ (242mm)

Elevate your customer’s audio systems with the new Audiopipe TXX-BDX-15.

Visit audiopipe.com for more.

DOW Technologies Hires 12Volt Veteran

TAMPA, FL (03.12.25) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned technology distributor, announced today that Jeremy Doran has joined the company as an Account Manager for the 12Volt channel. Mr. Doran brings 30 years of experience in the 12Volt industry, including working at DOW previously.

Doran began his career as an installer after graduating from Mobile Dynamics in 1996. He has continuously expanded his expertise through multiple MECP certifications, ASE A6 certification, and other industry credentials. During his career in retail, he worked every aspect of the business from installation and sales to business management and marketing. Joining DOW originally in 2012, Doran was an account manager on a team that helped DOW grow and expand their 12Volt business. In 2014, Doran joined Stinger as Technical Support eventually becoming the Marketing Manager for the PAC brand. Most recently, Doran was the Operations Manager at Tint World’s corporate office.

Jeremy Doran

“I’m excited to be back with DOW Technologies and to reconnect with our incredible dealers,” stated Doran. “DOW has always been committed to providing the best support and solutions in the industry, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that mission.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy back to the DOW team,” stated Mike Blackwell, territory manager 12V Southeast & Mid-Atlantic. “His deep industry knowledge and hands-on experience make him a valuable resource for our dealers. Jeremy’s passion for the 12Volt industry and commitment to customer success align perfectly with DOW’s mission to support and grow our partners’ businesses.”

“Jeremy’s extensive background in installation, sales, and marketing brings a unique perspective that will greatly benefit our dealers,” added Dave Elkin, senior vice president, sales and product management. “His return to DOW is a testament to the strength of our team and the opportunities we provide. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to the positive impact he will have.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

IASCA SQ Judges Training At Genesis Audio

GAHANNA, OH (03.12.25) – As IASCA prepares for the competition season a Sound Quality judges training was held this past weekend at Genesis Audio in Gahanna, OH. “A new group of participants have started their mentorship with IASCA to become sound quality judges” Travis Chin, IASCA President stated.

The 2-Day course covered rules and scoring and ended with over 20 area competitors bringing competition vehicles to the SQ event so that trainees could try out their new skills.

The group at the Judges Training on the front steps of Genesis Audio. John Senters (2nd R).

John Senters, Genesis Audio owner and long-time competitor, orchestrated the event with store staff members. “We had a dozen enthusiasts on site for the training session. On Day-1 in one of our sound rooms we covered the basic IASCA judging rules and fielded questions from audience members about the vehicle judging process. On Day-2 we were outside on our grounds completing IASCA judging steps in the vehicles of area enthusiasts” Senters related.

Judges training taking place in this Genesis Audio showroom.

Continuing “Everyone site was very interested on in-vehicle Sound Quality. Over the two days we were able to spend in-person with everyone during time for food and conversations. The SQ enthusiasts are a community who enjoy the best in-vehicle music and Sound Quality.

Genesis Audio sells both home and car products. Senters himself is is a longtime competitor on the IASCA circuit. Recently he traveled to the Tampa for the Florida International Audio Expo focused on home audiophiles. At the event IASCA once again had a presence outside to showcase in-vehicle Sound Quality.

Concluding Senters related “The Sound Quality community really includes home and car audio enthusiasts. Inviting home enthusiasts out audition car really opened some eyes for sound quality on the road.”

“IASCA would like to thank John, Genesis Audio and for hosting the judges training event” Chin added.

Visit https://genesisaudio.com/

Meyer Distributing Announces Midland, TX Location

JASPER, IN (03.12.25) – Meyer Distributing, Inc. announces the addition of its Midland, TX crossdock. The crossdock will have a direct feed from Meyer’s Arlington, TX distribution hub, which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories, crash and collision, 4×4/Off-Road, and RV parts in the region.

“Meyer holds deep inventory on all the products you need to service the patch,” states Gary Filipski, Meyer’s Sales Manager for the Southwest U.S. “We’ve got you covered from front to rear end protection and everything in between—tanks, pumps, toolboxes, headache racks, and much more—all ready for next day installation! Give us a call today at 1.800.MEYERUSA (800.639.3787)!”

“The Midland, TX dock is part of a broader West Texas rollout to beef up our logistics network,” states Jeff Braun, CEO of Meyer. “We’ll have increased daily truck capacity significantly for the Midland/Odessa region for very large, commercial orders while expanding deliveries more broadly to rural West Texas reaching as far as Pecos, Fort Stockton, Sonora, Mason, Brady and other smaller market towns that aren’t getting affordable truck service.”

Visit meyerdistributing.com for more.

The Supercross Event Brought The Action To Lucas Oil Stadium

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (03.11.25) – The Lucas Oil Stadium grounds were active throughout the day on Saturday, March 9th. It was sunny but chilly outside as vendors had their tents with displays set up outside. PowerBass had a strong presence in the Privateer Paddock area. Power Bass, National Sales Manager, Jeff Falk was in the house along with the area representative Keith Selby Cardinal Sales Principal. Selby arranged for area retailers Adrenaline Cycles and Central Kentucky Motorsports team members to be in the booth. At 7PM that night the action started on the track inside the Lucas Oil Stadium as riders raced around the track and over mounds as a crowd reported to be at 50,000 roared their approval in the stands.

The grounds outside Lucas Oil Stadium were busy throughout the day with vendor booths set up outside.

Jeff Falk related “It was a great event. A big turnout and spectators loved the music coming from our award-winning PowerBass Soundbars coming out of the Privateer Paddock booth. The event provided a lot of great exposure for the PowerBass brand and our products. Spending time with two proactive retailers was very informative to get their views from the territory.”

Model Kennedy from SJL was set up in the PowerBass area of the Privateer Paddock booth.
The PowerBass team at the Privateer Paddock booth (RtoL) Jeff Falk, Adam Peterson, model Kennedy, Keith Selby and Dustin Green.

“The event drew a great crowd through the day and everybody was really happy and excited for the action on the track that night. This was my first Supercross event and the crowd in the Lucas Oil Stadium was really engaged in the action. Spending time with dealers Dan and Chris let us know what their customers were looking for to add audio on the trails” Keith Selby commented.

Action on the track was fast as riders were flying high over the mounds.

Adam Peterson, owner of Adrenaline Cycles, traveled to the event from London, KY over 250 miles away. “Our time spent outside in the Privateer Paddock booth was a great opportunity for me along with Dustin Greene, our in-house tech, to talk about PowerBass Soundbars and what enthusiast and riders are looking for as they upgraded their rides for the coming season. Connecting with riders too. Our main business is actually selling UTVs and Side X Side vehicles and adding audio upgrades. The PowerBass products have been great for customers at our store.”

Attempts to contact Chris Johnson at Central Kentucky Motorsports were not successful on Monday, March 10th.

PowerBass VP, Erik Harbour, stated “Partnering with Privateer Paddock has been a great opportunity for us to connect with enthusiasts and consumers in their set up at Supercross events across the country. This visibility is expanding enthusiast’s interest in adding PowerBass audio upgrades and other products to their rides. In addition, dealers attending the Supercross events have a fun day and racing experience they will remember for a long time.”

Super images provided by Keith Selby.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

Alpine Names Dan Sparks as the Director of National Sales

AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.11.25) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) names Dan Sparks as the Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division. Sparks brings a strong repertoire of sales and leadership experience to the position in addition to six years of service to the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division.

“We are thrilled to announce that Dan Sparks has accepted the role of the Director of National Sales,” said Kunihiko Sato, Executive Director of the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America. “Dan has a long history with the Alpine brand, and we are confident that he will continue to provide value and exceptional sales support to our retailers.”

After a successful stint as an Alpine Sales Representative at Online AV, Sparks began his career with Alpine in 2019 as a District Sales Manager, responsible for the growth and success of the Alpine Brand in the Midwest Region. Afterward, Sparks transitioned to a Senior Sales and Marketing Analyst in 2022, extending his support to the entire Alpine dealer base in North America. In 2024, Sparks spearheaded the “New Business Development” team, a new department that sought to showcase the Alpine product line to a new audience to strengthen the brand’s reputation and create new opportunities.

“It is truly an honor to take on this new role,” said Dan Sparks. “My affinity for the Alpine brand started when I was a teenager and has grown into a passion that gets poured into this business every day. I appreciate the opportunity and feel very blessed to be able to contribute to such a talented team.”

As the Director of National Sales, Sparks will oversee all sales activities for the Alpine Brand, supporting an extensive network of instore and online Alpine retailers throughout the United States.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

Massive Audio Unveils the P8NTi: A High-Performance 8″ Weatherproof Coaxial Speaker

LOS ANGELES, CA (03.11.25) – Massive Audio, a company built for audio enthusiasts and professionals alike, proudly introduces the P8NTi, an 8-inch, 4-ohm mid-bass pro audio coaxial speaker designed for exceptional power, clarity, and durability. Whether for professional sound systems, automotive upgrades, marine applications, or outdoor setups, the P8NTi delivers superior performance with its lightweight neodymium magnet and weatherproof construction.

Key Features & Specifications of the P8NTi

  • Uncompromising Power & Clarity
    With 160 Watts RMS and 320 Watts Max Power, the P8NTi is built for high-output systems that demand precision and strength. Whether installed in a custom audio build, a competitive car audio setup, or a professional outdoor system, this speaker ensures deep, resonant mid-bass and crisp highs without distortion—even at peak volume levels.
  • Neodymium Magnet for Maximum Efficiency
    At the core of the P8NTi lies a high-temperature neodymium magnet, delivering exceptional magnetic strength with a fraction of the weight of traditional ferrite magnets. This efficient yet powerful design enhances responsiveness and sensitivity, ensuring that every beat, note, and vocal cut through the mix with precision, even in demanding environments.
John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio, proudly stands alongside the new P8NTi speakers, ready to bring high-performance sound to audio enthusiasts and professionals alike.
  • All-Weather Durability for Any Environment
    Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the P8NTi is built with weatherproof materials, making it an ideal choice for marine audio, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, and outdoor events. Its moisture-resistant cone, UV-resistant surround, and reinforced basket protect against harsh weather, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged exposure to the elements, ensuring consistent performance in any setting.

  • Integrated 12dB Crossover with Smart Tweeter Protection
    Unlike conventional speakers, the P8NTi features a built-in 12dB crossover network that intelligently distributes frequencies between the mid-bass driver and the titanium tweeter. This ensures that low frequencies remain deep and punchy, while highs stay clean and distortion-free. Additionally, the poly switch protection safeguards the tweeter against power overloads, extending its lifespan and maintaining audio clarity over time.
  • Precision-Engineered Heavy-Duty Construction
    Every detail of the P8NTi is crafted for maximum durability and sonic performance.
    • Heavy gauge basket reduces unwanted vibrations and enhances sound integrity
    • Hand-treated, hardened paper cone delivers an accurate and responsive sound profile
    • Plasticized cloth surround enhances flexibility while ensuring long-lasting structural integrity
    • Reinforced aluminum phase plug improves sound dispersion, making high frequencies more focused and defined
  • Versatile Installation & Wide Application Range
    Built for flexibility and adaptability, the P8NTi can be seamlessly installed in a variety of audio systems. Whether you’re a car audio enthusiast looking for a competition-grade mid-bass driver, an installer outfitting a marine vessel, or a professional building a stage system, this speaker provides premium sound without limitations.

Industry Endorsement

“At Massive Audio, we take pride in delivering high-quality products that elevate the listening experience,” said Mr. Madani, Owner of Massive Audio. “The P8NTi is designed for those who demand performance, precision, and durability in every aspect of their sound system. Whether you’re upgrading a vehicle, installing a marine system, or enhancing a pro audio setup, this speaker is built to deliver.”

A Word from Our Sales Manager, John Velez

“We’re excited to bring the P8NTi to market because it’s exactly what our customers have been asking for—powerful performance, rugged durability, and crystal-clear sound,” said John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio. “If you’re interested in adding this to your inventory or learning more about our product lineup, I’d love to connect and help you find the right solutions for your needs.”

The P8NTi is now available through Massive Audio’s authorized retailers and website.

Interested in Selling Massive Audio Products?

For wholesale inquiries, dealership opportunities, or more information on becoming a reseller, please contact:

📞 John Velez, Sales Manager at +1(626) 523-8954
📧 Email: john.velez@massiveaudio.com