Custom Sounds & Tint CEO Mike Cofield Returns to MasterTech Expo with How to Remodel Your Store on a Budget

TEMPE, AZ (01.16.25) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce the return of Custom Sounds & Tint CEO Mike Cofield as he will conduct Business Session 3 – Transform Your Store on a Budget during MasterTech Expo 2025, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Cofield will guide attendees through quick and easy remodel strategies that have propelled Custom Sounds & Tint into a multimillion-dollar powerhouse in the car audio and tint industry.

“This dynamic seminar will empower business owners, retail managers, and entrepreneurs with practical solutions to transform their storefronts, store interiors, and merchandising strategies to maximize their potential without exceeding their budgets,” said Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “In his second year as a MasterTech presenter, Cofield brings a wealth of knowledge from his decades of leading Custom Sounds & Tint. His engaging teaching style, coupled with real-world examples, ensures that participants leave equipped with actionable insights to elevate their retail environments.”

Cofield added that his goal is to help attendees see their stores through a fresh lens. “By sharing the proven methods that worked for Custom Sounds, I hope to inspire business owners to improve their retail environment to not only drive sales but also align with their long-term vision for success.”

During the seminar, attendees will learn from Cofield’s extensive experience, including:
• Stunning Store Makeovers on a Budget:

  • Explore before-and-after transformations of Custom Sounds’ locations and the specific changes that delivered the biggest impact.
  • Learn to enhance customer engagement through clean, modern design principles.

• Cost-Effective Renovation Tactics:

  • Discover materials and upgrades that provide maximum value at minimum cost.
  • Gain insights into cost-efficient remodeling techniques.
  • Learn to achieve dramatic results at minimal costs.
  • Learn how strategic accessorizing and branding boost customer retention.
  • Uncover methods to inspire staff to take ownership of a transformed environment.

• Sustainability and Vision:

  • Align renovations with your brand’s long-term goals and operational efficiency.

“MasterTech Expo 2025 is the premier event for professionals in the automotive, retail, and technology industries, providing a platform to learn, collaborate, and celebrate excellence,” Schmitt concluded. “Cofield’s seminar is designed for any retailer looking to achieve polished, professional results while staying on budget.”

Reserve your spot today at www.mastertechexpo.com/business.

For media inquiries or more information about Mike Cofield’s session, please contact Bryan Schmitt at bryans@mobilesolutions-usa.com.

For more information and to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit mastertechexpo.com.

SLIM is Now PHAT: Orion Releases New XTR Ultra Shallow Subwoofers, Leading the Industry in BASS Per SPACE

PHOENIX, AZ (01.16.25) – Orion proudly unveils its latest innovation by introducing the XTR Shallow Woofers. Designed to redefine the standards of compact subwoofers, these ultra-shallow subs lead the industry in delivering unparalleled bass performance while requiring minimal space. Coupled with remarkable power handling and durability, the XTR Shallow Woofers ensure a deep, impactful bass experience without compromising quality.

Bill Turner, Orion’s Vice President of Dealer Success, expressed his excitement, stating, “The XTR Shallow Woofers represents a breakthrough in audio engineering, catering to the demands of users seeking powerful bass in a limited space environment. Our commitment to providing innovative solutions is underscored by these subwoofers, which perfectly balance performance and space-saving design.”

Available in 8”, 10”, and 12” sizes with dual 2 and 4 Ohm configurations, Orion’s XTR shallow subwoofers cater to a wide range of audio enthusiasts looking to enhance their sound systems. Specifically crafted for individuals who desire enhanced bass frequencies without needing a large subwoofer, these innovative products offer a compelling solution for maximizing audio performance in confined spaces.

The shallow design of the XTR subwoofers not only makes them ideal for motorsport installations but also ensures their compatibility with tight spaces such as motorcycle saddlebags.

With the release of the XTR Shallow Woofers, Orion continues to uphold its reputation for technological excellence and customer satisfaction. These subwoofers epitomize the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of audio innovation, providing users with a transformative audio experience that combines power, quality, and space efficiency.

Bill Turner – Orion O.G.
Vice President of Dealer Success

“Retailers, ORION IS BACK. Don’t just take our word for it. Embark on a FREE test ride. Select up to $500 worth of Orion products, test them out for 60 days risk-free, and enjoy complimentary round-trip shipping on us,” said Bill Turner, Vice President of Dealer Success. “Contact us at family@orioncaraudio.com today to explore the world of Orion and take advantage of this unparalleled opportunity.”

From customers to competitors and every retailer in between, if you have a question, hit us up at Family@OrionCarAudio.com

SEMA and PRI Celebrate California Withdrawal of Advanced Clean Fleets Waiver Request

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.16.25) – The state of California today withdrew its request for the Clean Air Act waiver needed to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation, a significant victory for those who seek a technology-neutral approach to reducing carbon emissions. The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) celebrate this important development, which halts an effort by California to overstep its constitutional and state statutory authority, and clears the path for the automotive aftermarket industry to continue leading the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity – particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions, and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.

SEMA in October filed suit in federal court challenging the regulation on the basis of significant constitutional questions. The lawsuit remains active as the organization considers the implications of California’s action.

SEMA now calls on California to immediately cease and desist the implementation and threatened enforcement of the Advanced Clean Fleets policy, as the law is clear in regards to the state needing federal approval for its implementation. Not to mention, the policy is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution.

“SEMA and its thousands of members in the automotive aftermarket industry are thrilled to learn of California’s decision on Advanced Clean Fleets, which represents a reprieve from the significant national implications that the policy would have wrought. Advanced Clean Fleets would have crippled interstate commerce by implementing harmful EV mandates on the trucking fleets that drive our nation’s economy. Now, we demand that California immediately halt its premature implementation and enforcement action already underway. The law is clear that, without its waiver, California has no foundation upon which to implement this policy,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA will continue our efforts to ensure the defeat of any shortsighted attempts to enact EV mandates, and instead champion a technology-neutral approach that rewards innovation, ingenuity, and practicality.”

SEMA 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.

BACKGROUND: SEMA and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) in October filed suit in the U.S. District Court’s Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its ACF regulations.

CARB’s ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California’s borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks, and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others whose trucks do not comply the ACF regulation would be barred from operating within the nation’s largest single-state economy for even a moment.

In their lawsuit, SEMA and NTEA contend that CARB’s actions far exceed California’s constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity–particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.    

SEMA is not an anti-EV organization; rather, the organization is steadfast in its belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California would have kneecapped other potential solutions, regardless of their promise for delivering the results the state seeks. Now, innovators and the free market will have an opportunity to provide meaningful contributions to efforts to eliminate carbon emissions.

Visit www.sema.org for more.

XS Power Parent Company Names Shawn Mayo New VP Of Sales

KNOXVILLE, TN (01.15.2025) – Systematic Holdings, LLC, the parent company of XS Power, Sundown Audio and other brands, has named Shawn Mayo as Vice President of Sales.

Mayo started off his career as a sales rep for XS Power and then began overseeing accounts under the Sundown Audio brand as well. For over 5 years, Shawn has worked with some of the largest distributors and dealers in the US and abroad, and has been instrumental in developing growth across the family of brands.

Shawn Mayo
XS Power VP of Sales

“We are excited to promote Shawn to the VP of Sales role for Systematic. For those of you who have had the pleasure of working with Shawn, you already know how much he’s contributed to our overall company success. He has a deep commitment to achieving the company’s goals, and his contributions have been instrumental in driving growth and building strong relationships with our customers.” says Scottie Johnson, CEO of Systematic Holdings.

Mayo has a strong background in the mobile electronics sector, including a long history in the competition car audio scene where his involvement in this industry began. Mayo won over 10 SPL world titles and has held numerous world records.

As many recall, Johnson was also very well known prior to XS Power as a heavily decorated SPL world champion as well. “We are all very competitive people here at Systematic. We find great enjoyment in pushing the envelope with all of our brands and engineering the absolute best products for our customers. This constant pursuit of excellence, for over 17 years, has given XS Power its reputation as a pioneer in the energy storage sector. To have the ability to promote someone from inside the company who has the motivation to continue that same culture of producing cutting edge and top tier products that I do, is so refreshing” adds Johnson.

Mayo and the Systematic crew will be at KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas, debuting a variety of new products and programs for 2025. This includes the much-anticipated rollout of “JY Power”, a re-vamped brick and mortar only battery line of products managed by Mayo and the Systematic team.

Visit 4xspower.com for more.

2025 SEMA Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.15.2025) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is accepting nominations for induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame, the Association’s highest honor, at www.sema.org/hof. The SEMA Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding persons in the automotive aftermarket who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or Association’s growth.

“SEMA’s Hall of Fame is a tribute to the leaders and changemakers who have propelled the industry forward in extraordinary ways,” said Jose Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “Each year, we seek to identify new individuals whose vision and accomplishments disrupted the status quo, set new benchmarks for excellence, and left an undeniable mark on the industry’s success.”

Established in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame is one of the Association’s longest-standing programs. To date, 180 individuals have been inducted, each exemplifying innovation, leadership, and positive change within the industry. These trailblazers have played a pivotal role in advancing the aftermarket industry through their dedication and passion.

Nominee qualifications include:

  • The candidate must have made contributions that extended beyond the local level and reached throughout the national and/or international level.
  • The candidate is and/or has been involved in the automotive specialty industry and/or SEMA for a minimum of 10 years, although 15 years is preferred.
  • The candidate must have made outstanding contributions toward enhancing technology, professionalism, dignity, and/or general stature and growth of the automotive specialty industry.
  • The candidate must have conducted himself/herself with a high degree of integrity both within and outside of the automotive specialty industry.
  • The candidate must be at least 50 years of age prior to the SEMA Show during the year of induction or they may be at any age if deceased as long as the nomination is presented at least one year posthumous.

SEMA is also accepting nominees that have been employed by the Association or have served as a contractor and/or vendor of SEMA. In addition to meeting the above qualifications, the nominee must have no less than one year of total separation from SEMA in any and all capacities, arrangements, or relationships.

The 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will be announced in May and honored during the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala in July.

Nominations are due by Friday, March 14, at josee@sema.org. Questions can be directed to Escobar at josee@sema.org. To view a list of SEMA Hall of Fame Inductees, visit this link.

MB Quart’s Toyota Tuned Speaker Systems Creates LOUD SOUND

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (01.15.2025) – Change your speaker game forever with Toyota Tuned speaker systems! It’s time to bring out more from your Toyota® Tacoma’s (2016-2023 – all trims) speaker game with MB Quart Toyota® Tuned Speaker Systems!

The TS1-2810 and TC1-118 Toyota Tuned speaker systems are premium audio upgrades tailored for Toyota Tacoma, Lexus, and Scion vehicles. Both systems offer easy OEM-style installation, improving sound quality over factory options with durable, vehicle-specific frames and components.

The MB Quart TS1-2810 8×10-inch 2-Way Component Speaker System is a premium upgrade specifically designed for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus vehicles. Featuring an OEM-style frame for easy installation, it replaces factory speakers with advanced components, including 8×10-inch speakers, Titanium dome tweeters, and WideSphere Tweeter Technology.

Follow the link HERE for more details on the TS1-2810 Speaker System.

The MB Quart TC1-118 7-inch 2-Way Coaxial Speaker System delivers higher-quality speaker playback with innovative components engineered for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion models, delivering clear audio with enhanced bass and treble. The speaker system is crafted with an OEM-style design for easy installation while providing improved sound quality over factory speakers.

Follow the link HERE for more details on the TC1-118 Speaker System.

Raise your vehicle speaker soundstage and bring Music. Defined. enhanced playback into every journey with Toyota® Tuned Speaker Systems.

From innovative Titanium dome tweeters and lightweight durable fiber cones to WideSphere Technology and reproduction of higher frequencies – both TS1-2810 and TC1-118 Toyota Tuned speaker systems will raise your speaker expectations to new heights with enhanced listening details.

Follow the link HERE to learn more on Toyota® Tuned Speaker Systems.

PowerBass Connected at the Supercross in Anaheim

ANAHEIM, CA (01.14.25) – PowerBass was on site in the DRT Racing Privateer Paddock set up at Angel Stadium in Anaheim CA on Saturday, January 11. Erik Harbour and Juan Quintana arrived on Friday and set up the PowerBass area of the Privateer Paddock set up.

Angel Stadium and the surrounding grounds were packed in Anaheim CA.
Erik Harbour (L) and Juan Quintana showcasing some of the PowerBass products that will be in the booth on Friday afternoon during set up.
Enthusiasts check out products at the Privateers Paddock booth.

“We were official sponsors of the Privateer Paddock and gave the young and coming riders a place packed with pit set ups, parts, meals and hospitality for all at the Angel Stadium arena. There will be more events events across the country. PowerBass soundbars lined in the Privateer Paddock providing the tunes for the crowd and riders to enjoy off track” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, related.

Lots of action in front of the PowerBass area.
Some of the swag PowerBass presented to winners in the Instagram live posts.

The event was a great opportunity to showcase PowerBass soundbars and portable Bluetooth speakers. Throughout the event members of the crowd had a great time enjoying the tunes and had a lot of interest for the soundbars for their UTVs and toy haulers.

The Anaheim Stadium ground were packed with enthusiast.
So much for enthusiast to check out

The PowerBass Bluetooth portable product lineup was also a huge hit as PowerBass did live Instagram post features to find winners for product giveaways during the day. “It was great seeing everyone wearing their PowerBass caps and swag inside the stadium all day as well” Harbour concluded.

Saturday January 18th in San Diego is the next event.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

HKI USA Announces A New Representative For Southern Territory

DANIA BEACH, FL (01.14.25) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital Amplifiers, Ground Zero Car Audio, Four Connect Wiring Products, and Tury Vehicle Enhancement products, announced a new Representative for Southern Territory

There have been a lot of changes going on with HKI USA, and they are pleased to announce a new member of the team. Crossover Marketing Group has taken on the task of being the boots on the ground in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. “We are extremely excited to be partnering with the team from Crossover Marketing Group. 2025 is going to be a very fun year here at HKI USA” says Tommy Spears – Director of Sales and Marketing with HKI USA.

“I’m thrilled to join the HKI USA Sales Force and represent such a dynamic and innovative company. This opportunity allows me to collaborate with a team that shares my commitment to excellence and drive to exceed expectations in the 12-volt industry. Together, we’ll work to provide unparalleled support and solutions for our customers” says Shawn Simpson, Principal for Crossover Marketing Group’s Southeastern Territory.

For more information about our brand(s) and our growing family, please visit http://www.hki-usa.com or e-mail info@hki-usa.com.

Wet Sounds Introduces New Portable Speaker: The Loudest Portable Speaker On The Market

HOUSTON, TX (01.14.25) – Wet Sounds, a global leader in premium marine, powersports, and outdoor audio solutions, is thrilled to unveil the Wet Sounds Portable, a revolutionary wireless technology speaker that utilizes SKAA® & Bluetooth® capabilities to set a new standard for sound quality and versatility. Designed to perform in any environment, the Wet Sounds Portable delivers powerful, crystal-clear audio for every adventure—from poolside parties to beach days and everything in between.

The Wet Sounds Portable combines rugged durability with advanced audio technology, making it the perfect companion for professional, leisure and active lifestyles.

Key Features of the Wet Sounds Portable:

  • Unmatched Sound Performance: Produces an impressive 126 dB output, filling any space with rich, dynamic sound.
  • Seamless Connectivity: Features pro-grade SKAA wireless audio for minimal latency and Bluetooth with a 60-foot range.
  • Built for Adventure: With an IP67 weather resistant and dustproof rating, the speaker is engineered to thrive in harsh marine, powersport, and outdoor conditions. Protects against temporary immersions in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
  • Portable and Stackable Design: Weighing just 25 pounds, the speaker includes an ergonomic handle for easy carrying and interlocking capabilities for secure stacking and transport.
  • Customizable LED Lighting: Create the perfect ambiance with vibrant, integrated LED lights using our compatible ‘Wet Sounds SKAA cmd’ App.

“We’re proud to introduce the Wet Sounds Portable as the latest innovation in our lineup of high-performance audio products,” said Mark Gerick, COO of Wet Sounds. “This speaker has been a passion project of ours for a while, where we wanted to combine the exceptional Wet Sounds clarity and rugged design with the demands of todays active lifestyles. Whether you’re on the water, in the backyard, or on the go, the Wet Sounds Portable ensures your music experience is second to none.”

The Wet Sounds Portable will be available in February 2025 through Wet Sounds’ official website, authorized dealers nationwide, and approved online retail sites. For more information, visit www.wetsounds.com.

Tint World Expands its Footprint in the Lone Star State, Adds Presence in Cypress

HOUSTON, TX (01.13.2025) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues delivering premium aftermarket styling and performance products and services to Texas drivers and automotive enthusiasts with the opening of its new location in Cypress.

Tint World Cypress, owned and operated by entrepreneur and luxury car veteran Mykel Walker, is the 26th Tint World location in the Lone Star State. This marks the second Tint World location for Walker, who has than 15 years of high-end dealership experience.

The Tint World color theme greets consumers when they enter the store.

“I’m thrilled to further establish myself as part the Tint World family,” Walker said. “Tint World has an amazing presence across Texas, and it’s easy to see why – customers enjoy the highest level of quality, convenience and value at every location. On top of that, Tint World’s franchise systems and support empower franchisees to focus on their goals and achieve their financial dreams.”

Seating provides an ideal setting to present and discuss products.
The sales counter is designed for efficiency.

Tint World Cypress, which serves Cypress, Houston, Katy, Spring, Tomball, The Woodlands, Jersey Village and Magnolia, is located at 20330 Tuckerton Rd. Ste. 700, Cypress, Texas 77433. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Cypress, call (281) 720-8588 or visit the store online.

The large installation area will soon be filled with customer’s vehicles for installations.

“Mykel is bringing energy and passion to Cypress that customers love and will help us continue to grow in Texas and internationally,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “He’s a valuable part of the Tint World team. We’re proud he’s part of the family and look forward to supporting his ongoing success.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.