Team Nutz Wrapped Another Successful Pittsburgh Auto Show

PITTSBURGH, PA (02.17.26) – The Pittsburgh International Auto Show was back at the David L Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh February 13th thru 16th. The 4-Day show brought exciting new vehicles, displays, products and fun for the whole family. In all the show featured over 40 makes and models of vehicles from around the world.

Team Nutz had several booths and all were busy throughout the event.
Team Nutz offered a free T-Shirt for attendees scanned the QR Code and engaged on social media.

Team Nutz, a proactive 12volt and automotive aftermarket retailer, was once again on site. This year, the Team Nutz occupied a 8,500 square foot booth in the Convention Center plus live demo and installations areas. Team Nutz has been exhibiting at the Pittsburg Auto Show for over 18 years. During the show there were 6-10 members of the Team Nutz crew engaged with show attendees in meaningful one-on-one conversations and demonstrations. The Team Nutz crew connected with many of the crowd of 40,000.

Body wrap installations took place live on the show floor.
Ben Bjerke showed seating upgrades.

For Team Nutz Ed Nuttall stated “We handed out Team Nutz bags, hundreds and hundreds of decals, pens lanyards, magnets and ran out of 2500 business cards. Our booth was packed with attendees to see demo vehicles, a big selection of wheels, OEM Display, a Marine display, a wide variety of product displays plus live installations of vehicle wraps, paint protection polishing, window tinting, leather seat installations and DSP audio demos.”

This attendee was blown away after listening to the Audison DSP audio demo.
The 2026 Pittsburgh Auto Show is a wrap!

Continuing “People that experienced the DSP demo were amazed. We had rock, country and rap music set for the demos. Also this year we continued our custom QR code focus to connect with attendees on social media. When attendees scanned the all the QR Code platforms they took home a custom T-Shirt. We added over 300 followers to our Facebook followers halfway through the event. Letting attendees see all the upgrades we can add to their rides will drive business in our store into the future.”

Screenshot

During the event Mike Gosnik posted multiple live social media posts that will be reposted in the coming days, weeks and months after the event.

The show was a great event, and the phones will be ringing all week at the store with social media action, too.

Visit www.teamnutztechnology.com for more.

Diamond Audio Unveiled A Revolutionary 8’x12″ Cut-In Lid Kit for 2024+ Harley-Davidson at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS, NV (02.17.26) – Diamond Audio, the industry leader in high-performance motorcycle audio, proudly announced the debut of its groundbreaking 8×12″ Cut-In Lid Kit designed specifically for 2024 and newer Harley-Davidson touring models. Unveiled at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, this kit represents a massive leap forward in output and integration for the new generation of Harley saddlebags.

The largest cone area meets precision engineering for the Ultimate Bagger Audio Experience.

At the heart of this innovation is a Patent Pending design (US Provisional Patent Application No.: 63/951,910) that utilizes a massive 8″x12″ HMXFB Series speaker. By opting for this unique oval format, Diamond Audio provides riders with the largest possible cone area for maximum sound pressure levels while strategically retaining usable storage space within the saddlebag—a feat previously thought impossible with drivers of this scale.

The large Cerwin Vega/Diamond Audio booth was a stand out on the show floor.

“On Day 2 at KnowledgeFest Nathan Larson, Director of Powersports, gave an in depth presentation on the show floor in the Cerwin Vega/Diamond Audio booth. The presentation covered the huge commitment for new products for both the Cerwin Vega and Diamond Audio brands in the Side-x-Side Market with over 160 new products combined in just this category” John Catalano, Director Product Development and Controlled Chaos, related.

Contunuing “Following Nathan’s well attended and very informative presentation we spent over 20 minutes fielding questions including inquiries about the new stuff. We just wish it was already in stock. Beginning in March-May we will see all the new products in inventory.”

Nathan Larson opens the training Day 2.

The kit features the all-new HMXFB 2-way speakers, engineered for the harsh environment of the open road: Carbon Fiber Cone: Delivers intense impact and lightning-fast transient response.

1.5″ Compression Loaded Titanium Tweeter: Provides crisp, musical high-frequency detail and increased output to cut through wind and exhaust noise.

Neodymium Motor: A high-energy magnet structure that offers immense power handling while significantly reducing weight. Fiber-Reinforced Basket: Ensures rigid stiffness and durability without the bulk of traditional cast baskets. Rugged, Reliable Engineering

Following the presentation, Nathan Larson was taking questions for over 20 minutes.
The Diamond Audio demo bike was loaded with power.

The Lid Kit is built for the long haul, featuring brass inserts to ensure the inner gasket and outer housing maintain a perfect, reliable, and water-tight fit. For riders seeking the absolute maximum in low-end punch, Diamond Audio is also offering an optional tunable port kit to further enhance bass impact and overall output.

“With the 2024+ Harley platform, we didn’t just want to make another speaker kit; we wanted to dominate the space. By utilizing the 8″x12″ format and our patent-pending housing, we are giving riders more air movement and more volume than anything else on the market, all while keeping their bags functional” Catalano concluded.

Availability: The Diamond Audio 2024+ Harley Cut-In Lid Kit is scheduled to begin shipping in April 2026.

For more see www.diamondaudio.com.

ORACLE Lighting Introduces the New Mercedes Benz Sprinter Dual In Dash Switch Pod

METAIRIE, LA (02.17.26) – ORACLE Lighting is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter owners: the all-new Dual In-Dash Switch Pod engineered specifically for the 2018+ W907/W910 Sprinter platform. This OEM-style solution seamlessly integrates dual accessory controls into the vehicle’s dashboard, delivering professional fit, refined aesthetics, and intuitive functionality designed for modern adventure van builds, professional fleets, and custom conversions. 

With demand accelerating for clean, efficient accessory control systems that preserve factory interior quality, ORACLE Lighting’s Dual In-Dash Switch Pod answers the call. This precision-molded pod installs directly into the Sprinter’s original dash switch location without modification, offering a finished look that blends with the vehicle’s interior architecture. 

“We designed this switch pod to deliver both form and functionality for Sprinter owners who want accessory control without compromising the dashboard’s factory look,” said an ORACLE Lighting spokesperson. “Whether you’re outfitting a campervan, overland rig, or work van, this solution provides intuitive access to your 12V accessories with OEM-quality styling.”

Key Features and Benefits

  • Factory-Integrated Design: Precision-engineered for the 2018+ Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W907/W910 to install seamlessly in the OEM dash location — no cutting or custom trimming required. 
  • Dual Accessory Control: Two dedicated switches allow independent operation of 12V accessories such as LED lighting, compressors, fridges, and more. 
  • Universal 12V Compatibility: Ideal for a range of aftermarket 12V accessories, providing flexible electrical control in a compact, integrated package. 
  • Straightforward Installation: Snap-in mount with detachable wiring ensures serviceability and tidy wiring management. 

This dual switch pod enables Sprinter owners to centralize electrical accessory controls in the most ergonomic and visually-cohesive way possible, preserving both the interior’s refined aesthetic and practical utility. 

Availability:
The ORACLE Lighting Dual In-Dash Switch Pod is currently available for pre-order exclusively through ORACLE Lighting’s online store.

For detailed product information, installation guidance, and high-resolution images, visit www.oraclelights.com.

JVC Mobile Electronics Announces Rep Firm and Rep of the Year Award Winners

LONG BEACH, CA (02.13.26) – JVC Mobile Electronics proudly announces its Rep Firm and Rep of the Year Award recipients, recognizing outstanding performance, dedication, and partnership across its regional sales network.

These awards honor representative firms and individuals who demonstrated exceptional commitment to territory management, customer support, and the continued growth of the JVC Mobile Electronics brand.

Eastern Region

Rep Firm of the Year
Tech Marketing

Steve Paul proudly holds the Tech Marketing Rep Firm of the Year plaque. Steve Cote, Mark Dombrosky and John Lucas (LtoR) flank Steve Paul.

Tech Marketing earned Eastern Region Rep Firm of the Year honors for its consistent performance, strong market presence, and dedication to supporting JVC dealers and partners throughout the region.

Rep of the Year
Matt Gonzales – Trent Partners and Associates

Matt Gonzales, Trent Partners & Associates, is all smiles holding the Rep of the Year Award. Matt is Frank by Mark Dombrosky, Steve Côte and John Lucas (LtoR)

Matt Gonzales was recognized for his individual contributions, strong customer focus, and commitment to driving sales growth and strengthening relationships across the Eastern Region.

Western Region

Rep Firm of the Year
SMS TOLA

Dave Gill holds the Rep Firm of the Year Plaque with members of the SMS TOLA team and JVC staff. Pictured (LtoR) John Lucas, Yam Domino, Dave Gill, Steve Cote, Bob Connacher and Mark Dombrosky.

SMS TOLA was named Western Region Rep Firm of the Year for its active management of the territory, strong support staff, and successful onboarding during JVC’s transition to NetSuite. New to representing JVC, the team demonstrated a focused effort on learning JVC systems and processes while delivering consistent results.

Rep of the Year
David Gill – SMS TOLA

Smiles from everyone as Dave Gill holds the Rep of the Year Award. John Lucas, Steve Côte, and Mark Dombrosky (LtoR) were are very happy also.

David Gill earned Western Region Rep of the Year recognition for his strong focus on generating sales and achieving goals. His collaborative approach, excellent team support, and strong working relationships with channel partners played a key role in driving success throughout the region.

“These award recipients exemplify the professionalism, commitment, and partnership that are essential to our success,” said Steve Cote Director of sales “We are proud to recognize their achievements and thank them for their continued dedication to the JVC Mobile Electronics brand.”

JVC Mobile Electronics congratulates all award winners and extends its appreciation to its representative partners nationwide for their ongoing support.

Visit https://www.us.jvc.com/car for more.

PowerBass On The Road At LESCO Distributing

ORANGE CITY, FL (02.13.26) – On Tuesday, January 9th, PowerBass was on the road in Florida heading for a stop at LESCO Distributing in Orange City. Jeff Falk, National Sales Manager, and Territory rep Nelson Pierantoni, Tri-Srar Marketing were set for a day covering new products and a conduct a training session with the LESCO Team.

Jeff Falk (L) and Nelson Pierantoni at the Buc-cees stop.

Their first stop was for fuel at Buc-cees and this was Nelson‘s first experience at the well-known truck stop chain. ‘He said it was incredible and he has now become Buc-ceeatized and is hooked on the Beaver Nuggets,’’ Falk commented.

Once they got to the LESCO location Scott Austin -Sales Manager had everything set to go and the meeting got underway.

The training session underway with Scott Austin on the right.
New products were covered with individual images on the screen.

In the meeting room, Jeff Falk led the presentation for the 7 staff members and used a monitor to highlight the products covered. Scott Austin commented, “The 2026 new products for Teslas, Proaudio, new PowerBass Marine Amps and marine products will be hot sellers for LESCO to supply to our dealers in the territory.”

LESCO and PowerBass have been business partners for many years and has earned several PowerBass distributor awards through the years.

LESCO has branches in Sound Bend IN, Carrollton TX and Miami FL in addition to Orange City.

For more see powerbass.com.

DOW Technologies Wins Distributor of the Year Award

TAMPA, FL (02.13.26) – DOW Technologies was recently awarded Distributor of the Year 2026 at the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. This is the eighth time that DOW has been honored with the award.

The Mobile Electronics association presents the awards annually to recognize and honor those in the mobile electronics industry. The Industry Awards are voted on by the retailers and vendors working in the 12Volt industry nationwide. The awards ceremony occurred Thursday night, February 5th, at the KnowledgeFest event in Las Vegas. The KnowledgeFest exposition, trainings and demo events were held at the Paris Las Vegas.

The DOW Technologies 12Volt team saw success over the past year with their focus on returning value to the independent dealer. DOW provides unique benefits and programs that support dealers to have healthy margins and sales practices.

  • Smart Services program members receive freight credits when returning a defective product- accommodating a dealer for the shipping cost and time spent on return authorizations. 
  • New freight program with an option to ship all the sub boxes on an order for as low as a $45 charge – acknowledges a dealer pain point with a program that allows them to be competitively priced and still maintain healthy margins.
  • Black Friday and 12 Days of 12Volt Promotions- DOW exclusive promotions on high demand items that a dealer can advertise and sell through during the holiday sales season.
  • Stable pricing during turbulent tariff uncertainty- made dealers aware of profitable opportunities on inventory that was brought in prior to tariffs
  • Updated website for convenience and product awareness- better organization that highlights new product areas and makes it quicker to order installation solutions. 

“We’re really proud of the effort the team puts into providing the best customer service in the industry,” said Dave Elkin, senior vice president of sales and product management. “We put together these programs to help customers, but it’s the team that translates DOW’s value everyday that makes doing business easier for customers.”

“This award is recognition for the whole team that supports our customers, including our operations, marketing, and accounting teams,” said John Yodzis, president & ceo of DOW Technologies. “We are dedicated to making the process smooth at every touch point and giving the dealer more than just the product they ordered.”

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

To read more about the Mobile Electronics Awards, please visit https://meindustryawards.com/what-are-the-industry-awards/

KICKER Announces 2025 Dealer, Rep Firm of the Year And Rep of the Year Awards

STILLWATER, OK (02.12.26) – KICKER is proud to announce its Dealer, Rep Firm of the Year and Rep of The Award recipients which honors outstanding performance, dedication and partnership across the US. These awards recognize KICKER business partnerships that demonstrated exceptional commitment in the marketplace which will lead to the continued growth of KICKER and enjoyment of music across the marketplace.

Chuck Ottati, Opus Marketing, holds his KICKER 2025 Rep of the Year Award.

KICKER REP-of-the-Year
Chuck Ottati (OPUS Marketing)

KICKER REP FIRM-of-the-Year
Tech Marketing, Canton, GA

Matt Kim is all smiles with his MAS Mobile Audio Systems KICKER Dealer of a Year Award in the Northeast. Chuck Ottati, Opus Marketing, delivered the award and snapped this image.
George Polillio, with his crew, holds his store’s Bumper To Bumper Brockton KICKER Dealer of the Year Award in the Northeast. Nick Lyons, with Trent Partners, delivered the Award and snapped this image.

KICKER DEALERS-of-the-Year (KICKER rep firms in parentheses)

NORTHEAST

Bumper to Bumper, Brockton, MA (Trent New England)
Road Entertainment, Tallman, NY (Trent Partners)
MAS Mobile Audio Systems, Woodbridge, VA (OPUS Marketing)
Installations Unlimited, Syracuse, NY (Innovative Marketing)
Big Papas, Cincinnati, OH (High Point Sales)
Traffic Jams, Utica, MI (CJO Sales)

CENTRAL

Baldwin Electronics, Odessa, TX (Marketing Pros)
4N Motorsports, Poplar Bluff, MO (Santa Fe Sales)
Xtreme Auto Soundz, Thornton, CO (Santa Fe Sales II)
Powerplant Car Audio and Truck Accessory, Twin Falls, ID (Santa Fe Sales II)
Sound Pro, Rapid City, SD (Select Sales)

SOUTHEAST

Xtreme Autosound, Louisville, KY (TR Sales and Marketing)
Roberts Auto Stereo, Louisville, KY (TR Sales and Marketing)
Pro Audio Center, Richland, MS (Tech Marketing)
Gorilla Sound, Aurora, IL (Tree and Associates)
Aftak Corp, Miami, FL (Dynamic Marketing)

WEST

Outrageous Audio, Portland, OR (Crossover)
LA Stereo, Victorville, CA (Murfco)

In 1973 KICKER’s Livin Loud legacy began as a two man operation hand-building professional speaker systems in a narrow one car garage. With very few resources and an extensive love for a music, company founder and current President Steve Irby, invented the mobile stereo enclosure.

KICKER graces the Stillwater skyline today and has stayed true to the values from which the company was built. KICKER products are designed and shipped from a 280,000 ft.² facility that houses nearly 200 energetic individuals who constantly push the limits of audio design, technology and performance.

As audio continues to evolve, KICKER will continue to be on the industry’s cutting-edge pushing the limits of audio design, technology, performance and integration in the quest for ultimate sounds.

KICKER congratulates all of 2025 honorees.

For more check out kicker.com.

Prodigy Audio Appoints Industry Veteran as National Sales Manager to Spearhead Nationwide Expansion

BONIFAY, FL (02.12.26) – Prodigy Audio is proud to announce the recent appointment of its new National Sales Manager, Brett Barnes. Bringing over 30 years of elite experience in the technology and music reproduction sectors, he is leading the brand’s aggressive push to expand its dealer and distribution networks across the United States.

A Legacy of Excellence Prodigy Audio was founded by audio enthusiast Jonathan Demuth, whose journey in the industry began in 1988. From his early days as an installer to his success in retail, distribution, and manufacturing, Demuth’s vision has always been rooted in providing top-quality products for users seeking loud, reliable daily-use equipment. His previous venture, T3 Audio, was a dominant force in SPL competition from 2005 to 2011, and that same competitive DNA is now foundational to the Prodigy Audio brand.

Brett Barnes (R) hit the yesterday with a stop to meet with Ricky Gibson at N&H Electronics in Hattiesburg MS.

Industry Veteran Joins the Mission Brett, the newly appointed National Sales Manager, brings a diverse background that perfectly complements this heritage. His career began in the car audio scene of the 1990s and evolved into custom installations for home entertainment and security. He has served as a manufacturer’s representative for prestigious brands, including Bryston, PMC, Proceed, Revel, Niles Audio, Canton, and Straightwire.

Beyond acoustics, he brings sophisticated technical expertise in IT and automation, with deep experience in systems from Ultimate, Cisco, AMX, and Crestron. This rare combination of high-fidelity audio knowledge and technical integration ensures Prodigy Audio’s partners receive unparalleled support.

“Prodigy Audio is aiming to offer amazing products and solutions in the car audio space,” said Brett Barnes. “Our focus is specializing in high-quality subwoofers and amplifiers at a competitive price structure. We aren’t just selling hardware; we are providing a sustainable business model for our partners.”

Building a Robust Dealer Network Prodigy Audio is committed to dealer success through aggressive incentives and a market-leading warranty program, including a 3-year dealer-installed woofer warranty. The brand’s expansion is already underway:

Current Representation: Represented in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina by Vickers Distribution.

Expansion Pipeline: Potential partnerships are developing in Kentucky, Florida, and the Gulf Coast.
Future Growth: The company is executing a methodical expansion nationwide, prioritizing face-to-face evaluations to ensure dealers align with the brand’s high standards.

About Prodigy Audio Founded by Jonathan Demuth, Prodigy Audio delivers high-performance automotive audio solutions. With products optimized through computer simulations and rigorous field testing by renowned experts like Eric Stevens, the brand sets a new standard for value and quality in the mobile electronics industry.

For more see www.prodigyaudio.com.

Mobile Solutions Launches FabKit™

TEMPE, AZ (2.12.26) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce the official launch of FabKit™, an engineered Speaker Grille & Panel System designed to dramatically reduce fabrication time while delivering premium, layered 3D interior styling.

“Too many shops avoid custom work because they believe it’s not profitable,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “We’ve challenged the status quo in fabrication by asking one simple question: How can we build smarter and save valuable time? FabKit is the answer. It increases efficiency, raises consistency, and gives shops the freedom to focus on generating revenue instead of sanding and routing for hours. Wrap it in material, install it, and you’re done.”

FabKit was created to eliminate some of the most time-consuming stages of custom panel fabrication. The system allows shops to focus more on creativity and finishing, and less on layout, routing, and grille-frame construction.

Engineered Efficiency Meets Premium Design

FabKit features a precision-machined, layered construction that is ready for upholstery in leather, suede, or vinyl straight out of the box. Its integrated magnet system allows effortless grille removal and secure reinstallation.

The system is designed for universal flexibility across multiple custom audio applications and produces consistent, repeatable results across builds.

Real-World Results: Major Time Savings

Early adopters are reporting significant labor reductions.

“The MS FabKit system is easily the biggest time saver since the release of the original Smart Template system,” said Peter Riker of The Specialists in Tucson, Ariz. “We easily save 8–10 hours of fabrication time using the FabKit.”

Built for Profitability

FabKit helps shops:
• Save 4–6+ hours per project
• Deliver OEM-inspired layered depth styling
• Increase shop throughput and revenue
• Improve client satisfaction with faster turnaround

With time savings translating directly to billable hours, FabKit positions shops to take on more projects and improve margins.

Available Models

FabKit Speaker Grille Panel Systems are available in four configurations:
• FK-APEX – 34.75in. x 13in.
• FK-GT – 41.25in. x 13in.
• FK-Shadow – 37.25in. x 12.5in.
• FK-Covert – 42in. x 13.5in.

Visit www.FabKit.com for more information

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

Team Nutz At The CWR Distribution Training And Expo

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (2.11.26) – The CWR Wholesale Distribution 2026 Dealer Training and Expo took place at the Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino and Marina February 2nd through the 6th. The Team Nutz crew of 4 traveled from Pittsburg to the CWR event the 365 miles each way to check out a wide variety of products in addition to attending marine trainings where three members received National Marine Electronics Association certification.

The Team Nutz crew included Ed Nuttall, Ben Bjerke, Tom Mays and Scott Olbeter. During the CWR event attendees had the opportunity to earn their NMEA basic and NMEA 2000 certifications, network with manufacturers and attend manufacturer training sessions to learn more about the brands CWR offers.

Ben Bjerke, Tom Mays and Scott Olbeter with Laura Chester and Ed Nuttall gathered holding their advanced in NMEA Certifications in front of the CWR desk.

“Ben, Tom and Scott all passed their advanced NMEA certifications which will provide more tools as we get ready for the 2026 marine season. Pittsburg is located where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio River. There are boating communities along the rivers and area lakes. We work with installations in our bays in addition to jobs along the river” Ed Nuttall relayed.

Ed Nuttall’s view from his seat with 30 other students during a training.

Concluding “We also attended trainings with JLAudio, KVH and others. It was super to see the new JL Audio amps and feel the excitement for the 2026 marine season at the CWR Training and Expo. We look forward to this year’s marine season and the 2027 CWR Expo.”

The National Marine Electronics Association is a worldwide member based trade association revolving around marine electronics interface standards, marine electronics installer training and its annual marine electronics conference and expo. The NMEA and its members are committed to enhancing the technology and safety of marine electronics through installer training and interface standards. Installer trainings and certification are scheduled by the organization.

Visit the NMEA website at www.nmea.org.