The Outrageous Audio Black Friday Event was OUTRAGEOUSLY Successful


PORTLAND OR (11.30.24) The Outrageous Audio name says it all about the company’s 2024 Black Friday Sale on Friday, November 29th, at the company’s Portland store. Customers started lining up at 4AM in the below freezing temperature. When the doors opened at 5AM Owner Blane Hartleb welcomed the first in line who had actually been in line all night.

Customers lined up before the 5AM opening and then packed the showroom throughout the day.
The Outrageous team gathered just before the doors were opened.
Blane Hartleb (L) welcomed the first customer in line who had been there all night in the freezing temperature.

“We have been having Black Friday events for over two decades. This event was definitely in the top two or three. After we run the sales totals it may be the best event. Our team did a great job getting everything ready and it paid off…. BIG TIME. The support we received from Rob and the Crossover Marketing crew in the house was very much appreciated” Hartleb related.

The Crossover Marketing crew Rob Sutton, Aaron, Fluhr and Paul Pilat (LtoR).

Early Black Friday morning the 12volt Central Studios received a txt from Rob Sutton with Crossover Marketing NW. A quick call to Rob around 8AM Shreveport time got the news about the happenings at the Outrageous Back Friday Sale. Rob, with Crossover Marketing NW crew members Paul Pilat and Aaron Fluhr, were on site working the event with the 10 member Outrageous Audio team.

Within an hour after the doors opened customers pack the sales counter to complete their purchases.

Soon Rob was on the phone. “Mike, I am at the door around 6AM controlling the number of customers coming into the store. This place is packed and customers are lined up outside plus the parking lot is jammed” Sutton related. In a later txts with images Sutton related by 8AM Portland time, 10AM Central, over 100 customers had entered the store and many were leaving carrying products purchased.

Paul Pilat helps a customer carry part of his big order to the car.

There were months of planning that contributed to this Outrageously successful event. Sutton and the crew left the Battle Ground WA HQ at 3:45AM for the 30 mile drive to Portland for a 4:30AM before the doors opened at 5AM. They planned the menu for the long day with the installers and sales staff in advance and everyone brought something to share. Installers brought crockpots and Paul was prepared to fire up the Blackstone to make Philly Cheesesteaks to order for the wholle Outrageous crew at lunch time.

Staff and installers all contributed by bringing food items to make meals through the day
The crockpots are full and warming.

Everything is ready to start cooking the Philly Cheesesteaks.

The very successful event was slated to wrap at 7PM. But with all large successful events there were customers completing the sales process and installers were finishing installations that filled the bays all day.

Paul Pilat (R) has the Blackstone fired up as members of the Outrageous crew take a quick break from doing installs for lunch.

The Outrageous Black Friday 2024 truly showcases 12volt industry members working together. Vendors and Crossover Marketing worked with a very proactive specialty retailer to connect with consumers to drive business and enjoyment for those consumers.

Watch for more to come.

Happy Thanksgiving 2024

SHREVEPORT LA (11.28.24) Happy Thanksgiving 2024 to all across the 12volt industry from the 12volt Central Studios.

It goes without saying that 2024 has been another one of the craziest years since the Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving Festival meal in 1621.

OK, we’re past daylight savings time, Halloween and the election season and now it’s Thanksgiving 2024. Now we can look forward to December Holidays and New Year’s Eve and 2025.

Overall, we in the 12volt industry have fared somewhat better than many industries and businesses. That said, there are still significant challenges ahead. New tarrifs and the continuing online and AI push to name a few.

Let’s all remain positive for successful Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday events as we work to finish November 2024 on a high note and roll into December.

A very Happy Thanksgiving and 2024 Holiday season to all from the 12volt Central Studios.

Enormous Mobile Specialties Spotlights Remote Starters On Local Erie PA TV

ERIE PA (11.27.24) Enormous Mobile Specialties is a very proactive retailer located in Harbour Creek PA just outside of Erie. Lou Norman founded the company in 1999 and now the company is known throughout the area as the go-to automotive electronics and electrical experts.

On Friday on Tuesday morning, the 12volt Central Studio’s staff noticed an email labeled Google Alerts.. Remote Start. A staff member opened the email and found content for gifting remote starts this holiday season spotlighted on an Erie TV station WICU.

The content of the TV presentation was Lou Norman, explaining to consumers the benefits of the remote starters as cold weather is at hand. Norman also spotlighted a special offer that the company is providing for consumers who wish to keep their car warm and the windshield clear on the very cold days ahead in the area.

Lou Norman (L) in a screenshot from the in progress television presentation.

The 12volt Central Studios reached out to Lou Norman to let him know what a great and timely presentation that Enormous Mobile Specialties in making with the TV presentation. “We have an ongoing package in place with the TV station that provides additional benefits like this recent remote starter presentation. Connecting with consumers is very important to drive business and we have multiple platforms we use to connect consumers with product categories across the automotive aftermarket industry”

A TV screenshot of the special remote starter package presentation being offered to consumers.

The WICU package is ongoing and multiple product categories are featured in the ongoing package on the station.

A screenshot of the special package posted on Instagram.

Watch for more to come as Enormous Mobile Specialties and other 12volt retailers will be featured to drive 12volt brick and mortar in-store traffic and business.

Massive Audio Announces European Expansion with the Legendary Marko Lönngren at the Helm

Los Angeles, CA – Massive Audio, a global leader in cutting-edge car audio innovation, proudly announces its official expansion into the European Union. This milestone move is spearheaded by none other than Marko Lönngren, a renowned figure in the car audio industry.

A sleek installation of Massive Audio products in a customer’s car, demonstrating seamless integration and top-notch performance.

During a recent visit to Massive Audio’s Los Angeles headquarters at The Row, Marko Lönngren officially joined forces with the brand, setting the stage for a new era in Massive Audio’s global reach. While the company’s high-performance products—world-class woofers, amplifiers, and components—have garnered a devoted following in other markets, they are now set to make a powerful impact across Europe, thanks to Marko’s leadership.

A vibrant and visually stunning installation of Massive Audio components, enhanced with dynamic lighting to showcase both style and performance.

With over 35 years of experience, Marko Lönngren brings an unmatched pedigree to this expansion. Known for his dominance in the dB Drag Racing scene, he holds multiple Extreme World Championships and has set world records using the industry’s toughest standards, including the cutting-edge Term-Lab metering system. As Europe’s premier custom builder and a true car audio enthusiast, Marko is uniquely equipped to elevate Massive Audio’s presence and reputation in the region.

A stunning example of Massive Audio’s products installed in a custom build, showcasing powerful sound and aesthetic excellence.

“We’re not just entering Europe; we’re coming in LOUD,” said John Velez, Massive Audio’s spokesperson. “Marko is the perfect person to lead this charge. His unparalleled expertise and passion will make Massive Audio a household name across Europe. Customers can finally expect the products, support, and promotions they deserve.”

Marko Lönngren hosting an electrifying Massive Audio event in Finland, showcasing the brand’s innovative car audio solutions to an enthusiastic European audience.

This expansion coincides with the introduction of Massive Audio’s exclusive 25th Anniversary Lineup, a game-changing collection that redefines performance and design. With an emphasis on delivering innovative technology and premium sound quality, Massive Audio aims to set new benchmarks for excellence in the European market.

Massive Audio Sales Manager John Velez proudly showcases one of the brand’s top-tier products alongside the legendary Marko Lönngren during his visit to the Los Angeles office.

Stay tuned for the next chapter in Massive Audio’s journey—this is only the beginning of an epic evolution.

Alpine Now Shipping iLX-W770 Multimedia Receiver with Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

Auburn Hills, Mich. (Nov. 27, 2024) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) today shipped the iLX-W770, a 6.75” Ultra-Shallow Digital Multimedia Receiver with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. 

“The iLX-W770 is Alpine’s response to the increasing demand of low-cost multimedia receivers with wireless smartphone capability in the vehicle,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “Now customers can get an economical technology upgrade to their dash with robust, on-board tuning tools that will bring their sound system to life.”

Additional connectivity options include Lighting Link Control, compatible with Alpine’s PrismaLink® Subwoofer Enclosures (preloaded with the option of an 8”, 10”, or 12” Next-Generation S-Series Subwoofer). Pair the iLX-W770 with a PrismaLink subwoofer and get touchscreen control of the LED RGBW color selections. Thanks to the ultra-shallow, 2.4” depth of the iLX-W770, the unit is PowerStack™ capable, able to mount a powerful, compact Power Pack Amplifier on the back for an easy bass (KTA-200M) or speaker (KTA-450) upgrade.

In response to customer demand, the iLX-W770 features two camera inputs, versus one in previous generations, for adding a front or rear-view camera with helpful distance guideline display to the vehicle. 

On-board tuning features, like a 13-band graphic EQ, 6-channel time correction, and versatile crossovers for the front and rear speakers and subwoofer, allow for fine tuning adjustments to a sound system. New to the platform is a sound boost menu that features expanded Bass Boost, mid-Bass Boost, and subwoofer controls.

The iLX-W770 is available now for $429.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized Retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details. 

Features:

  • 6.75″ Touchscreen Display
  • Standard Double-Din Fitment
  • 5-Color Key Illumination (Red, Green, Blue, Amber, White)
  • Customizable Home Screen (Add your own background image) 
  • Apple CarPlay® (Wired & Wireless)
  • Android Auto™ (Wired & Wireless)
  • Bluetooth® Hands-Free
  • SiriusXM-Ready®
  • PowerStack™ Capable (Mount the Alpine KTA-200M or KTA-450 amplifiers directly to the back)
  • Lighting Link Control (Compatible with Alpine PrismaLink™ Subwoofers; S2-SB8, S2-SB10, & S2-SB12)
  • Sound Boost Menu (Bass Boost, Mid-Bass Boost, and Subwoofer Controls)
  • Screen Size: 6.75”
  • Screen Resolution: 800 x 480px
  • AUX Input: 1
  • Camera Inputs: 2
  • USB Input: 1
  • SWC Input: 1 (3rd Party Module Required)
  • 4V Pre-Outs: 3 (Front, Rear, and Subwoofer)
  • Built-in Amplifier: 50W x 4
  • EQ: 13-Band Graphic
  • Time Correction: 6-Channel
  • Crossovers: Front, Rear, and Subwoofer
  • Audio Playback: AAC, FLAC, MP3, WMA
  • Video Playback: AVC, FLV, H.264, MP4, MPEG-4, MKV, MOV

The METSTRADE 2024 Rolled In Amsterdam

AMSTERDAM NETHERLANDS (11.26.24) The METSTRADE 2024 rolled in Amsterdam November 19-21. The METSTRADE is the world’s largest and only truly international B2B exhibition for the leisure marine industry since 1988.

Mark Baker and the Celsus_UK were on site with a large booth showcasing the latest KICKER and Dynamat marine products to dealers across the UK. 

The KICKER team, Aziz Masri, John Myers and Chet Weddle (LtoR) in the attention getting KICKER booth.

“It was a fantastic show, one of the best yet. We had a great interest from all over the world in Dynamat and Kicker. Product demonstrations proved extremely useful when promoting the Noise and Heat control materials, with visitors really impressed with the effects of Dynamat.”

Continuing “The fact that Kicker had two positions at the event, their corporate booth and our distributor booth meant the brand made a real splash (pardon he pun!). The launch of the all-new MS-line was a HUGE success – the industry has never seen this audio quality and product performance at this value for money before.” 

KICKER has a major presence in the busy Celsus_UK booth.

Aziz Masri-KICKER International Sales Manager, along with John Myers and Chet Weddle traveled from KICKER’s HQ in Stillwater OK to be onsite wirking with Celsus_UK at the event.

The METSTRADE floor is a unique layout with stalls set up for exhibitors. John Myers is pictured in a meeting before the show.

Myers related “The trip across the pond to work with Mark and the Celsus_UK was terrific. KICKER’s new marine products raly really set the benchmark for quality marine products. Celsus_UK’s dealers were very impressed and are looking forward to the 2025 marine season. KICKER is looking forward to returning to the METSTRADE 2025 and looking forward to a super 2025 with Celsis_UK.

 Baker added “A highlight was giving our Spanish partner Recambios Marinos, Kicker Marine Distributor of the Year for their efforts during 2024.”

Celcius UK Spanish partner Recambios Marinos receiving the Distributor of the Year award. (LtoR) Aziz Masri, Ignacio, Mark Baker and Chet Weddle.

Concluding “METS is a vital meeting point for the industry each year and it was an exhibition full of great meetings, productive discussions and future focussed planning. Looking forward to 2025.”

Area Rep Firms Contributed To The Success Of The SSR Distributors Houston Dealer Show 

HOUSTON, TX (11.26.24) – Sunday, November 17th, the SSR Distributors large Houston facility was filled with vendor displays and dealers in the house to check out new products, deals, attend trainings and enjoy tacos from a food truck and pick up a piece of pizza as they registered for the event.

Jimmy, Jorge and Hector in the Kenwood booth.

Tracy Farr, VP of Sales and Operations related “Our vendor partners are the best at supporting us at our Dallas and Houston locations. SSR’s success is dependent on our vendor and rep partners. Our staff was all hands on deck and we had some Dallas staff and sales members travel to Houston.” 

Scott, Taylor and Tommy showing a dealer Hifonics amps.

Area rep firms onsite and working to get the word out about the SSR Houston Dealer show were Momentum Marketing, Marketing Pros, Southwest Sales, Synergy Marketing, SMS and Team Sales.

David Toliver, Synergy Marketing, shows a new ENERGIE battery product.

Vendor partners from coast to coast travelled to attend the show. Doug Kern traveled from Los Angeles to display the latest Jensen products as did Ken Wiseman to light up the Lucas Lighting booth. Jeff Fletcher travelled from Florida to spotlight the latest from PRV Audio. Pat Szeman rolled in from the Chicago area to highlight ENERGIE and Reikken Batteries while JR Mares traveled from Massive Audio’s SoCal HQ,

Dave Gill and Bob Connacher working to show the latest with Limitless Lithium and SOUND QUBED.

See many @12voltnews for social media posts and visit ssrdistributors.com for more.

The Team Nutz Family Has Enjoyed Music For Generations

PITTSBURGH PA (11.25.24) Recently family members rolled to a Team Nutz garage in Pittsburgh to continue their interest in mobile electronics. Jamie Mondzelewski and his two sons came to check out some of the latest.

Ed Nuttall and Landon Mondzelewski in front of ‘98 Expedition project in the garage.

The oldest son Landon, who is now in his early teens, started toy building as a youngster. He had seen a creation that his grandfather did wih ’88 Thunderbird and wanted to go to Team Nutz to see and experience more.

Jamie Mondzelewski with his sons in the garage.

Jaime had helped his father design the ’88 Thunderbird and that was another thing that grabbed Landon‘s attention.

Ed Nuttall is now celebrating 20 years of ownership with the very successful retailer Team Nutz in Pittsburgh along with other businesses that are connected to the mobile electronics and automotive aftermarket industry.

The Grandfather’s ‘88 Thunderbird at a Pittsburgh fire station fundraiser earlier this year.

“It was great to get together with my wife Nina’s relatives and spend time with them showing them some of the creations we’ve done and helping Landon grow and continue his interest with all things automotive. We recently showcased the ’88 Thunderbird at a fund raiser for a local fire station. Great to show the grandfather’s project from soon to be 40 years ago” Nuttall related.

For more see @teamnutzpgh

ORACLE Lighting Wins Prestigious SEMA New Product of the Year Award for Merchandising Display

METAIRIE, LA – ORACLE Lighting, a leader in innovative LED solutions for the automotive aftermarket, proudly announces its win of the 2024 SEMA New Product of the Year Award in the Merchandising Display Category for the company’s groundbreaking Interactive Modular Showroom Display System. The award was presented earlier this month during the annual SEMA Show, the premier event for the automotive specialty equipment industry, held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) selects winners of its prestigious New Product Awards based on criteria such as innovation, technical achievement, quality, consumer appeal, and marketability. This year, over 1,600 products competed across 18 categories, making ORACLE Lighting’s recognition a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for its retail partners.

Justin Hartenstein, along with his wife, holds the award presented by SEMA staff members.

Standing over 7 feet tall, the Interactive Modular Showroom Display System combines functionality, versatility, and striking aesthetics, making it a centerpiece for any automotive retail space. Designed with retailer input, this powered system includes interchangeable panels featuring ORACLE’s premium lighting products, such as the Oculus Switchback headlights, flush mount LED tail lights, and VEGATM LED pods. Each panel is equipped with simple plug-and-play connectors for future upgrades, ensuring adaptability in showcasing new products.

This display system requires only 4.4 square feet of floor space, maximizing showroom efficiency while delivering a high-impact presentation. The heavy-duty steel construction and integrated wheels provide durability and mobility, while optional features, such as a mounted LED TV with ORACLE demo videos, enhance the system’s overall functionality.

“The new modular showroom system from ORACLE Lighting features some of our most innovative and popular products, like the Oculus Bi-LED headlights, flush LED tail lights, and Vega light pods,” said Justin Hartenstein, Founder and Director of Product Development at ORACLE Lighting. “This merchandising display was created based on feedback we received from retailers nationwide, resulting in a modular design where individual panels can be swapped or upgraded over time. Each panel has integrated controls for an interactive experience. I’m thrilled to see these systems transforming showrooms across the country in 2025.”

The award-winning product underscores ORACLE Lighting’s ongoing mission to support its retail partners with tools that drive customer engagement and elevate the in-store experience.

For over 25 years, ORACLE Lighting has been at the forefront of innovation in the automotive lighting industry, delivering premium products and exceeding customer expectations. Recognized as a previous SEMA Manufacturer of the Year, the company continues to push boundaries, offering over 10,000 SKUs and setting industry standards.

For more information about ORACLE Lighting’s Interactive Modular Showroom Display System and other innovative products, visit http://www.oraclelights.com.

The 12voltSTP Tool At Work Across The 12volt Industry

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (11.25.24) From the 12volt Central Studios our staff works to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. New products, events and the activities of 12volt industry members on the road are showcased. This news extends the ROI for all companies and members of the 12volt industry.  

Screenshot

Images shown in the 12voltSTP Tool action came from Las Vegas, Amsterdam, Ancharage Alaska, Ft Lauderdale and Brooklyn.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s positive activities and products. Snap and Txt an image….PRESTO your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318 469 2526 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.