BURLINGTON, WA (07.15.26) -On Saturday July 11th Mobile Music hosted the 50 Year Celebration by inviting all 103 past and present employees, factory reps and owners to their store in Burlington WA. Drinks and snacks were provided.
Shawn Gunnells “The celebration went great with lots of memories, smiles, and hugs for sure! The 50 years went by for some of us in a blink of an eye!”
The large Burlington store was filled for the evening with the honored guests checking out the showrooms and displays in Mobile Music’s most recent store opening.
The Mobile Music Burlington Blvd location.
John Manso and his wife Vickie, on the right, joined John Gunnels and his wife Doriane at the 50th Celeration. John and Vickie were the previous owners who sold Mobile Music to John and Doriane 8years ago.
Bruce Gilsdorf was in the house and related “ people shed in 1976. There was no reason to sell car radios… Half the cars already came with radios! Mobile music said let’s put radios in the other half! A business was born 50 years ago that is thriving today that I am pleased to have as a very successful client.
Dan McMillan was also in the house celebrating with friends and industry members. I first met Sean over 30 years ago and quickly realized he is a great operator. His stores are diversified and well merchandised. One of the things that I’ve always marvel about Shawn is his ability to hire a great personnel, both on the sales floor and in the shop. This gathering was fantastic and was great catching up with the industry folks.
This group image is of the reps who have worked with Mobile Music and they are pictured from left to right based on how long they’ve been in the 12volt industry.
“This group image is of the people that came to the event. This is such a great group of people and without them Mobile Music would not be where we are today” John Gunnels related.
“Personally, I would like to say a large thank you to all that have promoted and helped Mobile Music Unlimited with our journey including our Staff, Manufacturers and Representatives… both past and present!” Shawn Gunnels concluded.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.15.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, today announced the musical lineup for SEMA Fest, taking place Friday, Nov. 6, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Headlined by multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring, the lineup also features anthemic alt-rockers Jimmy Eat World, genre-blending rock reggae outfit 311, and California rock band The Alive. Together these chart-topping, arena-caliber acts will bring their catalog of massive hits to SEMA Fest, delivering the ultimate intersection of high-octane and high-decibels, a one-day celebration of the long-standing bond between music and car culture that closes out SEMA Week with an unforgettable public experience.
Early bird pre-sale tickets are available July 15, with the general on-sale kicking off this Friday, July 17, at 10 am PT via www.semafest.com. General admission and VIP concert access tickets are available, as are combined tickets, offering entry to both SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday public access. This exclusive bundle gives automotive enthusiasts rare access to the world’s largest automotive aftermarket trade event – typically reserved for industry insiders – alongside performances from some of today’s biggest bands.
“SEMA Fest represents where our industry is headed, at the crossroads of innovation, lifestyle, and cultural relevance,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “By bringing together the world’s premier automotive gathering with iconic music, immersive automotive experiences, and enthusiast access, we are creating a powerful platform that expands the reach of car culture, strengthens engagement with new audiences, and sends SEMA Week out on a high-energy, high-impact note.”
SEMA Fest serves as the official “closing ceremony” of SEMA Week, transforming the world’s premier automotive trade show into a massive public celebration and extending the energy of the SEMA Show into a day-long experience.
The day begins inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, where attendees can explore the SEMA Show floor, including 2,000-plus exhibiting brands and vendors, thousands of custom builds, and the latest in automotive products and technology.
As the day continues, the action moves outdoors for the legendary SEMA Cruise and high-intensity motorsports demonstrations that keep the excitement building throughout the afternoon.
Then, as the sun sets, attention turns to the SEMA Fest Stage, where live music and automotive adrenaline come together in one immersive environment. The automotive excitement continues into the evening with featured vehicle displays and motorsports performances that keep car culture front and center through the final encore.
2026 Musical Lineup Multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as “Self Esteem,” “Come Out and Play,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” and “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy).” Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the 1990s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.
Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with “The Middle,” which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early 2000s.
311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States, and remains known for crowd favorites such as “Down,” “Amber,” and “All Mixed Up.”
The Alive rounds out the bill with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate, and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush, and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge, and attitude.
Featured Experiences The evening’s adrenaline will be amplified by world-class automotive demos, including drifting demonstrations from OPTIMA and the high-energy Globe of Death.
Supercar Saturdays Florida returns to SEMA Fest with a curated showcase of rare hypercars and exotic vehicles following its debut SEMA Fest appearance in 2025, where it presented an exclusive hypercar and supercar display.
For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit www.semafest.com.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (07.15.26) – Our website was redesigned to help you find products, vehicle compatibility, and technical information faster than ever.
What’s New?
✨ Cleaner, More Intuitive Design Navigate with ease and find the products you’re looking for in fewer clicks.
⚡ Faster Performance Spend less time searching and more time serving your customers.
📂 Enhanced Product Pages Access detailed product information, features, and specifications — all in one place.
🚗 Smarter Product Search Quickly find the right ZZ2 solution for the vehicle you’re working on.
📰 More Resources at Your Fingertips Stay updated with our latest News & Blog posts, listen to the INZZIDER Podcast, browse FAQs, and quickly access product manuals from our new Manuals page.
Everything was designed with one goal in mind: helping dealers work more efficiently and grow their business.
PHILADELPHIA, MS (07.14.26) – Casey Woods and his family opened Casey’s Custom Audio in September last year. Casey left the 12volt industry several years ago and his passion brought him back to opening the new store in Philadelphia MS with his wife Brandi and son Garrett.
“It has been a terrific year since we opened. We are having fun and working with consumers throughout a wide area. I’ve always had an interest in Car Shows and Car Audio Competitions. Recently we struck a deal with Melissa Hall, and MECA, to host some competitions in Mississippi. Our first event was May 30th and we had over 25 competitors plus many people in the parking lot checking out show cars and enjoying the music. We have our second show scheduled for July 26th and already we are getting competitors signing up plus making reservations at area motels. The State Finals on September with wrap the MECA Series on September 5th.”
Prodigy Audio is a sponsor of Meca‘s series.
Since opening in September of 2025 Casey has enhanced showroom displays. Casey’s Custom Audio now provides a strong in-store experience for customers and enthusiasts in the region. Becoming an Authorized KICKER Dealer is also major news.
This copy of the Queen City News in Meridian MS featured an article spotlighting Casey at Hoover’s Stereo from March 1995.
Recent staff member additions add to the customers experience also. Allen Hancock, an excellent box builder and fabricator, will create a custom enclosure to the specification of your build’s.
Rockford Fosgate and DS18 are featured in this section of the showroom.
“Casey’s Custom Audio is building a one stop shop for everyone’s needs. Don’t forget professional lighting…even starlights. I am happy to say my son Garrett is the man for that.”
The well-stocked showroom provides comfortable seating also as installations are being completed.
Concluding “Based on the turnout from our first event, and the growing buzz in the territory, we are excited and plan to be Jammin’ N July and beyond. Stay tuned for more from MECA and Casey’s Custom Audio” Casey stated.
Stay tuned for more from MECA and Casey’s Custom Audio” Casey stated.
CHANDLER, AZ (07.14.26) – Full-coverage fiberglass door panels for 1988-2000 OBS crew cab trucks and Suburbans Fesler USA is now shipping a set of four hand-laid fiberglass door panels for 1988-2000 Chevy and GMC OBS crew cab trucks and Suburbans. The panels cover the complete factory door area front and rear, ship in smooth gel-coat, and are built in Phoenix, Arizona.
What they are and how they’re built Each panel is hand laid in fiberglass with a smooth gel-coat surface, ready to go straight to your upholstery shop or paint booth. The full-coverage design wraps the entire factory door panel area, which eliminates the lower-door gaps and rough edges common on cut or modified shells.
The layout is optimized for power windows, with switch and lock locations designed to move to the center console. Door mounting is possible with customer modification. Both front and rear doors accept 6.5-inch speakers without cutting door metal, and Fesler offers a no-cut speaker kit using Morel components, including an optional 3-way configuration, sold separately.
Specs at a glance
Fitment. 1988-2000 Chevy/GMC OBS crew cab trucks and Suburbans
Included. Four panels: front left, front right, rear left, rear right
Material. Hand-laid fiberglass
Finish. Smooth gel-coat, ready for upholstery or paint
Speaker cutouts. 6.5-inch, front and rear doors
Window configuration. Designed for power windows (components not included)
Dash clearance note. 1996 and newer stock dash may contact the front panel edge; shaving the panel edge provides clearance
Lead time. 1 to 3 business days when in stock
Made in. Phoenix, Arizona
Why we built them OBS crew cabs have been a popular build platform for years, but full four-door interior solutions for these trucks have been short supply. Fesler designed these panels to pair with the forthcoming Fesler OBS dash and billet interior door handle and armrest kits, giving builders a complete interior system built to consistent in-house standards rather than pieced together from multiple suppliers.
“These trucks deserve a real interior solution, not a patchwork of parts that almost fit.” — Chris Fesler
The full product listing, fitment notes, and speaker kit options are available at shopfesler.com.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.14.26) – SEMA has officially opened entries for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at www.semabotb.com. Now in its 13th year, the competition continues to stand as the automotive aftermarket’s premier platform for custom builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show, and for 2026 it will expand to include motorcycles, introducing an additional set of awards recognizing the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion.
“It’s always exciting to see builders push creative boundaries year after year, and the addition of powersports brings an entirely new level of energy and excitement to the program,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “Battle of the Builders continues to evolve alongside the industry, and we’re excited to see how builders push innovation at the 2026 SEMA Show.”
For 2026, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers will again feature its four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns. Class winners will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall Battle of the Builders champion.
“Mothers High Performance Car Care is proud to continue supporting the SEMA Battle of the Builders and the talented builders who make this competition one of the most anticipated events at the SEMA Show,” said Mothers Vice President of Marketing Shane Christman. “Every year, we’re inspired by the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion these builders bring to their projects. This program celebrates the dedication behind every build and gives the industry an opportunity to recognize the individuals pushing vehicle customization forward.”
The 2026 program will also debut a new side to the competition with SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout as a dedicated Motorcycle category, expanding the competition to include some of the finest custom two-wheel vehicles in America. Entries will be evaluated separately by motorcycle industry judges based on craftsmanship, design innovation, and overall execution, with the Top 10 finalists serving as judges to determine the Top 3 category winners and the overall Bike Builder champion.
In the automotive categories, a panel of aftermarket industry judges will again review all eligible submissions, evaluating build descriptions and photography before conducting in-person assessments on the SEMA Show floor. Judges will narrow entries to a Top 10 in each category, followed by a Top 3 selection. Those 12 finalists will then serve as judges to determine category winners and the overall champion.
“It’s been great to be back at the SEMA Battle of the Builders,” said Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy after winning the overall 2025 Battle of the Builders trophy last November. “It’s grown a lot since we first won the event eight years ago. We finally had a car worthy of being back in the competition. There were so many great cars this year. Everybody here is a winner, all 40, all 12, especially the Final Four.”
When asked what it’s like to win the SEMA Battle of the Builders for the second time, Trepanier said “It is always nice to be judged by your peers in the industry and get recognized.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Builders The BFGoodrich Young Guns category highlights emerging talent, open to builders 29 years old and younger at the time of the SEMA Show. Entrants may be selected to participate in virtual Golden Ticket competitions held throughout the summer, with prize packages that include vehicle transportation to Las Vegas, plus travel and hotel accommodations. At the Show, the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists compete within their own field, narrowing to a Top 3. First introduced in 2024, the BFGoodrich Young Guns Top 10 competition format continues to expand opportunity and visibility for rising builders.
“BFGoodrich is proud to support the next generation of builders through the BFGoodrich Young Guns category at the SEMA Battle of the Builders,” said BFGoodrich Ultra High Performance Brand Manager T.J. Dennis. “Creating opportunities for young builders to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition, and compete alongside some of the best in the business is what makes this program so special. We’re excited to continue supporting the innovation, passion, and creativity that define the future of vehicle customization.”
For more information or to enter the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit www.semabotb.com. For information on registration deadlines, rules, and additional details, click here.
The SEMA Show returns to Las Vegas, Nov. 3–6, 2026, bringing together the most influential brands, builders, and innovators in the automotive aftermarket industry. The Show remains the premier destination for discovering new products, technologies, and trends shaping the future of vehicle customization and performance. For more information or to register, visit www.semashow.com.
FLORENCE, SC (07.13.26) – DK Electronics has been installing and tuning custom stereo systems for bikes for years. When it comes to performance Owner Dan Klynstra has been racing one thing or another for many years. The DYNO JET Room is now open at the DK Electronics Florence SC location.
Klynstra related “We are dealers for DYNO JET and ThunderMax. Whether it’s stereo upgrade or engine and performance upgrades we now offer the best tools to get your motorcycle dialed in and tuned in.”
Bikes roll up and into place for the DYNO JET test.
Concluding “We go to bike rallies to enjoy them and have fun. At events we have seen an opportunity to expand our services by adding this new category. We have finished the installation of the testing facility. We are now excited to let all know we are taking DYNO appointments. Come by and see the new DYNO JET room here at the shop. Give us a call at 843-206-3336 to set up your appointment. You can get your bike tuned or just pull in get some pulls so you know your horsepower and torque numbers. With my history in racing one thing or another, along with TJ‘s computer and tuning knowledge, we offer the whole package for stereo along with engine and performance upgrade for DYNO work for motorcycles.”
The test results are displayed on the large screen.
A DYNO JET test in progress.
DYNO tunes are scheduled most times and it will take a full day generally. Customers will get some upgrades such as an air cleaner, exhaust or a cam before the DYNO Tune, so it may take longer than one day.
HOUSTON, TX (07.13.26) – CTX Operating Company, operator of twelve CAR•TOYS locations across Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston, has named longtime 12-volt industry veteran Chris Graham as Director of Operations.
Graham began his career in the 12-volt industry in 1989 and brings nearly four decades of experience spanning sales, store management, and regional operations. His career includes 24 years with CAR•TOYS, where he held multiple leadership positions and helped develop teams and drive operational performance.
In his new role, Graham will focus on improving operating consistency, optimizing inventory management, and creating efficiencies across CTX’s 12 Texas locations.
Chris Graham
“We have known Chris and respected his work for many years,” said Troy Parcels, President and Co-Owner of CTX. “He knows this industry, he knows the CAR•TOYS way, and he understands the people who make it work. Bringing him onto our team was a natural fit, and we are excited about what we can build together.”
“I am especially excited to work alongside Troy and Chris, whose leadership, vision, and extensive industry expertise have already made a remarkable impact,” Graham said. “What they have accomplished in such a short period of time is impressive, and I am honored to be part of the team driving the next phase of growth.”
“The 12-volt industry has been an incredible career for me, and I am energized by the opportunities ahead,” Graham continued. “I look forward to helping CTX continue its growth while maintaining the commitment to excellence that customers and employees have come to expect from the CAR•TOYS name.”
CTX Operating Company operates twelve CAR•TOYS locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston markets, specializing in mobile electronics, window tinting, and installation.
SHREVEPORT, LA (07.11.2026) – This subject is so important that we are reprinting an article by Bill Ward of CMIC Consulting that appeared in the August ’95 issue of the 12 Volt Advertiser. We had many favorable comments regarding the article… now over 31 years ago.
In 2026 Store Appearance and the In-Store Experience is even more vital. Online activity is impacting brick and mortar store in a very negative way. Small businesses have been the heartbeat of the retail category. Many manufacturers are now driving business through their websites and even offering drone delivery.
Below is the ‘Store Appearance Is Vital’ 12volt Advertiser August ’95 article directed to 12volt retailers.
Each day when you open your store and your customers walk in the door, they are making a new judgement about your store. Is the store clean and well merchandised, or is it cluttered and disorganized? How does it compare to nearby stores where they have shopped for the same product. In the first few seconds, they will form an opinion that will last a long time. Will it be a good impression or will it be a negative one?
The customer evaluation of your store starts as soon as they drive in your parking lot. Trash and clutter will not only affect today’s customer but your future customers who may be just driving down the street. The outside of your store is like a billboard that advertises your company. Does it make the statement you want to make? When your customer walks in your door he is your guest. At home when you know you are having a party or company, you make sure everything is clean and looks its best. When your store opens every morning, it should not be any different.
The 60 minutes before you open each morning is a critical time for every retailer to get ready for today’s customers. It’s a time that the owner or manager should be active and get involved with supervising his employees to be sure that the store is ready to open. Before you unlock your door, walk around and inspect the inside and outside and look at it through the eyes of your customer. How does it stack up?
CHECK your parking lot and be sure it is clean and litter free.
CHECK to be sure your door and window glass is clean and free of smudges.
FILL in products from your stock room so your selection is complete and you displays full.
RE-ALIGN and merchandise to maximize the impact of your product displays.
REMOVE all empty cartons and packing from the sales floor.
CHECK all your advertised merchandise and be sure it is priced and ready to go.
MAKE sure your aisles are free and clear of clutter and boxed merchandise.
HAVE your store and restrooms clean and ready to open.
CHECK to see if your point of sale signs and pricing is all up to date and current.
DELEGATE the responsibility to get the job done, but personally inspect the results each day before you open.
The In-Store Experience is so important. The MUSIC MATTERS and people can not experience the highs and mids, or feel bass in their chest, on a smartphone or laptop.
WHEELING, WV (07.10.26 ) – The Steel Valley Regional XV will be held July 17,18,19 2026 returning to the Wesbanco Arena. Save the date!! As before, this show will feature the Top 48 SQ Showdown along with lASCA 3X, EMMA 3X, MASQ 3X and MECA 4X.
EVENT HOURS Friday, July 17th: Setup 12PM – 9PM, Saturday, July 18th: Competition begins at 8AM, Sunday July 19th: Competition begins at 8AM and Sunday, July 19th: Awards at 6PM.
“This is a Car Audio Sound Quality Show that will have approximately 75 of the best sounding vehicles in the Country competing with experienced sound quality judges. This is one of the ultimate sound quality contests in the USA!” Larry Chijner related.
Here is a List of Current SPONSORS for SVR XV. This show could not happen if it. wasn’t for the Continued Support of the Manufacturers and Individuals
An image of the event floor last year as set up was complete.
ARC AUDIO Presents SVR XV-Title Brian Mitchell, Brad Ott, Fred Lynch ZAPCO /ESB -Gold Sponsor Chris Bennett, Enzo MSC AMERICA-BRAX/HELIX/MATCH/ BLAM- Gold Sponsor Jeff Smith, Larry Penn KARMA MOBILE AUDIO-Silver TrophySponsor Adam Schlepphorst, Harry Kimura- Gold Sponsor Creative Products Design-BronzeSponsor Mike Buononato JL AUDIO/GARMIN-Gold Sponsor Manville Smith lan Gash HAROLD JONES Brothers Boxing Club-Silver Sponsor Audio Intensity -PRIZE Sponsor Scott Welch US ACOUSTICS-Silver Sponsor Mike Nicholls Stereo Installs- Trophy Sponsor Bryan Huston David Wright DAVIS DISTRIBUTION -Prize Sponsor Nate Taliani Chuck Fauser Liquid HiFi-Prize Sponsor Ron Ronald K. Buffington
ECA4X (East Coast Audiophiles) Richard Papasin
“If I missed anyone it was by accident so please notify me so I can correct this post. PLEASE… Thank these people and manufacturers for continuing to Support Car Audio Competition by using their products. A Simple THANK YOU goes a long way” Chijner added.
Concluding “Anyone else interested in Helping by Sponsoring the show please contact me directly. Ichijner@gmail.com. Thanks for everyones continued support!!
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