Summit Sound & Security Hosted A Very Successful Car Show July 5th

Posted on by in Featured.

TWINSBURG, OH (07.09.24) –The Summit Sound & Security Car Show packed the entire shopping center with nearly 200 cars and hundreds of enthusiast Friday July 5th from 4-8PM. All cars and motorcycles were welcomed plus the Busted Society Car Club members drew members to the event. A DJ was set up and played music during the event. A Taco truck was in the center’s parking lot and the first 100 attendees received free tacos.

The area in front of the Summit Sound location was packed throughout the event.

An added attraction at the event was a major Alpine presence with an Alpine Jeep and and multiple Alpine tents set up in front of the store. Alpine Product Specialist Chris Reavis was in the house. Steve McGaffee, with area Alpine rep firm Online Marketing, was also on site doing demos in the Jeep.

Attendees enjoying music from the DJ and experiencing exotic cars too.
Roger Buell, behind the counter, with a thank you post for Chris and Steve for Alpine‘s support.

“This was truly an amazing event. There was so much energy at the event with all enjoying the cars, listening to the DJ, checking out the Alpine Jeep and just enjoying the Friday after July 4th…tacos too. When people took a seat in the Jeep they really got an Alpine Experience” Reavis related.

Hoods were open for attendees to check out with the Alpine set up in the background.
There were no fewer than 50 demos of the Alpine loaded Jeep.

Chris Jaenky, Summit Sound GM stated “The entire area around our store, front snd back, plus across the shopping center was packed with cars and attendees. We have been in business for 28 years and this event was one of the best. We started making social media posts 3 weeks before the event and that really got the word out across the area. We had classic cars, Corvettes, SQ cars and high priced exotic cars. Attendees inside the store at the sales counter drove business too for the day.”

The Jeep demo delivered the Alpine Experience for attendees throughout the event.
The Alpine Style Center display wall stands out in the showroom.

Roger Buell, Summit Sound & Security owner, stated “it was definitely a party. Cool show cars, music and tacos will always draw a crowd. We had 5 customers with their cars at the event that were loaded with Alpine Status systems. They were happy to show their cars. In addition we had a customer with his Tesla that was loaded with Alpine’s Tesla specific gear. We extend a big thank you to Alpine for their support plus our dedicated staff and customers.”

Inside the store the showroom was very busy. Alpine specials were stacked on the floor and customers filled the sales counter area finalizing their purchases.

Visit alpine-usa.com and summitsound.net for more.

Tint World Orlando Installs First-of-its-Kind Cybertruck Audio Aftermarket System

Posted on by in Industry.

A Cybertruck positioned outside of the Tint World location in Orlando.

ORLANDO, FL (07.09.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has achieved a major milestone in the automotive aftermarket industry by completing one of the first audio and lighting system upgrades for a Tesla Cybertruck at its location in Orlando, Florida.

Tint World Orlando has been driving business with Cybertrucks.

“This is a real breakthrough and demonstrates why Tint World is the leading installation center for automotive accessories and aftermarket service,” said Pete Muller, owner of Tint World Orlando. “I’m incredibly proud of the innovation and expertise our team has shown. We were able to deliver something unique that many people in the industry have never tried. This successful Cybertruck upgrade proves Tint World’s value and unlocks amazing new opportunities for us and for the industry as a whole.”

Vehicle lighting and paint protection are also Cybertruck upgrades being completed at Tint World Orlando.

The popular Cybertruck is one of the first vehicles to run on a 48-volt battery. Until now, car stereo professionals had not been able to power a conventional 12-volt audio system through Tesla’s proprietary power source.

Click above to view this video

Technicians at Tint World Orlando identified multiple 48-volt sources inside the Cybertruck and installed an auxiliary 12-volt battery with 48-volt converters to power a full transformation of the factory sound and lighting systems. The innovative system includes 16 top-of-the-line Arc Audio Reference Series speakers and an Arc Audio amplifier powering two Arc Audio subwoofers in a custom enclosure. The wiring, accessories, and lighting feature products from Metra Electronics, including an underglow system and custom-designed backlit Cybertruck emblem.

“We have seen some workarounds that have allowed other teams to develop major modifications on the Cybertruck, such as tapping into the Cybertruck’s 110-volt AC outlets to power aftermarket products,” Muller said. “But we wanted to use the 48-volt system rather than circumvent it. That makes this much more like a traditional car stereo install, and it represents a huge step forward for potential aftermarket upgrades on one of the most exciting and in-demand vehicles on the market.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Kelvin Rivera Hired as the East Coast Product Specialist at JVCKENWOOD USA

Posted on by in Industry.

LONG BEACH, CA (07.09.24) – JVCKENWOOD announced they have hired Kelvin Rivera as the East Coast Product Specialist for the company’s car electronics division. This new position will provide enhanced support to JVC and KENWOOD retailers, reps, and distributors through training, advanced technical assistance, and event support.

Kelvin Rivera brings six years of installation bay experience, offering hands-on expertise and in-depth knowledge of product installation and technical support. His prior role in installation positions him perfectly to deliver exceptional technical support to all dealers east of the Mississippi River.

“Kelvin is the perfect addition to the team, being able to relate and communicate seamlessly with dealers through his installation experience,” said Josh Bowen, Digital Content & Marketing Manager for JVCKENWOOD USA. “Excellent technical support is vital to our operations, and we believe that Kelvin will perform exceptionally in this role.”

Kelvin will focus on both JVC and KENWOOD dealers east of the Mississippi. He will report directly to Josh Bowen, Digital Content & Marketing Manager, who will work closely with Kelvin to create training materials, including online materials and video content.

“I couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing organization that is focused on providing solutions that meet the needs of sales, installers, and consumers,” Kelvin commented.

Kelvin can be reached at krivera@us.jvckenwood.com.

Visit us.jvckenwood.com for more.

The 2024 Steel Valley Regional Set For July 19-21

Posted on by in Featured.

WHEELING VA (07.08.24) The Steel Valley Regional XIII will be held at Wes Banco Arena in Wheeling WV July 19, 20, 21 2024. This year will feature Top 48 Sound Quality Showdown with 6 Judges from all over the country evaluating and ranking the Cars from 48 to 1st Place. The Top 10 will be eligible for 3000 Cash Payout. There is a SQOLOGY (Klifton Keplinger) Format using ICA Music. Also there will be IASCA 3X, MECA4X, EMMA 3X and MASQ 3X Formats available. The Top 48 Format is SOLD OUT but competitors can get on the waiting list.

The WesBanco Arena will once again host the Steel Valley Regional.

The Organizations will be posting if they have openings and will be taking care of their own trophies and judges accordingly. You can contact them to see if their is openings during the weekend as many have preregistered already.
Also a Tune Off with approx 8 Teams of 2 that will have 90 minutes to tune a vehicle featuring the ARC AUDIO PS8PRO and will be evaluated by multiple judges on Sunday and winner gets 1000 CASH.

Trophies and Prizes will be given out by the Organizations as well as the SQ Showdown.

Hotel Rooms are up to individuals but there is a block of rooms at the Hampton at the Highlands Triadelphia WV. There are about 8 hotels in this area 10 minutes via highway to the WesBanco Arena. The website for the Highlands area is hitthehighlands.com.There is Shopping, multiple restaurant’s, gas and anything you would need all in this area. See Wesbancoarena.com for more.

Participating Sponsors to date include

ARC AUDIO-TITLE SPONSOR …Brian Mitchell , Brad , Fred

ZAPCO /ESB..Diamond Level..Enzo / George, Chris / Ernie

KARMA AUDIO ..GOLD Level…@Adam Schlepphorst

Aegis ADi – Aegis Distribution Inc. ..GOLD Level .Scott Welch, John Borges
Audiowave, Goldhorn, Eton, Dynaudio USA

STINGER..GOLD Level..Jeff Smith

JL Audio/Garmin..SILVER Level..@Manville Smith, Bryatt Fischer,
Steve Lovell/Garmin

ResoNix Sound Solutions/Accuton. Silver Level..Nick Apicella Auto Sound

ORCA Design…Silver Level.Focal, Raven, Mosconi..Nick Wingate, Nick Wingate@Nalaka Adikari

Hybrid Audio..Bronze Level
Klifton Keplinger

Creative Products Design,,Bronze Level Mike Buononato

Stereo Installs .Gold Level
Awards…David Wright, Bryan Huston

Davis Distribution..Silver Level..Chuck Fauser

Italia Hi-Fi..Gold Level Sponsor .. Dan Merritt
Greg Thompson

Anyone else looking to participate, please contact Larry Chijner at lchijner@gmail.com. If I missed anyone I apologize and will add accordingly.

As usual Keith Turner will help run the show along with Klifton, Lori Wallace and the judging staff! Autosound Showcase is Keiths new show sq company and will help me once again!

Friday the venue will be open from 12 til 9 for Tweak n Tune all day. Competition will resume Saturday and Sunday mornings with Awards to follow Sunday around 5pm.

This is a indoor Air Conditioned Venue so weather will not be a problem and POWER Available to everyone inside the Arena. As we get closer i will keep you up to date if there are any changes or anything you need to know.

Fuel Required And Team Nutz Driving Business

Posted on by in Industry.

MT LEBANON, PA (07.08.24) Business partners Fuel Required and Team Nutz were on site at the 27th Annual Classic Car Show and Street Festival in Mt Lebanon on Sunday July 7h under a sunny sky. Enthusiasts started arrivng early and there was a stong crowd before noon. Classic and show cars lined the main street for all to check out. Food, vendors and live music added to the day’s enjoyment for all. The first 150 cars on display received dash plaques. Additional awards were presented to the top 60 cars.

Main Street in downtown MT Lebanon was busy busy on Sunday.
The classic car show filled areas downtown.

Team Nutz is a proactive 12volt retailer based in Pittsburg that also markets other automotive products. Sister company Fuel Required offers sales, service and consignment services for classic automobiles.

Ed Nuttall offered for Team Nutz “The Classic Car Show was a great opportunity for our retail store to connect with a large crowd of people interested in cars. The crowd had a lot of families who spent their time checking out all the vehicles. When they checked out the new Team Nutz Jeep and Excursion they experienced the wide variety of upgrades available for their rides.The kids were really drawn to the new Jeep and lots of folks were snapping images with the Team Nutz Jeep.”

The new Team Nutz Jeep stood out at the event.

Many attendees spent time checking out all of the new Team Nutz Jeep upgrades.

At the event there were Team Nutz stickers for attendees to pick up in addition to cards with special offers at the store. Nina and Ed Nuttall were on site along with Team Nutz crew member Rob Gratton.

Team Nutz gave out hundreds of stickers during the event.
Custom cards and special offers will continue to drive business after the event.

The new Team Nutz Jeep was unveiled at the recent Bantam Jeep Featival a month ago. Since that time it has been drawing attention out front on the busy in front of the Team Nutz location and every time it hits the streets.

Ed Nuttall pictured between the new Team Nutz Jeep and Excursion vehicles at the event.

For more see teamnutz.com

Race Sport Lighting Introduces NOVAlm Series LED Kits for Off-Road Enthusiasts

Posted on by in Industry News.

RINGWOOD IL (07.08.24) Race Sport Lighting, a leader in advanced automotive lighting solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits, designed specifically for off-road enthusiasts seeking superior high performance, rugged durability, and putting the light where they need it on the trails. Also known as the NOVA-Lumen, this kit defies the lumen output of all other light bulbs on the market.

The NOVAlm Series LED Kits represent the pinnacle of LED lighting technology, combining cutting-edge engineering with the rugged reliability required for off-road adventures. These LED kits are engineered to deliver exceptional brightness, enhanced visibility, and long-lasting durability, ensuring that off-road enthusiasts can tackle the toughest terrains with confidence.

Key Features of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits:

Unmatched Brightness: Utilizing the latest in LED technology, the NOVAlm Series provides unparalleled brightness, illuminating the path ahead with a crisp, clear light that mimics natural daylight. The NOVAlm measured up to 21,640lx per kit, which is more than most high-power light bars used off-road.
Robust Durability: Built to withstand the harshest conditions, these LED kits feature a rugged, waterproof design that can endure mud, water, and extreme temperatures. This kit is equipped with a 3-year manufacturer warranty for years of enjoyment.
Easy Installation: The NOVAlm Series LED Kits are designed for easy installation, allowing off-road enthusiasts to quickly upgrade their vehicles and hit the trails without delay. The main feature that installers will love is the waterproof BNC between the bulb and driver that will allow for easy installation on vehicles with seal caps behind the bulbs.
Energy Efficiency: With low power consumption and a long lifespan, these LED kits are not only powerful but also energy efficiently designed. Never has a bulb with so high of a lumen output ever run so efficiently, measuring temperatures at the base and tower body of less than 120 degrees.


“We are thrilled to bring the NOVAlm Series LED Kits to the off-road enthusiast community,” said Steven Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting. “These LED kits are a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts who demand the best in LED high performance and reliability. Having the ability for your High beam or Fog Light forward driving bulbs to put out Lux outputs that match your off-road lighting bars and auxiliary lights adds another dimension of projection lighting where the driver most needs the lighting in front of them.”

Race Sport Lighting has a long-standing reputation for innovation and quality in the automotive lighting industry. The introduction of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits underscores the company’s commitment to providing top-of-the-line products that meet the evolving needs of their customers. It is important to note that this high-power LED kit is made and designed only to go in low beams in lenses in off-road only vehicles, and never in on-road vehicles. If installed in on-road vehicles, only install inside fog lamps or high beam applications that can be switched on and off to be used only when the driver needs them.

For more information about the NOVAlm Series LED Kits and other products from Race Sport Lighting, please visit www.racesportinc.com.

The Vintage Air Road Tour Rolled Into The KICKER International HQ July 2nd

Posted on by in Featured.

STILLWATER, USA (July 5,2024)– KICKER® played host to the Vintage Air® Road Tour at its international headquarters on Tuesday, July 2.

Members of the tour entering the KICKER HQ lobby

The KICKER parking lot was teeming with more than 80 custom cars, trucks and hot rods making their way from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA for Vintage Air’s annual summer tour of the country. As two leading pioneers in the aftermarket automotive industry, KICKER was proud to team with Vintage Air so consumers, professionals and hobbyists could learn how to have all their in-car climate and audio needs met and exceeded.

A group of the Vintage Air Road Tour rides.
These Vintage Air Road Tour vehicles are projects in the works.

The Vintage Air vehicles, from street rods to trucks to custom classics, arrived in the morning on Tuesday. They were on display till the afternoon when the Tour continued its northward journey, with a destination of Goodguys Heartland Nationals in Des Moines on July 5. The KICKER south parking lot was dedicated to showcasing these custom vehicles sporting the latest innovation and technology from Vintage Air.

Tour members check out displays in the show area.

The KICKER Visitors Center and Museum were also open to the public. This presented a great opportunity to learn about the latest aftermarket solutions for any vehicle, covering the two most important factors when it comes to a vehicle’s cabin: air and sound!

Tour members check out KICKER’s square woofer history.

For more details, readers can visit vintageair.com. For those who could not come see these incredible custom cars in-person at KICKER HQ they can visit KICKER’s social media platforms for photos, videos and interviews of the tour.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at http://www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, X.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Alpine Returns to New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor

Posted on by in Industry.

Auburn Hills, MI (07.05.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) announced that they will return to the 2024 New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor.

“Alpine is excited to return to New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “Our reputation in the Jeep® community speaks for itself as we continue to be the number one audio brand that offers premium dash and sound solutions designed specifically for the Jeep® Wrangler and Jeep® Gladiator customer.”

Alpine will have a booth during the vendor show from Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 14 where they will offer special, event-only pricing on all products. As part of their continued investment, Alpine will increase their booth presence by 2000 square feet to showcase more exciting solutions designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.

In addition to the vendor booth, Alpine will also have an installation bay, powered by Tampa-based Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves, so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed. The installation space will be located directly next to the Alpine booth space in Install Alley.

Two Alpine 2018 Jeep® Wrangler demo vehicles will be on-site, featuring the i509-WRA-JL, a 9-inch Weather-Resistant Digital Media Receiver with Hi-Res Audio Playback. The unit was intentionally designed with the Jeep® driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep® interior and retain the features Jeep® drivers use the most. Other features, like wireless and wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Hi-Resolution Playback (96kHz/ 24Bit), and one of the industry-first SiriusXM-Ready® head units enhanced with 360L and Hi-Res music streaming with TIDAL, make this the ultimate upgrade for the Jeep® driver.

Alpine will have a strong presence in Wildwood as in this image from a previous year.

A premium Dash Camera DVR-C320R with built-in drive assist and impact recording will also be installed to showcase the head unit pairing capabilities of the i509-WRA-JL. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.

Alpine’s 2015 Jeep® Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep®-specific solutions designed for older Jeep® Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.

All event visitors are encouraged to visit the Alpine booth and take advantage of the special, event-only deals and on-site installation services during the event.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of Stellantis NV

Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. (“Alpine”) is an automotive electronics manufacturer that provides consumers and leading auto makers with audio, video, navigation, and driver assistance products. The company specializes in system integration solutions with innovative vehicle entertainment and information technologies. Alpine’s R&D and manufacturing facilities in Japan, China, Europe, and North America ensure that all products address the real-world requirements of drivers in each market. The company is committed to developing safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly automotive electronics products. For information about Alpine’s aftermarket products, visit www.alpine-usa.com or follow AlpineUSA on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and Roblox.

Mobile Solutions Announces MasterTechAdvanced Door Panel Fabrication Training

Posted on by in Industry News.

Scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions HQ in Tempe, Ariz., Attendees Will Learn From the Best in the Business, Including Renowned Automotive Designer and Master Fabricator, Tom Miller

Tempe, Ariz., July 5, 2024 – Mobile Solutions, a leader in creating the tools and training needed for custom automotive electronics, audio, and interior installations, is proud to announce its MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training, scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz. During the event,
attendees will learn from the best in the business and enhance their shop’s capabilities by utilizing Mobile Solutions’ comprehensive training program that will reveal the secrets to mastering CAD design automation, 3D fabrication, upholstery, and high-end automotive finishes.

The MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training offers in-depth examples of three real-world design projects, executed to the highest level. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Bryan Schmitt and special guest, the acclaimed automotive designer and master fabricator, Tom Miller.

What to expect from the MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training:

Hands-On Class: Participate in a hands-on class project that walks you through the entire design process from ideation to execution.

Finding Inspiration: Get tips on how to find inspiration and navigate through the ideation phase.

Efficient Planning: Improve your efficiency and elevate your design game with a fully realized plan, making it easier to start new projects and pitch ideas to clients.

Collaborative Learning Environment: Engage in a collaborative environment where you can share ideas and get feedback from peers and instructors.

Boost Your Business: Develop skills to effectively pitch your ideas and present your designs to potential clients.

Master Advanced Techniques: Develop a deeper understanding of cutting-edge processes and technologies.

“Everything starts with a plan,” said Miller. “In our Door Panel Fabrication Class, you’ll learn how to turn your idea into a compelling, executable plan. We’ll cover finding inspiration, ideation, sketching on paper, digital rendering, and 3D modeling. Starting a new project or pitching an idea can be tough, often leaving us stuck. This class will boost your design skills and efficiency, helping you create a fully realized plan.”

Schmitt concluded, “This is your chance to elevate your craftsmanship and stay ahead in the competitive automotive industry. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now and ensure your place among the elite in fabrication.”

Class time is 8:15am – 5:30pm each day.

Visit mobilesolutions-usa.com/doorpanelclass for more information and lodging opportunities during the training

For additional information, visit www.MobileSolutions-usa.com.

About Mobile Solutions

Mobile Solutions USA is an innovation-driven company creating tools and delivering training that enable custom automotive electronics, audio and interior installations progress with a level of efficiency not otherwise efficiently achieved in the aftermarket automotive business. With the patented Smart Templates™ brand of design tools and many other process-driven innovations, Mobile Solutions USA serves the aftermarket automotive technician, fabricator and retail store community through direct sales and distributors around the globe.

The July 4th 2024 Celebration Marks The 248th Anniversary Of Independence Day

Posted on by in Featured.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.03.24) – Thursday, July 4th, marks the celebration of Independence Day 248 across the U.S. Many businesses are enjoying a 4-Day 4th of July weekend by taking off Friday the 5th along with Thursday July 4th.

July 4th 2024 is seeing a return to somewhat normal as the COVID 19 Pandemic fades further in the rear view mirror. That said, the landscape across the US and around the world is far from normal. This year’s US President’s election turmoil fills the news, inflation continues running high and air travel is a nightmare in many cases. Online sales continue to take away from the brick and mortar marketplace. In-person events have returned but everyday life is far from normal.

On the 12volt industry side store traffic remains light as many consumers make decisions with allocating their disposable income. Uneasiness with regard to price increases and inventory issues persist. With so many options visibility for 12volt products is not getting through to consumers. We must continue to work to make music fun again!

The business year is divided into 4 quarters….much like a football game. The first quarter of 2024 was OK for many 12volt companies. As the second quarter came to a close the price of gas has declined but mounting social issues cloud the future. Reports are business has definitely slowed. Worldwide unrest adds to the cloudy future.

Now, as the second half of 2024 gets underway, all businesses must evaluate their game plans and make appropriate adjustments. Importantly, businesses must adjust their shoulder pads and tighten the chin straps on their helmets. Now, as the clock for the second half of 2024 has started, all businesses must keep their eye on the ball, work their game plans and be prepared to quickly make necessary adjustments. Importantly brick and mortar retailers must work to create excitement in their market to drive in-store traffic and business.

The 12voltSTP Tool can be utilized by members of the 12volt industry to showcase positives for their brand and activities. Snap..Txt..PRESTO. Snap an Image and Txt the image to 318 469 2526. PRESTO..your company could be in the news. As an industry let’s utilize the 12voltSTP Tool and be… ’Jammin’ N July’.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to focus on the positives and encourage all to work to ‘Get Our Shine On’ as an industry.