Alpine to Showcase New Jeep® Wrangler Builds for Purchase at the 2026 Daytona Jeep® Beach Event

Posted on April 16, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry News.

Auburn Hills MI (Apr. 16, 2026) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), a premium aftermarket car audio manufacturer, will attend the 2026 Jeep® Beach Vendor Show at the Daytona International Speedway from Friday, April 24 to Saturday, April 25.

During the event, Alpine will have both a retail presence, featuring a selection of Alpine Restyle products sold at special, event-only pricing with on-site installation options, and a showcase of new, complete Jeep® Wrangler builds available for purchase at participating Jeep® Dealerships nationwide.

Interior view of a vehicle dashboard featuring an Alpine sound system display, promoting the Jeep Beach 2026 event in Daytona Beach, FL, scheduled for April 24-25.

“Through the strength of our partnerships, we’re excited to offer unique, complete Jeep® Wrangler builds that make the vehicle purchase absolutely turn-key,” said Dan Sparks, National Sales Director for the Alpine Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America. “These Jeep® builds feature every upgrade a Wrangler driver would typically make – from lift, to tires, to audio – with parts and engineering by prominent brands in the industry. Not only are they beautiful builds – they’re engineered to perform!”

The Jeep® Wrangler builds were created in partnership with the expert off-road engineering of Rebel Off-Road and Timberline Upfitters and Alpine’s premium audio solutions. Building off the latest Jeep® Wrangler platform, each Jeep® is upfitted with premium, trail-tested parts, fully integrated Alpine audio systems, and finished with a unique wrap and corresponding interior aesthetic.

The builds are offered in four unique styles (Brigade, Mountain, Ocean, and Horizon) and are available for purchase at participating Jeep®Dealerships nationwide and include a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and dealer financing options.

Off-road vehicle displayed in a natural setting with a promotional graphic for Timberline Outfitters, featuring Alpine and Rebel Off Road, and event details for Daytona Beach, FL on April 24-25.

Alpine staff and Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves will be on-site to give audio and vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep®.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of Stellantis NV

For more see alpine-usa.com

Endless Possibilities At AXPONA 2026

Posted on April 16, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry.

AURORA IL (04.16.26) Endless Possibilities Auto is a very proactive retailer located in Aurora Illinois. With Cesar Marungo behind the wheel, Endless Possibilities Auto understands the continuing value of connecting with consumers and enthusiasts.

When Cesar heard the news that the AXPONA event was coming back this year to Chicagoland he made the decision to close the store on Saturday April 11th and attend the event with staff members Diego Christiano and Alexis Ugalde. While on the AXPONA show floor they LIVE streaming on their social media pages.

Announcement graphic stating 'CLOSED' on Saturday, 04-11-2026, for attending AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) with a note about live streaming on social media.

The AXPONA event spotlights home and car audio and the event was filled with amazing demo vehicles from a number of top brands. Hotel rooms were filled with incredible home audio builds. HKI, MSC, Morel, Mobile Systems, SUONU and Armageddon Audio, Ground Zero and Add Powr contributed to the engaging atmosphere on the car audio show floor with custom demos vehicles.

Text graphic featuring the phrase 'ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES AUTO' in bold, stylized, pink letters on a black background.

“We listened to all the demo vehicles on the floor and the Focal and the MSC vehicles were certainly amazing for us. We also spent time in many of the listing rooms on the home audio side. Listening to a demo room set up with a $175,000 home system was certainly an experience! Hearing a 60″ woofer in an enclosure that must’ve been 7 to 8 feet high was also an experience!” Cesar relayed.

“There was so much positive feel across the event with people listening to and enjoying music. Our take away from attending the event is to certainly to continue working to attract consumers into our store so they too can have a top experience listening to music in their vehicle. Plus there are so many more categories for vehicle aftermarket upgrades” Cesar concluded.

Endless Possibilities does frequent events, positioning a tent and vehicle out front of the store.

People are spending thousands of dollars to attend a big concert. Consumers can turn their vehicle into a concert hall and be able to enjoy their music every time they get behind the wheel. Across the 12volt industry turning a customers vehicle into a concert hall should be a goal everyday. Playing the in-store listening experience and professional installation cards is a also a must for 12volt retailers everyday.

For more – endlesspossibilitiesauto.com

IASCA Competition Delivers Standout Success at AXPONA Car Audio Showcase

Posted on April 15, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured.

Chicago, IL — April 15, 2026 — The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) proudly announces the resounding success of its competition held during the Car Audio Showcase at AXPONA. Over the course of three exciting days, attendees experienced immersive in-car demonstrations that highlighted the very best in mobile audio innovation, craftsmanship, and sound quality.

Sign for the AXPONA Car Audio Showcase Invitational, announcing winners will be revealed on April 12 at 10:30 AM, with an invitation to experience sound quality demos.

The showcase brought together top competitors and industry-leading manufacturers, creating a dynamic environment for both enthusiasts and newcomers to experience high-performance car audio firsthand. Participating manufacturer booths included HKI, MSC, Morel, Mobile Systems, SUONO, Armageddon Audio, and Add Powr, each contributing to the vibrant and engaging atmosphere of the event.

An indoor event featuring various cars, with attendees interacting around a black vehicle and a white vehicle visible in the background. A tent labeled 'Ground Zero' is set up on the left side of the image.

A highlight of the competition was the Best of Show award, which was earned by Miguel Rio for his exceptional Tesla build. His vehicle impressed judges and attendees alike with its outstanding sound quality, technical execution, and overall presentation.

Indoor car show displaying various vehicles with attendees viewing the cars.

The Best Demo Award, sponsored by MSC, was awarded to Elista Georgieva for her Mazda CX30. Her demonstration stood out for its clarity, musicality, and ability to captivate listeners during the in-car experience.

A car exhibition featuring a white luxury car and a black Mazda SUV, with attendees browsing displays and engaging with vendors in an indoor venue.

IASCA extends its sincere appreciation to the generous prize sponsors who helped make the competition possible: Genesis Audio, Florida Sound Quality, Ground Zero, Dewalt, Arc Audio, Italia Hifi, Bee Busy Audio, Kicker, Prodigy, USAcoustics, Zapco, and MSC.

“The level of talent and innovation on display this year was truly exceptional,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA. “The energy from both competitors and attendees made this one of the most memorable showcases to date.”

Three men standing beside a sign that reads 'Car Audio Showcase Invitational' at an event, promoting sound quality demonstrations.

Looking ahead, IASCA is excited to announce that AXPONA 2027 will host the IASCA 2026 Sound Quality Championship, further solidifying the event as a premier destination for elite car audio competition.

Close-up of a sleek, illuminated panel with engraved text and a metallic component, against a dark background.

For more information about IASCA events and future competitions, please visit iasca.com.

Joz Wang Named Modus Vice President of Marketing

Posted on April 15, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry News.

Oxnard, Calif., April 15, 2026 — DSP Solutions Inc., a leader in lifestyle and solution-based audio infotainment technology for vehicles, has appointed Joz Wang as Vice President of Marketing for Modus. In this newly created role, Wang will report to Co-CEO Navid Farhand, focusing on the global expansion of Modus and its award-winning luxury and high-end audio solutions.

“The automotive landscape is changing as vehicles become more intelligent and integrated,” said Farhand. “We’re developing systems that elevate sound quality while solving the electrical efficiency challenges of modern cars. With Joz leading our marketing, we’re ready to show discerning drivers what our upgradeable platforms can do.”

Wang’s approach to digital transformation and brand storytelling is built on extensive global experience, including previous roles at Genesis Motor America, Nissan, and Disney. Her appointment comes as the company expands its footprint in the premium space, with patented power-management and signal-processing technologies designed to improve the in-vehicle experience.

“I’m thrilled to join a team that is genuinely challenging how we approach audio engineering,” said Wang. “Translating technical leadership into a global brand experience is what excites me the most. I’m looking forward to building a brand strategy that brings our innovation to life and connects with our customers around the world.”

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com .

KENWOOD Corporation Expands Motorcycle Audio Lineup with New Solutions for 1998–2013 Harley-Davidson Models

Posted on April 15, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry.

All-new cut-in kit and eXcelon speaker additions complete comprehensive replacement offering

Long Beach — April 15, 2026 — KENWOOD Corporation, a leader in premium mobile audio solutions, today announced the expansion of its motorcycle audio lineup with new products designed specifically for 1998–2013 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. These additions complete KENWOOD’s full replacement audio solution for this popular generation of touring bikes.

The new lineup includes the CA-CUT98 Cut-In Kit, engineered to simplify installation of high-performance audio upgrades on motorcycles equipped with saddle bags. Designed for seamless integration, the CA-CUT98 enables riders to easily add KENWOOD 6×9-inch speakers to their existing setup, delivering enhanced sound.

In addition, KENWOOD is introducing two new eXcelon Series 5×7-inch speakers, purpose-built for motorcycle applications:

• XM57F (Front Speaker): Designed to fit 1998–2013 Road Glide® models. The XM57F is designed specifically for the front fairing locations, delivering clear, powerful audio.

• XM57R (Rear Speaker): Compatible with rear speaker locations on 1998–2023 Select, Street Glide®, and Road Glide® motorcycles, offering high-quality sound. To fit the rear location and provide superior performance, they use a Neodymium magnet assembly.

• Both speaker sets are designed to work perfectly with the KENWOOD XM160-2 -98 amplifiers.

These new products reinforce KENWOOD’s commitment to providing riders with premium audio performance, durability, and ease of installation across a wide range of Harley-Davidson models.

“With the addition of the CA-CUT98 and our new eXcelon 5×7 speakers, we are proud to offer a complete, high-quality audio solution for riders of 1998–2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles,” said Rick Noetzli Product manager. “Our goal is to make upgrading motorcycle audio as simple as possible, without compromising performance.”

Availability
All newly announced products — the CA-CUT98 Cut-In Kit, XM57F, and XM57R speakers — are currently shipping and available through authorized KENWOOD dealers.

Now Available: Pioneer SPHERA, the World’s First Aftermarket Spatial Audio In-Dash Receiver to Feature Dolby Atmos Playback in Apple CarPlay®

Posted on April 14, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured and tagged electronics, music, news, tech, technology.

LOS ANGELES – (April 14, 2026) – Following its debut at CES 2026, Pioneer, a global leader of in-vehicle sound and aftermarket car electronics, announces the retail availability of SPHERA, the world’s first aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver to feature Dolby Atmos® playback in Apple CarPlay. The receiver expands access to immersive in-vehicle audio through an aftermarket solution that can be installed in millions of existing vehicles, delivering a Dolby Atmos listening experience using speakers already in the vehicle.

With SPHERA, drivers can stream their favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from many popular streaming services for a richer in-car entertainment experience with added depth, clarity, and detail. Designed as a practical upgrade for vehicles already on the road, SPHERA combines Dolby Atmos playback capability with Pioneer processing to create an immersive listening experience using existing front and rear speaker locations.

***Designed as an upgrade for vehicles already on the road, SPHERA delivers an immersive, multidimensional in-car listening experience featuring Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos®***

“SPHERA marks a significant milestone in our mission to ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul‘ by making immersive spatial audio in the car more accessible,” said Larry Rougas, Revenue & Growth Officer and Executive Vice President at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “By integrating Dolby Atmos into a platform that supports the way people drive today via Apple CarPlay and using our exclusive Autotuning technology to calibrate the system to any vehicle interior, we are effectively setting a new benchmark for what is possible in aftermarket vehicle entertainment.”

SPHERA pairs its immersive audio technology with a modern in-dash platform designed for everyday driving. The receiver features a 10.1-inch HD capacitive display with Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface for fast, intuitive control, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® connectivity. Pioneer’s exclusive Autotuning technology automatically calibrates the system to the vehicle interior, adjusting time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to optimize the listening experience.

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

Pioneer SPHERA will be available beginning April 14, 2026, for $1,300 through Pioneer’s website and a network of authorized retailers, including Best Buy, Crutchfield, CarToys, and other authorized dealers.

For more information about Pioneer SPHERA, visit usa.pioneer.com .

Genevo America Enters U.S. Market to Challenge Radar Detector Status Quo with European Precision Engineering

Posted on April 14, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured.

Genevo America Enters U.S. Market to Challenge Radar Detector Status Quo with European Precision Engineering

New premium lineup targets performance-driven drivers and specialty retailers with next-generation detection technology

North Fort Myers, FL — April 14, 2026 — Genevo America, the North American division of Genevo s.r.o., today announced its official launch in the United States, introducing a new benchmark in precision-engineered radar detection and laser protection systems. Built on a foundation of European innovation and engineering excellence, Genevo products are designed to deliver exceptional detection performance, advanced threat filtering, and seamless integration across both portable and custom-installed platforms.

“Genevo America represents a new era in driver awareness technology,” said Ray Woolf, CEO of Genevo America. “We’re not here to follow the market — we’re here to redefine it. Our focus is on delivering the most advanced, reliable, and intelligently engineered radar and laser defense systems available, while building a dealer network that creates long-term value for our partners.”

Genevo America enters the U.S. market with a focused suite of high-performance solutions, including the Genevo MAX portable radar detector, the Genevo PRO II and PRO II DUO custom-installed systems, and the Genevo LP3 laser protection system. Each product is engineered to detect and respond to modern enforcement technologies, including low-powered radar, photo radar systems, and advanced laser threats.

***Ray Woolf, CEO of Genevo, with the PRO II and PRO II DUO models.***

Rather than pursuing a mass-market approach, Genevo America is executing a dealer-first strategy, prioritizing partnerships with specialty 12V retailers, performance shops, and premium automotive integrators. This strategy is designed to maintain pricing integrity through disciplined MAP enforcement, ensure consistent product availability, and create strong margins for partners aligned with the brand’s long-term growth.

Genevo systems are specifically engineered for the evolving U.S. driving environment, addressing advanced Ka-band radar threats, MRCD/MRCT and photo radar systems, and laser-based enforcement technologies. With continuous firmware updates and region-specific optimization, Genevo ensures drivers are prepared for both current and emerging threats.

Genevo s.r.o. leadership emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion, noting that the launch of Genevo America represents a major step in the company’s global growth. The move brings Genevo’s proven European technology into one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets, supported by a dedicated U.S. team focused on execution, technical expertise, and long-term partner success.

For more information visit https://www.genevo.com/us/

KENWOOD introduces two new subwoofers in its premium eXcelon line of products

Posted on April 14, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry News.

KENWOOD eXcelon Introduces New High-Performance Subwoofers: KFC-XW1242 (12”) and KFC-XW1042 (10”)

Long Beach CA , 4-14-2026 — Kenwood proudly announces the latest additions to its premium eXcelon car audio lineup: the KFC-XW1242 12-inch and KFC-XW1042 10-inch subwoofers. Designed for audio enthusiasts seeking powerful, accurate bass. Both models feature a single 4-ohm voice coil.

Engineered for durability and high output, the KFC-XW1242 12-inch subwoofer is rated at 350 watts RMS at 4 ohms, and the KFC-XW1042 is rated at 300 watts RMS, delivering deep, controlled bass with exceptional clarity.

Both models incorporate advanced design enhancements, including a new magnet structure paired with a 6-layer voice coil, improving heat dissipation for greater power handling and long-term reliability. Additionally, a progressive spider pleat design helps prevent over-excursion.

Key features include:

• New magnet and 6-layer voice coil design for improved thermal performance

• Progressive spider pleat design for enhanced excursion control

• Durable construction for long-lasting reliability

• Optimized for both sealed and vented enclosures

“These new eXcelon subwoofers reflect our continued focus on performance, reliability, and installer-friendly design,” said Rick Noetzli KENWOOD Product manager. “With improved thermal management and enhanced excursion control, the KFC-XW1242 and KFC-XW1042 deliver the powerful, clean bass our customers expect.”

The KFC-XW1042 is available now with a MAP price of $130.00, and the KFC-XW1242 is available now with a MAP price of $150.00 through authorized Kenwood eXcelon retailers.

ZZC-SY4C Now Supports Both SYNC 3 and SYNC 4 Systems

Posted on April 14, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry.

BIG UPDATE: MORE COMPATIBILITY-MORE OPPORTUNITY.

We’re excited to announce a major update to one of our fastest-growing products. The ZZC-SY4C now supports both Ford SYNC 3 and SYNC 4 systems. This means more vehicles, more installs and more sales potential for your shop.

WHY THIS MATTERS

The ZZC-SY4C is already a powerful solution for adding front, side and cargo camera visibility directly to the factory screen. Now, with expanded SYNC 3 compatibility, you can offer this upgrade to an even wider range of Ford vehicles.

GIVE YOUR CUSTOMERS:

WHAT THE ZZC-SY4C DELIVERS:

PERFECT FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS!

For pricing, availability, or to place an order, contact your ZZ2 sales representative or visit www.zz2.com

The Super Cat West Fest 2026 Was Livin’Loud With KICKER

Posted on April 13, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured.

LAKE HAVASU, AZ (04.13.26) – The Super Cat West Fest 2026, with sponsor KICKER, returned to the Havasu Riviera Marina April 9th thru April 11th. The KICKER XRV was on the ground showcasing KICKER Livin’Loud Audio, Powersports and numerous ski and pontoon boats were on the water in the marina and dockside.

***The KICKER XRV and side-by-sides set up for the event to begin.***

Lorin Morrell, MaddDog Media, orchestrates many KICKER consumer events was one site and stated “The first 3 years were great and this year was even better…way better. The KICKER space was up front and traffic was tremendous.. The XRV is an 85’ rolling showroom that was on site, with the amazing 40,000 watt BoomRoom, was definitely Livin’Loud. No doubt the XRV always draws a crowd and enthusiasts were lined up to check out displays inside and listen to the music.”

Continuing “ KICKER’s Western Regional Tracy Focht was on site. Focht worked with area rep Riley from Murphco, area dealers and members of the crowd. Products and a decked ski rig were under the XRV awning and had eyeballs all day. The Kawasaki Ridge and Jet Ski gave enthusiasts ideas. Helicopters were flying overhead to highlight the action through the days. Jeremy Wynn and Steven Bambrough rolled the XRV from KICKER HQ in Stillwater OK…1100 miles.”

“Local retailer Elite Audio spotlighted their KICKER equipped Tri-Toon with SOLO X subs along with their deck boat. The lighting on many of the boats in the marina and harbor was out of this world at night time. The fireworks over Lake Havasu during the dock party really lit up the sky. There was so much action at the dock there was crowd control on site.” Morrell concluded.

KICKER will remain in the area for the Anderson Powersports Desert Storm running April 22-25. The premier boating event will feature a street party, parade of power and a poker run showcasing high performance boats.

Visit kicker.com for more.