The Atlanta Short Track Continued The 2026 Flat Track Series

Posted on by in Featured.

SENOIA, GA (03.23.26) – The adrenaline-packed action with the thunderous roar of Flat Track motorcycle racing returned to Senoia Raceway in Senoia GA on Saturday, March 21. This was Round 3 of the 2026 Progressive Flat Track Championship for the nation’s top riders go for glory on the legendary clay oval.

Action on the track in the afternoon.
Action on the track at night

Whole families enjoyed a full day of thrills and entertainment featuring live music, Kid zone, giant video screens for unbeatable views, vendor midway plus a wide variety of food and beverage options. KICKER was Livin’Loud trackside, and through announcers spotlighting KICKER products through the event.

KICKER had a booth showcase in their products close to the entrance.
KICKER KMTC Tower Speakers broadcast event action to the audience and pits.

Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media, was trackside with a large KICKER display area near the front entrance. Morrell stated “Action in the booth was very strong throughout the day. In the local area there are many bikers and the season is ramping up as KICKER is providing more products for bikes than ever. Also in the rural area there are so many truck on the road and KICKER has a wide variety of products for trucks…Marine too with lakes in the area. The stands were very close to being sold out plus the demographic of attendees was a perfect opportunity for experiencing KICKER’s wide variety of products.”

The stands were full and midway vendors offered many options for fans.

The next Flat Track event is the Ventura Short Track in Venture CA Saturday April 25th.

For more see kicker.com.

MasterTech Expo 2026 Delivers Record Energy, Global Attendance, & Next-Level Competition

Posted on by in Industry.

MESA, AZ (03.23.26) –The MasterTech Expo 2026 once again proved why it is the premier hands-on event for aftermarket fabrication, installation professionals, and shop owners. With more than 40 educational sessions, high-energy live competitions, and attendees representing 15 countries across six continents, this year’s event, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., set a new benchmark for innovation, craftsmanship, and community.

“From intensive training workshops to nonstop networking and live demos, the 2026 expo brought together the industry’s top fabricators, technicians, and manufacturers for a weekend focused on advancing skill sets and pushing creative boundaries,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This year’s revamped Build-Off format and elevated competition structure drove massive engagement both on the show floor and across social media. The combination of real-time fabrication, expert-level execution, and audience interaction created a dynamic environment unlike anything else in the industry.”

Standout Competitions Take Center Stage

Two major competitions captured the attention of attendees and dominated social media conversations throughout the weekend.

The MasterTech Build-Off headline event featured a high-stakes live fabrication battle sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. Two teams of three competed over sever total hours (3.5 hours per day) to design and build a fully finished subwoofer enclosure, complete with trim panels, lighting, and fine installation details.

Massive HD screens broadcast every cut, adjustment, and design decision, creating an immersive, high-adrenaline experience for spectators. Hats off to both the Red and Silver teams—true brotherhood was formed. With an incredibly close margin in voting, the Silver Team took home the top honor.

Special recognition goes to Dalton Trainer, Austin Moore, and Chris Britton—all under 32, representing the next generation of elite fabricators making a serious impact on the industry.

Over two days, eight competitors for the Clean Wire Challenge were tasked with building a fully customized amp rack in just 3.5 hours, using materials and equipment supplied onsite by leading manufacturers, including Stinger and SoundsGoodStereo.com. The completed builds were displayed for attendee voting, showcasing precision wiring, creative layouts, and execution at the highest level.

2026 Winner: Pablo Cruz

Industry Awards Recognize Excellence

The expo celebrated outstanding achievements across the industry:
• Clean Wire Tech: Isai Hernandez
• Fabricator of the Year: Dave Koz, Titan Motoring (Nashville, Tenn.)

  • Recognized for advanced, high-end builds and integration of 3D modeling techniques.
    • Lifetime Achievement Award: Andy Wehmeyer, President of AudioFrog
  • Honored for decades of influence, including 17 years at Harman and leadership as one of the industry’s foremost DSP experts.
    • Best Sounding Vehicle 2026: Orca Design & Manufacturing, built by Sage Weir (Sounds Good Stereo, Mt. Juliet, Tenn.)
  • Honorable Mention — third-time award recipient
    • Best Training Experience: MSC
    • Best Booth Experience: MSC

Global Reach and Industry Impact

MasterTech Expo 2026 welcomed distributors and dealers from around the world, including: United States · Canada · Mexico · Puerto Rico · Peru · Germany · Italy · United Kingdom · South Africa · Taiwan · The Philippines · Malaysia · Singapore · Australia · New Zealand

This international presence continues to reinforce the expo’s role as a global hubfor knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaboration.

A New Standard for Live Experience

The Clean Wire Challenge further highlighted the importance of precision and craftsmanship, delivering continuous inspiration for technicians at every level.

Looking Ahead

With record energy, growing international attendance, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, MasterTech Expo continues to raise the bar for what an industry event can deliver.

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

Massive Audio Highlights the H82XX

Posted on by in Industry.

LOS ANGELES, CA (03.23.26) – Massive Audio is spotlighting the H82XX, an 8-inch Hippo Series subwoofer built for enthusiasts who want serious output, durability, and musical control in a compact format.

Key Performance Highlights

  • 8″ subwoofer rated at 1400 watts RMS / 2800 watts peak.
  • 2.5″ dual 2-ohm voice coil for flexible wiring and strong thermal handling.
  • 170oz dual-stacked strontium motor with vented back plate and basket for heat dissipation.
  • Cast aluminum basket, heavy-duty triple tinsel leads, and direct input wire connection.
  • Kevlar-reinforced cone, fiberglass woven dust cap, foam surround, and 15mm X-max for controlled excursion.
  • 90.1 dB sensitivity with sealed and ported enclosure guidance available in the user guide.

“The H82XX was built for listeners who want serious low-end response from a compact woofer without giving up musical accuracy or daily reliability.” – John Velez

Built for Real-World Installs
The H82XX brings the Massive Audio Hippo Series approach to an 8-inch format that works well where space matters. Its motor strength, cone rigidity, and cooling design help deliver clean, authoritative bass for custom builds, daily drivers, and output-focused systems alike.

Dealer and Product Information
For product details, enclosure guidance, and dealer inquiries, visit Massive Audio or contact your Massive Audio sales representative John Velez. H82XX is part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to high-performance audio solutions built for enthusiasts and professionals.

Visit www.massiveaudio.com for more.

Remembering Dereck Duane “D.” Tircuit

Posted on by in Featured.

HOUMA LA (03.21.26) Dereck Duane Tircuit, known and loved by many simply as “D,” passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at his home in Prairieville, Louisiana, at the age of 51. He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on March 21, 1974. He was preceded in death by his father, Albert N. Tircuit; his maternal grandparents, Eugene Roe Sr. and Vera Hunt Roe; his paternal grandparents, Leonard “Boots” Tircuit and Genevieve Grass Tircuit; his aunt, Jenny Tircuit David; his uncle, Leonard G. Tircuit; his cousins, Travis and Kristie David; and his beloved fur babies, Kramer G., Gabby, and Deuce.

He is survived by his loving mother, Maxine Roe Tircuit; his devoted brother, Kyle Tircuit, and wife Jodie; and his two adored nieces, Shelby and Lainey Tircuit, who brought him endless joy. He also leaves behind his cherished fur companion, Goose Tircuit.

Dereck earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Management from Southeastern Louisiana University on December 15, 2001. He started his lifelong career in the audio industry in 1990 after bugging Earl for almost two months and was well known and respected for his knowledge, skill, and integrity.

After gaining years of experience working at numerous audio shops, Dereck fulfilled his entrepreneurial dream by opening his own business, Tiger Audio, in Gonzales, Louisiana. He was an expert in his field and a man of honesty and principle, never selling anything he did not fully stand behind. If you ever rode with him, you might notice missing dashboard panels or dangling wires—he would quickly assure you he was testing the latest and greatest equipment. No worries!

Dereck’s memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the love he shared so freely, and the countless lives he touched. May the Force be with him, always.

Above all, Dereck loved making people laugh. He treasured time spent with his family, especially Sunday dinners at Mama’s, boiling crawfish during holidays, and playfully aggravating his beloved nieces just to hear their laughter. He was an avid Star Wars fan and proud collector.

He also treasured his Band of Brothers memorabilia honoring his grandfather, Eugene “Doc” Roe, who was portrayed as a main character in the series. Dereck cherished time on the water, never missing an opportunity to board a charter boat out of Port Fourchon with his buddies, enjoying the thrill of catching big fish, and the peaceful sunrises and sunsets.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. at Jefferson United Methodist Church, 10328 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809. The service will be conducted by Reverend Mark Martin.

SEMA Expands 2026 Show with Dedicated Powersports Section to Unite Adventure Aftermarket

Posted on by in Featured.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.20.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is expanding the SEMA Show’s powersports presence by launching a dedicated Powersports / SxS / Lifestyle section at the upcoming Show, held November 3-6 in Las Vegas. This strategic expansion creates a unified home for the rapidly growing intersection of the automotive and powersports communities.

The initiative is a direct response to clear market demand and the evolving habits of the modern enthusiast. SEMA research confirms that the crossover between these worlds is seamless: the vast majority of enthusiasts do not limit themselves to a single vehicle type, often owning a combination of modified trucks, SUVs, and various recreational powersports vehicles.

“This expansion is a bold step forward in SEMA’s mission to serve the entire enthusiast ecosystem,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “Powersports has always been an integral part of SEMA’s DNA, and we are now providing this community with the dedicated platform it deserves. By integrating powersports and related lifestyle products into our Show floor, we are creating a more powerful, unified resource for the aftermarket. This move celebrates the natural synergy between automotive and outdoor recreation, ensuring our members have the advocacy, resources, and product discovery platform they need to thrive in a modern, evolving market.”

A Dynamic Activation in the West Hall — The Powersports / SxS / Lifestyle section will be anchored in the West Hall, utilizing a layout designed for long-term growth. The location offers unique access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.

The Show floor will undergo an evolution to group Trucks, Off-Road, and Powersports together, reflecting the “total package” approach enthusiasts take toward their adventure builds. The section will highlight a diverse range of categories, including:

  • Motorcycles and Dirt Bikes
  • Side-by-Sides
  • Trailers and Tow Vehicles
  • Related Adventure Lifestyle Gear and accessories

New and returning manufacturers are already showing excitement for the expanded section. “We’re proud to represent KYT Helmets at SEMA 2026,” said TJ Jira, Chief Executive Officer of KYT Americas. “We believe it’s an opportunity to elevate powersports and bring more visibility to our brand in the market.”

An Integrated Attendee Experience — For attendees, the new layout enhances business opportunities by placing complementary products in a single, high-energy destination.

“Attendees can expect an immersive and highly interactive experience that mirrors how they actually live and work,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “By grouping powersports and lifestyle gear alongside our world-class truck and off-road sections, we are providing an unmatched opportunity to see the latest in the adventure market.”

Market-Aligned Synergy — SEMA’s membership is already a powerhouse in the powersports sector. According to SEMA Research, 60% of specialty-equipment manufacturers already produce products for at least one type of powersports or recreational vehicle, while 47% of retailers and installers sell to these segments.

Beyond the Show floor, SEMA offers members tools to modernize their businesses, including data resources, technical services, and a powerful unified voice to protect the industry’s future. Through the acquisition of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), SEMA has strengthened its presence in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, Calif., to fight for land-use protection and motorized recreation access — issues that are critical to the survival of the powersports industry.

The new section allows the entire ecosystem to gather, learn about the latest products, take part in cutting-edge education to grow businesses and careers, and unite to solve opportunities and challenges facing the powersports marketplace.

Important Deadlines:
Interested exhibitors can learn more and reserve a booth at www.semashow.com/powersports, or by contacting Mike Ausec, Industry Sales Director, Powersports / Lifestyle at mikea@sema.org or 714-213-1584.

Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4; to sign up for notifications, visit here.

For more information, visit www.semashow.com.

KICKER Engages with Future Automotive Professionals Through SkillsUSA Partnership

Posted on by in Industry.

Aaron and Jacob –STILLWATER, OK (03.20.26) – KICKER strengthened its commitment to technical education by visiting Franklin Technology Center in Joplin, Missouri, on February 19. KICKER Training representatives Aaron Malin and Jacob Luckey conducted an interactive session with automotive students as part of the SkillsUSA national workforce program.

KICKER’s Aaron Malin (left) and Jacob Luckey conduct class at FTC in Joplin.

This was the second time KICKER has partnered with instructor Joe Flynn’s class in the last three years. The session included an overview of KICKER, fundamentals of car-audio systems, listening demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Students assisted in setting up the KICKER’s SkillsUSA amplifier and subwoofer training rigs. Several pairs of KICKER earbuds were awarded as prizes to participating students.

Jacob assists – KICKER trainer Jacob Luckey (center) helps students with their project.

“We enjoy working with the students at the technical schools,” Malin said.  “Many don’t know that car audio can be a very exciting and lucrative career. Everyone loves music!”

Flynn, the automotive mentor at Franklin Technology Center, noted, “Our students had a great opportunity to learn from Aaron and Jacob, who taught them the science behind mobile electronics and the proper way to wire and set up an audio system for the best performance.”

KICKER’s outreach highlights the company’s dedication to inspiring the next generation of mobile-audio enthusiasts and professionals. Through such initiatives, KICKER aims to showcase the rewarding opportunities in the car-audio industry and support hands-on learning in automotive technology programs.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Orion Car Audio Launches New High-Output Bass Processor Line

Posted on by in Industry.

MIAMI, FL (03.19.26) – Orion Car Audio is turning up the pressure on the 12V industry with the launch of five new high-output bass processors: XTR-BP25, XTR-BP20, HCCA-BP35, HCCA-BP30, and CBP10 — built to deliver maximum output, cleaner signal, and real-world results that sell on the spot.

Designed for today’s performance-driven market, every unit in the lineup features 10V pre-amp output, pushing a stronger, cleaner signal to amplifiers — translating into harder-hitting bass, tighter response, and noticeably louder systems with minimal noise.

This isn’t just an upgrade — it’s an instant, demo-ready difference your customers will hear immediately.

BUILT ACROSS THREE DOMINANT SERIES: XTR • HCCA • COBALT

XTR-BP25 — BASS RESTORATION THAT SELLS ITSELF

Engineered to recover low frequencies lost in compressed audio, making it a must-have add-on for streaming-based systems. Perfect for fast upgrades and easy attachment sales.

XTR-BP20 — TOTAL CONTROL, ANY BUILD

From tight punch to deep low-end, this processor gives installers complete tuning flexibility across any setup — making it a go-to solution for custom systems.

HCCA-BP35 — PURE SIGNAL POWER

Built on Orion’s legendary HCCA platform, delivering high-output signal strength for serious builds and high-performance customers who demand more.

HCCA-BP30 — PERFORMANCE YOU CAN SEE

Combines aggressive 10V output with a real-time voltage display, adding both function and visual impact — a premium upsell driver.

CBP10 — COMPACT, PROFIT-DRIVEN PERFORMANCE A high-value digital bass processor designed for entry-to-mid-level systems, delivering immediate improvement in output and clarity. Small footprint. Big sales potential.

WHY THIS LINE MOVES PRODUCT FAST

  • 10V pre-amp output = instant system upgrade your customers can hear
  • Built for streaming-era audio (bass restoration is no longer optional)
  • Covers multiple price points — from entry to high-performance
  • Perfect add-on to head units, amps, and subwoofer packages
  • Fast, easy upsell that increases ticket size on every install
  • Backed by Orion’s proven brand power

This lineup isn’t just about performance — it’s built to help dealers close faster, sell bigger systems, and maximize every install.

Now available for distribution. Dealer inquiries: family@orioncaraudio.com

Maxxsonics Announces Beata Wasilewski As Eastern Regional Sales Manager / Strategic Accounts Manager

Posted on by in Uncategorized.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (03.19.26) – Maxxsonics is pleased to announce that Beata Wasilewski has stepped into the role of Eastern Regional Sales Manager / Strategic Accounts Manager. This strategic move reinforces Maxxsonics’ continued commitment to strengthening regional leadership and supporting key account growth into 2026 and beyond.

“This is a natural next step for Beata and she knows our customers, understands our products, and has consistently shown the drive and professionalism needed to grow the business. I have a lot of confidence in her ability to step into this role and make an immediate impact,” said Eddie Ramirez, Maxxsonics National Sales Manager.

Beata Wasilewski

Beata has been an integral part of the Maxxsonics team for many years, consistently demonstrating dedication to both the company and its customers. Over the past six years, she has been deeply involved in sales operations, working closely with key accounts, distributors, and rep firms. Her experience includes collaboration with established rep and distribution businesses, giving her a comprehensive understanding of customer needs, product strategy, and market development.

In her expanded position, Beata will continue managing strategic accounts while assuming full responsibility for sales leadership across the Eastern region. Her combined experience in account management and regional development positions her to further strengthen dealer relationships, expand distribution opportunities, and drive continued growth across all Maxxsonics brands.

“Maxxsonics has always been about delivering innovative products and supporting the people who sell them. I’m grateful for the opportunity to take on this new role and continue working closely with our dealers and partners to help grow their business while expanding the reach of our brands. I can’t wait to continue contributing to the momentum Maxxsonics has built and I look forward to creating new relationships while strengthening the foundations of what we have already established,” said Beata Wasilewski, Maxxsonics Eastern Regional Sales Manager / Strategic Accounts Manager.

Beata is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing Maxxsonics’ market presence, reinforcing partnerships, and delivering consistent successful results throughout the Eastern territory.

For more info, visit maxxsonics.com

ORACLE Lighting Introduces Latest Lensless LED Headlight design for the 5th Generation Toyota 4Runner

Posted on by in Uncategorized.

METAIRIE, LA (03.19.26) –  ORACLE Lighting has announced the upcoming release of its groundbreaking Lensless LED Headlights designed specifically for the 5th Generation Toyota 4Runner. Building on the company’s patent-pending lensless lighting architecture, this new system represents a major advancement in durability, maintenance, and real-world performance for off-road vehicles and adventure-focused platforms.

For more than a century, automotive headlights have relied on a clear outer lens to protect the light source. While lighting technologies have evolved from halogen to HID to modern LEDs, the basic architecture has remained largely unchanged. ORACLE Lighting’s lensless design challenges that convention, removing the traditional polycarbonate lens entirely and replacing it with a modular system of sealed LED emitter pods integrated directly into the headlight housing.

Each emitter module contains precision optics constructed from ballistics-grade PMMA acrylic, delivering exceptional optical clarity and impact resistance. At one inch thick, these optics are engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions, highway debris, and off-road use. Unlike traditional headlights where a damaged lens requires replacing the entire assembly, ORACLE’s modular system allows individual components to be serviced or replaced, dramatically improving long-term ownership value.

“Removing the lens allowed us to rethink the entire headlight system from the ground up,” said Justin Hartenstein, Founder and Director of Product Development at ORACLE Lighting. “The result is a design that eliminates the most common failure points found in modern headlights like fogging, cracking, oxidation, and condensation… all while introducing a level of durability and serviceability that just didn’t exist before.”

One of the most innovative aspects of the new 4Runner headlight system is its integrated thermal management architecture. The projector bezels are manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminum and serve as part of the active thermal dissipation system for the high-output LED emitters. As the LEDs operate, heat is transferred into the aluminum bezels and housing where it is dissipated efficiently to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

This thermal integration not only allows the LEDs to operate optimally, it also provides a significant real-world advantage in winter environments. Unlike many modern LED headlights that remain cold and allow snow or ice to accumulate on the lens, the ORACLE system naturally becomes warm during operation, helping melt snow and ice buildup during driving. The design provides improved visibility in cold climates without requiring separate heating elements or additional electrical load.

Beyond durability and thermal performance, the lensless architecture also opens new possibilities for styling and customization. Without a traditional lens covering the front surface, the headlight housing itself becomes a visible design element. The exterior surfaces can be paint-matched to the vehicle, giving builders and enthusiasts new creative flexibility for OEM-plus builds and custom vehicles.

The headlights also feature reinforced, replaceable mounting brackets, reducing the likelihood of damage during installation, transport, or off-road use. If a bracket is ever damaged, it can be replaced independently without replacing the entire headlight assembly.

Designed specifically for the Toyota 4Runner platform, the new lensless headlights maintain a factory-style fit while delivering modern lighting performance and an aggressive, purpose-built appearance suited to the vehicle’s reputation for durability and adventure.

“Vehicles like the 4Runner are built for harsh environments, and their lighting systems should reflect that,” Hartenstein added. “This product was designed for real-world use, from trail dust and rock impacts to winter snowstorms… all while also pushing the boundaries of what automotive lighting can look like.”

Toyota 4Runner Lensless Headlights are expected to become available in late 2026, with additional vehicle applications already in development.

For more information visit www.oraclelights.com

KICKER Launches KMFC Tower Systems

Posted on by in Industry.

STILLWATER, OK (03.19.26) – KICKER’s new KMFC65 and KMFC8 coaxial tower systems crank out serious mid-bases and high frequency volume, cutting through wind and waves! These flat mount marine speakers deliver loud, high fidelity sound was strong bass that keeps the party going strong on the water.

The new models come with stylish grills featuring 7-color LED lighting and are available in black or white to match the boats color perfectly. Built tough with UV treated polypropylene woofers and Santoprene surrounds the tower speakers mount easily to flat surfaces with hidden wiring for a clean professional look.

KICKER is Livin’Loud on the waves.

For more see kicker.com.