ORBA PLANS ROBUST OVERLAND EXPO WEST 2026 PRESENCE, SPONSORSHIP

Posted on April 17, 2026 by slaytonja in Industry.

Relaunched off-road advocacy organization to reach new audience of enthusiasts and businesses at premier gathering of overlanding community

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 17, 2026) – The Off-Road Business Association, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), is pleased to announce its sponsorship and participation as an exhibitor at Overland Expo West 2026, bringing its renewed advocacy focus to an expanded audience of the off-road community’s most passionate, innovative, and committed enthusiasts and businesses. Additionally, ORBA is excited to announce that Overland Expo has joined the organization as a Platinum-level member.

Stop by ORBA’s exhibitor lounge at Overland Expo West 2026, May 15-17 in Flagstaff, Ariz., where the organization’s leadership will host scheduled sessions on land-use issues and the benefits of ORBA membership and preview the 2026 Overland Expo Industry Report.

“ORBA is thrilled to be a sponsor and participant of Overland Expo West 2026, one of our community’s premier events for off-road and overland companies, as well as enthusiasts,” said Sean P. Holman, ORBA Interim Executive Director. “Attending Overland Expo West 2026 will be a unique opportunity to help further develop the relationships that will help to make our federal and state advocacy a success. We are equally excited to have Overland Expo join our growing membership roster, adding a significant consumer-facing organization to our ranks of advocates. At Overland Expo West 2026, our new leadership team will be meeting with our fellow enthusiasts, talking about the issues that impact our lifestyle, and growing our ability to be a voice for all off-roaders. We are looking forward to getting to know many of the faces that make up our much-loved off-road community.”

“Overland Expo has long served as a gathering place for the overland industry and enthusiast community, and partnering with ORBA and SEMA is a natural extension of that role,” said Emily Boden, Show Director at Overland Expo. “ORBA’s work ensures that businesses and enthusiasts alike have a voice in protecting access and opportunity, and we’re excited to support their expanded advocacy efforts at Overland Expo West 2026.”

Additionally, Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President for Public and Government Affairs, will be a panelist during the popular Women Who Wander networking brunch, providing insights into efforts to advocate at the state and federal levels for motorized access to public off-road spaces.

BACKGROUND
ORBA, a membership-based organization, recently announced a robust relaunch with a broadened advocacy strategy, enhanced research capabilities, and a renewed commitment to coalition-based action to protect the future of the off-road industry and enthusiast community.

As part of its relaunch, ORBA outlined several priority initiatives already underway:

Protecting access to public lands
Supporting federal legislation that preserves motorized access to outdoor spaces
Continuing the ecologic partners collaboration
Launching regional economic impact reports
Expanding coalitions and partnerships
Stewardship and education

With new tools, deeper partnerships, and a renewed focus on collaboration, ORBA is positioning itself to be a more effective advocate for businesses, enthusiasts, and the lands that make off-road recreation possible. ORBA has also upgraded the membership benefits to include regular communications, sponsored brand content across ORBA and SEMA Action Network digital channels and access to consumer research tools, and more.

Join ORBA and support off-road recreation today at www.offroadbusiness.org.

HKI USA Announces Strategic Transition Away from SounDigital

Posted on April 16, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured and tagged 12volt, automotive, hki, news, SounDigital.

Dania Beach, FL — April 16, 2026 — HKI USA today announced that, after 10 years of partnership, it is moving forward without the SounDigital line of amplifiers.

This decision was not made lightly. For more than a decade, HKI USA has proudly supported the growth of the SounDigital brand across the United States, always with a strong commitment to the specialty retail channel and the dealers who helped build that success.

As the market continues to evolve, HKI USA has made the decision to move in a direction that remains fully aligned with its core values: protecting its dealers, supporting brick-and-mortar retail, and delivering long-term value through trusted distribution, service, and support.

“As the market continues to evolve, HKI USA has chosen to move in a direction that remains fully aligned with its core values: protecting dealer opportunity, preserving channel integrity, and supporting the long-term health of the specialty retail network. said Diogo Iannaccone, CEO of HKI USA.

HKI USA understands that transitions like this can raise questions, and the company wants to reassure its partners that support remains in place. While inventory lasts, HKI USA will continue to support the SounDigital line as it always has, working together with retailers, customers, and the factory team to assist with product questions, warranties, repairs, and service needs. After inventory is sold through, HKI USA will continue honoring warranty and repair support without interruption.

At the same time, HKI USA is actively developing new solutions designed to serve its dealers and customers at the highest level. More information will be shared soon as the company introduces the next chapter of its global strategy.

“Our focus is not simply on what we are leaving behind, but on what we are building next,” Diogo Iannaccone added. “We are working hard to bring our partners new opportunities and strong solutions they can believe in.”

Dealers and partners with questions regarding timing, support, warranty coverage, or future product recommendations are encouraged to contact their HKI USA representative directly.

For more information, visit www.hki-usa.com.

N and H Electronics Hosted Very Successful 2026 Dealer Show

Posted on April 16, 2026 by slaytonja in Featured.

HATTIESBURG, MS (04.16.26) – The Annual N and H Electronics Dealer Show and Sale drew dealers from across the territory to to see new products, pick up great deals, connect with industry members and enjoy the delicious fresh lunch from Mack’s West Catfish Truck on Saturday, April 11th. N and H started business in 1950 so this year they are celebrating 76 years in business.

“As we celebrate 76 years dealers from across our territory arrived early. There were many super specials. Support from our vendor partners and reps was strong. And of course, the great catfish lunch was served fresh from Mack’s West Catfish Truck” Ricky Gibson related.

A buffet setup with multiple serving trays containing food, with a sign in the background indicating "Mack's West" and mentioning catfish lunches.

Brands in the house included JVC Mobile, KICKER, Soundstream, PowerBass, DB DRIVE, DS18, Metra Brands, Massive Audio, MTX, PAC, American International, MAXPro Window Film and Q-POWER.

A collage of logos representing various manufacturers in the mobile entertainment and audio industry, including brands like JVC, Kicker, and Soundstream.

Area representatives on site included Mike from Metra, John Velez and Chris King with Massive Audio, Jeff Falk from PowerBass, Leo and Whitney with DB Drive, Kent from MTX plus Brett and Jonathan from Prodigy Audio spotlighting amazing HULK demo rode.

Two sections of a busy audio store with people interacting and looking at various audio equipment, including speakers and sound systems. Notable individuals, Jeff Falk and John Velez, are present, emphasizing the activity around the store.

Kent Daigle, MTX Eastern Regional, related “The MTX Thunder Line is super strong in the marketplace. Dealers got a chance to see new products and took advantage of Ricky’s show deals. The catfish lunch was special and all went back for seconds at the buffet!”

DB Drive had a strong presence with Whitney Tomilnson from SMS and Leo Gonzales from DB Drive in the booth spotlighting WDX products and Marine as the season is here.

Jeff Falk relayed he was super happy to be back at Ricky’s show all extra happy to show all the new mimi-amps that will actually fit in a large pocket.

A group of individuals sitting at long tables enjoying a catfish lunch in a spacious venue.

John Velez rolled in from the Massive Audio west coast HQ with a swing through Nashville to hook up with rep Chris King with the Otium rep firm. The Very dedicated N&H team on site included Scott, Zack, Tervon, Mark, Michael, Debbie, Layna, Jack and Luke.

A young boy named Luke sitting at a table with a plate of food, reading a magazine, while others are seated in the background.

Concluding Ricky said “We appreciate all the dealers that came to the show on Saturday to help celebrate our 76th Anniversary. With all the specials we had going on, dealers took advantage of the savings. Those dealers that didn’t attend will also have an opportunity to take advantage of the specials. Attendance and business was up this year and there was so much energy on the in the house as industry members got together in person. We look forward to 2027. Thanks again to all.”

A man holding a 12volt News glasses cleaning cloth in a warehouse filled with boxes and products.

For more see nandhelectronics.com

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/