Showcase Your Company’s New Products in the 12volt News Show

SHREVEPORT, LA (08.25.23) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staff members, work to deliver positive industry news each business day.

The 12volt News Show was created as a vehicle for companies across the 12volt industry to showcase their new products to members of the 12vol industry. The 12volt News Show is a venue to let industry members know about new products from manufacturers, distributors and service companies….from the convenience of a company’s office it can happen with no travel time, hotel, freight or booth expense. A number of The 12volt News Show packages are available.

Jason Proios, Product Development and Technical Service Manager for Nakamichi, lets the 12volt industry know that the popular Nakamichi NA3625-WUX model is now back in stock.

The 12volt STP Tool, which is not an app to download, makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s new products. Simply hold and Snap a product, Txt the image along with a few words about the product, with your smartphone. PRESTO….your company’s new products could be in the 12volt News Show. 318-465-0844 is the number.

No doubt in-person trade and distributor shows offer so many more possibilities to showcase new products and connect with customers. Post Pandemic in-person trade shows have returned. Distributor shows in the spring of this year were less that 30% of Pre Pandemic numbers. As with all business related marketing initiatives measuring the ROI is a must.

With the advent of social media Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles for information and news delivery. The fact remains people need still, and look forward to, receiving news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry and members.

Today a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone. To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. Each business day there is also fresh industry news posted to 12voltnews.com.

The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to easily send their news to the 12volt Central Studios. On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are for the most part dedicated members of the 12volt industry. The 12voltSTP Tool and The 12volt News Show work hand-in-hand with the 12volt News to deliver positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

Visit instagram.com/12voltnews for more.

KICKER Brings Innovation, Education and Prizes to Dallas KnowledgeFest

STILLWATER, OK (08.24.23) – KICKER returns to the MEA KnowledgeFest at the Dallas Convention Center August 25-27, and will feature the KICKER Tech Force conducting a pair of trainings Friday and Saturday. The classes will help installers quickly determine the equipment needed to integrate aftermarket audio into a factory sound system, using KICKER’s revolutionary FIT™ and KEY technologies. All training attendees will automatically be entered to win one of two KICKER PowerBar powersports soundbars.

KICKER’s booth will be in front of the Convention Center’s main entrance, booth 801. Forty of the world’s largest 12-volt manufacturers will attend the event.

Also making an appearance will be the KICKER FIAT 500 Sport, equipped with the award-winning KEY Smart Amplifiers. KEY Technology drastically improves clarity, volume, and soundstage to nearly every radio on the market today – including those equipped with start/stop technology. It automatically applies time alignment, detects speaker sizes, adjusts gain, and applies a 40-band EQ and 24dB crossovers in a matter of seconds. The Fiat also features the enormous Quad Box of Solo-Baric L7 square subwoofers.

KICKER’s newest gear will be on display, including the ST-Series of P.A. Speakers, SoloX Subwoofers, the powerful Warhorse™ Sub Amplifier, newly released PowerCans, and award-winning KMXL Horn-Loaded Speakers.

For more details, consumers can visit www.knowledgefest.org.

Design Engineering’s New Under Seat Heat Shield Kits Improve Comfort

AVON LAKE, OH (08.24.23) – Staying cool doesn’t have to be a challenge. Design Engineering Inc.’s Under Seat Heat Shield Kit can be used on 2022-’23 Honda Pioneer models to reduce seat temperatures and make the interior more comfortable.

DEI’s under seat heat shield kit blocks engine heat from entering the passenger area with high-quality, custom-cut insulation pieces. The improved insulation lowers temperatures on the seat and middle plastic panel.

“Under seat heat shield kits will increase the riding comfort for you and your whole crew,” said John Gabriel, powersports manager at DEI. “Maximize the enjoyment of your next ride by adding this kit to your interior.”

The kit includes front seat and middle panel heat shields. It fits 2022-’23 Honda Pioneer 1000-5 and 1000-3 models. Installation is simple thanks to adhesive backing and will still allow your Honda Pioneer to be serviced.

For more information about DEI’s powersports line of heat and sound control products, visit www.deipowersports.com.

SounDigital USA Is Excited to Reintroduce a Legend in the Car Audio Industry

DANIA BEACH, FL (08.24.23) – SounDigital USA is excited to reintroduce a legend in the car audio industry.

After years (and years and years and years) of being asked, SounDigital has decided it needed to step back into the realm of High End Car Audio, and bring back the legendary GaN amplifier. This new series of amplifiers is a step up from the previous iteration, and will provide dealers with a much more versatile solution for their clients. 

SounDigital is doing things a bit different with this line, and that is making a product exclusive to select car audio retailers. It is important to understand why GaN is different, why it is going to be used specifically in an automotive application, and why this product is not being put into application in the powersports world. This is why the team at SounDigital USA has decided to introduce the product to all retailers at KnowledgeFest Dallas, and focus their training time to let car audio retailers know why this product is special. 

If you are a car audio retailer attending KnowledgeFest Dallas, make sure to swing by the booth when the floor opens, and make sure you attend the training on Saturday Evening, to get the real scoop on GaN. 

For more information about SounDigital, please visit http://www.SounDigitalUSA.com or e-mail info@soundigitalusa.com.

Armando Sounds Soon to Celebrate a Year of Sonic Success at the Niles Store

NILES, IL (08.23.23) – The Armando Sounds Grand Opening in Niles took place with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday morning, September 9th 2022.

“It seems like just yesterday that we celebrated the grand opening of our new Niles store. From then until now the journey has been filled with passion, innovation and incredible memories. As we reflect on this milestone we’re grateful to our amazing customers, the car audio community and staff that made it all possible” Mohammed Armand, Armando Sounds owner, related.

Just a short year ago community leaders, friends and staff gathered for the Grand Opening ribbon cutting ceremony.

Continuing “Here’s to a year of pushing boundaries, elevating sound and fueling the drive for excellence. Join our Team as we continue this sonic journey…because the best is yet to come” Armand stated.

The above heart-felt words were offered on an Armando Sounds social media post on August 8th, 2023.

KICKER’s Steve Irby (L) is pictured with Mohammed Armand during a recent visit. “Armando Sounds is an amazing retail store. Mohammed definitely raised the bar.”

The Mayor of Niles cut the ribbon as members of the Chamber of Commerce and other city officials gathered in front of the store almost a year ago. Following the ribbon cutting members of the group spent time inside enjoying refreshments and checking out the new store.

Armand added “We have now been in business for 23 years and this new location brings together what we felt would create a great in-store experience for consumers and customers in the area. Looking back at the past year that proved to be the case”

“This display, spotlighting a new 19” Rockford Fosgate and a custom Sound Mekanix enclosure gets customers talking” Mohammed Armand stated.
Recently JL Audio was on site with Shelby Shimkus, Heritage Marketing Rep Firm, with this Cadillac XTR, providing high-end demos.

5Axis Innovations worked hand-in-hand with Mohammed at Armando Sounds to create that in-store experience with a showroom designed with amazing displays and graphics. Jody Culbertson stated “It was truly an honor and privilege to work with Mohammed and his team to create the in-store experience he envisioned for consumers and customers. Seeing our work contribute to the success of a premier retailer like Armando Sounds is a very, very rewarding. We wish Mohammed and Armando Sounds many more years of sonic success.”

“We had seen the work that Jody Culbertson had done with 5Axis Innovations. We reached out to him and he developed a layout with displays and signage that came together and was amazing from the day we opened. Our staff of 5 greets customers knowing they will have a feeling of ‘WOW…this is THE place’ when they enter our new store. And importantly, the best is yet to come on our sonic journey” Mohammed concluded.

Tom Ebeling, Tree Associates, has been working with Mohammed for many years and they are personal friends. “From opening day I thought Mohammed’s new store rivaled any store in the country. He is a smart businessman and I think did everything to the extreme in the new Armando Sounds store. The turnout of the Mayor and city leaders at the grand opening last year certainly demonstrated Mohammed is a continuing and valued member of the community” Ebeling related.

The new Armando Sounds store, which at 7500 sq ft is 3 times the size of the previous location, is located at 7320 N. Milwaukee in Niles, IL 60714

Visit armandosounds.com for more.

Race Sport Lighting Release White LED Version Solar Cab Lights – No Wires, No Holes, No Drilling

RINGWOOD, IL (08.23.23) – Race Sport Lighting is pleased to announce the shipping of its new White LED Version of their patented and innovative Solar Roof Cab Light System to Distributors and Retailers this August. No Wire, No Holes, No Drilling involved! This invention was first previewed as Amber LED only by Race Sport Lighting during the SEMA 2021 Show and launched in early 2022. The Amber LED Wireless Solar Cab Light kits were a success nationwide as a unique solution to adding cab clearance lights to trucks that were not equipped with them at the factory. However, as their sales and marketing team demonstrated them at trade shows, the demand for a White LED version became a popular topic. People loved the solution and quality of the product but requested Race Sport Lighting to consider coming out with a White LED Version. That request has now been fulfilled, and Race Sport Lighting is officially stocking and shipping the White LED version out of their headquarters in Ringwood, IL. This amazing new product is made in an ISO 9000 factory right here in the USA alongside the Amber LED version.

This USPTO patented technology is revolutionary, it is completely run by solar and vibrations sensors and requires no wiring or drilling of holes into the roof of the vehicle. Coming out with a White LED version is not all the news though, Race Sport Lighting also upgraded these kits to Version 2.0 and made some slight improvements and adjustments not only to the White LED, but also the Amber LED kit. They upgraded to a new IC chip and v2 circuit board to help improve the consistency of the vibration sensor, and when the lights turn on and off. Ther brightness and the run time between solar chargers were greatly increased as well as a byproduct of this improvement on the 2.0. They also juiced up the retail packaging with a nice attractive gloss 4-color retail package that draws attention to customers when they walk by in your stores.

“We are so excited to finally be stocking and shipping this product to the marketplace. We had some distributors and retailers that really got behind the Amber LED Cab Light kits after the 2021 SEMA Show launch and sold a lot of the Amber LED version in 2022. I could not believe how many people wanted a White LED version. We discovered at trade shows that most truck outfitters and enthusiasts were removing the amber and going all White, and that included the marker cab lights on the roof. It was a must that we deliver the White LED Version in 2023 and it is now shipping daily.” – Steve Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting

The Part number for the Solar Cab Light System is #1007602. The system is already shipping in August to distributors and retailers nationwide. Pre-orders have already been shipped and new orders are being accepted. To learn more about this system, please watch this In The Garage video from the partners at Total Truck Centers – https://youtu.be/K-PhYTKLBw8

Tint World Opens in Maple Shade, Marking Third New Jersey Location

MAPLE SHADE, NJ (08.23.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues its expansion in New Jersey with the opening of a new location in Maple Shade.

Owned by Maurice and Davante Hooks, Tint World Maple Shade provides drivers and automotive enthusiasts throughout Burlington County with premium automotive aftermarket accessories and services, including industry-leading window-tint solutions, custom wheels and tires, nano ceramic coatings, automotive paint protection film, audio and video upgrades, detailing, and more.

A Central Jersey native, Maurice is a military veteran who recognized a desire to go into business for himself after his service ended in 2015. After researching various franchise options online, he decided that Tint World stood out due to its culture and the services and products provided.

“I grew up in a large family that loves cars,” Maurice said. “I also knew that I wanted to operate my own business, but I wasn’t sold on anything until I found Tint World. Now, I get to combine a lifelong passion with running a business in Maple Shade. There’s something for everyone here, from everyday commuters to automotive enthusiasts, and we’re proud to bring the extensive Tint World catalog to Burlington County.”

“Maurice is exactly the kind of franchise owner we look for when growing our Tint World family,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “He’s passionate about automobiles, and he brings a strong work ethic and desire to succeed. As a veteran, Maurice also understands the value of relying on proven processes that work and recognizes the world-class system we’ve created at Tint World. We’re confident that Maple Shade and the surrounding areas will be in excellent hands with Maurice and his team.”

Tint World Maple Shade, located at 479 Route 38 W Ste 2, Maple Shade, New Jersey 08052, serves the Cherry Hill, Mt. Laurel, Haddonfield, Cinnaminson, Willingboro, Pennsauken, Camden, Collingswood, Audubon, and Moorestown communities. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (609) 710-5318 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nj/maple-shade-134/.

KICKER Heads to OC Jeep Fest for Fun and Prizes

STILLWATER, OK (08.22.23) – KICKER is headed back to the East Coast as the title sponsor of the Ocean City Jeep Fest, held from August 24-27 and originating from the Ocean City (Md.) Convention Center.

Located in front of the Convention Center entrance, KICKER and Jeep Fest will host Jeeps from several local and national clubs, with several featuring custom KICKER installations. As an added bonus, there will be a chance for showgoers to win a full KICKER bass system, including the TB-Series 10-inch loaded “tube” enclosure, 400-watt mono amplifier and wiring kit.

KICKER dealer Audio Works (Newark, Del.) will be installing audio systems on-site for the entire show and will feature several audio packages for purchase made especially for Jeepers.  The Audio Works tent will be located next to the KICKER setup, which will be assisted by sales representatives from OPUS Marketing.

OC Jeep Fest has a nonstop event schedule planned for every day of the show, beginning with 300 Jeepers cruising the Ocean City sand during a beach crawl. The KICKER Show-and-Shine is planned for Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and three daily KICKER sand-course events will run from 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m. The KICKER Kickoff Party caps off the first day of the show at the nearby Hilton Garden Inn that evening. On Friday night, Pier 23 waterfront restaurant hosts Kickin’ It at the Harbor with KICKER, featuring live music, food and drinks.

Full event details are available on the OC Jeep Fest web page at www.oceancityjeepfest.com.

SounDigital and Ground Zero Sponsor the 26th Annual dB Drag Racing World Finals After Party

DANIA BEACH, FL (08.22.23) – The dB Drag Racing Association is excited to announce SounDigital and Ground Zero as the After Party Sponsors of the World Finals locations in North America.

The after party is always a competitor favorite of the World Finals! The party provides contestants and event attendees with an excellent opportunity to unwind, have dinner, and spend quality time with others who share a passion for car stereo.

SounDigital prides itself on always innovating and searching for new technologies. In a short period of time, Soundigital has earned its share of the market and has become the brand of choice for many well-known and demanding professionals in the car audio market. The brand’s products can be found in over 40 countries and in many high-performance competition vehicles. Headquartered in southern Brazil, SounDigital’s factory is located in the heart of a technology and manufacturing hub. In house engineers, assembly technicians, and quality control specialists, allow for control of every aspect of the amplifiers from start to finish.

Ground Zero Audio is no stranger to car audio competition and is the leading manufacturer of subwoofers with large surrounds. Ground Zero has worldwide distribution in more than 82 countries and offers a complete range of over 400 car hifi products, designed and developed in Germany. The Ground Zero brand is one of the world’s most respected names in car hifi and has consistently earned top marks by the winner’s circle with best ratings for price and performance.

On behalf of the dB Drag Racing Association and our members, we would like to sincerely thank SounDigital and Ground Zero and for their continued support.

To learn more, visit www.soundigitalusa.com and www.ground-zero-audio.com.

Elite Distributor Alliance Announces New Vendor Partner

SEATTLE, WA (08.22.23) – Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) has announced the addition of RDV Automotive Technology (RDV)  to their vendor partner line-up. 

RDV engineers and manufactures a wide variety of vehicle specific solutions that seamlessly and elegantly add some of the most wanted features to today’s vehicles including Apple CarPlay, wireless charging and other popular solutions.

Rich De Sclafani, Owner, RDV Automotive Technology

RDV is owned by industry veteran Rich De Sclafani who oversees and touches just about everything at the company. Rich said, “Wow!  I appreciate so much the confidence EDA has shown in my company. EDA is such a powerful group of quality 12-volt distributors. We are energized to have the group bring RDV to their thousands of customers.”

Josh Eatherly, Director of Business Development, EDA

Josh Eatherly, EDA’s Director of Business Development spent many weeks researching the opportunity. “The more I looked into RDV and talked to dealers and end users it was clear that Rich has done something special at RDV. There are just so many vehicle owners out there that want to add what RDV is delivering. RDV will be plus business for our members and dealers.”

Amir Dhahani of SSR Distributors in Houston and Dallas added, “We have had so many dealers ask for exactly what RDV is delivering. This will be an instant win for SSR!”

Visit elitedistributoralliance.com and rdvfl.com for more