HKI USA Team Ensures Continued Customer Support Following Territory Transition

DANIA BEACH, FL (07.07.26) — HKI USA today recognized the dedication and teamwork of its representatives following the recent departure of Elias Ventura, who previously managed the Mid-Atlantic territory.

In response to the transition, HKI USA team members quickly stepped up to ensure customers continued receiving the service, communication, and support they have come to expect. By working together across roles and responsibilities, the team maintained coverage throughout the territory while keeping customer needs at the center of every decision.

“We are extremely proud of how our team responded during this transition,” said Jacob Brown, Director of Operations at HKI USA. “Their professionalism, flexibility, and commitment to our dealers reflect the strength of our organization and the values we work hard to uphold every day.”

The company emphasized that the territory remains fully supported and that customers can continue to rely on HKI USA for responsive service, product knowledge, and dependable partnership. The transition also highlighted the depth of experience within the organization and the team’s ability to adapt quickly when circumstances change.

HKI USA remains focused on serving its customers with consistency and care while continuing to support the representatives who have taken initiative during this transition. The 12Volt Specialists have stepped up to cover New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, JB Associates is handling Maryland and Delaware, and Ambassador Marketing is supporting Virginia, ensuring dealers throughout the Mid-Atlantic territory continue to receive responsive service and dependable partnership.

East PA and New England – 12 Volt Specialist – (978) 804-3966
Maryland, West PA and MidWest – JB & Associates – (304) 633-4880
Virginia, TN, NC, AC and SouthEast – Ambassador – (561) 385-1974

For more information regarding HKI USA, and the brands they represent, please visit www.HKI-USA.com.

Feel the Bass with HFX from Hifonics

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.07.26) – The HFX subwoofer lineup just got LOUDER. NOW AVAILABLE in 8 and 10-inch sizes (along with the 12-inch) — the HFX series brings HARD-HITTING BASS to any build — BIG or small.

Built to hit. Tuned to stay clean. HFX subwoofers are engineered with heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frames, pressure-treated, durable foam surrounds, and dual voice coils that keep bass tight, controlled, and distortion-free — even when you push it.

Get ready for deeper lows, harder punch, and sound that holds together at every volume now in more subwoofer sizes!

To learn more, click here.

Duquoin Mile Flat Track Race Rain Delayed

DUQUOIN IL (07.06.26) The Progressive American Flat Track Series was set for Saturday night July 4th at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds with the Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile. KICKER was set up outside the main entrance to the DuQuoin State Fair Arena under large tents and loaded KICKER Subaru.. Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, and the crew had all set. Unfortunately weather rolled in and action on the track was postponed until Sunday morning.

Kicker Performance Audio logo featuring bold yellow lettering on a black background.

A promotional KICKER audio tent set up outdoors, showcasing audio equipment and merchandise, with a car trunk displaying subwoofers in the foreground.
I’ll set up out front of the DiQuoin State Fair Arena.

An American flag waving in the foreground with a racetrack and buildings in the background.
On July 4th the American flag was flying high outside on the track

“American Flat Tack and bike enthusiasts all recognize the KICKER brand as KICKER has participated with American Flat Track events across the US for several years. At these events many attendees mention they enjoy KICKER products in their vehicles along with bikes, UTVs and boats.” Morrell related.

A group of motorcycle riders lined up on a dirt track, with some standing and others seated. Colorful banners and a scenic background featuring a body of water are visible, indicating a racing or motorsport event.
On Saturday afternoon, there was a one lap, one family, one
unforgettable reminder for Dan Bromley‘s tragic death at the LIMA Half Mile one week ago.

View of a dirt racing track with wet soil and several banners, creating a pre-race atmosphere at an outdoor event.
Late Saturday afternoon, the rain began.

Morrell’s travel schedule required for departure Saturday night. Sunday’s race results will be updated @12voltnews.com.

The next event on the 2026 American Flat Tack Series is March 5th & 6th at the Royal Enfield Short Track Daytona Beach FL.

For more see americanflattrack.com

Real Time Car Audio & Accessories Announces New Ownership and Leadership Under Roven Motoring

Suwanee, Georgia (07.06.26)Real Time Car Audio & Accessories (RTA), a trusted name in automotive electronics and vehicle enhancement services, is proud to announce its transition to new ownership as Real Time Car Audio & Accessories, a Roven Motoring Company.

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Roven Motoring as the company expands its footprint while preserving the trusted reputation and legacy of Real Time Car Audio & Accessories.

As part of this exciting new chapter, Ron Venable has been appointed General Manager of Real Time Car Audio & Accessories.

With more than 20 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry, Ron brings extensive expertise in vehicle electronics, automotive restyling, business operations, and customer service. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for quality workmanship, innovation, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

In addition, Vanessa Rodriguez has been appointed Operations Manager for Roven Motoring and Real Time Car Audio & Accessories. In her new role, Vanessa will oversee day-to-day operations across both companies, helping unify processes, support team development, improve customer experiences, and ensure operational excellence as the organizations continue to grow together.

“Bringing Real Time Car Audio into the Roven Motoring family is more than an acquisition—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” said Ron Venable. “Our mission is to honor the legacy that has made Real Time successful while investing in its future. With Vanessa leading operations across both businesses, we’re building a strong leadership team committed to excellence, innovation, and outstanding customer service.”

Customers can continue to expect the same trusted team, quality installations, and personalized service that have made Real Time Car Audio & Accessories a leader in the industry. Backed by Roven Motoring’s expanded resources and expertise, the company will continue offering industry-leading automotive electronics, premium audio systems, vehicle security, lighting, accessories, and custom restyling solutions.

Promotional image for RTA Real Time Audio and Roven Motoring, featuring a man smiling in front of their locations in Flowery Branch and Buford, GA. The design includes lightning effects and highlights services offered.

Together, the leadership team is focused on strengthening both brands while creating new opportunities for employees, customers, and the communities they serve.

“We’re incredibly excited about the future,” added Venable. “By combining the experience of Real Time Car Audio with the vision and capabilities of Roven Motoring, we’re creating an organization built for long-term growth while remaining committed to the personalized service our customers deserve.”

KICKER Regional Sales Manager Named to “Women Making Waves” by Boating Trade

STILLWATER, OK (07.5.26) – Lori Boyer, KICKER’s Southeast Regional Sales Manager, has been named by the editors of Boating Industry magazine to its prestigious roster of 2026 “Women Making Waves.”

This major awards recognition, now in its ninth year, recognizes outstanding women leaders from all segments of the North American boating industry. Boyer was one of 30 nominees tapped for this honor and profiled in a feature story alongside all winners in the latest edition of Boating Industry magazine. A special event celebration to present the awards is slated for later this year.

A woman with long, wavy hair is wearing a pink polo shirt with a logo on it. She has silver hoop earrings and is standing in front of a textured wall featuring various audio equipment.
Lori Boyer

“We are very proud of Lori’s outstanding recognition among her peers and appreciate the countless contributions she has made in her 38 years at KICKER,” said KICKER CEO Steve Irby. “Lori has certainly been a trailblazer and a highly dedicated member of the KICKER team. She has always focused on developing herself as an individual and a team member. Her dedication to product knowledge and expertise has made her a trusted and highly valued leader. We are very pleased by her significant distinction and well-deserved recognition.”

Boating Industry magazine cover featuring the phrase 'Women Making Waves' highlighting standout women in the boating industry.

Boyer began her career as a file clerk at KICKER in 1988 and has proven her capability with eight progressive roles within the organization, each assuming new areas of responsibility. For the past 11 years, she has served as the southeast regional sales manager – the first female aftermarket manager in the company’s history –  with responsibilities for ongoing communications and strategic 1:1 partnership collaboration to help customers increase sales and improve profitability.

Kicker Performance Audio logo in yellow and black.

“I am so honored to be included among this group of outstanding women in the marine industry and very much appreciate the nomination and recognition,” said Boyer. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career at KICKER and the continued opportunities for personal and professional growth.  After 38 years, I’m still learning and growing and loving the business more every day.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Happy 4th of July 2026

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.04.26) – Friday, July 4th 2026, marks the Celebration of Independence Day 250 across the U.S. Many businesses are enjoying a 3-Day 4th of July weekend by taking off Friday the 3rd along with Friday July 4th and Sunday for a 3-Day weekend.

July 4th 2026 is seeing the landscape across the US and around the world far from normal as turmoil fills the news. Inflation continues running high and air travel is a nightmare in many cases. Online sales continue to take away from the brick and mortar sales across the marketplace. In-person events have returned but everyday life is far from normal.

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

The business year is divided into 4 quarters….much like a football game. The first quarter of 2026 was OK for many 12volt companies. As the second quarter wrapped the impact of mounting social issues cloud the future. Reports are 12volt industry business has definitely slowed. Worldwide unrest adds to the cloudy future.

Now, as the second half of 2026 gets underway, all businesses must evaluate their game plans and make appropriate adjustments. Importantly, businesses must adjust their shoulder pads and tighten the chin straps on their helmets. Now, as the clock for the second half of 2025 has started, all businesses must keep their eye on the ball, work their game plans and be prepared to quickly make necessary adjustments. Importantly, brick and mortar retailers must work to create excitement in their marketplace to drive in-store traffic and business.

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

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to focus on the positives and encourage all to work to ‘Get Our Shine On’ as an industry and let’s ‘Make Music Fun Again!’

The KICKER #LivinLoudTour26

DUQUION, IL (07.03.26) – Following the very successful LIMA Half Mile June 26 and 27th Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, put the KICKER Subaru on the road for the #LivinLoudTour26 the next stop on the American FlatTrack Series at the Magic Mile in DuQuion, IL.

Thursday meeting at the Magic Mile before set on Friday.

The weekdays between the events were filled with stops at KICKER dealers along the way.

The 12volt Central Studios staff followed up with Lorin Morrell’s stop at Yong‘s Audio in Indianapolis. Adam Kim related “It was terrific to meet Lorin and check out the system in the Subaru. I was amazed at the overall sound quality while taking a seat in the Subaru. It was special to spend time with Lorin talking about the overall activity across the 12 V industry. KICKER is a strong line for our company and certainly appreciated Lorin’s stop at our store.”

The Kicker Subaru at Audio Visionz in Mount Vernon, IL with Kyla.
A photo with on Historic Route 66 in Litchfield, IL.

Another follow up contact was Audio Visionz with Kyla in Mount Vernon, IL. Recently Audio Visionz came back on board with

KICKER and Kyla related ” It was great to spend time with Lorin, getting a feel of the overall KICKER line, plus spending time with consumers that came to check out the action in the Subaru.” There are also many opportunities at their sister company Midwest Truck Accessories.

“As I was behind the wheel of the Subaru one of the highways was Route 66 that is now celebrating the 100th Anniversary. After a busy week on the road, today Thursday, It’s meetings at the track and we will be setting up at the Magic Mile at the DuQuion Fairgrounds outside of Chicago for the American Flat Track series this weekend.”

Visit kicker.com and stay tuned for more.

Global Audio Marketing / MUSWAY USA Welcomes Industry Veteran and Multi-Time Champion Mel Valadez

MURRIETA, CA (07.03.26) – Global Audio Marketing, the exclusive U.S. distributor of MUSWAY, is proud to announce that respected industry veteran and multi-time champion Mel Valadez has joined the MUSWAY USA team.

With more than three decades of experience in the mobile electronics industry, Mel brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, sales leadership, dealer development, product training, installation knowledge, and championship-level competition experience. His addition marks another major step in Global Audio Marketing’s continued investment in building one of the fastest-growing premium mobile audio brands in the United States.

Mel Valadez

Building a Premium Brand Through Innovation

As Global Audio Marketing continues expanding MUSWAY throughout the United States, the company’s focus remains clear—bringing German engineering, cutting-edge technology, and world-class dealer support to dealers across the country.
“At Global Audio Marketing, we’re not simply selling car audio products—we’re building a premium brand that dealers can believe in for years to come. MUSWAY is a German-engineered brand founded on innovation, technology, and uncompromising sound quality. Every product we introduce is designed to solve real installation challenges while delivering exceptional performance.

Just as important as the products is our commitment to our dealers. We believe our success is measured by their success. That’s why we invest heavily in training, technical support, marketing, and maintaining strong dealer margins that allow our partners to grow profitable businesses.

Mel shares that same philosophy. His passion for education, integrity, and helping dealers succeed makes him a perfect fit for the future we’re building.”

— Andrew Bishara, CEO, Global Audio Marketing

Leading Dealer Growth Across the South Central United States

Mel will oversee dealer development and support throughout Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, focusing on new dealer acquisition, product training, DSP education, technical support, and strengthening relationships with retailers and installers.

A New Chapter

“I’ve dedicated over 30 years of my life to this industry because I truly love it,” said Mel Valadez. “Joining Global Audio Marketing and representing MUSWAY is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to help build one of the industry’s most exciting premium brands while supporting dealers and sharing products I truly believe in.”

The Future of MUSWAY USA

Global Audio Marketing continues to expand its national presence through an experienced sales organization, comprehensive dealer support, technical training, and a strong commitment to customer service. The addition of Mel Valadez reinforces that commitment and represents another important milestone in establishing MUSWAY as one of the premier high-end mobile audio brands in the United States.

About MUSWAY

Inspired by the philosophy “Music Is The Way,” MUSWAY is a German-engineered premium mobile audio brand dedicated to creating innovative solutions for today’s automotive enthusiast. Combining advanced DSP technology, award-winning amplifiers, premium loudspeakers, and intelligent system integration, MUSWAY delivers exceptional sound quality without compromise.

Visit musway.com for more.

KICKER Regional Sales Manager Named to “Women Making Waves” by Boating Trade

STILLWATER, OK (07.03.26) – Lori Boyer, KICKER’s Southeast Regional Sales Manager, has been named by the editors of Boating Industry magazine to its prestigious roster of 2026 “Women Making Waves.”

This major awards recognition, now in its ninth year, recognizes outstanding women leaders from all segments of the North American boating industry. Boyer was one of 30 nominees tapped for this honor and profiled in a feature story alongside all winners in the latest edition of Boating Industry magazine. A special event celebration to present the awards is slated for later this year.

Lori Boyer

“We are very proud of Lori’s outstanding recognition among her peers and appreciate the countless contributions she has made in her 38 years at KICKER,” said KICKER CEO Steve Irby. “Lori has certainly been a trailblazer and a highly dedicated member of the KICKER team. She has always focused on developing herself as an individual and a team member. Her dedication to product knowledge and expertise has made her a trusted and highly valued leader. We are very pleased by her significant distinction and well-deserved recognition.”

Boyer began her career as a file clerk at KICKER in 1988 and has proven her capability with eight progressive roles within the organization, each assuming new areas of responsibility. For the past 11 years, she has served as the southeast regional sales manager – the first female aftermarket manager in the company’s history –  with responsibilities for ongoing communications and strategic 1:1 partnership collaboration to help customers increase sales and improve profitability.

“I am so honored to be included among this group of outstanding women in the marine industry and very much appreciate the nomination and recognition,” said Boyer. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career at KICKER and the continued opportunities for personal and professional growth.  After 38 years, I’m still learning and growing and loving the business more every day.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Trail Star Audio and D-Source Are Great Industry Partners

EAGAN, MI (7.2.26) – On June 12th, Chuck Holey went to D-Source in Bloomington MN to pick up some products. D-Source team members loaded Chuck’s truck and there was a little rain on that day. When Chuck opened the door to his truck there was an umbrella inside. When Chuck got back to his store he called Jeff Causton at D-Source and learned that Jeff had put the umbrella in his truck.

A very happy Chuck Holey having fun in his warehouse with his new umbrella and PowerBass product.
Chuck arrives at D Source to show all his cardboard cutout.
Jeff Causton, D Source Principal, is all smiles pictured with Chuck and his cardboard cutout.

When the STANDEE, 7 feet tall, cutout arrived Chuck checked it out and immediately went to D-Source to have fun having images snapped with Jeff and D-Source team members. The two companies are continuing to work together and having fun. Great news for all across the 12volt industry.

That made Chuck very happy and as he was unloading a PowerBass XLSS model he was dancing around in the warehouse with a PowerBass under the umbrella. He had an image snapped as he was having fun with the umbrella and the XLSS product and sent it to Jeff.

Jeff really got a kick out of seeing Chuck having so much fun. He decided to have some more fun and touched base with the STANDEE company and ordered a custom cardboard cutout of Chuck having so much fun dancing around his warehouse with the umbrella.

Josh Burris is also happy to see Chuck!
Maybe 10 years ago, I ran into this cardboard cut out of LSU Coach O by the counter at a Canes Chicken in Shreveport. Handed my phone to another customer who snapped this image. There are so many possibilities to a great fun across the 12volt industry.

Chuck’s STANDEE cutout will be so much fun under the tent at shows this summer.

For more see dsourcedistributing.com and trailstaraudio.com