KICKER Announces 2025 Dealer, Rep Firm of the Year And Rep of the Year Awards

Posted on February 11, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

STILLWATER, OK (02.12.26) – KICKER is proud to announce its Dealer, Rep Firm of the Year and Rep of The Award recipients which honors outstanding performance, dedication and partnership across the US. These awards recognize KICKER business partnerships that demonstrated exceptional commitment in the marketplace which will lead to the continued growth of KICKER and enjoyment of music across the marketplace.

**Chuck Ottati, Opus Marketing, holds his KICKER 2025 Rep of the Year Award.**

KICKER REP-of-the-Year
Chuck Ottati (OPUS Marketing)

KICKER REP FIRM-of-the-Year
Tech Marketing, Canton, GA

**Matt Kim is all smiles with his MAS Mobile Audio Systems KICKER Dealer of a Year Award in the Northeast. Chuck Ottati, Opus Marketing, delivered the award and snapped this image.**

KICKER DEALERS-of-the-Year (KICKER rep firms in parentheses)

NORTHEAST

Bumper to Bumper, Brockton, MA (Trent New England)
Road Entertainment, Tallman, NY (Trent Partners)
MAS Mobile Audio Systems, Woodbridge, VA (OPUS Marketing)
Installations Unlimited, Syracuse, NY (Innovative Marketing)
Big Papas, Cincinnati, OH (High Point Sales)
Traffic Jams, Utica, MI (CJO Sales)

CENTRAL

Baldwin Electronics, Odessa, TX (Marketing Pros)
4N Motorsports, Poplar Bluff, MO (Santa Fe Sales)
Xtreme Auto Soundz, Thornton, CO (Santa Fe Sales II)
Powerplant Car Audio and Truck Accessory, Twin Falls, ID (Santa Fe Sales II)
Sound Pro, Rapid City, SD (Select Sales)

SOUTHEAST

Xtreme Autosound, Louisville, KY (TR Sales and Marketing)
Roberts Auto Stereo, Louisville, KY (TR Sales and Marketing)
Pro Audio Center, Richland, MS (Tech Marketing)
Gorilla Sound, Aurora, IL (Tree and Associates)
Aftak Corp, Miami, FL (Dynamic Marketing)

WEST

Outrageous Audio, Portland, OR (Crossover)
LA Stereo, Victorville, CA (Murfco)

In 1973 KICKER’s Livin Loud legacy began as a two man operation hand-building professional speaker systems in a narrow one car garage. With very few resources and an extensive love for a music, company founder and current President Steve Irby, invented the mobile stereo enclosure.

KICKER graces the Stillwater skyline today and has stayed true to the values from which the company was built. KICKER products are designed and shipped from a 280,000 ft.² facility that houses nearly 200 energetic individuals who constantly push the limits of audio design, technology and performance.

As audio continues to evolve, KICKER will continue to be on the industry’s cutting-edge pushing the limits of audio design, technology, performance and integration in the quest for ultimate sounds.

KICKER congratulates all of 2025 honorees.

For more check out kicker.com.

Prodigy Audio Appoints Industry Veteran as National Sales Manager to Spearhead Nationwide Expansion

Posted on February 11, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

BONIFAY, FL (02.12.26) – Prodigy Audio is proud to announce the recent appointment of its new National Sales Manager, Brett Barnes. Bringing over 30 years of elite experience in the technology and music reproduction sectors, he is leading the brand’s aggressive push to expand its dealer and distribution networks across the United States.

A Legacy of Excellence Prodigy Audio was founded by audio enthusiast Jonathan Demuth, whose journey in the industry began in 1988. From his early days as an installer to his success in retail, distribution, and manufacturing, Demuth’s vision has always been rooted in providing top-quality products for users seeking loud, reliable daily-use equipment. His previous venture, T3 Audio, was a dominant force in SPL competition from 2005 to 2011, and that same competitive DNA is now foundational to the Prodigy Audio brand.

**Brett Barnes (R) hit the yesterday with a stop to meet with Ricky Gibson at N&H Electronics in Hattiesburg MS.**

Industry Veteran Joins the Mission Brett, the newly appointed National Sales Manager, brings a diverse background that perfectly complements this heritage. His career began in the car audio scene of the 1990s and evolved into custom installations for home entertainment and security. He has served as a manufacturer’s representative for prestigious brands, including Bryston, PMC, Proceed, Revel, Niles Audio, Canton, and Straightwire.

Beyond acoustics, he brings sophisticated technical expertise in IT and automation, with deep experience in systems from Ultimate, Cisco, AMX, and Crestron. This rare combination of high-fidelity audio knowledge and technical integration ensures Prodigy Audio’s partners receive unparalleled support.

“Prodigy Audio is aiming to offer amazing products and solutions in the car audio space,” said Brett Barnes. “Our focus is specializing in high-quality subwoofers and amplifiers at a competitive price structure. We aren’t just selling hardware; we are providing a sustainable business model for our partners.”

Building a Robust Dealer Network Prodigy Audio is committed to dealer success through aggressive incentives and a market-leading warranty program, including a 3-year dealer-installed woofer warranty. The brand’s expansion is already underway:

Current Representation: Represented in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina by Vickers Distribution.

Expansion Pipeline: Potential partnerships are developing in Kentucky, Florida, and the Gulf Coast.
Future Growth: The company is executing a methodical expansion nationwide, prioritizing face-to-face evaluations to ensure dealers align with the brand’s high standards.

About Prodigy Audio Founded by Jonathan Demuth, Prodigy Audio delivers high-performance automotive audio solutions. With products optimized through computer simulations and rigorous field testing by renowned experts like Eric Stevens, the brand sets a new standard for value and quality in the mobile electronics industry.

For more see www.prodigyaudio.com.

Mobile Solutions Launches FabKit™

Posted on February 11, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

TEMPE, AZ (2.12.26) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce the official launch of FabKit™, an engineered Speaker Grille & Panel System designed to dramatically reduce fabrication time while delivering premium, layered 3D interior styling.

“Too many shops avoid custom work because they believe it’s not profitable,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “We’ve challenged the status quo in fabrication by asking one simple question: How can we build smarter and save valuable time? FabKit is the answer. It increases efficiency, raises consistency, and gives shops the freedom to focus on generating revenue instead of sanding and routing for hours. Wrap it in material, install it, and you’re done.”

FabKit was created to eliminate some of the most time-consuming stages of custom panel fabrication. The system allows shops to focus more on creativity and finishing, and less on layout, routing, and grille-frame construction.

Engineered Efficiency Meets Premium Design

FabKit features a precision-machined, layered construction that is ready for upholstery in leather, suede, or vinyl straight out of the box. Its integrated magnet system allows effortless grille removal and secure reinstallation.

The system is designed for universal flexibility across multiple custom audio applications and produces consistent, repeatable results across builds.

Real-World Results: Major Time Savings

Early adopters are reporting significant labor reductions.

“The MS FabKit system is easily the biggest time saver since the release of the original Smart Template system,” said Peter Riker of The Specialists in Tucson, Ariz. “We easily save 8–10 hours of fabrication time using the FabKit.”

Built for Profitability

FabKit helps shops:
• Save 4–6+ hours per project
• Deliver OEM-inspired layered depth styling
• Increase shop throughput and revenue
• Improve client satisfaction with faster turnaround

With time savings translating directly to billable hours, FabKit positions shops to take on more projects and improve margins.

Available Models

FabKit Speaker Grille Panel Systems are available in four configurations:
• FK-APEX – 34.75in. x 13in.
• FK-GT – 41.25in. x 13in.
• FK-Shadow – 37.25in. x 12.5in.
• FK-Covert – 42in. x 13.5in.

Visit www.FabKit.com for more information

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

Team Nutz At The CWR Distribution Training And Expo

Posted on February 10, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (2.11.26) – The CWR Wholesale Distribution 2026 Dealer Training and Expo took place at the Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino and Marina February 2nd through the 6th. The Team Nutz crew of 4 traveled from Pittsburg to the CWR event the 365 miles each way to check out a wide variety of products in addition to attending marine trainings where three members received National Marine Electronics Association certification.

The Team Nutz crew included Ed Nuttall, Ben Bjerke, Tom Mays and Scott Olbeter. During the CWR event attendees had the opportunity to earn their NMEA basic and NMEA 2000 certifications, network with manufacturers and attend manufacturer training sessions to learn more about the brands CWR offers.

**Ben Bjerke, Tom Mays and Scott Olbeter with Laura Chester and Ed Nuttall gathered holding their advanced in NMEA Certifications in front of the CWR desk.**

“Ben, Tom and Scott all passed their advanced NMEA certifications which will provide more tools as we get ready for the 2026 marine season. Pittsburg is located where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio River. There are boating communities along the rivers and area lakes. We work with installations in our bays in addition to jobs along the river” Ed Nuttall relayed.

**Ed Nuttall’s view from his seat with 30 other students during a training.**

Concluding “We also attended trainings with JLAudio, KVH and others. It was super to see the new JL Audio amps and feel the excitement for the 2026 marine season at the CWR Training and Expo. We look forward to this year’s marine season and the 2027 CWR Expo.”

The National Marine Electronics Association is a worldwide member based trade association revolving around marine electronics interface standards, marine electronics installer training and its annual marine electronics conference and expo. The NMEA and its members are committed to enhancing the technology and safety of marine electronics through installer training and interface standards. Installer trainings and certification are scheduled by the organization.

Visit the NMEA website at www.nmea.org.

Rydeen Mobile Expands Pacific Region with Three New Rep Firms

Posted on February 10, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

TORRANCE, CA (2.11.26) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics is proud to announce the expansion of its sales representative network across the Pacific region. By partnering with three premier manufacturer’s representative firms, Rydeen is ensuring that drivers across California, Nevada, and the Pacific Northwest have easier access to safety vehicle technology, including digital rear view mirrors and 360° view camera systems.

As vehicle safety continues to become a top priority for modern drivers, Rydeen is committed to “bridging the gap” between factory-installed tech and the aftermarket.

“These new partnerships will allow local car audio retailers and professional installers to provide expert support and stock for Rydeen’s most sought-after safety solutions,” says Rex Berfield, Rydeen’s National Sales Manager.

We are proud to announce the appointment of Amplified Sales, Crossover Marketing Group, and RPM Sales Group to help us expand our brand coverage.

Amplified Sales
Amplified Sales and Marketing, led by 26-year industry veteran Micah Boren, provides hands-on representation and technical support throughout Northern California and Northern Nevada. The firm operates with a “storefront-first” philosophy, treating each retail partner as their own to ensure premium brands like Rydeen are correctly positioned, supported, and successful at the store level.

Crossover Marketing Group
Crossover Marketing is a Manufacturer’s Rep Firm servicing the Pacific Northwest market. The company was founded by Rob Sutton and Paul Pilat, who have decades of combined experience in leadership roles within the consumer electronics industry. The company focuses on sustainable dealer development and incorporates innovative marketing strategies with a priority on customer service.

“Rydeen creates value on both the sales floor and in the bay,” added Paul Pilat, Principal Owner and Co-founder, Crossover Marketing Group. “Paired with The Crossover Way, our process-driven approach to Customer Service. We see a tremendous opportunity to grow profitability across the territory.”

RPM Sales Group
RPM Sales Group is a premier manufacturer’s representative firm specializing in the mobile electronics, motorcycle, and power sports industries across the Southwest. They serve as the strategic bridge between innovative brands like Rydeen and a professional network of retailers in Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada. By providing expert technical training and market support, they ensure local installers are fully equipped to bring advanced vehicle safety solutions to their customers.

Visit www.rydeenmobile.com.

Hifonics Unleashes Brutus BRL Amplifier Series

Posted on February 10, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (2.11.26) – With cutting-edge amplification technology and a modern chassis footprint, the ALL-NEW BRUTUS BRL amplifier series is engineered to maximize power efficiency while providing raw, clean power to drive subwoofers and speakers to their full potential performance.

Every BRUTUS BRL amplifier is innovated with a built-in VU Meter —whether it’s the BRL1200.4D for high-fidelity multi-channel setups or the thunderous BRL3000.1D for bass-heavy builds, the Hifonics BRUTUS BRL series is built to dominate your audio setup.

To learn more, click here.

KENWOOD Announces 2025 Reps and Rep Firms of the Year by Region

Posted on February 9, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

LONG BEACH, CA (02.10.26) – KENWOOD, a leading manufacturer of premium mobile electronics solutions, proudly announces its 2025 Reps and Rep Firms of the Year, recognizing outstanding sales performance, leadership, and partnership across its regional representative network.

These annual awards honor individuals and firms that consistently demonstrate excellence in sales execution, dealer support, and brand representation throughout the year.

**Mark Gliesner holds the Eastern Region Rep of the Year plaque flanked by Tim Hill, National Sales Manager and Kelly McDaniel Eastern Regional Sales Manager on the right.**

Eastern Region
Rep Firm of the Year
Progressive Southeast
Patrick Eiland, Christian Venn, Mark Gleisner
Territory Rep of the Year
Gregg Gagnon – Progressive Florida
Progressive Southeast and Gregg Gagnon were recognized for their strong regional leadership, exceptional dealer relationships, and continued commitment to driving KENWOOD growth in the Eastern Region.

**Keith Shelby, Cardinal Sales, holds the Rep of the Year plaque for the Mid-West region. Tim Hill, National Sales Manager (L) and Josh Bowen, Mid-West Sales Manager flank Keith.**

Mid-West Region
Rep Firm of the Year
Momentum Marketing
Hector Mena, Jimmy Bradfield, Ben Pugh, Katie Lopez
Rep of the Year
Keith Selby – Cardinal Sales
Momentum Marketing and Keith Selby demonstrated consistent excellence through strategic market development, teamwork, and outstanding individual performance across the Mid-West Region.

**Connor Roberts holds the Western Region Rep of the Year plaque and is flanked by Tim Hill (L) National Sales Manager and Ryan Christie Western Regional Sales Manager.**

Western Region
Rep Firm of the Year
Progressive Northern California
Dennis Medeiros, Paul Francia
Rep of the Year
Connor Roberts – Progressive West
The Western Region awards recognize exceptional leadership, customer focus, and impactful sales results delivered throughout the year.

“These award recipients represent the very best of KENWOOD’s sales organization,” said Tim Hill, Director of sales. “Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to our dealers play a vital role in our continued success.”

KENWOOD congratulates all 2025 award winners and thanks its representative partners nationwide for their ongoing support and partnership.

Visit www.kenwood.com/usa for more.

ORACLE Lighting Expands Safety & Style Portfolio with New Linear Universal LED 3rd Brake Light (CHMSL) Module — Red

Posted on February 9, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

METAIRIE, LA (2.10.26) — ORACLE Lighting proudly announces the launch of its Linear Universal LED 3rd Brake Light (CHMSL) Module — Red, a versatile and high-performance lighting solution engineered to elevate both vehicle safety and aesthetic presence. Designed for universal application across automotive, utility, and custom-build platforms, this modern LED module delivers a crisp, continuous “blade” of red light that enhances visibility in critical signaling applications.

“This new linear LED brake light module reflects ORACLE Lighting’s commitment to blending cutting-edge design with real-world functionality,” said a spokesperson for ORACLE Lighting. “Whether enhancing rear-facing safety lighting on a truck, trailer, or specialty build—or adding a refined red accent in unique applications—this product sets a new standard for versatility, durability, and clarity.”

Innovative Design Meets Universal Utility

The new module produces a modern continuous red-light signature that significantly improves visibility over traditional point-style LEDs, making it ideal for center high mount stop light (CHMSL) use as well as marker, stop, or accent lighting.

Universal Application: Engineered to serve as a third brake light, stop/marker light, trailer light, or interior accent across OEM and custom applications.
Modern Blade Illumination: Ultra-bright linear red light enhances both safety and contemporary vehicle aesthetics.
Engineered for Harsh Conditions: Featuring an IP68-rated sealed design and UV-stable red acrylic lens, the module withstands water, dust, and vibration for dependable exterior or interior use.
Flexible Installation: Dual mounting tabs and pre-installed VHB tape provide secure screw-in or quick-adhesion options, simplifying integration across varied surfaces.
Wide Voltage Compatibility: Operates on standard 12V–24V DC electrical systems, supporting a broad range of vehicles and equipment.
Compact Form, Big Impact: At approximately 7″ in length, this sleek module fits tight spaces while delivering strong output, drawing only 0.15A with a 6W output.

Built to meet the demands of daily use and challenging environments, the Linear Universal LED CHMSL Module is backed by ORACLE Lighting’s reputation for high-quality engineering and performance-driven innovation.

Availability

The ORACLE Lighting Linear Universal LED 3rd Brake Light (CHMSL) Module — Red is now available through the ORACLE Lighting online store. For additional information, technical resources, and imagery, visit www.oraclelights.com.

2026 MasterTech Expo Sells Out Show Floor; Expands Hotel Partnerships

Posted on February 9, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

TEMPE, AZ (2.10.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is shaping up to be its biggest and most impactful year yet, proudly announcing a completely sold-out show floor and expanded hotel partnerships to accommodate record attendance. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.

“With exhibit space officially sold out, attendees can expect an elevated show floor experience featuring a top-tier mix of technology innovators, fabrication leaders, and major audio manufacturers, creating one of the most diverse and hands-on learning environments in the industry,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “Selling out our exhibit space is a huge milestone. It allows us to curate a higher-quality experience for attendees — more brands, better education, and better connections across every segment of the industry.”

Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.

Hotel information and booking links are available at:
www.MasterTechExpo.com/hotel

The AMA KICKER ArenaCross Returned To The Findley Toyota Center In Prescott, AZ

Posted on February 8, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ (02.09.26) – The Findlay Toyota Center was Livin’Loud with action on Friday night February 6th
for Round 9 of the AMA KICKER ArenaCross ’25-’26 Pro Schedule. The arena area was reconfigured from a hockey rink to a dirt track with mound after mound riders had to navigate as they made their way around the track.

Once the track opened riders cranked up their bikes and made their ways around the very difficult track circuit where the dirt mounds were barely 15 feet apart. Many of the riders were able to fly over one mound and land on the downside of the next mound. Some riders didn’t have smooth landings and had to adjust their body parts before continuing the race.

**On Thursday, they were working on getting the track prepared for the event.**

KICKER had a booth set up in the lobby with a wide selection of products set up on tables under the tent. AMA Arenacross attendees are definitely interested in audio products as many enjoy motorcycle, PowerSport, Lifestyle and/or marine activities in addition to their everyday drives.

**Before the doors opened, Lorin Morrell had the Kicker booth set.**

**KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s RZR trackside was loaded with 4 KMXL65s, 2 KMB8d, 2 KMXL8s and 2 Premium marine 10”. woofers. The ride rocked in demos.**

Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media relayed “In the Prescott Valley area there are a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities. PowerBars for side-by-sides and marine installs plus under seat truck boxes and Harley setups grabbed a lot of interest in the KICKER booth. Attendees checked out live demos on the RZR next to the booth plus KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s loaded RZR trackside. Also many trailers are now being upgraded with audio and KICKER offers many options.”

**Lorin Morrell presented this lucky T-shirt toss winner her Bullfrog prize and KICKER T-shirt.**

“This AMA KICKER Arenacross season continues with events in Reno NV, Guthrie OK and in Daytone Beach. Across the U.S. attendance has been strong this year with attendees engaging with KICKER’s wide selection of products” Morrell concluded.

Visit kicker.com for more.