Modus Audio Engineer Featured During EV Reality Check Panel Discussion During Electrify Expo in San Francisco

OXNARD, CA (08.22.25) – Modus is proud to announce that their lead engineer Tony D’Amore will be part of the panel discussion “EV Reality Check” during the upcoming Electrify Expo in San Francisco, held at Alameda Point Aug. 23-24. D’Amore will discuss the myths, obstacles, and solutions for installing high-end audio systems in modern electric vehicles with Matt Teske (Chargeway) and Dario Pagani (Autel Energy) on Aug. 24 at 1:30pm.

Modus will also have its award-winning 2024 Tesla Cybertruck build on display during the event.

“Electrify Expo is the ideal event to discuss how our technology is changing the idea that having a high-end audio system in today’s electric vehicles is not possible,” said D’Amore. “Our award-winning technology has achieved several industry firsts, and we are looking forward to discussing how we were able to execute those results. We will also educate the industry’s consumer and manufacturer sides on what solutions can be utilized and installed right now.”

Tony D’Amore

The misconception that premium audio is merely a luxury add-on overlooks EVs’ revolutionary potential. These vehicles offer something combustion engines never could: silent cabins paired with abundant electrical power, creating an unprecedented opportunity for truly immersive, audiophile-grade sound systems.

“At Electrify Expo, the EV Reality Check Stage was created to tackle and debunk the myths that slow the adoption towards electric vehicles,” said BJ Birtwell, CEO and founder of Electrify Expo. “It’s a place where skeptics, shoppers, and industry leaders come together to challenge assumptions and explore the practical benefits of going electric. We’re excited to welcome Modus to the stage in San Francisco as part of that mission, bringing fresh perspectives on how EVs deliver an unmatched user experience.”

The panel discussion points will include:

  • Quiet Cabins Reveal the Music: EVs offer near silence and that exposes audio flaws more sharply than combustion vehicles ever could.
  • PREACT Amplification Makes a Difference: Modus’s efficiency-driven amplification architecture enables high-output audio (such as 6,000 watts RMS in the Cybertruck) without drain or external batteries.
  • Vehicle Architecture Dictates Design: The 48V systems in EVs make traditional audio installations obsolete. Innovators need to rethink power, packaging, and integration.
  • Emotion Through Sound: Sculpting treble and bass performance gives drivers a visceral experience which lifts boring drives into memorable moments.
  • Pro Installers Get It Right: Helping techs and dealers understand EV-specific audio needs is essential. You train teams to deliver consistent, high-impact installs.

The EV Reality Check Stage is where local experts speak on topics that matter to EV shoppers and skeptics alike: charging, range, cost, grid concerns, and more. The format is fast-paced and conversational, designed to feel like a live podcast. No slides or formal presentations, just real talk that helps the audience walk away informed.

For more on the Modus cybertruck build, view the video abve.

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

BOSS Audio Systems Elevates Elite Line with New Look and Premium Features

OXNARD, CA (08.21.25) – BOSS Audio Systems has rolled out its enhanced Elite product line with premium features and a new, updated look that captures the high end audio qualities that Elite has become known for since its inception.

“As Elite continues to represent our passion for delivering refined audio experiences, Elite has evolved to meet industry demands for sound quality and thoughtful engineering,” explained Colin Ross, BOSS Elite Associate Brand Manager. “We’ve listened to our dealers and reps, and have since unveiled and rolled out our refreshed product lineup with new logo and packaging that bring together sophisticated features with real-world performance. It has been incredibly well received by our retail partners and customers alike.”

The enhanced Elite lineup introduces several key improvements, including select .WX head units with user-friendly GUI design, expanded DSP customization capabilities, and seamless iDatalink Maestro® integration.

Elite’s updated branding includes a refreshed, modern logo that reflects its premium positioning, along with sleek, high-contrast packaging designed to stand out on showroom floors and signal the elevated quality inside. The new look not only reinforces the line’s identity as a dealer-exclusive, high-performance offering, but also ensures a cohesive, upscale presentation from the first glance to the moment of unboxing.

BOSS Audio Systems and BOSS Elite share the same commitment to powerful sound and cutting-edge features, but they are designed for different customers and applications. BOSS Audio Systems offers a wide range of consumer-focused products built for flexibility, value, and easy installation across cars, trucks, powersports, and marine applications. BOSS Elite, on the other hand, is its premium dealer-exclusive line, delivering upgraded components, enhanced durability, extended warranties, and premium features. While both lines reflect a passion for audio performance, BOSS Elite takes it a step further for those who demand the very best in quality, reliability, modern
features and expert-backed service.

For more information on BOSS Elite, please visit bosselite.com.

Modus Features Groundbreaking Tesla Cybertruck Build at Electrify Expo in San Francisco

OXNARD, CA (08.20.25) – Fresh on the heels of a successful Electrify Expo in Redmond, Wash, Modus will once again feature its new 2024 Tesla Cybertruck build at the upcoming Electrify Expo in San Francisco, held at Alameda Point Aug. 23-24.

“We knew Electrify Expo would be an ideal event to feature our Cybertruck, and the result exhibiting in Redmond was better than we had hoped for,” said Jason Digos, Modus Senior Sales Trainer. “This install has achieved several industry firsts, which went over incredibly well during the expo. We expect just as terrific a reaction when we exhibit in San Francisco.”

Image courtesy of Electrify Expo.

Fabricator Jaren Digos of Delta Concepts collaborated on the install, which demonstrates Modus’ innovative PREACT Current Averaging Technology operating directly on Tesla’s 48V DC electrical system, marking a significant advancement in mobile audio integration with electric vehicles. Engineering wizards Tony D’Amore and Juan Rodriguez will be on hand during the expo to discuss their new patented current averaging technologies.

The installation is capable of 6,000 watts (RMS) of audio power without requiring voltage inverters or additional batteries, a first for any EV audio system. This achievement was made possible through Modus’ patented PREACT technology in the new Mezzo amplifier line, which operates with unprecedented efficiency at higher voltages.

During the 2025 Electrify Expo in Seattle from July 12-13, the Modus Cybertruck was awarded “Best Vendor Vehicle” during the event. (image courtesy of DSP Solutions).

The build features the first-ever Cybertruck “blow-through” subwoofer design. Four 12-inch Modus Apex AXW-12 subwoofers are housed in a 7.5 cubic foot ported enclosure, integrated into the vehicle’s “vault” and ported directly into the cabin. This design maintains the Cybertruck’s utility while delivering exceptional bass response.

The amplifier installation, housed in the “frunk”, consists of two 8-channel MZA-8 and two MZA-1 mono amplifiers mounted on a custom-fabricated steel rack. The rack is secured to existing factory mounting points and includes current and voltage meters, allowing real-time monitoring of the system’s power consumption.

Perhaps most notable is the system’s wiring. The minimal current draw and high input voltage efficiency allowed the use of 14AWG power and ground wire to the amplifiers, which is a significant departure from traditional high-power audio systems that require much larger gauge wiring.

The Modus Cybertruck debuted during the Modus brand launch event in March 2025. It will be featured in additional upcoming industry events and technical demonstrations throughout 2025, showcasing the practical applications of Modus’ breakthrough technologies in the emerging electric vehicle market.

For more on the Modus cybertruck build, see the video above.

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

The AMA ArenaCross Returned To The Red Rock Arena Park

GALLUP, NM (08.18.25) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross rocked the amazing Red Rock Park Arena in Gallup NM on Saturday August 16th. A large number of amateur enthusiasts spent time on the track early in the day and some were in the 4-6 year old bracket.

Riders flying high off the ramps on Saturday afternoon.
KICKER showed a selection of products under the tent at the entrance to the arena.

At the event KICKER was definitely ‘Livin’Loud’ as were the riders flyin’ high and making the tight turns on the track. KICKER was set up with a tent at the entryway with many products showcased for attendees. KICKER Audio, Powersports and Lifestyle products were on display. Maddog Media, with Lorin Morrell, orchestrated KICKER’s activities at the event.

“The Red Rock Park Arena was once again an amazing venue. Crews set up the track with tight turns and jumps so the rider’s skills were tested to the limit. The KICKER RZR was Livin’Loud during setup. Muddrags grabbed attention during intermissions on the track.

The Kicker RZR was featured in opening ceremonies.
As the event wrapped the winner of the KICKER T-shirt toss came by the booth and picked up her Bullfrog prize and T from Lorin Morrell.

Also, during breaks in the action KICKER T’s were pitched into the crowd. One had a certificate for a Bullfrog prize and the winner picked up her Bullfrog and T-shirt in the booth. PA announcers definitely kept the crowd engaged” Morrell related.

Continuing “We also showed a number of KICKER PowerSports products, including SoundBars and Tower Speakers, to enthusiasts under the tent. Several people told me they had KICKER installed in their rides and how happy they are with KICKER’s performance. With the growth RVs, Overlanding and Toy Haulers the possibilities for KICKER upgrades continues to expand,” Morrell concluded.

No doubt about it, KICKER was Livin’Loud at the KICKER ArenaCross in Gallup, NM.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Stereo King Drives Business At UTV Takeovers

WINCHESTER BAY, OR (08.14.25) – The Stereo King Team rolled into Winchester Bay OR for another very successful UTV takeover event. There were four team members aboard that handled sales and four team members that handled the many installations that took place during the event August 5th-10h.

Stereo King was set up under a group of tents for sales and installation.
Rockford Fosgate products are stacked and ready for installation.

Kevin Cornutt, behind the wheel for the event, related. “Our team is a very well oiled machine and we try to have those team members at each event. Once the sales team members write the ticket the installation team members work together to get the jobs done.

Stereo King and Rockford Fosgate work together to drive sales at the UTV Takeover events. A large amount of inventory, along with tents for the area and supplies, make the 200 mile trip from the Portland area. Stereo King began exhibiting at the UTV Takeovers with a 10’ x 20’ booth, which has growing into a 20’ x 60‘ booth with separate tents for showroom area along with installation bays. Team members stay together in a rental property during the five day event.

A Stereo King Team member tweaks an installation.
Jeff Oliver, from Team Progressive, was on site and made delicious sandwiches for the team on the grill out back.

“We have been doing the UTV Takeover events for over 10 years. Once the word gets out in the area about an upcoming event we start getting jobs in our store for enthusiast who want to have a new system on their UTV at the event. During the event we make several complete installations each day. While at the event enthusiast also make appointments to bring their ride to the store for an upgrade because I don’t want to give up their ride for a day during the event. 2015 was another very successful year and we look forward to UTV Takeover events in 2026 and beyond” Cornutt concluded.

For more see stereoking.com

ZZ2 On The Road With Synergy Marketing in Houston

HOUSTON, TX (08.13.25) – Steve Cope, ZZ2 Sales Manager, rolled into Houston on Tuesday, August 5 to hit the road with David Toliver at Synergy Marketing. David Toliver had multiple appointments set up across the Houston metro area and by Friday they had visited nearly 20 dealers to showcase the latest products from ZZ2.

A stop at Tint World to connect with Jason Hemple was one of the first stops. ZZ2 is set up with Tint World corporate in their locations across the country.
Steve Cope set to enter Houston Car Stereo for an appointment.
Jake Jesty listens intently as Steve Cope answers a question at Sound Evolution.

“Dealers in the area are certainly familiar with the ZZ2 brand. Having Steve along to go over the product lineup with dealers in person certainly covered a lot of bases that will help dealers connect with consumers and drive business. In my demo truck we have the system set up and it was great to go out and do live demos with dealers” Toliver stated.

At Audio Experts Steve conducts a live demo on the display for Hamza and his son.

ZZ2 is a leader in OEM integration. CarPlay and Android Auto, Streaming and other technologies offer consumers so manyin-vehicle OEM connectivity options. ZZ2 has also recently added ZZPLAY for Teslas. Having Cope in the field to connect with dealers was a big Win for All.

For more see ZZ-2.com.

SKILLSUSA At The Oklahoma CareerTech Education Summit

OKMULGEE, OK (08.12.25) – SKILLSUSA was at the CareerTech Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology during the 58th annual Trade and Industrial Education Summit, August 4 and 5, at their campus in Okmulgee

The Oklahoma Summit brought together over 4,000 Oklahoma educational professionals for one of the largest and most comprehensive networking events in the state. The conference provided networking, professional development and leadership opportunities for career and technical education professionals.

Bryan Gary, national Co-Tech Chair for SkillsUSA – Mobile Electronics Installation, was invited to speak to automotive technology instructors from all over the state. The topic of discussion was how to better prepare students for the Mobile Electronics Installation competition. Bryan covered several topics including using a digital multimeter, testing electrical circuits and components, series and parallel wiring, remote start and security systems, and doing a vehicle check in (which will be a new competition for 2026).

He also encouraged them to contact MECP for supplemental training material. KICKER provided some lanyards and pens for the participants to take home with them.

Vendors, retailers, and individuals that would like to support to the 2026 competition season are encouraged to reach out to Chris Jack at 310-866-2454, cjackskillsusa@yahoo.com or Bryan Gary at 806-922-1822 bwgary@msn.com.

KICKER Was Livin’Loud And Flyin’ High At The Sturgis Rally 2025

STURGIS, SD (08.11.25) – At the Sturgis Rally 2025 KICKER‘s presence was centered at the American Flat Track Races and the Kicker ArenaCross Race.

The KICKER Team of Jeremy Wynn and Steven Bambrough, along with Lorin Morrell- MaDDog Media, rolled out of the KICKER HQ in Stillwater OK on August 2nd pulling the large KICKER Trailer display for the 850 mile ride to Sturgis, SD.

Jeremy, Steven and Lorin rolled out of KICKER HQ early Saturday morning, August 2, for Sturgis SD.

Morrell related “We were certainly glad to be back at the Sturgis Rally to work the plan at the American Flat Track Races and the KICKER ArenaCross. This set up really worked extremely well to have a large presence at those venues and benefit from the wide visibility for KICKER branding.”

Enthusiast checking out KICKER products underneath the awning at the trailer.
Riders circling the track and in the foreground KICKER Tower Speaks hooked for the PA system.

Once the KICKER trailer was set up with the awning in place attendees were able to come by and check out the loaded Harley Roadglide and Kawasaki UTV for the enthusiast to experience. Morrell related “We had so many people open their eyes wide when they heard the systems.. several people wanted specific model numbers so they could add KICKER gear to their bikes and UTVs once they got back home.”

KICKER was flying high at the Buffalo Chip in the ArenaCross Bowl.
PA announcers covering the action during the KICKER ArenaCross race.

There was even more exciting news for KICKER during the American Flat Track Racing with KICKER branding around the track. In ArenaCross Bowl Kicker Marine Tower speakers were spotlighted. The speakers utilized were actually KICKER speaker Pods being driven by the PA system. There were many comments that this was the best set up people had heard in an outdoor arena.

Steven, Jeremy and Lorin paused for a quick moment to snap this image.

Very early Saturday morning, August 9, Jeremy, Steven and Lorin headed south and made the 850 mile ride in one long day as both Jeremy and Steven are licensed commercial drivers.

Planning is already underway for Sturgis next year with even more KICKER presence at The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2026.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Images provided by Lorin Morrell.

The 12volt Central Studios On The Beat For Positive Industry News

SHREVEPORT, LA (08.11.25) – The 12volt Central Studios staff has been showcasing positive news across the 12volt industry for 31 years. Today it is more important than ever to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. Vendors, reps, distributors and retailers must all work together to connect with consumers and let them know the wide variety of products that are available for their vehicles to drive business.

The 12volt industry is not a deck-and-four like it was in the 1960s. Consumers’ cars, pickups and RVs offer such a wide variety of opportinities for upgrades including in-vehicle connectivity, security, dash cams, wheels, tires, graphics, window tint and more.

Just a small part of the Sturgis Rally action!

The motorcycle industry is now such a hot category as evidenced by the recent Sturgis Rally 2025. This town of Sturgis has a population of 7020 people. Over the last 10 days the estimated crowd of bikers on site was a reported 400,000.

Custom Sounds traveled from Austin TX to be on site supporting Rockford Fosgate.

The Audio Edge Team rolled 1380 miles from Nederland TX to be on site to support Kenwood at the Sturgis Rally.

The side-by-side market is another growth category available for proactive 12volt retailers. The UTV takeover this past week in Winchester Bay OR was another opportunity that is being driven by UTV enthusiasts with a desire for aftermarket upgrades.

KICKER was livin’loud and flying high at the Arenacross Race at the at the Buffalo Chip during the Sturgis Rally.

The marine category continues to be a great opportunity for proactive 12volt retailers to connect with a community to make music fun on the waves. Lighting shines brightly in the cove or dock at night.

RaceSport Lighting lights up the dock!

To drive business in all of the above categories industry members must come together to connect with consumers to let them know the wide variety of products that we make in all of the above categories. It’s so important for 12volt retailers to connect with those communities to drive the in-store experience and provide expert installation. Consumers today are on their smartphones and laptops in this digital era. That said, consumers cannot experience the bass, mids and highs on their phone or laptop. Expert installation in the retailer’s bay delivers a much better result for consumers than the DYI experience.

UTV Stereo was on site at the UTV Takeover as Colby Boeser, flanked by Matt and Chris, was on site supporting their The RP Store.

Steve Cope, ZZ2 National Sales Manager, gets ready for his time with Houston Car Stereo on the road with TOLA Rep David Toliver-Synergy Marketing.

The 12volt Central Studios staff, with very valuable support from friends and industry members, is on the road and news beat to showcase the much needed positives across the 12volt industry today.

The above images showcase positives from this past week.

The 12volt Central Studios On The Beat For Positive Industry News

SHREVEPORT LA (08.10.25) The 12volt Central Studios staff has been showcasing positive news across the 12volt industry for 31 years. Today it is more important than ever to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. Vendors, reps, distributors and retailers must all work together to connect with consumers and let them know the wide variety of products that are available for their vehicles to drive business.

The 12volt industry is not a deck-and-four like it was in the 1960s. Consumers’ cars, pickups and RVs offer such a wide variety of opportinities for upgrades including in-vehicle connectivity, security, dash cams, wheels, tires, graphics, window tint and more.

Just a small part of the Sturgis Rally action!

The motorcycle industry is now such a hot category as evidenced by the recent Sturgis Rally 2025. This town of Sturgis has a population of 7020 people. Over the last 10 days the estimated crowd of bikers on site was a reported 400,000.

Custom Sounds traveled from Austin TX to be on site supporting Rockford Fosgate.

The Audio Edge Team rolled 1380 miles from Nederland TX to be on site to support Kenwood at the Sturgis Rally.

The side-by-side market is another growth category available for proactive 12volt retailers. The UTV takeover this past week in Winchester Bay OR was another opportunity that is being driven by UTV enthusiasts with a desire for aftermarket upgrades.

KICKER was livin’loud and flying high at the Arenacross Race at the at the Buffalo Chip during the Sturgis Rally.

The marine category continues to be a great opportunity for proactive 12volt retailers to connect with a community to make music fun on the waves. Lighting shines brightly in the cove or dock at night.

RaceSport Lighting lights up the dock!

To drive business in all of the above categories industry members must come together to connect with consumers to let them know the wide variety of products that we make in all of the above categories. It’s so important for 12volt retailers to connect with those communities to drive the in-store experience and provide expert installation. Consumers today are on their smartphones and laptops in this digital era. That said, consumers cannot experience the bass, mids and highs on their phone or laptop. Expert installation in the retailer’s bay delivers a much better result for consumers than the DYI experience.

UTV Stereo was on site at the UTV Takeover as Colby Boeser, flanked by Matt and Chris, was on site supporting their The RP Store.

Steve Cope, ZZ2 National Sales Manager, gets ready for his time with Houston Car Stereo on the road with TOLA Rep David Toliver-Synergy Marketing.

The 12volt Central Studios staff, with very valuable support from friends and industry members, is on the road and news beat to showcase the much needed positives across the 12volt industry today.

The above images showcase positives from this past week.