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Competition Lanes Are Opening for MECA, Boomin’ Audio and IASCA

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SHEVEPORT, LA (05.10.2021) – As we enter the 5th month of 2021, it appears “There is Bass at the End of the Tunnel.”

On Saturday, May 8th, MECA hosted the 3rd Annual High Voltage Show in Newport TN. Also on Saturday May 8th, Boomin’ Audio hosted the Spring Super Jam in Salt Lake City UT. On Saturday May 1st IASCA hosted a judges training in Orange CA followed by a 1X event on Sunday.

Competitors are lined up at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport TN to get to the MECA tent for try for a big number on the meter.

MECA Commish Steve Stern reported, “The 3rd Annual MECA High Voltage Show was a huge success at Cocke Country Fairgrounds in Newport TN. It was so great to see competitors and their rides lined up for their turn at the meter under the MECA tent. MECA used 120 score sheets in SQL, SPL and Show & Shine contests at the event. Greg Kelley at Team High Voltage was the event promoter and Resilient Sounds stepped up big time to help make the event successful. We are excited to get the competition season rolling.”

Competitors gathered with their certificates following the Boomin’ Audio Spring Super Slam.

To the west the Boomin’ Audio Spring Super Slam, with Jones Subwoofer Solutions as the sponsor, was very successful. On a sunny Saturday 32 excited competitors were in the lane looking for big numbers in dB Drag Racing formats. “We debuted dB Drag’s new Freestyle Format and there were some rally happy competitors,” stated Andy Teuscher, Boomin’ Audio Promoter.

Andy Teuscher (R), Boomin’ Audio Promoter, pictured with Jason Jones with JSS that hosted the event.

Continuing Teuscher offered, “We are looking forward to a busy season doing dB Drags and USACi official competitions. We have events on the books in Utah, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Texas and Oklahoma scheduled this season.”

IASCA’s Travis Chin organized the trainings at Reus Audio in Orange, CA.

Travis Chin is also working hard to set the 2021 IASCA Competition season as COVID-19 restrictions are fading. The weekend of May 1st Chin traveled from the IASCA office in Washington State to Orange CA for a judges training on Saturday May 1st and an IASCA 1X event on Sunday May 2nd.

The IASCA trainings included rulebook, listening and this hands on session.

Chin related, “The trainings for 15 attendees was conducted by Keith Turner and myself. Rulebook and listening trainings took place on Saturday with a hands on session on Sunday. Sunday also turned into a networking day with additional visitors that included Jon Whitledge who brought his totally amazing Magic Bus. The trainings, held at Reus Audio in Orange, were very successful and we plan to roll out training sessions across the US. A very big Thank You to Rick Reus at Reus Audio for opening up his facility for the trainings over the weekend. John Yi at TRU Technologies is also helping with the planning and organizing as IASCA rolls in 2021.”

Attendees at the IASCA training had a chance to check out unbelievably high quality audio in Jon Whitledge’s amazing Hi-Res Audio ‘Magic Bus’.

Creating exciting events for competitors is extremely important. Likewise, getting consumers and enthusiasts into brick and mortar retail stores is also extremely important. The 12volt Central Studios staff stands ready to help deliver positive news to all across the 12volt industry.

The 12voltSTP Tool can be key in making that happen. By definition here is how to utilize the 12voltSTP Tool with a smartphone. 1… Snap an image. 2… Txt the image to 318 465 0844 with a little who/what/where info. 3… PRESTO the 12volt Central Studios could make a post. This is pretty much the process that smartphone users do every day.

Thank you to Steve Stern, Andy Teuscher and Travis Chin for sending info this way. Let’s have a great Sound-Off Competition Season.

Visit mecacaraudio.com, facebook.com/boominaudiospl, and iasca.com for more.

The Audio Shop RC Wins JVC Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 126

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SHREVEPORT LA (05.08.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. The Audio Shop RC won the JVC Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, May 7th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Three months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 126th time on Friday morning May 7th. The Wheel landed on the JVC Space. The Audio Shop RC slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted. We reached out to The Audio Shop RC In Rapid City SD and Justin Davis was very happy to hear the news. 

A number of the JVC Wireless Ear Buds were sent to the 12volt Central Studios for Wheel winners. We will send a set to Justin.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, JBL, DAS/Off Terrain, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX and Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK,  Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME,  Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia and Audio Solutions in Florence MS. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, May 14th.

DAS Drives New Business for 12volt Retailers with Off Terrain Overlanding Products

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PALMYRA, PA (05.07.2021) – DAS Companies, Inc. is driving new business for 12volt retailers with the addition of a rugged line of vehicle recovery and adventurous Overlanding products, including accessories, from Off Terrain. Perfect for the Off-Road, Trucks, Jeeps, and 4WD vehicles this heavy-duty line was specifically designed for the adventurous spirit in all off-roaders.

The lineup is unique and includes products such as Recovery Ropes, Winch Kits & Ropes, Abrasive-free Shackle UHWMPE, 4WD Recovery Kits, ATV Towing Kits, 4×4 Winch and Accessories. Providing off-roaders peace-of-mind, that comes with knowing that they are prepared to handle situations that confront them when out venturing off the beaten path, is a key benefit provided by Off Terrain products..

DAS stocks and sells Off Terrain recovery and Overlanding products and accessories as the exclusive national distributor across the lower 48 states with inventory warehoused in east and western distribution hubs.

“This Brand offers a great opportunity for our dealers. Strategically, the Off Terrain line will expand their existing 12Volt businesses with complementary products and allow dealers to reach new customers. It’s a natural extension that will attract additional vehicles into their bays,” stated Rex Berfield, National Sales Manager, DAS Companies, Inc.

Placement on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is contributing to visibility for the Off Terrain brand across the 12volt industry. On Friday, April 30th, the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel landed on the DAS space with the the prize being an Off Terrain 4WD FULL RECOVERY KIT. The Off Terrain prize has been sent to Audio Solutions 49 in Florence MS.

Off Terrain Managing Director Tom O’Mara is incredibly excited about the DAS collaboration and said, “We have worked hard to design Overlanding gear to withstand long seasons, variable weather, and terrains of all kinds. Our gear is tough enough to handle driver’s demands as a gear-head or outdoor enthusiast, but priced within reach – that was very important to us,” said O’Mara. “Partnering with DAS has exposed this exciting and growing category to thousands of new dealers all over the country.”

Look for products and installations at your favorite car audio installer and 4×4 overland install shop.

Ross Sachs is pictured with the Off Terrain 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel prize in the DAS Palmyra PA warehouse that’s  headed to Audio Solutions in Florence MS. Sachs is DAS Consumer Electronics Sales and Marketing Manager.

Visit dasinc.com and offterrain.com for more

KICKER Hands Out Industry Awards to Retailers and Distributors

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STILLWATER, OK (05.05.2021) – KICKER was proud to announce several of its 2020 industry awards to regional reps, retailers and distributors recently. All honorees exemplify outstanding performance, reflected in a dedication to outstanding customer service and exceeding sales expectations for the year 2020, according to Tom Heath, KICKER Vice President of Domestic Sales and Marketing.

Central Region

Representing the Central region, The Stereo Shop (Garland, Texas), CarTunes (Wichita, Kan.), Blue Hawk Audio and Video (Bismarck and Dickinson, N.D.), and California Audio (West Valley City, Utah) earned awards as KICKER’s Dealers-of-the-Year. Distributor-of-the-Year was Stereo Max Electronics of Houston. Rep Firm-of-the-Year was Santa Fe Sales (Lenexa, Kan.). Brad Ganz is the KICKER Central Regional Sales Manager.

Southeast Region

In the Southeast region, Cartronics (Hollywood and Miami, Fla.), D&B Sales (Ft. Wayne, Ind.), Pro Audio Center (Richland, Miss.), and Armando Sounds (Chicago) earned accolades as Dealers-of-the-Year. Rep Firm-of-the-Year was TR Sales and Marketing (Indianapolis). Lori Boyer is the KICKER Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast.

Northeast Region

Representing the Northeast region, Barry Electronics (Lima, Ohio), Unique Auto Sound and Security (Lindenhurst, N.Y.), Motorcity Tunes (Dearborn Heights, Mich.), Auto Sound Systems (Rochester, N.Y.), Parkway Sound and Security (Everett, Mass.), and US1 Car Stereo (Philadelphia, Pa.) won Dealer-of-the-Year awards. Swamp Donkey Enterprises (W. Portsmouth, Ohio) won Online Dealer-of-the-Year and TAS Electronics (Holland, Ohio) earned Most Improved. Rep Firm-of-the-Year was OPUS Marketing (Fallston, Md.). Matt Matheson is the KICKER Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast region.

West Region

In the West region, Outrageous Audio (Portland, Ore.) and Quality Car Stereo (Gilbert, Ariz.) earned Dealer-of-the-Year. The Most Improved Award went out to Advanced Car Stereo (Riverside, Calif.) and Snow’s Auto (Spokane, Wash.). KEI Distributing (Los Angeles) won Distributor-of-the-Year. Rep Firm-of-the-Year was Murfco (Murrieta, Calif.). Tracy Focht is the KICKER Regional Sales Manager in the West.

Car Toys, West Coast Car Stereo, Stereo City Pros, Audio Outlet, 559 Car Audio and Alarm, and Sierra Select Distributors were honored as well.

Visit kicker.com for more.

AAMP Global Acquires M2M in Motion – Strengthens Position in Telematics Industry

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CLEARWATER, FL (05.04.2021) – AAMP Global has acquired M2M in Motion, an innovative provider of fleet management solutions. M2M in Motion is a reputed fleet intelligence software company that started in 2013. Their mission was to deliver a single platform fleet management solution that could support any fleet of any size and any type(s) of vehicle.

“Joining the AAMP Team will allow us to accelerate our growth and development roadmap plans at a pace that was not possible before,” said Sean Meister, COO and Co-Founder of M2M in Motion.

Combining M2M in Motion’s Fleet Management Platform and expertise with the engineering and manufacturing capabilities of AAMP Global will result in a best-in-class product and software solution for GPS tracking and telematics.

“We have been looking to expand our product portfolio to include software solutions as we knew combining our unique sales channel with our hardware expertise and network of install partners offers a true competitive advantage in the market. We couldn’t be more excited for Sean, Marc and the M2M Team to join us and lead these growth initiatives,” said Scott Forst, President and CEO of AAMP Global.

M2M in Motion’s existing customers will have no impact on their products and services. The existing platform will continue to support customers who currently manage their fleet on m2mfleetmotion.com and continue growing with new features and capabilities. M2M in Motion customers will also have access to the complete portfolio of products and services offered by AAMP Global.

“AAMP shares our focus of putting the client first,” said Marc Lonson, CEO and Co-Founder of M2M in Motion. “Our existing clients will benefit from more resources and product offerings, an installer network, and extended hours for customer support.”

Visit aampglobal.com for more.

JVC Dash Cam Trainings Are Set… Including LIVE DEMO

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12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (05.03.2021) – JVC Mobile Entertainment has entered the booming dash cam market. The new KV-DR305 dashboard camera, a feature rich and value-priced dash cam boasting full HD (1920×1080) recording, is now shipping.

The KV-DR305 is arriving in the field and JVC Mobile has set 2 training sessions for dealers to learn about this exciting new product. Lights..Dash Cam..Action. The sessions are set for Tuesday May 4th @12:00 PM Eastern and Wednesday, May 5th @ 9:00 PM Eastern.

Marcus Vasconcellos, JVC KEWOOD Mobile Electronics Product Specialist, recently received a sample KV-DR305 and installed it in his Toyota Sequoia. “I have hands on experience with the KV-DR305. I put it through its paces forward and backward and it performed flawlessly. I look forward to presenting a LIVE DEMO of this amazing new JVC dash cam during the 2 training sessions.”

Marcus Vasconcellos holds the JVC KV-DR305W sample that he installed it is vehicle to prepare for the LIVE DEMO.

During the sessions hosts will lead discussions relating to Dash Cam market growth and why it makes sense for 12volt retailers to add the category their product mix. Dealers will also find out who the dash cam customer is and the benefits a dash cam will add to their driving experience. The LIVE DEMO of the KV-DR305 dash cam will add to the take-away of people attending the sessions.

Dealers attending a session will also have a chance to win a KV-DR305… 1 dash cam prize per training.

Make your plans to attend a JVC KV-DR305 training session.

Visit www.us.jvc.com/car for more.

Audio Solutions 49 Wins DAS Off Terrain Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 125

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SHREVEPORT LA (05.01.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. Audio Solutions 49 won the DAS Off Terrain prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, April 30th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Four months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Click to view

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 125th time on Friday morning April 30th. The Wheel landed on the DAS Off Terrain space. The Audio Solutions 49 slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted. We reached out to Audio Solutions 49 and Wayne Holton was out for the morning. We will contact DAS to determine which Off Terrain product will be headed to Audio Solutions 49 and let Wayne know what Off Terrain product will be headed his way.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, JBL, DAS/Off Terrain, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX and Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK,  Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME,  Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Just Audio in North Providence RI and CT_Custom in Philadelphia.  Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, May 7th.

KICKER Went Overboard in Arizona at Lake Havasu Events

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LAKE HAVASU, AZ (04.30.2021) – KICKER stretched West from Stillwater, OK to join dealers and fans with festivities at Desert Storm, running April 21-25, on Lake Havasu and Lake Havasu City.

The KICKER XRV rolled out of Stillwater, OK early Tuesday morning for the 1,100 mile trip west to Lake Havasu, AR.

The KICKER XRV rolled out of KICKER HQ on Tuesday morning, April 20th, for the 1100 mile trip to Lake Havasu. Jeremy Wynn, Events and Promotions Manager, was behind the wheel as the XRV hit the road for the first time in a year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Tracy Focht, Western Regional Sales Manager, and David Glasgow were also in the big rig. Glasgow is involved in International Sales and has had his travels overseas restricted as well for nearly a year.

This is the 5th year with KICKER participating in Desert Storm. KICKER first started at Desert Storm with a 10×20 booth with River Dave and Wired 4 Sound. The last 3 years KICKER has been onsite as the Title Sponsor with a much, much larger presence at the downtown Street Festival and on the lake with the Poker Run and boat parades through the days and evening Friday and Saturday.

 The vendor party Thursday evening got the activities in gear.

“We feel this grass roots event is the perfect event to work directly with both boat manufacturers, dealers and end consumers. This allows us and our dealers to learn more about what customers are actually looking for and where the the target market is headed. In the years since it evolved the KICKER Sales Team, along with Events and Promotions Manager Jeremy Wynn, continue to see growth at the Desert Storm event. Each year we work diligently to better our approach and showcase KICKER at the event” Focht stated.

KICKER staff worked with their Southern Nevada/Arizona and SoCal Rep Firm Murfco at the event. Dealers Wired 4 Sound, Ron’s In Your Ear Audio and Premium Golf Carts showcased many of their jobs at the event.

There was plenty to see around the XRV.

Murfco’s Riley Murphy stated “Desert Storm was such a great event and we were all excited to get back outside and work with dealers and talk with consumers.” Devin Daniel, also with Murfco said “There was so much excitement during the Poker Run. Boats would pull up beside the Boom Toon to make sure they got their packet with cards. Everything on the water was exciting in spite of the wind.”

Wired 4 Sounds’ Jeff Cuvelier offered “We were right across the street from BJ’s Bar downtown.The number of people on the street was just amazing.To put the Wired 4 Sounds brand in front of people is an investment that will drive store traffic and business.”

The KICKER UTV brought the PowerSports category to Desert Storm.

Ron Burnett, Ron’s In Your Ear Audio, related “Being involved with KICKER and Desert Storm brings so much visibility to consumers for the products we sell. We always see a spike in business from Desert Storm.

KICKER’s Glasgow added “Participating in an event like Desert Storm is certainly something that will interest all of the international customers that I work with…they all like to know about Livin’Loud activities in the US.”

The strong partnership with Rod Voegele of Gatorwraps adds to the overall success of KICKER’s presence at Desert Storm.

The KICKER XRV was a magnet for members of the crowd at Desert Storm.

On the Poker Run, boats competed for the hefty purse. Some prominent boats, including a customized Trifecta Pontoon boat outfitted with top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio gear and an 11” Tower System were Livin’Loud on the water. This boat owned and equipped by Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc., KICKER Marine Audio’s Manufacturers Rep Group, emphasized the company’s tag line of “Livin’ Loud!”

The Trifecta is one of many boats the 38-year veteran KICKER representative has outfitted for this and many other events. Murphy, who has partnered with KICKER for so long because they are “the best” also partnered with Frank Zepeda on the “Boom Toon”. The “Boom Toon” is a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was along for the ride and the fun. The boat was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge, and is now a fan favorite, complete with a slide, party poles and a KICKING, KICKER Marine Audio system. The Desert Storm event was “sold out” with 237 boats participating in its 24th year.

This image from above shows the scope of KICKER’s presence at the event.

Also along for the ride at Desert Storm was another KICKER Marine Audio fan and partner, Rod Voegele of California-based, Gatorwraps. The company displayed its specialty large-scale vehicle and vessel wraps on its Kenworth W9 Show rig, and International CXT show truck, both heavily decked with KICKER audio components and broadcasting live and loud from the Street Party and throughout the event.

Also at the event Gatorwraps featured a 30’ Formula 302 SR-1, fully customized with 11 amps powering its over 25 speakers and subs. In addition, a Rinker Flotilla F-24 that has too many KICKER Marine Audio components to list. But ten 8” Horn Coaxial speakers with LED Speaker Rings (plus 2, 6.5” Horns) and 6 11’ Horn pods, plus the appropriate number and size of amps and support gear, gave some idea of the SOUND of this boat that is KICKER Marine Audio ‘Going Overboard’.

The KICKER Boom Toon was a star on the water at Desert Storm.

Said Voegele, “The clarity of KICKER Marine Audio is what sets it apart from other brands. I have a friend with a Rinker installed by Wired 4 Sound in Lake Havasu and when he pulls into a cove, everyone else shuts off their stereos because his sounds like a live concert! We get those comments all the time when we play our KICKER sound systems—the sound is that clear!”

Both MurfCo and Gatorwraps have had long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who is known as a pioneer in the 12volt mobile audio world.

The downtown area was packed as enthusiast checked out boats parked along the way.

“KICKER Marine Audio finds kindred spirits in the performance boating community,” stated Jeremy Bale, brand manager, “This group of boaters enjoys being seen and heard and KICKER certainly has all the right top-grade marine equipment to help them achieve those goals! Lake Havasu has been a good location for us with long-time dealers, distributors and installers and we enjoy getting together with Rod (Voegele) and Dan (Murphy) at these events to engage with our customers. We’re happy to lend our support!”

Concluding, Focht offered, “From the first night kicking off the vendor party Wednesday night, to the hustle of the street party Thursday, to the Poker Run on Friday and the family atmosphere throughout the event Desert Storm at Lake Havasu is amazing. We have built friendships and created extended families with the people of Desert Storm. We look forward to learning more that we can do right for 2022 and remain the audio company of Desert Storm.”

Visit kicker.com/marine-audio for more.

CTA Announces Return to Las Vegas for CES 2022

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ARLINGTON, VA (04.29.2021) – The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) today announced CES 2022, the world’s most influential technology event, will return to Las Vegas next year. Following a successful all-digital CES 2021 , CTA will convene the tech industry in-person and digitally, giving a global audience access to major brands and startups, as well as the world’s most-influential leaders and industry advocates. CES heads back to Las Vegas Jan. 5-8, 2022, with Media Days taking place Jan. 3-4, 2022.

Featured Exhibitors

Some 1000 companies have committed to showcasing their most innovative technologies in Las Vegas and companies are continuing to sign up. Attendees can expect to see global brands including Amazon, AMD, AT&T, Daimler AG, Dell, Google, Hyundai, IBM, Intel, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Panasonic, Qualcomm, Samsung Electronics and Sony. Companies including Caterpillar, Indy Autonomous Challenge and Sierra Space are planning to make a Las Vegas debut in 2022. Eureka Park will return with startups representing countries around the world, including large delegations from France, Italy, the Netherlands and South Korea.

“We’re thrilled to return to Las Vegas – home to CES for more than 40 years – and look forward to seeing many new and returning faces,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “Hundreds of executives have told us how much they need CES to meet new and existing customers, find partners, reach media and discover innovation.”

Digital audiences will also experience the spirit of the live event in Las Vegas. The CES anchor desk, which debuted at CES 2021, will travel to Las Vegas and connect the digital audience with exhibitors, conference sessions, keynotes and product announcements from the live event. New content will also be added once CES departs Las Vegas, enabling attendees and exhibitors to continue connecting and exploring.

“Our customers are enthusiastic about returning to a live event in Las Vegas,” said Karen Chupka, EVP, CES, CTA. “Global brands and startups have shared that plans are already well underway and are committed to sharing the magic of an in-person CES with even more people from around the world.”

CTA will be reviewing guidelines for coronavirus safety measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in addition to state and local guidelines. CTA will be following applicable federal, state and local laws, adapting CES plans accordingly and sharing updates with its audiences.

Visit ces.tech and cta.tech for more.

Businesses Eager to Reconnect at SEMA Show

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.28.2021) – Following Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak’s recent announcement to reopen the state at 100 percent capacity by June 1, SEMA Show exhibitors are demonstrating their commitment and excitement for the 2021 SEMA Show by securing booth space at the event taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“The industry has spent the past year separated, and businesses are anxious and eager to reconnect in person,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “We’re seeing more and more manufacturers sign up to exhibit at the SEMA Show every day, and we anticipate hundreds more will do so before the Priority Booth Space Draw begins in June.”

SEMA Show exhibitors are demonstrating their excitement for the 2021 SEMA Show by securing booth space at the event taking place November 2-5 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

More than 1,200 companies are already confirmed to exhibit at the event on November 2-5, at which time the SEMA Show will mark the first industry-wide in-person gathering in almost two years. While manufacturers are able to secure space up until the event in November, those who submit their space applications before May 7 will be included the Priority Booth Space Draw, a multi-week process when exhibitors select their space within the 3.2 million square foot Las Vegas Convention Center.

Utilizing the Las Vegas Convention Center’s newly constructed West Hall, the SEMA Show will include exhibits in all four halls, seminars in dozens of meeting rooms, networking events in nearby ballrooms and special displays and interactive attractions in the outdoor areas.

Having been separated for more than a year, manufacturers are making plans to impress the industry with enhanced booths and unique displays.

“We are hearing an overwhelming response from exhibitors,” said Gattuso. “They have nearly two years’ worth of innovation to share, and they will be showing it off at the SEMA Show. Based on what we are hearing, exhibitors are pulling out all the stops.”

Since 1967, manufacturers of automotive aftermarket parts have relied on the SEMA Show to debut their new products, showcase new trends and conduct business. Made up mostly of small- to mid-size manufacturers with a deep passion for turning everyday drivers into one-of-a-kind works of art, exhibitors take center stage as they unveil groundbreaking and ingenious products that enhance the performance, styling and functionality of cars, trucks and SUVs. This year more than any other year, designers and engineers are pushing the boundaries to advance the industry.

Manufacturers can apply for booth space at www.semashow.com, where applications for attendee registration will open in May.