MECA Car Audio Restarts the 2020 Season with the 14th Annual “The Vinny” Event

GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (05.19.2020) – The 14th Annual ‘The Vinny’ Event 2020 was held in 2 locations on Sunday, May 17th. The SQL event took place at Audio Specialists in Clarksville TN and the SPL competition took place at the Cheatham County Fairgrounds in Ashland, TN. At each venue there were 11 MECA members competing. XSPower sponsors MECA events in Tennessee.

The Audio Specialist location in Clarksville TN was the site of the MECA SQL competition.

Steve Stern, MECA Commish, stated “We wanted to get back to sensibly and safely providing venues for our MECA Club members. With the COVID-19 crisis finally easing it seemed now was the right time for a ‘Restart’ of the 2020 MECA season. Starting to get back on track, with ‘The Vinny’, seemed like the thing to do. Rob Bess has a great location in Clarksville that was ideal for the SQL Competition. We were mindful of restrictions for SPL and chose the Cheatham County Fairgrounds in Ashland, TN that offered a wide open venue with plenty of space bass and for social distancing.”

This group is pictured at the MECA SPL competition at Cheatham County Fairgrounds in Ashland TN. On the left MECA Commish Steve Stern, Judge Malani Puni and Ethan Stern along with a number of MECA SPL competitors.

Rob Bess, Audio Specialists owner stated “It was so great to see MECA competitors showcasing their systems. We provided ample space for social distancing during the event and judging. We had a competitor drive from Atlanta and one from South Carolina. Everyone that came was so happy to get out in the world and be among fellow MECA members.”

Competitor Doug Hyden wiped out the windshield in his ride and had to drive carefully back to Newport, TN… over 150 miles away. He did win “Best of Show” in the SPL competition.

Bess added “We brought in pizza for lunch which everyone enjoyed. In fact a couple of competitors mentioned this was the first food they had eaten outside of their home in a couple weeks. We all had a really good time.”

MECA’s Ethan Stern behind the meter in the SPL lane.

Continuing Stern offered “I drove the 40 miles to the SPL event at the Cheatham County Fairgrounds with the event setup gear in the MECA van with my son Ethan. It was terrific to see the competitors plus hear and judge their rides. Team American Bass had 2 vehicles that were really loud. Doug Hyden, Team High Voltage, topped 152 and shattered his windshield. He then drove, very carefully, over 150 miles back to Newport TN. It was a good trip for him because he had the Best of Show trophy in his back seat. Hyden runs MECA Manufacturer Member gear…Sundown subs, Stinger wire and accessories and has 3 Mechman alternators in his ride.”

SPL Competitor Matt Holloran and his son relax between runs in the SPL lane.

Concluding, Stern stated “The Vinny” is named for MECA Charter Member and SQL Coordinator and Judge Vinny Taylor from Franklin TN. Vinny is still active and helps with Rules and Ethics Committe, Judge training and larger events including the Finals.”

Lood for more coverage of the MECA Car Audio events from 12volt News.

For information on the 2020 MECA event schedule, visit mecacaraudio.com

Call Totals Surging for KICKER Technical Support Team

STILLWATER, OK (05.18.2020) – Stress levels tend to increase when consumers seek product information from manufacturers through email, chat services or over the phone.  Callers ultimately require immediate answers, and show very little patience. These unusual days, with the country in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, the KICKER Tech Support team has seen a massive increase in the number of callers seeking quick answers.

“We’ve been averaging around 700 calls and emails per week (since the pandemic),” reported Trevis Rakey, KICKER’s technical support manager. “With so many people working on DIY projects, that number has been on the rise.”

John Myers is pictured at Kicker’s Stillwater OK HQ conducting a Tech Team session in pre-social distancing days.

Rakey estimates his department fields more than 50 enclosure-building requests per week. The team’s recommendations vary based on complexity and available space.

“Typically, when a customer calls for a box design, we ask them what measurements they have to work with, and what their goals are,” Rakey explained.  “From there we can determine air space, port specs and outside measurements of what the enclosure needs to be built to. We use FINEBox™ enclosure design software, which is the same quality as our R&D (research and development) department.”      

When a consumer wants to work on their own project, the KICKER Tech Support team also refers customers to the useful KICKER U app. Available as a free or premium purchased version, the app provides cut sheets, subwoofer specifications, response curves, wiring diagrams, test tones and more.

KICKER’s Tech Support team fields these calls from the company’s Stillwater, Oklahoma world headquarters.  Armed with more than 40 years of product specifications, box-building software, vehicle wiring information and a mountain of acoustic reference materials, KICKER’s Tech Support is among the most well-informed in the industry. 

To ensure the Tech Support staff has the ability to answer any question, they maintain a non-stop product training schedule and have direct access to the very people that build the product. The department fields questions across every product line KICKER makes, and in every phase of system construction.

KICKER’s Tech Support Department is available weekdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. CDT at 405-624-8510, and by email at support@kicker.com.

For more information visit www.kicker.com/kickeru or find the KICKER U app on their device’s app store.

The 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Is Rolling In 2020 – Electronics Plus Wins Spin 76

SHREVEPORT LA (05.17.2020) – WTF…Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Five months ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 76, is Electronics Plus in Salinas, CA. The Wheel landed on the 12volt Space and a $100. check is headed to Electronics Plus.

Spinning out a new winner each Friday, a 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, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Precision Power, JBL, Power Acoustik, Farenheit, Wilson Electronics/WeBoost and Image Dynamics. 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 and Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markham Designs in Lithonia GA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun…On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, May 22nd

Want to enter for future spins? It’s easy – when making an Instagram post for your store include the hashtag #12voltspin to make sure your company has a slip in the jar. There are over 1100 #12voltspin posts on Instagram.

With 18 chances to WIN, the 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is ready to shower a lucky weekly winner with one of the cool prizes.

Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!

Announcing Launch of Fahlmarketing & Associates – A New Age Rep Firm

YORKVILLE, IL (05.15.2020) – Max Fahlmark launches Fahlmarketing & Associates, a new age rep firm currently targeting the Illinois and Wisconsin territory. Fahlmarketing & Associates is a Manufacturers Sale Representative Firm servicing the Car Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics channels.

Max Fahlmark, Principal, is not your typical sales rep. He is a Gen Z and brings the perspective of the largest consumer group to the company. “As of 2019, Gen-Zers outnumbered Millennials and Baby Boomers as the largest generation globally with 2.47 billion people, and it is important for businesses to target and properly communicate to this powerful buying group in places and in ways that make sense to them” said Max Fahlmark. Gen-Zers are digital pioneers and that principal has been woven into the DNA of Fahlmarketing & Associates. Fahlmarketing & Associates is paperless. Dealers and Distributors will complete and sign all paperwork electronically. Mr. Fahlmark will introduce his customers to the latest technologies and encourage them to use them in their businesses. Max Fahlmark drives a Tesla because it is better for the environment and demonstrates that “environmentally friendly” can be cool and customized.

Max Fahlmark drives a Tesla because it’s better for the environment and demonstrates that ‘environmentally friendly’ can be cool and customized as he is on the road making sales calls.

Max Fahlmark, principal, brings years of experience to the firm. Max has been mentored by his dad, Steve Fahlmark, a Manufacturer Sales Rep for over 25 years. Max worked for his dad’s firm for 7 years. He learned the inner workings of a Manufacturers Rep Firm and the necessary skills to be successful. He was inspired by his dad’s passion and energy for the business and that led him to become an entrepreneur and start his own firm. Fahlmark’s love of music has also played a role in his decision. Max Fahlmark said, “being a professional musician has not only given me the determination and focus but has also taught me what is missing in the Pro Audio market.”

Max Fahlmark, Principal

Fahlmarketing and Associates will bring a new perspective and a new way of doing business to the manufacturers, industries and customers it services. Technology is integrated at every touch point, which will bring efficiencies and improved ways of conducting business as a rep firm. Manufacturers, dealers, distributors, and consumers get a partner that is experienced but offers the perspective of a youthful mind. Fahlmarketing and Associates is immersed in the Mobile Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics markets and has its finger on the pulse of the latest trends and technologies. The firm will provide its dealers and distributors access to all manufacturing assets and guide them how to use them digitally to drive business.

Fahlmarketing and Associates currently represents Aunex and Stage Clicks in Illinois and Wisconsin. Steven Bach, President of Aunex, Inc. said, “I am extremely excited to have Max Fahlmark on board. Within the first months Max has already signed on direct dealers and a distributor. Max has shown a great level of determination and professionalism. We are definitely looking forward to this New Age Rep Agency to help promote our products for many years to come.”

Fahlmarketing and Associates is accepting interviews for professional representation of key manufacturers in Car Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics. While currently focused on Wisconsin and Illinois, Fahlmarketing and Associates will be expanding in the future.

For Further Info:
Contact: Max Fahlmark
Email: fahlmarketing@gmail.com

George Jenkins to Head ARPA of America

MODESTO, CA (05.14.2020) – Longtime industry veteran George Jenkins joins ARPA of America as President.

ARPA of America was formed by a group of investors in January 2020 to bring only the finest of audio products to the US, beginning with Audio Wave, Dynaudio, ESB speakers, Tchernov Cables, and Zapco Car Audio.  As President of ARPA, George will be responsible for charting the course of the company as the business expands, bringing in new lines, new products and new dealers.

George Jenkins began working with audio manufacturers as a sales rep in Italy in the ‘70s and has since managed international sales for such companies as Bose, Boston Acoustics, Stillwater/Kicker, and most recently held the position of VP of International Sales at JL Audio.

George Jenkins

“George was an obvious choice for us, and we were lucky to find him available. He brings a vast wealth of experience to the company and over the years he has worked with virtually everyone involved with this project. His years of international experience has given him exposure to the types of products ARPA of America wants to be involved with, as well as an intimate understanding of what the high-end car audio dealer needs from a product and from a distributor.” says Vincenzo Biasella of the investor group

George Jenkins said, “As you know, there will always be people who will enjoy music at its best with no compromise.  ARPA is a company that has assembled a group of exceptional brands in order to ensure the ultimate sound performance and I am excited about this new challenge.”  Our Car Audio industry is under continued pressure for innovation and in need of new and exciting developments. With new technology applied to old world craftsmanship, there is no limit to where we can take audio reproduction.  Being a veteran of this industry, and with the ARPA team’s help, I will tap into my past experience in the audio world and I look forward to working with an elite group of retailers who share our same passion and enthusiasm for sound.”

“George brings an unparalleled commitment to our industry.” says national sales manager Scott Welch, “coupled with his extensive knowledge in all aspects of the audio world. We all look forward to working with George to create a unique and evolving business model for distribution of exclusive top tier products and services to exclusive top tier dealers.”

Contacts:

President – George@arpaofamerica.com
Sales – Scott@arpaofamerica.com
Marketing / Support – John@arpaofamerica.com

Visit arpaofamerica.com for more.

The Stereo Shop Gets Creative During the Pandemic

AUBURN HILLS, MI (05.13.2020) – Just 25 minutes outside of the heart of Dallas sits The Stereo Shop, a mobile electronics retailer and installer that has serviced the Garland, Texas community for 10 years (formerly under the name JM Kuztomz).

Like most 12Volt retailers during the COVID-19 environment, owner Julio Murillo has had to think out-of-the-box in light of the recent “shelter in place” orders.

Alpine Brand Representative Mark Sartain and The Stereo Shop partners Julio Murillo and Edgar Cruz (L to R) are pictured in an area in the new showroom.

“When COVID-19 happened, I thought, ‘If we’re going to shut down for a few weeks, then I’m finally going to update the store,’” Murillo recalled.

Murillo, an Alpine Authorized Retailer of three years, contacted his Alpine team, including rep Mark Sartain, to begin work on a $12,000 update to the shop.

This 2019 Alpine Electronics of America Dealer of the Year Award is prominently displayed in The Stereo Shop showroom.

“Alpine is their biggest consumer draw and their highest premium line,” explained Sartain. “They see a big value in the local and national support they are receiving from Alpine.”  

The focus was on the main display board in their lobby, previously occupied by a different brand. In its place, stands a larger-than-life display, spotlighting the Alpine Halo9 9-inch displays, as well as speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers from Alpine S, R, and X-Series lineup. 

The Stereo Shop was able to reopen, as they have a minor mechanical permit that deems them as an essential business (although they are still taking safety precautions by doing most installations through drop-offs and maintain social distancing standards.)

Not shortly after he reopened, Murillo started to see the fruits of his labor, particularly with the main display board. 

“The first day, we set up a Halo9 display in the showroom with the Alpine branding. The second day, after we opened, we sold three [Alpine Halo9s],” said Murillo. “We were already selling this product fairly well, but three on the first day was crazy!”

In addition to the main display board, The Stereo Shop now has three dedicated Alpine displays in the store that include an OEM Integration Display, a dedicated S-Series display (their highest selling product, according to Sartain) and an R and X-Series display. 

“Alpine is a sound quality company, so naturally, having functional displays that can be used to allow their consumers to experience the products helps the consumers make a faster emotional connection,” Sartain explained. “Consumers come to their store to hear, touch and feel the products. The displays empower the salespeople because they can demonstrate the products to the consumer.”

Murillo explains the value of a display that can show the customer the head unit and speaker together, claiming it’s a lot easier to sell when they can sell the entire package.

“Display the functioning products; not products in a showcase or a box,” said Murillo. “When the product is on a display, where people can touch it, feel it, and know how it works – that’s half the sale!”

However, Murillo’s sales efforts didn’t stop at the shop door. The Stereo Shop is also active on their social media platforms, like Facebook, often posting installation jobs up to 10 times per day.

Murillo attributes Facebook as the root of 50% of their walk-ins. Recently, he’s noticed his clientele are coming from 1 – 2 hours away, as Facebook is helping them reach customers that are looking for a shop that sells Alpine and speaks Spanish (the Alpine brand is well-known to Hispanic customers, according to Murillo).

Murillo also adopted a new way to share the products in his store. Instead of posting a product, or taking a picture of the box, Murillo has started to show pictures of completed installation jobs, highlighting the features of each product.

This more personalized approach to “selling” Alpine products has boosted The Stereo Shops engagement rate, as they receive more inquiries from their Facebook page.

“We’re not trying to sell the product through Facebook; we show the product installed in a car and talk about the features,” explained Murillo.  “When the customer can see the head unit and speakers installed in the car, they can relate to the product because they might have the same car.”

Murillo’s advice to fellow mobile electronics retailers would be to stay safe and offer drop-off services for customers, making sure that every car is cleaned before returned. If possible, he suggested investing in loaner cars to provide to customers 

“Our shop has three loaner cars for customers to use during installation,” said Murillo. “That way, there is no pressure for the customer waiting to get their car back.”

He also urges others to increase up their social media presence, explaining that people are on social media more than ever before.

While adhering to the CDC guidelines, Sartain recommends getting more attention to your store through social media.

“On social media, promote a no-touch transaction with your customers to show that the store cares about both your consumers and your employees,” Sartain advised. “Focus on keeping the purchase process easy and fast.”

Even now, as more shops are beginning to reopen, it is essential to have a plan of attack when returning to work, including new marketing strategies, adhering to CDC guidelines, and establishing better communication with the consumer.

Alpine encourages its Authorized Dealers to reach out if they need assistance before or during the process of reopening.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

MTX Audio Announces New Polaris RZR Audio Kits and Components Available for Pre-Order

 PHOENIX, AZ (05.12.2020) – MTX Audio, of the MiTek Electronics and Communications Group, is announcing pre-order options for their new audio kits and components for Polaris RZR Side-by-side vehicles through their website and authorized dealers. The new products are compatible to most 2014+ models including the newer Turbo S models. 

The audio kits consist of two, three, and five speaker options with power ranging from 200 watts up to a thundering 1000 watts RMS for vehicles with and without Polaris Ride Command installed. These complete audio solutions feature all wiring and hardware needed to quickly get you behind the wheel enjoying the industry-leading sound quality and trail tested durability you’ve come to expect from MTX Audio. 

Also available for pre-order are the new RZR-14-FS front speaker pods with integrated RGB lighting and the RZR-14-SW subwoofer enclosure for the same series of vehicles. The front pods are fully sealed and assembled enclosures eliminating the potential for damage or lost time from having to put them together before installing them. Another key design element is that they physically install in minutes using our custom quick install bracket and integrated POD-LOC technology. With the updated design and features, they deliver high quality output even under the most extreme riding conditions. 

The RZR-14-SW features a high output 10-inch woofer in a rotationally molded enclosure designed to produce deep resonating bass while limiting transferred resonance into the vehicle panels reducing rattles inherent to low bass. Considering all types of riding, the enclosure is designed to be ported or sealed and easily converted by installing our Quick Install Port Seal (QuIPS) cover. Not only does this change the configuration of the enclosure but it can also be used, in the event of a deep-water situation, to seal the enclosure from water or mud penetration protecting the internal components from damage. The unit does not interfere with passenger legroom by mounting in place of the vehicles glove compartment and features an installer friendly hardware system that allows one person to quickly install the enclosure with minimal effort. 

With an expected shipment time of mid-June, you won’t want to delay in getting yours secured today and be the first in your group to show off the next best audio solution in UTV audio systems.

Visit www.mtx.com for more. 

Sound Trax Getting Set for a Strong ReOpening

CENTEREACH, NY (05.11.2020) – Sound Trax, celebrating 29 years in Long Island NY, is set for a strong reopening. A soft reopening is set for today, Monday May 11th. Sound Trax is prepared to “Get Their Shine On.”

Len Romano, company owner, related to 12volt News “The future is far more challenging following the COVID19 National Emergency. Our company, and 12volt retailers, must be prepared to charge ahead at full force. The time to pay attention to detail is more important now than it has ever been.”

Large shields are suspended above the sales counter.

Sound Trax closed their store on March 20th as the Coronavirus spread rapidly across the New York City and surrounding areas. During the downtime a number of large jobs were completed at area marinas.

Continuing, Romano stated “My team and I are ready to get back to work. We have taken the additional safety steps necessary to protect everyone from the potential of COVID-19 as recommended by the CDC and health professionals. The public will understand we are all concerned for their safety as well as our own”.

The Sound Trax store definitely grabs attention from drivers on the busy Centereach thoroughfare.

As customers enter Sound Trax they see the large sign at the front door noting the precautions the company has taken for their safety. Sound Trax has a mask policy for all in the store. Social distancing indicators are on the floor along with red tape markers. Large counter shields are in place. In the installation bay a rolling cart is setup with cleaning and sanitizing supplies.

Counter shields and in-store sign let all know Sound Trax is working to keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 emergency.

“Clean, well organized and stocked stores are the future. Consumers are not going to frequent a store where they feel compromised and certainly not one that is lacking a knowledgable staff along with consideration and respect for one another” Romano added.

During the 6 weeks of downtime resurfacing the parking lot was one protects completed for the reopening.

Sound Trax is located in a free-standing building along a busy thoroughfare in Centereach. People driving that route will notice the parking lot was resurfaced during the company’s downtime. Also, as part of the soft reopening an amazing new demo truck, along with UTV’s, will be parked in front of the store to grab attention.

Attention grabbing demos are highlighted on the 2,500’ showroom floor.

The 12volt News looks forward to showcasing Sound Trax’s soft reopening. Sound Trax is definitely working to create a terrific in-store experience and “Get Their Shine On” for consumers in the area. 

Visit lisoundtrax.com for more.

The 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Is Rolling In 2020 – Markland Designs Wins Spin 75

SHREVEPORT LA (05.09.20)  WTF…Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Five months ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Click to view.

The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 75, is Markland Designs in Atlanta GA. The Wheel landed on the JBL space Friday morning May 8th. A  JBL Clip3 will be headed to Markland Designs.Spinning out a new winner each Friday, a 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, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Precision Power, JBL, Power Acoustik, Farenheit and Image Dynamics. 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 and Soundz Plus in Naperville IL. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, May 15th.

Want to enter for future spins? It’s easy – when making an Instagram post for your store include the hashtag #12voltspin to make sure your company has a slip in the jar. There are over 1100 #12voltspin posts on Instagram.  

With 18 chances to WIN, the 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is ready to shower a lucky weekly winner with one of the cool prizes.

Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!

Kicker Conducts Training Webinars in the International World

STILLWATER, OK (05.08.2020) – The Kicker Training Team was very busy on Wednesday morning, May 6th, at 10 Stillwater time with International Training webinars.

John Myers presenting the Kicker Celsus UK Training… a ZOOM call screenshot.

“We held trainings for both Spain and the UK. The presentation for Spain focusing on Kicker Marine was conducted in Spanish by Carlos Jimenez for Sport Nav in Barcelona. The presentation for the UK supported Kicker’s Distributor Celsus UK” David Glasgow, International Sales Manager stated.

Great graphics highlighted topics during the ZOOM training call.

John Myers, Global Trainer/Media Custom Projects Specialist, conducted the Celsus UK webinar that lasted over an hour and a half. During that time Myers covered virtually every facet of Kicker’s 2020 product lineup for car audio, powersports, motorcycles and marine audio. Very informative graphics enhanced each subject covered during the presentation.

The new Kicker Auto-Tuning Key SMART Amplifiers were covered in detail.

Mark Baker, Celsus UK Director, joined the webinar from the company’s office in Poole Dorest UK. During the webinar Baker snapped and sent images to the 12volt News. “Mike, Josh and I are the only ones in the office for the webinar. As a company we are social distancing like many companies around the world due to COVID-19. We had a program in place to inform dealers about the webinar and many were set to logon for the ZOOM call.”

“Go Overboard” with Kicker Marine Audio.

After the session Baker added “ John Myers did a great job of covering Kicker’s 2020 product lineup. Kicker is very proactive and helps us reach out to our customers in these strange times. These online trainings will help our customers understand the benefits of Kicker products and they get the best from them. Embracing these virtual training sessions is a way forward and we hope to do more.”

Mark Baker, Celsus UK Director, pictured in his office during the Kicker Training ZOOM call.
An over the shoulder look as Josh Baker watches the Kicker Training.

Glasgow added “We have been very busy during this COVID-19 timeframe and are working to provide as much Kicker training as we can. John Myers, Aaron Malin and Carlos Jimenez are really putting in the hours. We had training presentations for South Africa 2 weeks ago. And with the training on May 6th we finished the 4 marine webinars for Spain.”

Kicker has completed 4 training sessions in Spanish, with Carlos Jimenez,  for Marine Distributor SportNav in Barcelona Spain.
Those who attended the Kicker Training ZOOM Webinars received a very nice thank you email from the Kicker Tech Force.

Chet Weddle, Director of International Sales Stillwater Designs-Kicker, participated in the all encompassing Zoom Celsus UK presentation.

Visit kicker.com for more.