DANIA BEACH, FL (05.02.25) – HKI USA, the US importer for SounDigital amplifiers, announced East Coast USA Distribution for SounDigital Products in Northern New Jersey.
East Coast USA Distributors, current Distributor for Metro NY, New York and New England for SounDigital Products, expands its Territory into Northern New Jersey. “Albert and his Team at East Coast USA Distributors have been a valued partner” in the Territories appointed since February 2025 said Rep Principal L. Phil Chartier of 12Volt Specialist. “They’ve proven to be a trusted partner, and have done a respectful job of representing, selling and supporting Dealers with the SounDigital Brands in these Markets” said L.Phil Chartier.
“This expansion into Northern Jersey, with East Coast USA Distributors, aligns with our focus, commitment to support Dealers in the Northern New Jersey Territory” said Elias Ventura, Territory Manager for HKI USA. “I am looking forward to working alongside Albert and his East Coast USA Team and with 12Volt Specialist. Supporting Dealers and Providing great service for those interested in SounDigital Products” adds Ventura of HKI USA.
“We’re excited to introduce SounDigital car amplifiers to our lineup at East Coast USA Distributors Inc. Their commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with our mission to provide top-tier products to our customers,” said Albert Zandi, President of East Coast USA Distributors Inc.
This Addition expands East Coast USA Distributors Territory into Northern New Jersey with I-195 and North being the division for North Jersey, from the existing Metro NY, New York and New England Territories.
PITTSBURGH, PA (05.01.25) – On April 15th, 2025, Davis Distribution proudly hosted its very first Davis Expo at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, PA, and it was an incredible day from start to finish! We set out to host the largest industry show this territory has ever seen, and thanks to our incredible partners and attendees, that vision became a reality.
This event was built specifically for professional installers, bringing together some of the biggest names in consumer electronics. Our goal from the beginning was to create an opportunity to connect with vendors, showcase products, and make a lasting impact in the industry we’re proud to be part of.
The big stage at the River Casino was set to get the Davis Distribution Dealer Show rolling.
The Rivers Casino provided the perfect setting to bring this vision to life. With its spacious event center, convenient riverfront location, and welcoming atmosphere, it offered a balance of professionalism and fun. The setting gave vendors and attendees an ideal space to connect, explore, and enjoy everything the day had to offer.
The show kicked off with keynote from Rocky Bleier, Pittsburgh Steelers legend and Vietnam War veteran. His message of perseverance set a powerful tone for the rest of the event and reminded us all what’s possible when passion and resilience meet purpose.
The Davis Team gathered for a photo op.
From there, the show floor came alive. With over 50 booths, installers moved from one hands-on demo to the next, diving into the latest products, chatting with brand reps, and discovering solutions designed to elevate every job. From 12-volt setups to custom home install solutions, there was something for everyone.
As the show wound down, the fun didn’t stop. We wrapped up the day with an after party at the Drum Bar located in the Rivers casino, where our dealers, vendors, and Davis employees came together to celebrate, and unwind. It was the perfect ending to the event.
To everyone who attended, exhibited, or supported this event, thank you. The enthusiasm and community were everything we hoped for and more.
Davis Distribution already looking forward to next year. We can’t wait to take everything we learned, make it even better, and continue bringing more value to our dealers and vendors. We’re excited to turn it into a yearly tradition.
AUSTIN, TX (04.30.25) – The dB Drag Racing Association (dBDRA) is excited to announce a call for new judges to join the exciting world of competitive car audio. With over 25,000 events hosted worldwide since 1998, the dBDRA continues to set the global standard for car stereo competitions—and now, they’re offering car audio enthusiasts the opportunity to get involved. Much like referees in professional sports, dBDRA judges are the heart of the action, ensuring fair competition, event flow, and a professional, high-energy experience for competitors and spectators alike.
“Our judges are more than officials—they’re leaders, organizers, and ambassadors of the sport,” says Wayne Harris, President of the dBDRA. “We’re looking for passionate individuals who want to be part of the organization”
Why Become a dBDRA Judge?
Take the Lead: Judges coordinate and judge events, interact with competitors, and engage audiences with energetic emceeing. Whether it’s running the Term-LAB sound measurement system, inspecting an audio system, or handing out trophies, judges are the driving force behind every successful event.
Gear Up with the Best: All judges are trained to use industry-standard equipment, including laptops, Term-LAB SPL meter, and PA systems. A clean, branded setup—complete with banners, tents, and large video displays—transforms every venue into a professional judging setup.
Represent Like a Pro: From official uniforms to social media conduct, dBDRA judges are the face of the brand. A polished appearance and clean, inclusive commentary keep the energy high and the audience engaged.
Climb the Ranks: The dBDRA offers a clear certification path: 1X Certification – Great for beginners (no formal certification needed). 2X Certification – Requires experience and endorsement. 3X Certification – For regional/national event leadership. 4X Certification – The elite level, officiating at Finals. Each certification level comes with increased responsibility, recognition, and opportunities to shape the future of car audio competition.
How to Get Started
The dBDRA offers a free online training module to introduce potential judges to their role. While it doesn’t cover the technical aspects of the competition, it focuses on the core responsibilities of judging—event coordination, presentation, communication, and professionalism.
MIDDLETOWN, CT (04.29.25) – The curtain has officially closed on Mobile Expo 2025, and we are thrilled to share that this year’s event was nothing short of extraordinary. From the incredible energy of the crowd to the unbeatable deals and dynamic live demonstrations, every element of the expo came together to create a truly memorable experience. We’re grateful to everyone who helped make it one of the most successful and exciting events in our history.
Record-Breaking Turnout and Outstanding Attendance
From the moment the expo doors opened, it was clear that Mobile Expo 2025 was going to set a new benchmark for success. Attendees from across the country—and even from abroad—came together under one roof. Mobile repair professionals, automotive service providers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts filled every corner of the venue with energy and excitement.
The halls buzzed with the sounds of collaboration, innovation, and new opportunities. With record-breaking attendance numbers, this year’s expo firmly established itself as a must-attend event for industry leaders, forward-thinking businesses, and ambitious entrepreneurs.
Incredible Deals on Top Products
One of the biggest draws of Mobile Expo 2025 was the access to the Mobile Expo Outlet Room, exclusive, event-only pricing on the industry’s top products. Attendees stocked up on everything from automotive aftermarket parts and professional detailing products to high-performance lubricants and essential shop supplies—all at prices you won’t find anywhere else.
As an authorized distributor, GoFast provided attendees with the assurance that every product purchased was authentic, high-quality, and backed by full manufacturer support and warranties. Businesses left better equipped than ever to drive their operations forward, thanks to the unbeatable savings and premium brands on offer.
Live Booth Demonstrations and New Revenue Opportunities
Throughout the expo, live booth demos captivated crowds, giving attendees hands-on access to the latest products and technologies. Experts were on hand to answer questions, offer tips, and show firsthand how these innovations can boost efficiency, performance, and customer satisfaction.
Even more exciting, attendees were introduced to brand-new revenue-generating opportunities poised to transform their businesses. Highlights included partnerships with New Pig for industry-leading clean-up and containment solutions, Windshield Skin for cutting-edge windshield protection technology, and K&N for performance air filtration and accessories. These new offerings provide businesses with additional services to offer their customers, unlocking new streams of profitability.
Packed Vendor Training Sessions
Education was another major highlight of Mobile Expo 2025. Vendor training sessions were absolutely packed, as attendees seized the opportunity to learn directly from top brands and experts. Key sessions included:
JVC-Kenwood – Delivering essential insights into the future of mobile electronics and in-vehicle connectivity.
Firstech – Unveiling new advancements in remote start and security systems to help businesses stay ahead of customer demands.
Lucas Lighting – Showcasing the latest in high-performance LED lighting solutions for automotive upgrades.
These sessions provided deep product knowledge, hands-on guidance, and strategic advice to help businesses better serve their customers and expand their offerings.
Empowering Businesses with the Social Media Doctor
One of the most talked-about events of the expo was the Social Media Doctor lecture, which delivered a true masterclass in digital marketing. Attendees walked away with a clear, actionable roadmap for promoting their businesses online, leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google to drive real growth.
Beyond strategy, the Social Media Doctor also introduced attendees to practical tools and resources they can immediately start using—empowering them to build stronger brands, reach more customers, and create measurable success in today’s competitive marketplace.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Mobile Expo 2025 would not have been the incredible success it was without the passion, energy, and support of our amazing community. We want to sincerely thank all the attendees, vendors, partners, and staff who made this event possible.
Each conversation, demo, and new connection built this weekend is a reminder of why we do what we do—and why the future of our industry is so bright.
We’re already hard at work planning Mobile Expo 2026, and we promise it’s going to be even bigger and better. Until then, thank you again for being part of this extraordinary event.
Stay connected, stay innovative, and stay fast with GoFast!
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (04.28.25) – Produced for more than two decades, Jeep Beach is a very well-attended event held each year at the end of April. Jeep Beach is a 10-day, citywide event that draws over 250,000 revelers to Daytona Beach from the entire Eastern Region and beyond, even with some international visitors. Jeep Beach is an event of dynamic proportion, catering to affluent enthusiasts.
The Vendor Show took place on Friday and Saturday, April 25th and 26th and hosted more than 200 vendors on display and packed the infield of the Daytona International Speedway with 110,000+ spectators over the two days. Vendors sold and installed their gear in the NASCAR garages. Several top 12volt brands were on site making impressions to all revelers.
Alpine, Oracle Lighting, Leather Craft, PRV Audio, Orion, MB Quart and DS18 were spotted setup at the Vendor Show by 12volt Central Studios. Booth action is spotlighted below with more to following in coming days.
Jeepers showed their skills on the Speedway infield flying over 20’ ramps and more.
Jeep Beach is a family-friendly event with a plethora of activities that kept attendees busy all day every day of the 10-Day event. All are looking forward to Jeep Beach in 2026.
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (04.25.25) – The Audio One is a very proactive retailer serving the Hampton Roads area for over 40 years with with four stores. The Spring Dust-Off with the Saturday cruise-on was a charity event that raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The event at the Landstown Commons offered rides and sunshine while many cars enthusiasts were on site to show their projects to attendees across the large shopping center parking area.
The Audio One tent set up on vendor row.
The Spring Dust-Off gave the crowd many vehicles to check out.
Bob Mickonis, Regional Manager, related for The Audio One “There was a good crowd enjoying all the vehicles under a sunny sky. We had many people come by our tent to see products we had on display and pick up some of our flyers, along with keychains and other sway items that we handed out. There was a lot of interest in our booth for dash cams. Many of the people were showing their cars wanted to protect their cars as well as being ready to document any accidents on the road.”
Owners of classics also showed their rides to attendees to at the event.
Custom installations were also featured and this one with a space for cleaning products for his ride.
The Audio One has locations in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Newport News with a store within 20 miles from any consumer in the Hampton Roads area.
“At offsite consumer events we connect with consumers and enthusiasts. Today aftermarket automotive upgrades is much broader than just car stereo. At a consumer events we show in-vehicle connectivity, dash cams, remote starters, window tint, vehicle graphics and more. Many consumers are not aware of these products. In addition our staff members get a chance to learn what people may want to add to their rides” Mickonis added.
The barbershop on wheels.
The Audio One completes unique projects customers request. A couple years ago the 12volt Central Studios spotlighted a mobile barber shop. From the August 16th 2021 article Mike Kreiselman, Shop Foreman in the Norfolk location, offered “We did a full mobile shop in a 2008 Ford Econoline Bus.The customer supplied the equipment including the barber chair. The was hesitant at the price but soon realized all the work to get all the power requirements needed so his customers would be happy. He continues to be very happy as he pulls into a parking lot to give his customers the professional hair cut they look forward to.
“Connecting with several hundred enthusiasts at the Spring Dust-Off is already paying dividends,” Mickonis concluded.
TORONTO, ONTARIO (04.24.25) – The 12V Dashboard displayed in the Automobility booth and we loved working with their team! They are professionals and know how to run their part of the show. We see the opportunities with the Canadian dealer base for our product based on the the constant engaged traffic at our booth and trainings. Frank and Ben run an excellent show, and it’s a great event for dealers and their staff to come and participate in. We’ve made many new friends from all over Canada who are now on the platform, including new relationships with Visions and Andre’s multi-store chains.
Members of Andres Car Audio, with 16 locations in Western Canada, gathered around the booth to learn more.
The 12V Dashboard training was very well attended.
Since we released Vehicle Check-in 2.0 and released our enhancements to this product we have had a high success rate as most have opted to take it along side the fit-guide as well as many have been very interested in the new release of our display product release coming soon.
We also have had a significant amount of interest into our E-commerce product adding the fit-guide to websites for dealers and vendors.
Joe Iglesias-Tint World Corporate is flanked by Brian Hampson-R, CEO of 12V Dashboard and Director of Sales Tom Kolar.
The 12V Dashboard team at dinner following a very busy day in the booth. Brian, Lisa and David Hampson are pictured with Tom Kolar-2nd R.
Contact the Dashboard for more information about these products and how to add to your stores tools. The Dashboard team will be attending their next event at Knowledgefest in Atlantic City June 6-8th in booth 901.
MESA, AZ (04.23.25) – We are thrilled to announce that Wayne Harris, a true pioneer and visionary in the 12-volt industry, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s MasterTech Expo!
With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, Wayne Harris has left an indelible mark on the aftermarket auto sound world. As an entrepreneur, engineer, programmer, educator, and tech innovator, Wayne’s contributions have shaped the industry and inspired professionals worldwide.
Wayne’s journey began in college, where his passion for car audio was ignited while competing in Rolling Thunder stereo contests. In 1984, he won the first national car stereo competition at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas, with his show car, “Eruption.” The following year, Wayne introduced the “Terminator,” an iconic car stereo competition vehicle that influenced many in the early days of auto sound. His groundbreaking innovations, including “stiffening capacitors,” bus bars, and the “hair trick,” are still celebrated today.
The car stereo competition days launched Wayne’s professional career in 1985 at Orion Industries and later at Rockford Fosgate, where he served as Director of Research and Development. He played a pivotal role in developing exemplary products like Symmetry, EPX, and EPX2, earning multiple patents, CES Design and Innovation awards, and global acclaim. Wayne also created revolutionary software tools such as Term-PRO, Term-CAD, and TERM-PAK, empowering installers and engineers to design superior sound systems long before construction.
In 2000, Wayne shifted his focus to his own ventures—dB Drag Racing, Term-PRO, and Term-LAB, a sound measurement system that quickly became the industry benchmark for high SPL accuracy. Recognized with a CES Design and Innovation Award, Term-LAB revolutionized competitive sound measurement and continues to lead the way in audio technology innovation today.
Wayne’s influence has been spotlighted in countless publications, including Car Stereo Review and The Wall Street Journal, which dubbed him the “Bill Gates of Car Stereo.” The Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to Wayne Harris’s incredible contributions and tireless pursuit of innovation. We are proud to celebrate his extraordinary career and continued influence.
Congratulations, Wayne, on this well-deserved recognition!
BLOOMINGTON, MN (04.22.25) – The D-Source Distributing Dealer Open House Tuesday, April 15th and Wednesday April 16th, connected with dealers at the company’s HQ. Nearly 2 dozen of the industry’s top brands were in the house to showcase their latest products and connect with dealers from across the territory. Hourly Door Buster Sales, Training sessions both days plus show specials added to the benefits for 12volt retailers that attended the 2025 D-Source Dealer Open House.
“The buzz across the territory leading up to the open house was super. Over 50 dealers attended with many are bringing Team members. We set the show a little different this year so all dealers had to follow the route to see all companies exhibiting. We planned on making this show an order writing show and that was the case. We hired several people for the day to pick orders for dealers to take with them from the show. I was very happy to be on my computer entering orders. Dealer attendance was up this year and we appreciate seeing all at our Open House ” Josh Burris, DNR Sales, related.
The newest Jensen radios were spotlighted with Patrick Virock in the booth.
A variety of beverages was ready for all as they were on the Show floor.
Jeff Causton, D Source Principal, stated “Support from our vendor partners was terrific. We we were set to have a solid selection of products on display with factory staffs onsite, trainings, networking and dinner Tuesday evening. Dealers from across the territory were in the house and all worked out very well.”
A wide selection of JVC products was set up for dealers to check out.
Zac Young, Warehouse Manager pulls one of the SSV Works products out of the warehouse for a dealer to pick up.
Continuing Burris stated “The hourly door busters booth days got attention with the Metra T-Spec amp kit being the hottest. Blake Rice traveled from SSV Works in Utah to spotlight their side-by-side products. He recently joined SSV and is a real enthusiast for outdoors on the trails. He opened the eyes to that category for quite a few of our dealers. Introducing the Rockford Fosgate line for us as a distributor worked out very well. Jensen’s new radios with Patrick Virock in the booth and Jaysam Odeh showing new KING boxes turned out were well. Also Matt Schaub showed so many Metra accessories. Erik Harbour had booth table set with the wide ranges of products including direct fit OEM speakers, mini amps plus Bluetooth portables. The Italian dinner Tuesday night was a super networking setting.”
Jaysam Odeh had the KING Boxes booth set up and Doug Hanson (R) was on site from Echo Sales to help work with dealers.
Armando Parra had the Magnadyne products set up to show dealers.
“It was great seeing Jeff and Josh plus working with their team to showcase our latest products to dealers across the area. During the training I spotlighted features, advantages and the benefits for dealers to let their customers know about our new PBM Mini Series Digital Amplifiers and our hot new PBX PRO6CD compression coaxials and more” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, related. Harbour traveled from the company’s HQ in Ontario CA to attend the event.
The newest PowerBass products, including the PBM mini series digital amplifiers and hot new PBX PRO6CD compression coaxials were on display
At the end of the day dealers relaxed with a catered Italian dinner and refreshments. Industry members networking was also on the menu.
“We look forward to the 2026 D-Source Dealer Open House” Burris concluded.
LAKE HAVASU, AZ (04.21.25) – The Super Cat West Fest 2025, with sponsor KICKER, returned to the Havasu Riviera Marina April 10th thru April 13th. The KICKER XRV was on the ground showcasing KICKER Livin’Loud Audio, Powersports and numerous ski and pontoon boats were on the water in the marina and dockside.
The KICKER RZR was just the beginning of KICKER’s presence at the event.
The Kawasaki Ridge and jet ski, both decked with KICKER, gave enthusiast ideas.
Lorin Morrell, MaddDog Media, orchestrates many KICKER consumer events was one site and stated “The first 2 years were great and this year was even better…way better. The KICKER space was moved up front and traffic was tremendous.. The XRV is an 85’ rolling showroom that was on site, with the amazing 40,000 watt BoomRoom, was definitely Livin’Loud. No doubt the XRV always draws a crowd.”
Powersports vehicles were loaded with KICKER across the venue.
As the sun began to set the area around Lake Havasu began to light up.
Continuing “ KICKER’s Western Regional Tracy Focht was on site. Focht worked with area rep Steve Parsley with Murphco, area dealers and members of the crowd. Products and a decked ski rig were under the XRV awning and had eyeballs all day. The Kawasaki Ridge and Jet Ski gave enthusiasts ideas. Three helicopters were flying overhead to highlight the action through the days.”
A ski rig was spotlighted next to the KICKER XRV.
LED lighting on boats dockside lit up the night.
Tracy Focht offered “The event was in its 3rd year, and all we can say from the Kicker staff, it was by far the best! It has grown leaps and bounds year over year. River Dave Johnson sure knows how to put on an event. And with over $350K raised for local kids charities it brought out the hearts of all of the boating community. The camaraderie among these Super Cat participants is moving! We really enjoyed the event, staff and people! Also we appreciate our loyal dealer Elite Audio in Havasu for their support, as well as Rod and the Gatorwraps crew. We handed out probably 2000 Kicker lanyards plus many glow key chains. See ya next year.”
Fireworks and rockets lit up the sky over Lake Havasu in the evenings.
The KICKER XRV rolled out of the Stillwater OK HQ for the 1100 mile trip west to Lake Havasu and the Super Cat West Fest with Steven and Jeremy aboard.
“Local retailer Elite Audio spotlighted their KICKER equipped Tri-Toon with SOLO X subs along with their deck boat. The two were connected soundwise so Jeff, Shawn and Christine were definitely Livin’Loud in the marina. The lighting on many of the boats in the marina and harbor was out of this world at night time. The fireworks over Lake Havasu during the dock party really lit up the sky” Morrell concluded.
During the auction over $350,000 was raised for local charities.
KICKER will remain in the area for the Desert Storm running April 23-26.
12VoltNews.com 