Exotics on Broadway 2024 Rolled On Saturday August 17th

SEASIDE, CA (08.21.24) – Exotics on Broadway was born as a unique event to focus entirely on the super, hyper and exotic car phenomenon. The 2024 event rolled on Saturday, August 17 down the main drag in Seaside, CA. 12volt retailer KarTunes Auto Stereo and Alarm is a fixture in the community and literally had a front row seat to all the days action.

The Exotics on Broadway rolled down the streets of Seaside CA.

Tim and Karen Haines own the business and welcomed this great event once again. Seaside CA is a community of just over 30,000 people and the event drew an estimated crowd of 43,000 during its five hour run. KarTunes is a long time Alpine retailer and Pete Bobsin was on the site with his Tesla to showcase the latest Alpine specific Tesla products in a demo set up right behind the KarTunes store.

Members of the Exotics on Broadway event pictured outside of the KarTunes store.
Attendees as far as the eye could see gathered to check out the many exotics at the event.

“We had a very huge turnout again this year for Exotics on Broadway. Tim and Karen had a space set up for us to once again provide in-vehicle experiences for attendees to check out the latest Alpine specific Tesla products. The Alpine audio upgrade system in my Tesla provided a very significant improvement in audio accuracy and overall dynamic range. People who took a seat definitely had wide eyes and smiles on their faces. In all we engaged with over 60 people, with 40 actually taking a seat for the demos” Bobsin stated.

Pete Bobsin had his Tesla set up to do in-vehicle demos.

Continuing Bobsin commented “Customer feedback was great. A number of Tesla and other vehicles owners engaged with talks with Tim and Karen to schedule an installation time”

Tim Haines related “There certainly are a significant number of people that own Teslas in the market and many of them don’t know the benefits of the Alpine audio upgrades until they actually take a seat in the vehicle. We definitely created that Alpine experience for many who took a seat during the Exotics on Broadway event. We look forward to closing a number of Tesla sales.”

Visit alpine-usa.com and kartunes.com for more.

Super input and images from Pete Bobsin, Western Alpine Specialist.

The IASCA Worldwide 2024 Surf City Soundoff Packed The Massive Chinook Winds Casino Grounds

LINCOLN DITY, OR (08.20.24) – IASCA Worldwide Inc. once again hosted a Triple Point World Record Event, the Surf City Soundoff, at the Chinook Winds Casino in Lincoln City OR. The Chinook Winds Casino has teamed with IASCA for a number of years to create the largest car audio event in the Northwest and one of the largest car audio events in the country.

“This year’s event had a huge crowd on the grounds of the Chinook Winds Casino grounds. The weather did not cooperate fully as there was rain in and out the first part of the event. Afternoon Sunday clearing took place and the the lanes were full as awards were presented. The weather did not dampen any energy from enthusiasts on site” Travis Chin, IASCA Worldwide President related.

The huge Chinook Winds Casino grounds were packed.

Images posted from the Chinook Winds Casino grounds showed competitors vehicles and tents across the huge venue.

Rob Sutton, Crossover Marketing Group Principal, traveled from Battle Ground WA to Lincoln Park OR to checkout the latest happening on the SoundOff circuit. “There was definitely a lot of excitement and sound in the air. I was happy to see a team from KICKER on site to get a feel for what’s happening on the SoundOff circuit. I didn’t see any other direct 12volt vendor or rep firm staffs on site. Members of the 12volt industry community are certainly connected to SoundOff enthusiasts in a major way!”

(L to R) KICKER’s Jeremy Brown, John Myers and Aaron Suratt are pictured with Rob Sutton- Crossover Marketing connecting with the Livin’Loud enthusiast.
Competitors going for another world record

Gately Audio, based in Sacramento CA, had a major presence on site with a group of tents and demo cars. Their business is primarily consumer direct on line. Staff members were traveling the 600 miles back to HQ and not available by press time.

Through the course of the years together, the Chinook Winds Casino and IASCA Worldwide have donated to great causes. More than $30,000 has been donated to Angels Anonymous through entry fees, raffle tickets and t-shirt sales.

The Gately Audio set up sheltered under the tents during the rain.
Some of the more than $10,000 in prizes donated for the charity auction.

“I’d really like to thank all of our sponsors. Every year they step up and make the show that much better” Chin continued.“I have been involved with the Surf City Soundoff and Chinook Winds Casino for over a decade and I always look forward to being part of the show. This year was one of the biggest events yet and it has a great reputation as one of the ‘go to’ IASCA events of the year. See you in 2025.”

For more information on IASCA Worldwide, visit iasca.com or contact President Travis Chin at travis@iasca.com.

For more information on the Surf City Soundoff and Chinook Winds Casino, visit https://www.chinookwindscasino.com/entertainment/events/surf-city-soundoff/.

Maxxsonics Welcomes New National Sales Manager to Drive Market Expansion

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.19.24) – Maxxsonics, a leader in innovative audio solutions
for mobile, powersports, and marine applications, is thrilled to announce the appointment
of Eddie Ramirez as the new National Sales Manager. Ramirez will oversee and drive
the company’s growth strategies, spearheading initiatives to expand market reach,
advance our sales representative program, and enhance customer engagement across
these key segments.

Eddie Ramirez

Eddie Ramirez joins Maxxsonics with an impressive background in sales and market
development within the automotive and audio industries. With over 28 years of experience,
he has a proven track record of achieving significant sales growth and building strong
relationships with key stakeholders. Ramirez’s expertise in sales management, market
identification, quantification, analysis, and capture align perfectly with Maxxsonics’ vision
to deliver exceptional audio products to a diverse customer base.

In his new role, Ramirez will be responsible for driving sales strategies and expanding
distribution channels for Maxxsonics. He will also play a crucial role in enhancing the
company’s brand presence and ensuring that customers receive unparalleled support and
service.

“We are extremely delighted to welcome Eddie Ramirez to our team,” said Alden
Stiefel, Maxxsonics’ CEO. “Having had the pleasure of working with Eddie for quite some
time now, we are confident that his extensive experience and dynamic approach will
significantly impact our sales efforts and help us achieve our growth objectives. His
appointment is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional value and
innovation to our customers.”

On joining the Maxxsonics team, Eddie Ramirez, said the following, “I am thrilled to
officially join the Maxxsonics team as the new National Sales Manager. Having had the
privilege of working closely with Maxxsonics as a representative and distributor, I’ve seen
firsthand the dedication, passion, and expertise that everyone here brings to the table.
Maxxsonics is more than just a company; it’s a group of true enthusiasts who live and
breathe the audio industry. I’m looking forward to working alongside such a talented
team and our partners to drive growth and continue delivering the exceptional audio
solutions that Maxxsonics is known for.”

Visit maxxsonics.com for more.

Cal Custom Audio Wins The PowerBass Prize On The 12volt Spin-To-Win 284

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (08.17.24) The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 6.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 284th time on Friday morning August 16th. The Wheel landed on the PowerBass space and the Cal Custom Audio slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in Tracy CA to let them know the news that the PowerBass prize will be headed their way. Paul, the owner, is on vacation. They said he will be back next week and they will certainly tell him the exciting news about the PowerBass Prize.

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, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, THINKWARE, Race Sport Lighting, EBS Audio, King Boxes and Massive Audio. 12volt News $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the 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, 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, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA,  Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA,  Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting  Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD,  Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY,  Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA, Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA and Joe’s Cycle Therapy in Somerset MA.

Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 285 on Friday, August 23rd.

Tint World Named on Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies

BOCA RATON, FL (08.16.24) – Inc. revealed today that Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, ranks No. 4,776 on the 2024 Inc. 5000, its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment — its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, Patagonia, and many other household-name brands gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for the ninth year as one of the most successful brands in our industry,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our ongoing growth is a result of the passion and dedication shown by the corporate Tint World team as well as each of our franchisees. We’ve invested strategically in time-tested franchise systems and processes that help Tint World franchisees reach their goals, and we’re ready to take it to the next level in the coming year.”

The Inc. 5000 class of 2024 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year’s top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate is 1,637 percent. In all, this year’s Inc. 5000 companies have added 874,458 jobs to the economy over the past three years.

For complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, location, and other criteria, go to www.inc.com/inc5000. All 5000 companies are featured on Inc.com starting Tuesday, August 13, and the top 500 appear in the new issue of Inc. magazine, available on newsstands beginning Tuesday, August 20.

“One of the greatest joys of my job is going through the Inc. 5000 list,” says Mike Hofman, who recently joined Inc. as editor-in-chief. “To see all of the intriguing and surprising ways that companies are transforming sectors, from health care and AI to apparel and pet food, is fascinating for me as a journalist and storyteller. Congratulations to this year’s honorees, as well, for growing their businesses fast despite the economic disruption we all faced over the past three years, from supply chain woes to inflation to changes in the workforce.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Custom Audio Concepts Revved It Up With A 3-Day Harley Stereo Sale

LIMA, OH (08.15.24) – The Custom Audio Concepts 3-Day Harley Stereo Sale took place Thursday through Saturday, August 8th thru 10th. The company’s store is located at a very busy intersection in Lima OH. A row of 8 tents was positioned outside along with numerous tables stacked high with specials under tents for customers to check out. Two 20’ tall Memphis Audio air dancer were waving on each end on the line of tents greeted bikers who rolled in for the event.

The weather was terrific as bikes rolled into the event.

Mark Wallace, Custom Audio Concepts GM, who orchestrated the event offered, “We had a super strong event. We killed it! Over the course of the event we had over 250 bikes on the large parking area. When others around may be slowing down we are moving forward. I have been in this industry for 26 years and seeing an event busy, busy… and making the register ring with strong sales, is the way it is supposed to be.”

Owner Nate Gast (L)  and GM Mark Wallace shown with one of the four special displays that were made for the event.
This custom designed display was made so attendees could listen to the rear speakers as seated on a bike listening to the system on the front display.

Continuing, Wallace added “We had a special offer for bikers who rode in for the event. We offered a $20 Gift Certificate along with the offer of an image of the biker on his hog. We prepared a custom company backdrop. When bikers pulled their ride in front we snapped an image for the biker to show their friends. We snapped dozens and dozens of bikers in front of our custom backdrop. We may have done in 3 days what some stores may do in two or three weeks.”

A biker pictured in front of the custom display.
The team pictured in front of the custom display. Standing Nate Gast is on the far right and Mark Wallace is in the center.

“What Mark Wallace and his team are doing in the small market of Lima is astounding. It is, to me, the number one story in our Ohio Valley territory. He partners with Memphis Audio and Hertz and has definitely outkicked his coverage area. Rusty North and I were onsite. Owner Nate Gast and Mark definitely think outside the box” Ed Dalesandro, End Result, related.

So many hot bikes were at the event.
So many hot bikes were at the event.

Brands on site with tents included Memphis Audio, Hertz Audio and Soundstream. Cicada, Euphoria and Rockford Fosgate were showcased. Jay Tingley from Online Marketing was in the house with Soundstream. Ed Dalesandro and Rusty North with End Result supported their brands Memphis Audio and Hertz.

“There were 7 store staff members working the event. We promoted the event on Facebook and Instagram with targeted ads” Wallace concluded.

Custom Audio Concepts is owned by Nate Gast and sells home and car audio plus associated automotive aftermarket products.

Visit customaudioohio.com or @conceptscustomaudio on social media for more.

The Car Audio Depot Takes The In-Store Experience To The Next Level Inside and Outside

MODESTO, CA (08.14.24) – The Car Audio Depot is a family owned business located in the heart of Modesto CA. For 26 years the Randy Leibenson family and the 10 Member team have served the community and surrounding area with top level mobile electronics products and knowledge along with the best customer service. Jorge Deras is the store manager.

In this digital driven cyber world it is more important than ever to drive store traffic into brick and mortar retail stores. The Car Audio Depot takes the in-store experience from the outside to the inside as they connect with consumers. From the street the store stands out beginning with a large monitor mounted under the eaves on the corner of the building. A large painted company logo is also presented on the outside of the building.

The Car Audio Depot branding stands out brightly under the sunny Modesto sky.

“On the large outside monitor we spotlight brands like ARC Audio along with store events such as Black Friday sales and car shows. As a company all team members contribute our everyday activities to drive sales and in-vehicle enjoyment for our
customers,” Liebenson stated.

Sparkling floors lead customers into the center of the 4000 sq ft showroom.
These two images show the wide selection of products plus the detailing of branding inset into the showroom floor.

The entrance to the store is very well identified in the parking lot marked with convenient parking lines. All of the above guides consumers into the best part of The Car Audio Depot….the amazing showroom. Very well positioned displays showcase the wide selection of mobile electronics products, marine audio, OEM integration, lighting, security and accessories. A large installation area provides ample room for all vehicles and the company’s strong marine category.

Check out the selection of images below from around The Car Audio Depot. Many say an image is worth 1000 words.

Completed customer project vehicles are showcase outside and in multi-panel social media posts interior upgrades are also spotlighted for social media followers to experience.
The marine category is strong at The Car Audio Depot and multi-panel social media post are made spotlighting the marine category projects also.

All 12volt retailers have digital options to create a network of social media followers to drive store traffic for the in-store experience. Proactive 12volt retailers utilize those digital social media platforms which turns into profitable business. The Car Audio Depot definitely utilizes these digital marketing tools with regularity to showcase new product and company activities.

A large 12volt Central Studios HATS Off to The Car Audio Depot as they work to drive in-store traffic and sales.

Visit caraudiodepot.com for more.

Pioneer and Specialty Marketing Hosted 3-City Training Series

MECHANICSVILLE, VA (08.12.84) – In April this year, Mechanicsville VA based Specialty Marketing, announced the expansion of the company’s distribution territory for Pioneer Electronics to drive business across the Eastern US territories.

Pioneer training sessions were recently conducted in Flushing NY, Jersey City NJ and Paramus NY. Jeffrey Shultz, Pioneer Eastern Regional, conducted the training sessions along Specialty Marketing’s Larry Appelblatt who set the training schedule in place with dealers in the area.

Jeffrey Shultz (L) and Larry Appelblatt are shown at the Flushing NY training session with product winners on the right.

The Tuesday night, August 6th, training in Flushing got the 3-City training swing started. “We had a good turnout of about 25 people on a rainy night at the Good Fortune restaurant. Jeffrey and I felt people were very engaged with what we were talking about. We also had Metra contributing to the turning, but due to the storms in Florida Rick Vanway was not able to make it and had to cancel. We went over the new Pioneer head units and the very next day orders began to be placed” Appleblatt commented..

The second training stop was at the Hibachi Grill in Jersey City. Attendees connected with the latest from Pioneer and enjoyed a great buffet.

The second stop on the 3-City training tour was on Wednesday night, August 7th in Jersey City at the Hibachi Grill. “It was another great Pioneer and Metra training. Great food plus a well received training by Jeffrey and myself. We again went over the new Piner head units, which were a big hit. The Specialty specials for the attendees went over very well” Appelblatt related.

The final stop on the training tour at the Hampton Inn in Paramus was attended by 25 and Larry Appelblatt and Jeffrey Shultz were flanked by prize winners at the end of the event.

The 3-City tour wrapped Thursday night, August 8th, at the Hampton Inn in Paramus. 25 attendees were in the house who learned about the two new Pioneer headunits plus Metra kits. “It was a fun night with friends and dealers. Chicken cutlets, ham and cheese hero sandwiches, along with beverages, were served. Like all the stops lucky dealers also took home prizes” Appelblatt concluded.

The lead panel on the screen at the training sessions spotlighted legendary Pioneer trainer Harry Kroll.

“During the 3 training sessions nearly 100 Pioneer dealer staff members attended and engaged to learn about the latest in Pioneer’s lineup. Dealers connected with Larry and placed a significant number of orders following the trainings. The Pioneer partnership with Specialty Marketing is going very well” Shultz stated.

Harry Kroll, longtime Pioneer trainer, was recognized with a graphic on the opening panel of the training presentation.

Visit usa.pioneer and specialtymarketing.com.

Joe’s Cycle Therapy Wins A JBL Prize On The 12volt Spin-To-Win 283

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (08.010.24) The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 6.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 283rd time on Friday morning August 9th. The Wheel landed on the AlloyGator space and the Joe’s Cycle Therapy slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in Somerset MA to let them know the news that the AlloyGator prize will be headed their way. Joe Alves answered on his cell phone as he is on vacation and traveiling to New Orleans. He was excited to hear the news and will look forward to receiving the AlloyGator prize when he returns from fun on Bourbon Street.

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, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, THINKWARE, Race Sport Lighting, EBS Audio, AlloyGator, King Boxes and Massive Audio. 12volt News $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the 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, 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, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA,  Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA,  Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting  Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD,  Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY,  Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA and Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA..

Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 284 on Friday, August 16th.

Alpine OPTIM8 Wins iF DESIGN AWARD 2024!

AUBURN HILLS, MI (08.09.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. is winner of this year’s iF DESIGN AWARD, the world-renowned design prize. The winning product, the Alpine OPTIM8™ 8-Channel Sound Processor and Amplifier with Automatic Sound Tuning, won in the discipline design, in the product category. Each year, the world’s oldest independent design organization, Hannover-based iF International Forum Design GmbH, organizes the iF DESIGN AWARD.

“Alpine is honored to receive the 2024 iF DESIGN AWARD for a product that is truly the first of its kind in our industry,” said Gregg Thomas Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “We set out to simplify the complex process of sound system tuning using proprietary technology that brings the tuning time down to a mere five minutes.”

OPTIM8™ won over the 132-member jury, made up of independent experts from all over the world, with its automatic sound system tuning capabilities. The competition was intense: almost 11,000 entries were submitted from 72 countries in hopes of receiving the seal of quality.

This is the second time Alpine has received an iF DESIGN AWARD.

More information about OPTIM8™ can be found in the “Winners & iF Ranking” section on ifdesign.com.