IASCA Competition Delivers Standout Success at AXPONA Car Audio Showcase

Chicago, IL — April 15, 2026 — The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) proudly announces the resounding success of its competition held during the Car Audio Showcase at AXPONA. Over the course of three exciting days, attendees experienced immersive in-car demonstrations that highlighted the very best in mobile audio innovation, craftsmanship, and sound quality.

Sign for the AXPONA Car Audio Showcase Invitational, announcing winners will be revealed on April 12 at 10:30 AM, with an invitation to experience sound quality demos.

The showcase brought together top competitors and industry-leading manufacturers, creating a dynamic environment for both enthusiasts and newcomers to experience high-performance car audio firsthand. Participating manufacturer booths included HKI, MSC, Morel, Mobile Systems, SUONO, Armageddon Audio, and Add Powr, each contributing to the vibrant and engaging atmosphere of the event.

An indoor event featuring various cars, with attendees interacting around a black vehicle and a white vehicle visible in the background. A tent labeled 'Ground Zero' is set up on the left side of the image.

A highlight of the competition was the Best of Show award, which was earned by Miguel Rio for his exceptional Tesla build. His vehicle impressed judges and attendees alike with its outstanding sound quality, technical execution, and overall presentation.

Indoor car show displaying various vehicles with attendees viewing the cars.

The Best Demo Award, sponsored by MSC, was awarded to Elista Georgieva for her Mazda CX30. Her demonstration stood out for its clarity, musicality, and ability to captivate listeners during the in-car experience.

A car exhibition featuring a white luxury car and a black Mazda SUV, with attendees browsing displays and engaging with vendors in an indoor venue.

IASCA extends its sincere appreciation to the generous prize sponsors who helped make the competition possible: Genesis Audio, Florida Sound Quality, Ground Zero, Dewalt, Arc Audio, Italia Hifi, Bee Busy Audio, Kicker, Prodigy, USAcoustics, Zapco, and MSC.

A display table with various audio equipment and products, including speakers and amplifiers, with a backdrop featuring the logo for IASCA Worldwide.

“The level of talent and innovation on display this year was truly exceptional,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA. “The energy from both competitors and attendees made this one of the most memorable showcases to date.”

Three men standing beside a sign that reads 'Car Audio Showcase Invitational' at an event, promoting sound quality demonstrations.

Looking ahead, IASCA is excited to announce that AXPONA 2027 will host the IASCA 2026 Sound Quality Championship, further solidifying the event as a premier destination for elite car audio competition.

Close-up of a sleek, illuminated panel with engraved text and a metallic component, against a dark background.

For more information about IASCA events and future competitions, please visit iasca.com.

Now Available: Pioneer SPHERA, the World’s First Aftermarket Spatial Audio In-Dash Receiver to Feature Dolby Atmos Playback in Apple CarPlay®

LOS ANGELES – (April 14, 2026) – Following its debut at CES 2026, Pioneer, a global leader of in-vehicle sound and aftermarket car electronics, announces the retail availability of SPHERA, the world’s first aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver to feature Dolby Atmos® playback in Apple CarPlay. The receiver expands access to immersive in-vehicle audio through an aftermarket solution that can be installed in millions of existing vehicles, delivering a Dolby Atmos listening experience using speakers already in the vehicle.

With SPHERA, drivers can stream their favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from many popular streaming services for a richer in-car entertainment experience with added depth, clarity, and detail. Designed as a practical upgrade for vehicles already on the road, SPHERA combines Dolby Atmos playback capability with Pioneer processing to create an immersive listening experience using existing front and rear speaker locations.

Designed as an upgrade for vehicles already on the road, SPHERA delivers an immersive, multidimensional in-car listening experience featuring Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos®

SPHERA marks a significant milestone in our mission to ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul‘ by making immersive spatial audio in the car more accessible,” said Larry Rougas, Revenue & Growth Officer and Executive Vice President at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “By integrating Dolby Atmos into a platform that supports the way people drive today via Apple CarPlay and using our exclusive Autotuning technology to calibrate the system to any vehicle interior, we are effectively setting a new benchmark for what is possible in aftermarket vehicle entertainment.”

SPHERA pairs its immersive audio technology with a modern in-dash platform designed for everyday driving. The receiver features a 10.1-inch HD capacitive display with Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface for fast, intuitive control, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® connectivity. Pioneer’s exclusive Autotuning technology automatically calibrates the system to the vehicle interior, adjusting time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to optimize the listening experience.

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

Pioneer SPHERA will be available beginning April 14, 2026, for $1,300 through Pioneer’s website and a network of authorized retailers, including Best Buy, Crutchfield, CarToys, and other authorized dealers.

For more information about Pioneer SPHERA, visit usa.pioneer.com .

Genevo America Enters U.S. Market to Challenge Radar Detector Status Quo with European Precision Engineering

Genevo America Enters U.S. Market to Challenge Radar Detector Status Quo with European Precision Engineering

New premium lineup targets performance-driven drivers and specialty retailers with next-generation detection technology

North Fort Myers, FL — April 14, 2026 — Genevo America, the North American division of Genevo s.r.o., today announced its official launch in the United States, introducing a new benchmark in precision-engineered radar detection and laser protection systems. Built on a foundation of European innovation and engineering excellence, Genevo products are designed to deliver exceptional detection performance, advanced threat filtering, and seamless integration across both portable and custom-installed platforms.

Ray Woolf, CEO of Genevo America

“Genevo America represents a new era in driver awareness technology,” said Ray Woolf, CEO of Genevo America. “We’re not here to follow the market — we’re here to redefine it. Our focus is on delivering the most advanced, reliable, and intelligently engineered radar and laser defense systems available, while building a dealer network that creates long-term value for our partners.”

Genevo America enters the U.S. market with a focused suite of high-performance solutions, including the Genevo MAX portable radar detector, the Genevo PRO II and PRO II DUO custom-installed systems, and the Genevo LP3 laser protection system. Each product is engineered to detect and respond to modern enforcement technologies, including low-powered radar, photo radar systems, and advanced laser threats.

Ray Woolf, CEO of Genevo, with the PRO II and PRO II DUO models.

Rather than pursuing a mass-market approach, Genevo America is executing a dealer-first strategy, prioritizing partnerships with specialty 12V retailers, performance shops, and premium automotive integrators. This strategy is designed to maintain pricing integrity through disciplined MAP enforcement, ensure consistent product availability, and create strong margins for partners aligned with the brand’s long-term growth.

Genevo systems are specifically engineered for the evolving U.S. driving environment, addressing advanced Ka-band radar threats, MRCD/MRCT and photo radar systems, and laser-based enforcement technologies. With continuous firmware updates and region-specific optimization, Genevo ensures drivers are prepared for both current and emerging threats.

Genevo s.r.o. leadership emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion, noting that the launch of Genevo America represents a major step in the company’s global growth. The move brings Genevo’s proven European technology into one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets, supported by a dedicated U.S. team focused on execution, technical expertise, and long-term partner success.

For more information visit https://www.genevo.com/us/

The Super Cat West Fest 2026 Was Livin’Loud With KICKER

LAKE HAVASU, AZ (04.13.26) – The Super Cat West Fest 2026, with sponsor KICKER, returned to the Havasu Riviera Marina April 9th thru April 11th. 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 XRV and side-by-sides set up for the event to begin.

Lorin Morrell, MaddDog Media, orchestrates many KICKER consumer events was one site and stated “The first 3 years were great and this year was even better…way better. The KICKER space was 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 and enthusiasts were lined up to check out displays inside and listen to the music.”

Continuing “ KICKER’s Western Regional Tracy Focht was on site. Focht worked with area rep Riley from 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. Helicopters were flying overhead to highlight the action through the days. Jeremy Wynn and Steven Bambrough rolled the XRV from KICKER HQ in Stillwater OK…1100 miles.”

“Local retailer Elite Audio spotlighted their KICKER equipped Tri-Toon with SOLO X subs along with their deck boat. 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. There was so much action at the dock there was crowd control on site.” Morrell concluded.

KICKER will remain in the area for the Anderson Powersports Desert Storm running April 22-25. The premier boating event will feature a street party, parade of power and a poker run showcasing high performance boats.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Mike Beyersdoerfer Connected For 56 Years

SHREVEPORT LA (04.12.26) Mike Beyersdoerfer retired on March 31, 2026, capping a 56 year career that included time spent in 4 industries… Consumer Electronics, Motorcycle, Automotive Aftermarket and RV. The 56 years included time beginning on the retail sales floor, retail manager, territory manager for Pioneer Electronics in the Ohio Valley, VP of Rex TV retail chain, field manager for Phillips consumer electronics in the Ohio Valley plus National Sales manager for TEAC America before his company BEI.

As President and Founder of BEI and Just In Time distributing Mike transitioned to marketing across the four industries. BEI served as a consultant, sales representative and brand manager during that time. BEI also participated in the launch of new companies like TOM TOM, CRUX Interfacing and directed companies into automotive channels of distribution.

Forefront in time spent during that 56 years was the personal connection that Mike established with people across those four industries.

12volt Central Studios staff members contacted a group of people that worked with Mike through those years and this article continues with some images and comments from those people and companies.

Each of the above companies thanked Mike for his ongoing support to provide information for the brands he represented and
trends across the 12volt industry.

Amp’d Up in the Ozarks Wraps Up it’s Third Annual Event

Springfield, MO., April 11, 2026– The third annual Amp’d Up in the Ozarks Car Show, had a wonderful turnout this year for 2026, reinforcing its position as one of the premier automotive audio and lifestyle events in the Midwest. Held at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, the event brought together enthusiasts, industry leaders, and families for a full day of high energy demonstrations, cutting-edge technology, and community engagement.


The event’s continued success reflects the strength and passion of the car audio community throughout the region. Attendees traveled from across the Midwest to experience live demonstrations and explore custom builds. The atmosphere throughout the day was marked by high energy, strong engagement, and a shared enthusiasm for performance audio and automotive customization.

As the third year concludes, we are already looking ahead with optimism and ambition. The continued growth in attendance, vendor participation, and overall engagement signals a bright future for Amp’d Up, with plans to expand the show even further.


With a solid foundation now in place, plans are already underway to make next year’s event even bigger and better. Attendees can expect an even more immersive experience as Amp’d Up in the Ozarks continues to push the boundaries of what a modern car show can be.

Modus Announces Select New Amplifiers and Source Unit Now Shipping

Additional Units Scheduled to Ship Q2 and Q3 2026

Oxnard, Calif., April 10, 2026 – Modus is proud to announce that select new amplifiers (PTA-1.1000; PTA-4.600) and source unit (AIM-10) are now shipping to authorized dealers.

The AIM-10 automotive 10.1-inch receiver (MSRP: $1,499) features a modular chassis design with an optional detachable button cluster, giving installers more flexibility when working with a variety of dash configurations.

“The AIM-10 solves a real problem that installers deal with every day: how to fit a large-format display in vehicles with tricky dash layouts,” said Matthew Delgado, Director of Sales. “Its display can be installed with or without the optional button cluster. Want physical controls? Attach them. Prefer a clean, touch-only look? Leave them off. The height-adjustable, rotatable, and pivoting screen mount gives you even more positioning options depending on the vehicle.”

Additional AIM-10 features include:

  • Single Din Chassis
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay
  • Wireless Android Auto
  • SXM Ready
  • iData Link Maestro Compatible
  • 8 RCA Pre-amp Outputs
  • TOSLINK Optical Output
  • 25W RMS x 4 Power Output
  • 8 Channel 5V RCA Pre-Amp Output
  • TOSLINK Digital Optical Output
  • Built-In DSP with 15-Band EQ, 8-CH Crossover Settings and Time Alignment
  • 2x USB-C 1xUSB-A
  • Four Camera Inputs

“The monoblock PTA-1.1000 (MSRP: $649.99) and 4-channel PTA-4.600 (MSRP: $549.99) Class D amplifiers are workhorses in a compact chassis design,” Delgado continued. “Highly efficient, plus they use Modus’ exclusive ACTEQ™ Audio Clipping & Thermal Equalization technology which continuously monitors and adjusts power delivery based on real-world conditions, making them the ideal, reliable amps for any installation.”

PTA-1.1000 and PTA-4.600 include an extruded aluminum heat sink, variable 24dB low pass filter, variable 12dB infrasonic filter, low level RCA and high level input 350 mV-32V, low level input 350mV – 5V, and high level input 5V – 32V.

Additional PTA-1.1000 features include:

  • 350W x 1 RMS @ 4Ω
  • 600W x 1 RMS @ 2Ω
  • 1000W x 1 RMS @ 1Ω

Additional PTA-4.600 features include:

  • 100W x 4 RMS @ 4Ω
  • 150W x 4 RMS @ 2Ω
  • 300W x 2 RMS @ 4Ω Bridged

Modus ACTEQ™ features also include:

  • Ultra-Precise Gain Control: Makes virtually inaudible 0.8dB per step gain adjustments through an intelligent feedback loop.
  • Zero Audio Compromise: Unlike traditional limiters, prevents clipping without compressing music or distorting waveforms
  • Active Investment Protection: Proactive clipping prevention protects speakers and amplifiers from damage before it occurs
  • Seamless Performance: Smooth transitions between vintage recordings and modern tracks without performance inconsistencies

Additional Modus marine models are also shipping now, with additional automotive and marine units scheduled to roll out throughout Q2 and Q3 2026.

For more information and product-specific features, please visit modusglobal.com or contact your authorized Modus dealer.

Bryan Schmitt to Lead Advanced Fabrication Training and Exhibit at CMA Expo 2026

Master Class: Advanced Enclosure Design Will Bring Mobile Solutions’ Signature Blend of Real-World Fabrication Techniques, System Design Strategy, and Efficiency-Driven Workflows to the CMA Audience

Mesa, Ariz., April 9, 2026 – Mobile Solutions, a global leader in fabrication tools and technical training for the automotive aftermarket, is proud to announce that Bryan Schmitt will be teaching and exhibiting at the upcoming CMA Expo, scheduled April 10-12, 2026 at the Toronto Congress Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada.

At this year’s event, Bryan Schmitt will deliver a high-impact Master Class: Advanced Enclosure Design, bringing Mobile Solutions’ signature blend of real-world fabrication techniques, system design strategy, and efficiency-driven workflows to the CMA audience.

CMA Expo continues to serve as Canada’s premier gathering for mobile electronics professionals, offering hands-on education, product showcases, and networking opportunities for industry leaders and technicians alike.

Elevating Fabrication & System Design

This advanced session is designed to redefine how technicians approach custom installations—particularly in complex areas such as vehicle trunk builds. Attendees will gain practical, repeatable methods that enhance both creativity and profitability, while learning how to execute high-level designs with precision.

The course will focus on:

  • Advanced enclosure design and implementation
  • Structural mounting and serviceability best practices
  • Creating multi-layered trim panels with dynamic visual depth
  • Designing for both performance and aesthetics in tight vehicle environments

Participants will also explore how to move beyond “design-as-you-go” workflows toward intentional, pre-planned execution—resulting in cleaner, more efficient, and more profitable builds.

Exclusive Tools & Workflow Demonstration

A key highlight of this training is a live fabrication demonstration featuring three distinct enclosure designs, each showcasing a streamlined, real-world approach to modern enclosure building.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Implement advanced digital, table saw, and router workflow techniques for faster, more precise builds
  • Break down complex enclosure designs into simple, repeatable workflows
  • Apply OEM-level upholstery techniques, blending materials for a refined, factory-quality finish
  • Align enclosure design with customer goals and system performance for optimal results

This session is all about working smarter, building cleaner, and delivering results that stand out.

As outlined in the official course material, this session delivers “a clear understanding of subwoofer system design, advanced fabrication techniques, and practical insights that can be implemented immediately.”

Mobile Solutions on the Show Floor

In addition to training, Mobile Solutions will showcase its latest innovations, including:

  • Exclusive FABKIT™ Panel Systems
  • Custom router bits and advanced fabrication tooling
  • Essential shop supplies: neodymium magnets, Speed Glue, tapes, mesh, and more

Stop by the booth to experience it all firsthand and connect with the team.

For more information about CMA Expo, visit: https://www.cmaexpo.ca/

For more information about Mobile Solutions, visit: www.mobilesolutions-usa.com

Modus Exhibits and Conducts Training During CMA Expo 2026

OXNARD, CA (4.8.2026) – Modus is proud to announce it will exhibit with new Canadian distribution partner AIT during CMA Expo 2026, held April 10-12, 2026 at the Toronto Congress Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada. Modus will also conduct a training during the fourth annual event.

“Our training features Modus’ patented PREACT™ Current Averaging Technology, a unique approach to managing amplifier current for improved efficiency, consistency, and real-world performance,” said Jason Digos, Modus Senior Product Testing and Validation Manager. “Designed for installers and sales professionals, the class explains how PREACT adapts to varying vehicle electrical conditions, maintains stable output under load, and differs from traditional power management designs. Attendees will gain practical insight into system benefits, application considerations, and how to clearly communicate PREACT’s value to customers.”

During CMA Expo, Modus will work alongside AutoMobility Integrated Technologies (AIT), a new dedicated division recently announced by AutoMobility Distribution Inc. that has been created to support suppliers operating in advanced integration-driven categories.

Training info:
When: April 11; 9:00am
Where: Room “E”

Automobility Distribution Inc. has been Canada’s leading value-added distributor of premium mobile electronics for over 30 years, delivering nationwide sales, logistics, and product development solutions to the automotive aftermarket.

CMA Expo is Canada’s premier mobile electronics event. Mobile electronics retailers from across Canada attend to connect, network and learn about the latest technology, products and skills required to continue to be successful in the industry.

“Understanding the intricacies and complications that may arise with installations of high-end aftermarket audio products in today’s electric vehicles are critical to modern system integration,” Digos added. “Our training is a must for those that want to understand and utilize these technologies that are in both standard and EV mobile audio solutions.”

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

HKI USA Launches DSP Training Focused on Core Tuning Fundamentals

DANIA BEACH, FL (04.07.26) – HKI USA today announced the launch of a new Digital Signal Processing (DSP) training program designed to simplify and strengthen the foundation of audio tuning for mobile electronics professionals.

This hands-on training takes a back-to-basics approach, guiding attendees through the essential building blocks of DSP tuning, including crossovers, level setting, time alignment (delay), notches, and shelving techniques. By focusing on these core elements, participants will learn how to establish a solid base tune—transforming what can often feel like a complex or intimidating process into a structured, repeatable method.

“Like any great recipe, a strong foundation is everything,” said Diogo Iannaccone from HKI USA. “Once the base tune is properly established, equalization becomes a matter of fine-tuning—simply the ‘salt and pepper to taste.’”

The training will be led by industry expert Nick Wingate, alongside special guest Jim Rogers. Together, they will deliver practical, real-world instruction aimed at helping technicians refine their tuning process and elevate it to a repeatable, professional skillset.

Participants can expect an interactive learning environment with step-by-step demonstrations and actionable techniques that can be immediately applied in the field.

This new DSP training underscores HKI USA’s commitment to advancing technical education within the mobile electronics industry by providing accessible, high-impact learning opportunities.

For more information about HKI USA training programs, visit www.hki-usa.com or contact info@hki-usa.com