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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

“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.

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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

“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.

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.

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.

TEMPE, AZ (08.08.24) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce legendary Dave Kindig will take the stage to unveil the secrets behind his 2024 Riddler-winning design “TwelveAir” on March 22 during MasterTech Expo 2025, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. This electrifying session is open to all MTE attendees and exhibitors.

“Get ready for an unforgettable experience at MasterTech Expo 2025 as attendees will witness a master at work as Dave walks you through his creative process, step-by-step,” explained Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “With live cameras capturing every detail and his sketches displayed on overhead screens, you’ll feel like you’re part of the action.”

Dave Kindig is the founder and designer of Kindig-It Design, a custom car fabrication shop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Kindig-It Design reimagines vehicles with full body transformative capability that starts with pencil and paper under Kindig’s hand. The shop is also the subject of the Motortrend TV show Bitchin’ Rides, which chronicles the design, build and delivery of some of the world’s most creative cars and trucks. With Charity Kindig, Shop Foreman Kevin Schiele and a hyper-creative team of automotive professionals, the Kindig-It Design brand enjoys worldwide popularity among automotive enthusiasts.

During MasterTech Expo, Kindig will take the audience through the intricacies of the design elements, providing thought processes, tips, and techniques that are typically valued as a designer’s trade secrets. In addition, Kindig will take the stage on the exhibit floor and talk the audience through a series of live designs, with cameras displaying his work on overhead screens. The session is scheduled separate from class and exhibit times and therefore open to all attendees and exhibitors.

“With MasterTech Expo, we are committed to embracing the entire automotive aftermarket community,” added Schmitt. “Our objective is to bring tremendous value to our attendees with brands, classes, tools and products from every segment of the industry. In talking with Dave, we were thrilled to find that he is aligned with our vision and is excited to join us at MasterTech Expo once again and share his knowledge with other professionals.”

For more information, or to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit www.mastertechexpo.com.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.07.24) – Attendees at the 2024 SEMA Show have the exclusive opportunity to become electric-vehicle (EV) and EV safety certified through the Show’s comprehensive education program focused on professional and business advancement. The 2024 SEMA Show takes place Nov. 5-8 in Las Vegas, Nev.

Presented by SEMA Education and Legacy EV, the “Electric Vehicles 101” and “High-Voltage Safety Certification Training” education sessions will help attendees boost their knowledge and understanding of EV powertrains and safety. Each of the sessions will be limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate, hands-on setting where students will gain the skills needed to excel in the evolving and dynamic EV market.

“What makes these courses unique is the hands-on experience students gain by working with EV equipment and wiring right in the classroom during the SEMA Show,” said Mavrick Knoles, Co-founder and President of Legacy EV. “Participants will not only walk away with valuable experience but can also credit the cost of both of these sessions towards a comprehensive Legacy EV Certified Technician course post-SEMA Show.”

Registration is now open for:

• Electric Vehicles 101, Presented by Legacy EV (Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
  This course is divided into two sessions — “Understanding EV Anatomy and Electrical Theory” and “Applications with EV Specifications, EV Tooling, HV Safety” — and offers a brand-agnostic and hands-on training opportunity for automotive technicians to gain understanding of EV powertrains. During this class, students will work with real EV powertrains and tooling on Legacy EV training benches. Trainees who complete this course will receive an official EV 101 certification from Legacy EV. The cost for this session is $599.
• High Voltage Safety Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV (Thursday, Nov. 7, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.)
  New for 2024, this course is geared towards those who work with or sell high-voltage retail and products; service high-voltage components or vehicles; build, manufacture, or assemble high-voltage components or vehicles; and manage high-voltage vehicle technicians. Guests will learn about “Creating an Electrically Safe Work Condition” and “High-Voltage Batteries and Battery Management Systems.” Trainees who complete this course will receive a Legacy EV Level 1 High-Voltage Safety certification, a Legacy EV Level 2 High-Voltage Safety certification, and a digital badge and physical certificate. Two to four hours of online pre-course work is required before this eight-hour in-person session at the SEMA Show. The cost for this session is $1,399.

In 2023, Richard Forstner, Supervisor of Damage Appraisal at Element Fleet Management, participated in the EV 101 course at the SEMA Show.

“My employer manages every vehicle type, including upfitted trucks, which in some cases have aftermarket EV conversions, so taking this course helped strengthen my career as an EV subject matter expert,” said Forstner. “The instruction by Legacy EV was first-rate, and I liked the structure and pace of the course.” Forstner said the course aided him in problem solving some of the challenges that arise from outside vendors as well as analyzing crash damage.

Monica Baeza, Port Senior Equipment Mechanic at Port of Oakland, also took the EV 101 course, noting that the biggest value of the training was the hands-on component. “It has given me the confidence and knowledge to navigate the transition and management of a growing EV fleet. I am more able to engage in the conversations in a knowledgeable way and add value to work that we are doing.”

The Legacy EV sessions are part of a robust 2024 SEMA Show education program designed to help industry professionals enhance their leadership and business development, gain insight into emerging trends, and discover industry best practices from top experts in the aftermarket field.

The SEMA Show is one of the largest trade shows in the world, powered by a passionate and innovative community. The 2024 Show is receiving more industry support than it has seen in years, with 2,400 exhibitors projected to display their latest products and services to thousands of attendees and media.

“The SEMA Show is a global platform to showcase the latest trends, innovations, and future of the automotive aftermarket. Education is a cornerstone of the Show designed to help our members address their most significant challenges,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “The 2024 program has been created to showcase takeaways and information that attendees can immediately utilize to improve and strengthen their businesses.”

To register for “Electric Vehicle 101, Presented by Legacy EV,” click here.

To register for “High Voltage Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV,” click here.

To learn more about the 2024 SEMA Show and to register, visit www.semashow.com.

WHEELING, WV (08.05.24) – The Steel Valley Regional 2024 filled the WesBanco Arena from July 19th thru the 21st. Once again the event, orchestrated by Larry Chijner, brought the Sound Quality community together from across the U.S. and beyond. The WesBanco Arena floor was filled with nearly 50 of the most amazing, totally decked out customized vehicles that showcased Sound Quality to the MAX.

Larry Chijner literally lived he Steel Valley Regional for the thirteenth time. Therefore there is no one better qualified to deliver the event wrap up than Larry himself. His words are below along with a few SVR XIII images.

SVR Wrap Up.. Its been a coulpe week and I wanted to thank all the competitors that came from California to Florida to Maine to Iowa and everywhere in USA to support SVR XIII! This years show featured Top 40 SQ Showdown with 3000 Dollar Payout to the Top 10 along with Prizes and Trophies and Prizes up to 20th Place. We also had a Tuner Challenge sponsored by ARC AUDIO and the Winners got 1000 Cash Prize along with a Arc Audio PS8 Pro..We also had IASCA 3X, MECA 4X, EMMA 3X and MASQ 3X. Organizations provided trophies and awards.

First and Foremost I must thank Klifton Keplinger for doing the scoring and running the Tune Off along with registration for the event in the SQOLOGY Concept! The music was Provided by myself along with ICA to be Inclusive to include all the Organizations! Also want to thank his assistant Lori Wallace who helped with scoresheets and tabulations. Lori and Mic Wallace who has attended every SVR we have ever had!

Also helping coordinate the show was Keith Turner and Tarsha Turner with IASCA as well as Autosound Showcase. Doing this show takes a group effort and about a years preparation. Top 40 Judges were Bryan Huston, Brian Mitchell, Tim Goudy and Mike Myers. Due to the Computer glitches in the world many judges could not fly to the event so i want to recognize their efforts. Linda Kobayashi, Jeff Smith, Richard Papasin, Scott Welch. We adjusted the judges we had and the show was fantastic!

The following people coordinated the Organizations. IASCA ..Keith Turner and Harry Kimura. EMMA ..Klifton Keplinger and Mic Wallace. MASQ.. Howard Cantor and Joe Davis. MECA..The Ballingers and Tony Pasquale I will leave the Orgs to announce their own Judges. This year I decided to try and Unify by having all the Orgs at the show and they were responsible for their own part at no charge to the Orgs.

This show could not go off without manufacturers support! Here is a list of the SVRXIII Sponsors:
ARC AUDIO-TITLE SPONSOR…Brian Mitchell
ZAPCO/ESB-DIAMOND SPONSOR…Ernie/Chris/George/Enzo
KARMA MOBILE AUDIO-GOLD SPONSOR-Adam
JLAUDIO-GOLD SPONSOR..Manville/Ian at Garmin
AUDIO INTENSITY..GOLD SPONSOR-Scott Welch
ORCA DESIGN-GOLD SPONSOR..Nalaka Adikari/Nick Wingate
CREATIVE PRODUCTS DESIGN-BRONZE SPONSOR. Mike B
ITALIA HI-FI- GOLD SPONSOR…Dan Merritt/Greg Thompson
RESONIX -GOLD SPONSOR…Nick Apicella
STEREO INSTALLS-TROPHY SPONSOR..David Wright/Bryan
MSC AMERICA-GOLD SPONSOR.@Jeff Smith, Larry Penn
DAVIS DISTRIBUTION -GOLD SPONSOR.Chuck/Nate/Kevin
HYBRID AUDIO -SILVER SPONSOR-Klifton Keplinger
LIQUID HI-FI -GOLD SPONSOR…Ronald K Buffington

Overall i think this was the best Steel Valley Regional yet and just want to Thank everyone. If i missed anyone, please forgive me and i will update the post!! As for Next Year, We shall see. More will be revealed at a later date …In the meantime, I’m getting ready for Finals in Birmingham.

The Results are on the corresponding sites as well as the Top 40 SQ Showdown.. The Winner for the Tuner Challenge was Chris Myers and Mike Myers.

“This show could not happen if it wasn’t for the support of the Industry as a whole. !f you see them, Thank them!” -Larry Chijner