STILLWATER, OK (01.30.24) – KICKER returns to the MEA KnowledgeFest at the Paris Hotel and Convention Center, February 2-4. The brand will be unveiling two new training courses from the KICKER Tech Force, along with being headquartered in booth 706, facing the Main Entrance of the show floor.

KICKER premiers a bevy of new products on the show floor, including an expansion of the Pro Class, Marine, Powersports, and 12-volt product lines. including new Dual L7T Truck-Specific Enclosures. A perfect, form-fitting under-seat solution for select versions of the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, and RAM, these truck enclosures house a pair of Solo-Baric L7T thin subwoofers in heavily braced MDF enclosures, delivering up to 1,200 watts RMS. KICKER audiophile-grade KS-Series 3-Way Component Systems also debut as a drop-in solution for select models of GM, Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and more.

Showgoers will preview the powerful new Warhorse™ line of high-power amplifiers and branded accessories. In addition to a new line of power wire and distribution solutions, the WXA3600.1 bass amp and four-channel WXA1000.4 will both be on display at the show. A perfect match to KICKER SoloX subwoofers and Warhorse line, the ST Street-Series of midrange and bullet tweeters will also be on display.

Powersports amplification will also have a strong showing with the PXA-Series line of waterproof amplifiers on display, in addition to the new KPX line of compact amplifiers.

A custom-wrapped GMC Sierra will be in the booth showcasing four 15-inch SoloX subwoofers in a powerful 8,000-watt system. The rear of the truck features a completely independent system, perfect for tailgating. KMA-Series Marine Amplifiers, the KICKER KXMARLC Multi-Zone Controller, KM Tower Systems, and TB-Series Tube Subwoofer Systems make it a party the moment it is parked. In 2024, the truck will tour across the country, attending shows and inspiring KICKER dealers from coast to coast.

Jacob Luckey of the KICKER Tech Force will conduct two training courses during the weekend. Focusing on the ST-Series of high-power midrange and tweeters, Luckey will review the features of the “PA”-style drivers and how to properly power them. The second class will cover marine audio system design and installation best practices.  The first training is on Friday at 3 p.m., and the second is on Saturday at 4:45 p.m. Both classes will be held in Versailles 2.

For more details, attendees can visit www.knowledgefest.org.

GUTHRIE, OK (01.29.24) – The expanded 2024 KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series was Livin’Loud in the huge Lazy E Arena in Guthrie on Friday and Saturday nights January 26th and 27th for Round 7. Round 7 followed a successful Round 6 the previous weekend in Guthie.

The Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is a mere 33 miles from KICKER’s World HQ in Stillwater.

“It was warmer outside for this event and on the track the action was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Since KICKER’s HQ is so close there were dozens of KICKER team members and families in the stands. In addition KICKER dealer Audio Extremist with Neil Boswell from Oklahoma City was in the house along with Rick from the Marketing Pros rep firm” Lorin Morrell, Maddog_Media, related.

Continuing “Like last weekend the doors opened early and we had a tent and display set up adjacent to the track area so virtually everyone who entered the Lazy E Arena had a chance to check out the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see plus the KICKER Kawasaki UTV was close at hand for all to checkout. As attendees entered by the booth we handed out hundreds of KICKER lanyards. As attendees were leaving a good number stopped at the booth with questions.”

In addition to the action on the track an air cannon fired KICKER T-shirts into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions for a chance to win KICKER Headphones.

Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series got off to a strong start this year and this second event in Guthrie marked the half-way point of the 2024 Series. The next event is in Prescott AZ February 2nd and 3rd.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

SHREVEPORT LA (01.27.24))  WTF…Win This Friday.  Beltline Motors won the KICKER prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 256  Friday morning, January 26th.

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 256th time on Friday morning January 26th. The Wheel landed on the KICKER space and the Beltline Motors slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in Decatur AL with the news. Bobby Petruna  answered the phone. He was very happy to hear the news a KICKER prize will be heading his way. Bobby’s company sells a variety of used vehicles and 12volt sales add to the everyday business.  More to come on this 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

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, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Alphasonik, Race Sport Lighting, Maximum Power, AlloyGator, King Boxes and Massive Audio. 12volt News $100. cash awards 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 and Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA.

Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 257 on Friday, February 2nd. 

LONG BEACH, CA (01.26.24) – JVC Mobile Entertainment, manufacturer of class-leading aftermarket car, marine, and motorsports products, is thrilled to announce that Rich McDonald, former Executive Vice President and Chief Product Strategist at Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, will be the keynote speaker at the upcoming JVC KnowledgeFest trainings in Las Vegas, NV.

Rich McDonald’s remarkable journey from an entry-level position to the pinnacle of success at Fender Musical Instruments Corporation makes him a compelling figure in the world of product strategy and retail excellence. With years of music industry expertise and a proven track record, McDonald will share insights into his career trajectory, highlighting key strategies that propelled him to the position of Chief Product Strategist at one of the most iconic names in the music industry.

The keynote speech will focus on successful retail strategies, drawing from McDonald’s wealth of experience in navigating the competitive landscape of the music industry. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into effective product strategies, customer engagement, and creating a roadmap for future success in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

“We are honored to have Rich McDonald as the keynote speaker at our JVC KnowledgeFest trainings. His journey from an entry-level role to a leadership position at Fender is a testament to his strategic acumen and dedication. We believe that the insights he shares will provide attendees with actionable plans to integrate successful retail strategies into their own businesses,” said Ron Trout, JVC’s Director of Sales.

The keynote speech is expected to be a highlight of the KnowledgeFest event, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s foremost experts. McDonald’s address will not only inspire but also provide practical takeaways for businesses looking to enhance their retail strategies.

Attendees will have the chance to engage with Rich McDonald during its Q&A session and at JVC’s booth in the main expo hall, allowing for a more personalized exploration of the challenges and opportunities in the retail landscape. The event aims to foster a collaborative learning environment where participants can gain insights, exchange ideas, and create a roadmap for future success.

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit us.jvc.com/car

For more information on Rich McDonald, visit richmcdonald.com

EAST WENATCHEE, WA (01.25.24) – IASCA Worldwide has confirmed that the 2024 IASCA World Finals main location for both SPL and Sound Quality will once again take place at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center in Birmingham, Alabama, from October 12th and 13th, 2024. IASCA’s west coast satellite location for the 2024 World Finals SPL competition will take place at the Pavilion at the Oregon State Fairgrounds on September 29th, 2024.

Sound Quality competition will take place in the East Hall of the B.J.C.C. along with EMMA USA and MASQ, and SPL competition will take place with ISPLL in the North Hall. Set up October 11th with competition taking place on the 12th and 13th.

“With the success of the venues from our 2023 Finals, returning to Birmingham made perfect sense,” said IASCA President Travis Chin. “The venue offers so much more and the response we received from the competitors was so positive, we negotiated for 2024 right away and came to an agreement. Additionally, the venue for our satellite location was also looking forward to our return and we were able to finalize plans with them almost immediately.”

More major IASCA events being planned for 2024

Chin went on to add “2023 was such a successful year, we have been approached by other major automotive and audio related events to host IASCA events at their shows. We are in negotiations with them currently and announcements will be made throughout the course of the 2024 season. Stay tuned!”

Finals pre-registration info and more will be posted in the coming weeks.

For more information on IASCA Worldwide and the 2024 IASCA World Finals, visit iasca.com or contact President Travis Chin at travis@iasca.com. Information on the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center can be found at https://www.bjcc.org/.

TERRYVILLE, CT (01.24.24) – Badd Custom Cycle is a new Cicada Audio retailer serving the riders in the Connecticut and New England area.

Art Rickless, A.I.R. & Associates, related “Owner Doug Kroll and his team have a great following and specialize in Harley Davidson as well as other motorcycle sales and service. They have over 20 years experience in custom motorcycles and just brought in the Cicada Audio line and already have created sales and excitement from their customers.”

“We see so many opportunities with the Cicada Audio lineup of products. Our vision is a motorcycle is much more than just a motorcycle. We have been in business over 20 years and focused strictly on sales, service and bike upgrades. Recently we made the decision to add the audio category. When I heard the Cicada amps and speakers we added the line to our offerings” Doug Kroll related.

The Badd Custom Cycle showroom area is amazing. Over 20 Harleys are on display along with apparel and a wall filled with accessories. “When customers enter our store for the first time many tell me they have never seen a bike store this cool” Kroll added.

Of course Art Rickless and A.I.R. & Associates will work closely with Badd Custom Cycle to drive business heading into the bike season. Art will make sure to take a treat to Gunner, the Boxer guard dog, at the door for each visit.

Visit cicadaaudio.com and baddcustomcycle.com for more.

PITTSBURGH, PA (01.23.24) – Team Nutz, a very proactive 12volt retailer in the Pittsburg area, had a very strong showing at the recent MAX Motive World of Wheels this year at the David Lawerence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh Friday thru Sunday, January 19-21. Freezing temperatures, snow and weather advisories had little impact on attendance.

The Team Nutz 70’ x 80’ booth was filled with demo vehicles, tents, show car displays, live installations and importantly consumers. End Result, with Ed Dalesandro and Rusty North, was onsite with the Team Nutz staff of 12 who worked the show. The End Result rep firm brands Hertz, Audison and Memphis Audio were installed in several demo vehicles and experienced by thousands of attendees.

Ed Nuttall, for Team Nutz, stated, “The attendance was reported to approach 20,000 and members of the crowd were really interested automotive enthusiasts. We had literally over 10,000 customized swag items including pens, stickers, tote bags, screw drivers and lanyards to hand out to attendees. We gave out over 1500 tote bags.

The visibility for Team Nutz at the event will lead to very active days at the store following the World of Wheels event.

“Many registered for contests we offered and checked out info from QR Code we spotted around at the event. Mike Gosnik posted a number of videos to draw attention to products in the booth and posts of those videos will continue visibility for us and store traffic following the event for weeks” Nuttall offered.

Continuing, Nuttall relayed “Friday was scheduled as high school day as in past years. We had expected to see maybe 1000 high school students. Very unfortunately the bad weather forced most schools to cancel that activity of bussing students to the event.”

Following the show Saturday night Team Nutz hosted a dinner for exhibitors and crews at a restaurant across the street for over 100 who contributed to the success of the show.

“All at Team Nutz and partners certainly put a lot into pulling off this event. We worked over 3 days to set up and tear down took 1.5 hours this year…compared to 3 hours last year. We put our company and products in front a very large number of people. Literally thousands went home with some swag with our name on it too. All in all I think the show was a success. We look forward to more big events at the David Lawrence Convention Center,” Nuttall concluded.

Visit teamnutztechnology.com for more.

GUTHRIE OK (01.22.24)  The expanded 2024 KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series rolled in the huge Lazy E Arena in Guthrie on Friday and Saturday nights January 19th and 20th for Round 6. The Lazy E Arena is a mere 33 miles from KICKER’s world HQ in Stillwater.

“It was chilly outside but inside and on the track the action was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Since KICKER’s HQ is so close there were many KICKER team members and families in the stands. In addition KICKER dealer Audio Extreme from Oklahoma City was in the house along with Rick from the Marketing Pros rep firm.”

Continuing “We had a display set up adjacent to the track area and virtually everyone who entered the Lazy E Arena had a chance to check out the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see plus the KICKER Kawasaki UTV” Lorin Morrell-Maddog Media, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series events, related.

The doors opened early Friday night and there was a Pit Party on the track that lasted from about 5:30 til 6:30 before the racing action. Fans had a chance to walk on the track plus talk with riders and with other motor sports enthusiasts.

In addition to the action on the track T-shirt were fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fired wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions for a chance to win a KICKER BullFrog.

Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a strong start this year. Next weekend the AMA ArenaCross returns to the Lazy E for another event. We secured many of the booth its from this event so setup of the booth and vehicles will be very easy for the event January 26-28 for Round 7. We look for a great turnout at that event as well. The KICKER AMA ArenaCross is Livin’Loud in 2024.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

SHREVEPORT LA (01.20.2024)  WTF…Win This Friday. Xtreme Car Audio won the NavAtlas prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 255 on Friday morning, January 19th.

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 255th time on Friday morning January 19th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space and the Xtreme Car Audio slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in Bremerton WA to give them the super news. Rafael Ochoa was very happy to hear the news in the cold Pacific Northwest…the news warmed his day. More to come on this 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel story.

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, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, AlloyGator, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Alphasonik, Race Sport Lighting and Maximum Power. 12volt News $100. cash awards 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, The Best Guys in Concord CA, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL, Kalsec Audio in Bayville NJ,Jenkins PRO Window Tinting in McDonough GA, JBT Car Audio in Santa Paula CA, Innovative Concepts in Wilbraham MA and Car Audio Engineers in Sacramento CA.

Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 254 on Friday, January 26th 2024. 

STILLWATER, OK (01.19.24) – KICKER Vice President of Research and Development Bob Spencer announced his retirement recently, following 41 years of employment for Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.  As one of KICKER’s original employees, Spencer remarked he is now looking forward to spending time with his family and pursuing personal interests.

“Bob is an intuitive and talented manager who leads from his own wealth of hands-on experience and knowledge,” said KICKER founder and President Steve Irby. “He has been a key in nurturing and maintaining our major vendor relationships through R&D for decades.”

The company veteran was among the first KICKER employees ever, soon after the brand originated in the early 1980s.

“I was a musician and knew Steve through the local music scene,” recalled Spencer.

His friendship with the KICKER founder evolved into a working relationship in 1982, with Spencer building the original KICKER enclosures by hand. These same full-range boxes would prove to be the beginning of the car-audio enclosure market. Over the next half decade, the company expanded to 80 employees and more than a dozen SKUs. Spencer oversaw the staff, managed production, and created the sales forecasts.

In the late 80s, cabinet assembly evolved into raw speaker and amplifier production. As KICKER’s product line grew, so did Spencer’s responsibilities as he was promoted from Project Manager to Director of Research and Development. During his tenure, KICKER has become one of the most well-known car-audio manufacturers in the world.

“He loved working with people that are passionate about music,” Irby reflected. “He plays many different instruments, so being a musician myself, we connected on that level. Bob loved putting a band together with the best players, which was his approach to building our R&D department.”

Going forward, Spencer’s responsibilities will be split between KICKER veterans Chanc Bergbower (nearly 25 years at KICKER) and Joe Hobart (17 years). Bergbower assumes the role of Director of R&D/Acoustics, while Hobart has been promoted to Product Line Manager – Electronics.

Visit kicker.com for more.