HATTIESBURG, MS (07.25.26) – N&H Electronics works closely with their dealers in the Mississippi territory and along the Gulf Coast. Recently, Ricky Gibson and team members Scott Rogers and Mark Sealey have put together a way to help their dealers connect with consumers.

The N&H team is working with the 12volt Central Studios and developing graphics that their dealers can utilize on social media posts. The graphic shows the specific retailer with a big thumbs up showcasing consumers enjoying the concert in the car. The N&H team can snap an image of a dealer picking up an order in their Hattiesburg location or traveling on the road. After getting the dealer’s image the 12volt Center Studio staff will create the social media graphic, get it approved by the dealer and send the finished graphic to the dealer to make the post on their social media.

The first example is Wizard Electronics in Summit MS. Erik Hightower provided a big thumbs up image. Happy customers in the background were added.. Shortly after receiving the Wizard Electronic graphics Eric started seeing likes on his Facebook social media page.

An added plus with this program is the dealer and N&H can select one of their brands that the dealer stocks for additional exposure… In this case Kicker.

Stay tuned for more as N&H Electronics will continue working with their dealers to create ‘concert in your car’ excitement and drive store traffic.

Contact your N&H Electronics team member for more.

AUSTIN, TX (07. 24.26) – During the latter part of last week 12 GROUND ZERO team members gathered in Austin for a HKI
BootCamp and to participate in competition activities at the 2026 Texas Heatwave.

Tommy Spears, Director of Sales related “We started off the HKI Bootcamp with a team building tasting of a German drink then Nick Wingate got down with business in our trainings. We had everything from demo sessions, to what to expect in the future for Car Audio, to Sales tips, to a very engaging Q&A session. Then we honored Jason Phillips and Rick Booth with their 10 Years of being with HKI USA Plaques.”

Concluding “The biggest takeaway, apart from all of the knowledge, was the coming together and strengthening of our team. We finished off the time in Austin by introducing the team to the Texas Heatwave for the last two days.”

Jason Billups, JB Associates, related “The training session Nick presented will let me bring back not info only on product but
how to demo and help dealers demo to sell the good stuff.”

On his flight back to North Carolina Boomer Robinson, a 30 year industry member, wrote a 3000 word email to the 12volt
Central Studios reflecting on the HKI Bootcamp. “Dealers must stop competing on price and start competing on expertise and
craftsmanship. The future of our industry isn’t about finding a brand new customer but reconnecting with the customer who
never stopped loving great sound.”

The benefits from the HKI Bootcamp will continue for months for attendees. The Texas Heatwave was another benefit for
GROUND ZERO staff. Coverage of the Texas Heatwave activities was the feature on 12voltnews.com on Wednesday July
22nd.

For more see hki-usa.com.

DANIA BEACH, FL (7/23/26) – Ground Zero Car Audio is proud to announce an outstanding weekend of competition results at Texas Heatwave, where vehicles equipped with Ground Zero products earned multiple first-place finishes across IASCA and MCA sound quality classes, in addition to second and third place finishes in the head to head, random draw money round.

Texas Heatwave, held in Austin, Texas, is known for bringing together custom vehicles, audio competitors, and sound-off organizations for a high-profile weekend of competition. This year’s event featured IASCA and MCA sanctioned sound quality competition, along with other major audio formats, giving competitors the opportunity to showcase elite installation work, tuning, and system performance.

Ground Zero-equipped vehicles delivered strong results throughout the weekend, including first-place finishes for Shane Russell, Jim Rogers, and Amanda Halter, as well as a second-place finish for Ground Zero USA’s own Tommy Spears.

“Having all four of our competition cars place highly in each of the orgs they competed in and having two of the cars finish second and third in the money round with installs that are less than one month old speaks volumes to me about just how good these products are!” said Nick Wingate, Director of Car Audio Development for GZUSA/HKI. “All in all, it was a great weekend for Ground Zero!”

Competition Highlights

Shane Russell, competing in a 2023 Ford F-150, earned first place in IASCA Advanced Amateur and first place in MCA INT5+. Russell’s system featured Ground Zero Reference Tweeters and Ultra Midranges.

Jim Rogers, competing in a 2012 Ram 1500, earned first place in IASCA Pro 2 and first place in MCA INT4+. Rogers also achieved the highest MCA score of the weekend. His build featured a Ground Zero Reference three-way system, three Plutonium subwoofers, two Uranium four-channel amplifiers, and two Uranium two-channel amplifiers.

Amanda Halter, competing in a 2023 Nissan Altima, earned first place in IASCA Amateur and first place in MCA INT3. This build features GZ Reference three-way front speakers, Plutonium amplifiers, and a Radioactive 15” subwoofer in an IB setup

Tommy Spears, competing for the first time ever, in a 2023 Ford Maverick, earned second place in MCA INT3. This build is all about under promise and over deliver with Hydrogen 3-Way Quasi-Active front speakers, Hydrogen 10” Flat Subs, and a Radioactive four-channel with a Competition Series mono amp.

The Ground Zero team also conducted a Bootcamp training in Austin designed to prepare their team to spend time in the field working directly with 12volt retailers. Stay tuned for more.

For more information about Ground Zero Car Audio, please visit GroundZeroUSA.com.

WHEELING, WV (07.22.26) – The Steel Valley Regional XV rolled July 17,18,19 2026 returning to the Wesbanco Arena.
As before, this show featured the Top 48 SQ Showdown along with lASCA 3X, EMMA 3X, MASQ 3X and MECA 4X.

EVENT HOURS were Friday, July 17th: Setup 12PM – 9PM, Saturday, July 18th: Competition began at 8AM, Sunday July 19th: Competition began at 8AM with Awards presentations starting at 6PM.

“This was definitely a Car Audio Sound Quality Show that had approximately 60 of the best sounding vehicles in the country competing with experienced sound quality judges. The SVR 15 was one of the ultimate sound quality contests in the USA!” Larry Chijner related.

Here is a List of SPONSORS for SVR XV. This show could not have happened if it wasn’t for the Continued Support of the
Manufacturers and Individuals:

• ARC AUDIO Presents SVR XV-Title Brian Mitchell, Brad Ott, Fred Lynch
• ZAPCO /ESB -Gold Sponsor Chris Bennett, Enzo
• MSC AMERICA-BRAX/HELIX/MATCH/ BLAM- Gold Sponsor Jeff Smith, Larry Penn
• KARMA MOBILE AUDIO-Silver TrophySponsor Adam Schlepphorst, Harry Kimura- Gold Sponsor
• Creative Products Design-BronzeSponsor Mike Buononato
• JL AUDIO/GARMIN-Gold Sponsor Manville Smith lan Gash HAROLD JONES Brothers Boxing Club-Silver Sponsor
• Audio Intensity -PRIZE Sponsor Scott Welch
• US ACOUSTICS-Silver Sponsor Mike Nicholls
• Stereo Installs- Trophy Sponsor Bryan Huston David Wright
• DAVIS DISTRIBUTION -Prize Sponsor Nate Taliani Chuck Fauser
• Liquid HiFi-Prize Sponsor Ron Ronald K. Buffington
• ECA4X (East Coast Aydiophiles) Richard Papasin

“Based on the excitement at SVR15 we are definitely looking forward to 2027 and SVR16” Chijner concluded.”

GRAND JUNCTION, CO (07.21.26) – The Monster Truck Series at the Mesa County Fairgrounds Saturday, August 18th, was another opportunity for DJ Klamfoth and his company Konnected Auto Restylin’ to connect with consumers and enthusiast across a wide area.

Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, once again reached out to DJ to participate at the doubleheader event. Kicker had a booth set up in the Fairground Center as people made their way into and out of the track.

DJ related “My shop caters to enthusiast looking to get their ride upgraded. We’re the only retailer of this type that does that within a 200 or 300 mile range. It was such a fun day for all as the fairground was packed with enthusiast and totally engaged attendees. As in previous years, we made literally hundreds of contacts under the tent meeting with attendees and showing pro- ducts in the booth and setting up jobs for the coming days. Looks like 6 or 8 jobs will happen”

Continuing, “It was also a family event for me as my daughters were on site and engaged during the pit party with Monster Trucks and took several several rides. Working with Lorin was great as all were Livin’Loud in Grand Junction.”

DJ has been a Car Audio enthusiast for most of his 46 years and has spent time on the sound-off circuit as a world record holder. DJ started his company nine years ago and is totally committed to providing the best service possible for his customers.

“Working KICKER events with DJ continues to be a very positive experience. DJ connects with consumers and enthusiasts at events and on the show floor in his store” Morrell related.

For more see kicker.com.

GRAND JUNCTION, CO (07.20.26) – The Mesa County Fairgrounds drew Monster Truck enthusiasts on Saturday the 18th for a full day to experience real Monster Trucks. The Pit Party started the day with opportunities to see Monster Trucks up close, meet drivers and take pictures at the family-friendly fun event. A Monster Truck ride was available for an additional charge. The Pit Party kicked off the doubleheader day with an afternoon and evening with Monster Trucks on the Fairgrounds.

Continuing “The temperature was unseasonably hot which affected the afternoon crowd but the evening event was past standing room only. There was such energy in the air, Monster Trucks in the air too!”

A KICKER booth was set up in the lobby under the grandstands by Lorin Morrell and DJ Klamfoth, with local KICKER dealer Konnected Auto Stylin’, Under the KICKER tent Lorin and DJ connected enthusiasts with a wide selection of KICKER products.

“DJ and I talked with hundreds of enthusiasts. We had some new KICKER products set up in a display and I know DJ set some jobs in his store this coming week. DJ has been a strong dealer in the area for over 20 years and is booked with installs into mid-August” Morrell, KICKER Events, related.

Concluding Morrell offered “The fairgrounds outside was the center of attention as amazing Monster Trucks were flying over lines of cars. Seeing that happen brought cheers from very excited crowd members. KICKER definitely connects with Monster Truck fans!”

Visit kicker.com for more.

(07.19.2026) Over the weekend, the 12volt Central Studios Staff learned that George Wu passed away Friday night July 17th following a lengthy illness. With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to George, the heart and soul behind Atomic Loudspeakers.

A man of vision, passion, and integrity who dedicated his life to perfecting sound and building a brand respected worldwide.

He was an amazing engineer. A brilliant mind with an unmatched dedication to innovation, quality, and precision. He turned ideas
into performance- a true pioneer. He built Atomic Loudspeakers from the ground up with hard work, determination, and a love for music and performance. He was an innovator in the early years of the Car Audio research and development era. His legacy will live on in every speaker, in every note, and in every heart he touched.

George was a loving husband and father. He cherished his family above all else. His love, strength, and values will forever live in their hearts. He will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and unforgettable spirit

The 12volt industry thanks you George Wu!

WHEELING, WV (07.10.26 ) – The Steel Valley Regional XV will be held July 17,18,19 2026 returning to the Wesbanco Arena. Save the date!! As before, this show will feature the Top 48 SQ Showdown along with lASCA 3X, EMMA 3X, MASQ 3X and MECA 4X.

EVENT HOURS Friday, July 17th: Setup 12PM – 9PM, Saturday, July 18th: Competition begins at 8AM, Sunday July 19th: Competition begins at 8AM and Sunday, July 19th: Awards at 6PM.

“This is a Car Audio Sound Quality Show that will have approximately 75 of the best sounding vehicles in the Country competing
with experienced sound quality judges. This is one of the ultimate sound quality contests in the USA!” Larry Chijner related.

Here is a List of Current SPONSORS for SVR XV. This show could not happen if it. wasn’t for the Continued Support of the
Manufacturers and Individuals

ARC AUDIO Presents SVR XV-Title Brian Mitchell, Brad Ott, Fred Lynch
ZAPCO /ESB -Gold Sponsor Chris Bennett, Enzo
MSC AMERICA-BRAX/HELIX/MATCH/ BLAM- Gold Sponsor Jeff Smith, Larry Penn
KARMA MOBILE AUDIO-Silver TrophySponsor Adam Schlepphorst, Harry Kimura- Gold Sponsor
Creative Products Design-BronzeSponsor Mike Buononato
JL AUDIO/GARMIN-Gold Sponsor Manville Smith lan Gash HAROLD JONES Brothers Boxing Club-Silver Sponsor
Audio Intensity -PRIZE Sponsor Scott Welch
US ACOUSTICS-Silver Sponsor Mike Nicholls
Stereo Installs- Trophy Sponsor Bryan Huston David Wright
DAVIS DISTRIBUTION -Prize Sponsor Nate Taliani Chuck Fauser
Liquid HiFi-Prize Sponsor Ron Ronald K. Buffington

ECA4X (East Coast Audiophiles) Richard Papasin

“If I missed anyone it was by accident so please notify me so I can correct this post. PLEASE… Thank these people and manufacturers for continuing to Support Car Audio Competition by using their products. A Simple THANK YOU goes a long way” Chijner added.

Concluding “Anyone else interested in Helping by Sponsoring the show please contact me directly. Ichijner@gmail.com. Thanks for everyones continued support!!

Visit steelvalleyregional.org for more.

MEMPHIS, TN (07.08.26) – Memphis dropped the bass this Fourth of July when it unveiled the limited-edition United States 250th Anniversary Collection—a patriotic lineup of commemorative Power Reference amplifiers and subwoofers built for enthusiasts who believe freedom should always come with a volume knob.

America’s 250th birthday deserves more than fireworks.

It deserves bass.

The United States 250th Anniversary Collection features the 76PRX500.4V2 four-channel amplifier, 76PRX1000.1V2 monoblock amplifier, and 76PRXL12FTV 12-inch Power Reference subwoofer with Memphis Audio’s patented FLEX™ selectable 1Ω, 2Ω, or 4Ω impedance technology. Every product in the collection features an aggressive stealth black-on-black American flag design, delivering a clean, custom appearance while proudly honoring America’s 250th anniversary.

The anniversary amplifiers come alive with red, white, and blue LED accent lighting that illuminates both the acrylic logo panel and the ground beneath the amplifier, while the subwoofer features a custom American flag “M” center logo and an integrated RGB LED illuminated cone accent ring that can be set to patriotic red, white, and blue or virtually any color to match your build. The anniversary subwoofer doesn’t just look different, it hits harder too. Memphis engineers increased its power handling to 500 watts RMS, a 25% increase over the previous Power Reference model, giving enthusiasts even more bass to back up its bold new look. Together, the collection delivers a one-of-a-kind custom appearance that stands out whether you’re showing off your build at a car show or simply turning up the volume.

For more than 60 years, Memphis Audio has proudly designed and developed products in the United States by passionate car audio enthusiasts. The United States 250th Anniversary Collection is our tribute to the country that gave us the freedom to express ourselves, build incredible systems, and enjoy the music we love.

“We’re Americans. We love loud music. We love bass. We love building cool stuff,” said Nick LoMonaco, President of Memphis Audio. “When we started this project, we knew one thing—we weren’t making another cheesy patriotic product. We wanted something aggressive, custom, and unmistakably Memphis. The result is one of the coolest limited-edition collections we’ve ever released.”

The response has been overwhelming. Dealers and enthusiasts have been grabbing these limited-edition products since they were announced, and demand continues to build every day. With only a limited production run planned, once they’re gone, they’re gone forever. If you’ve been looking for a unique way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while owning a true piece of Memphis Audio history, this is it.

This isn’t just another product line.

It’s a celebration of American car audio culture.

It’s a salute to 250 years of freedom.

And it’s proof that Freedom Gets Loud.

FOR ADDITIONAL PRODUCT INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
ELLIS MATHIS: EMATHIS@MEMPHISCARAUDIO.COM
228-596-2512

MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA (07.07.26) — IASCA enjoyed a successful and productive week at the ASOPARTES ExpoPartes and ExtremeFest, held July 2–4 at Plaza Mayor. The event brought together automotive enthusiasts, manufacturers, and competitors from across the region, with multiple exhibition halls showcasing the latest products and innovations. The dedicated car audio hall featured numerous high-level sound quality competition vehicles, highlighting the continued growth of the hobby throughout Latin America.

Throughout the event, IASCA conducted several educational seminars, including an introductory presentation on car audio for students interested in learning about the industry and competitive sound quality. On Saturday, competitors participated in a Sound Quality Clinic where they received detailed evaluations and feedback from multiple experienced judges, including IASCA President Travis Chin. The clinic provided valuable insight to help competitors refine their systems and prepare for future events.

The event also marked an important milestone for IASCA Latinamérica. A new series of regional competitions will begin later this year, culminating in a championship finale scheduled for January 2027. The partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica is expected to further expand organized sound quality competition throughout the region.

“It was an honor to be a guest at the ExpoPartes event and to help build the partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica,” said . “It was a great time reuniting with past competitors I had met over a decade ago. Thanks to the ASOPARTES staff and IASCA Latinamérica staff for the hospitality.”

Pictured: Eduardo Tascon, Calros Andrés Pineda, Travis Chin, Luis Orlando Tores Clavijo, Manuel Fandiño, Carlos Romero, Javier Pardo.

IASCA extends its appreciation to ASOPARTES, IASCA Latinamérica, event organizers, volunteers, competitors, and attendees for making the event a tremendous success. The enthusiasm displayed throughout the weekend demonstrated the bright future of organized car audio competition in Colombia and across Latin America.

Visit iascaworldwide.com for more.