PHOENIX, AZ (03.22.23) – CICADA AUDIO, now a Larry Frederick legacy company, is growing at a rapid pace and continues to disrupt the industry nationwide. To support our efforts, we are proud to announce the hiring of Marty Deane to the position of Director of Sales
The unstoppable growth on sales over the 15 months of the company’s history has demanded the new position taken by Marty Deane. As a retail shop owner for over 30 years, he brings extensive 12v experience and a unique perspective to our company.
Marty Deane hit the ground running as the new Cicada Director of Sales… conducting this Tuesday training at the Woofer Electronics Dealer Show in Northlake IL.
“Larry Frederick knew exactly what to look for when it came to putting together his dream team, and he did find them. Marty Deane is the latest to join. Selling systems that meet the customers’ highest demands and the limited space available with multiple options requires a seasoned professional, and we are thrilled to have it,” said Larry Vansickel, CICADA AUDIO’s CEO.
Marty Deane
“Working alongside my longtime friend and mentor in 12v was a dream come true,” said Marty Deane. “It is sad it was so short, but Larry Frederick spent many hours working with me on understanding his baby and how to successfully sell it”.
With over 40 new products slated for release this year, all part of the Larry Fredericks’s legacy product line, CICADA AUDIO is sure to remain the leading-edge brand in the US market.
BOCA RATON, FL (03.21.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, celebrated the achievements of its dynamic franchise owners, including the growing membership in the company’s Million Dollar Club, at the 2023 Tint World International Franchise Convention in Kissimmee, Florida, in February.
Tint World franchisees from the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates attended the 15th annual event, held Feb. 4-7 at the exclusive Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center.
“This tremendous event allows the Tint World family to connect every year and also demonstrates our commitment to grow the company and support the success of our franchisees,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “My goal is getting each Tint World location into our Million Dollar Club by generating a million dollars or more in annual revenue. Our conventions serve as an opportunity to inspire all of our franchisees and corporate team members, honoring those whose accomplishments and creativity have stood out in the last year.”
Nearly 30% of Tint World franchises are currently members of the company’s exclusive Million Dollar Club, earning at least $1 million in revenue in a calendar year. Thirteen franchises were recognized with Million Dollar Club awards at the event. Three others joined the Two Million Dollar Club and one achieved the elite Three Million Dollar Club status. Each Million Dollar Club franchisee was presented with a gold diamond ring.
In addition to celebrating Tint World’s unprecedented success the previous year, the 2023 Tint World International Franchise Convention served as a unique opportunity for franchisees to connect and network in person, gaining valuable insight into the industry through learning opportunities with industry experts and personal interactions with more than 40 of Tint World’s premium vendors and service partners.
The event was headlined by Bonfiglio’s annual state of the company address and keynote presentations by Myles Kovacs, founder of DUB Magazine and TIS Wheels, and Bryan Schmitt from Mobile Solutions Fabrication.
“In addition to offering franchisees powerful new tools and strategies to help them thrive in 2023 and beyond, the convention supports the family culture we’ve created at Tint World that is the foundation of all of our success as a brand over the last 15 years,” Bonfiglio said.
The following awards were presented at the 2023 Tint World International Franchise Convention:
Top Gun Franchise Award: Santiago and Dominica Rojas (Massapequa Park, New York)
Top Gun Multi Store Franchise Award: Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Medford, New York)
Franchise of the Year: Pete and Barbra Muller (Orlando-Longwood, Florida)
Franchise Ambassador of the Year Award (U.S): Alex and Myriam Guerrerro (El Paso, Texas)
Franchise Ambassador of the Year Award (Canada): Robert Lebovic (Pickering, Ontario)
Franchise Mentor of the Year Award: Brad Lloyd (Springfield, Pennsylvania); Ryan Klotz and Robert Kearney (Murietta, California)
Most Improved Franchise Award: Sean Jackson (Mooresville, North Carolina)
Rookie of the Year Award: Lauren Kruse (Kennesaw, Georgia)
Best Performing Franchise Award: Todd and Michelle Simms (Pinellas Park and Palm Harbor, Florida); Michael Richards and Dylan Thiel (Grapevine and Rowlett, Texas)
Outstanding Growth Award: Sam Jowkari (Missouri City, Texas); Mark Hamilton (Fort Myers, Florida)
Outstanding Multi-Store Growth Award: Danny Shenko (East Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
Brand Ambassador Vendor of the Year Award: AAMP Global
Manufacturing Vendor of the Year Award: Fellers
Million Dollar Club Stores: Jeff and Penny Rackley (The Colony, Texas); Randy and Austin Silver (Cary, North Carolina); Danny Shenko (East Fort Lauderdale, Florida); Pete and Barbra Muller (Orlando-Longwood, Florida); Gregory Alan (San Marcos, California); Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Riverhead, New York); Mark Eastland (Hutto, Texas); David Pelletier, Cameron Pelletier and Tyler Olinger (Jacksonville, North Carolina); Shahid Ali and Alexander Khiyayev (Smyrna, Georgia); Dee Patel (Chamblee, Georgia); Acey Light (Lubbock, Texas); Jason Hempel (Katy, Texas); Michael Halperin and Mike Rogers (Boca Raton, Florida)
Two Million Dollar Club Store: Michael Richards and Dylan Thiel (Grapevine, Texas); Jay Guan (San Diego); Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Medford, New York)
Three Million Dollar Club Store: Santiago and Dominica Rojas (Massapequa Park, New York)
5-Star Awards: David Roche (La Mesa, California); Michael Halperin and Mike Rogers (Boca Raton, Florida); Tom and Drew Nixon (Lexington, South Carolina); Sameer and Huma Khan (Houston); Randy and Austin Silver (Cary, North Carolina); Chad Bailey (Humble, Texas); Andy Rangel (Doral, Florida); Jeff Moolevliet (Coconut Creek, Florida); Mark Eastland (Hutto, Texas); Patrick McNiven (Hollywood, Florida); Cary Lopez (West Palm Beach, Florida); Austin Gurba (Olathe, Kansas); Danny Shenko (North Miami and Pompano Beach, Florida); John and Carole Anhalt (Webster, Texas); Roger Redmond (Chandler, Arizona); Jason Hempel (Katy, Texas); Shahid Ali and Alexander Khiyayev (Smyrna, Georgia); David Pelletier, Cameron Pelletier and Tyler Olinger (Jacksonville, North Carolina); Ronnie Davis (Newport News, Virginia); Nadeem Chawdhry (Austin, Texas); Jay Guan (San Diego); Scott Lemmon (Cumming, Georgia); Todd and Michelle Simms (Palm Harbor, Florida); Mark Hamilton (Fort Myers, Florida); Dee Patel (Chamblee, Georgia); Gregory Allan (San Marcos, California); Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Medford, New York); Rob Lebovic (Pickering, Ontario); Acey Light (Lubbock, Texas)
SALEM, VA (03.20.23) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross 14-City Series rolled into the Salem Civic Center on Friday March 17th. Star City 12Volt, a strong KICKER dealer in Roanoke just 7 miles from Salem, was in the house with owner Hoyt Richardson and staff. The Star City 12volt team connected with attendees throughout the evening.
“It was terrific to have the Star City 12Volt team at the event and under the KICKER tent in the lobby. They really know their stuff when it comes to custom installations” Lorin Morrell, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA Arenacross Series events, related.
Hoyt Richardson (R) and Star City 12Volt team member connected with members of the crowd under the KICKER tent in the lobby.
Once again the Pit Party got the evening off to a fast start as attendees walked the track and met with riders.
The KICKER tent was in the lobby area and virtually everyone attending the event had to pass by and see the selection of products displayed on the tables. Star City 12Volt placed a company banner on the back wall under the tent to put the company’s brand in front of enthusiasts attending the event.
A very busy Pit Party got the action started very shortly after the doors opened. Attendees walked the track and had an opportunity to meet the riders and check out the motorcycles they would be riding around the track and flying high over the mounds. As soon as riders left the starting gate the track was red hot as riders and attendees were Livin’ Loud.
The KICKER T-Shirt toss certificate landed in this young enthusiast’s hands and he made a beeline to the booth to pick up his Bullfrog prize. Star City 12Volt owner Hoyt Richardson is on the left as Lorin is set to hand over the Bullfrog prize.
This rider is set to launch off a mound and circle the track.
Morrell added “Once again the stands were filled with enthusiasts who were excited to see the riders circle the track and cheered when the riders flew high off the track mounds. In addition to the action on the track wrapped KICKER T-shirts were tossed into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog prize to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. The young man who caught the KICKER T with the certificate made a beeline to the booth and was smiling from ear-to-ear. Hoyt and I placed the Bullfrong in his hands and he said he could not to wait to get it playing. We told him he would be Livin’Loud with KICKER.”
Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions as Wes Kain was on the PA system exciting members of the crowd to wave checkered flags for a chance to win KICKER Lifestyle products. All the winners smiled with Kicker prizes in their hands.
For the last 4 AMA KICKER ArenaCross events a KICKER dealer from the area has been under the tent in the lobby and connected with attendees. Those 4 dealers-MB Customs 303 in Denver, Tunes and Tint in Amarillo, Expert Customs in Tulsa and Star City 12Volt in Salem created traffic in their stores that will make their cash registers ring and stimulate future business.
The next stop on the 2023 AMA KICKER ArenaCross 14-City Series is in Little Rock AR on Friday, March 24th
SHREVEPORT LA (03.18.23) WTF…Win This Friday. Mobile AVC won the Alphasonik prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 219 on Friday morning, March 17th.
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 5.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 219th time on Friday morning March 17th. The Wheel landed on the Alphasonik space and the Mobile AVC 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 by telephone to the winning retailer in Brunswick ME. Owner Erik Quick answered the phone and was so happy to hear the news on St Patrick’s Day. He went on to say that on all his years in the 12volt industry this was the first time he had won any type of prize. He looks forward to receiving the Alphasonik 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, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Nakamichi, Aphpasonik 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 and Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL.
Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, March 24th.
GASTONIA, NC (03.17.23) – Make your plans to attend the 2023 Shiflet & Dickson Dealer Show and spend time with factory staff members and area rep firm members. The event kicks off Saturday night at 7pm with a St Paddy’s Day party featuring live music along with food and refreshments in the company’s facility in Gastonia. Sunday is the show day and runs from 9am until 5pm with over 20 brands represented. There will be food and refreshments on show day Sunday also. Food will include the delicious steak sandwiches prepared fresh on the grill.
Shiflet & Dickson’s David Holland stated, “There is definitely a buzz in our territory about our show. Also around the industry suppliers and reps are ready to see dealers at distributor shows. This will be our 31st dealer show! Many dealers have not had the ability to go to a show recently to see the newest 12volt products. With vendor motorcycles and other vehicles we plan on letting our customers hear what these products sound like in a real world setting other than on a display in a showroom.”
Continuing, Holland offered, “Participation from our vendors and reps is strong. Lori Boyer is traveling from Stillwater to be here to show the latest products from KICKER and hot PowerBars. Jeff Falk is coming from Tampa to highlight PowerBass products. Steve Cote is flying in from Boston to talk the latest from JVC with dealers. Phil Maeda is driving the Rydeen van over 2000 miles from LA to demo the latest Rydeen products. Ernie Welch is coming in from Indiana to cover all the DB Drive brands. Jason Proios is coming in from South Florida to train dealers on the Nakamichi lineup. Dallas Lovelace will be in the house to cover all the Metra brand offerings.”
Adding Holland continues, “Staff members from area rep firms we work with will also be here supporting their brands. Dennis Montgomery from Tech Marketing will be on site. Mike Colundja-MC Sales will show the latest from LinksWell, which is a new line for us, plus Nakamichi. Just in time for the tint season Allison Parker will show the latest from MAXPRO Window Film. We sincerely appreciate the efforts from all our vendors.”
Mike Colundja related for MC Marketing, “We are excited to be exhibiting and participating in the first Shiflet and Dickson show since COVID lockdown. They are expecting a great turnout and we look forward to introducing and training their dealers on LinksWell and Nakamichi products.”
12volt brands to be showcased include Kicker, JVC Mobile, CRUX, Metra, DB Drive, Roadview, Jensen, AudioControl, Polk Audio, PowerBass, Nakamichi, Audio Enhancers, SD Lighting, XPERT, Maximum Power, Planet Audio, MaxPro Film, Rydeen, LinksWell and SoundStream.
Concluding Holland stated, “Our show is like having our large family come into our facility for a large get together and we have over 180 pre-registered for the event. Many of our vendors have offered us special discounts before and after the show to make our dealers more profitable on their sales floors. We look forward to seeing our extended family on Saturday and Sunday, March 18th and 19th.”
Contact your Shiflet & Dickson inside or outside sales person to make sure you are able to sit down and take advantage of the special pricing being offered for dealers at the show. Contact 800-222-9411 for more.
GASTONIA, NC (03.16.23) – Make your plans to attend the 2023 Shiflet & Dickson Dealer Show. The event kicks off Saturday night at 7pm with a St Paddy’s Day party featuring live music along with food and refreshments in the company’s facility in Gastonia. Sunday is the show day runs from 9am until 5pm with over 20 brands represented. There will be food and refreshments on show day Sunday also.
David Holland traveled to K’Fest in Vegas to meet with vendor partners about the upcoming Shiflet & Dickson Show. JVC’s Steve Cote (L) and Rydeen’s Ruben Torres set plans to have their companies attend.
Shiflet & Dickson’s David Holland stated “This will be our 31st dealer show! Many dealers have not had the ability to go to a show recently to see the newest 12volt products. With vendor motorcycles and other vehicles we plan on letting our customers hear what these products sound like in a real world setting other than on a display in a showroom.”
Continuing Holland offered “We will have trainings with certain vendors as well as having reps on the show floor to answer questions. We start the St Paddy’s day party Saturday night with food, refreshments and live entertainment.”
On Wednesday afternoon vendor displays are being set up.
12volt brands to be showcased include Kicker, JVC Mobile, CRUX, Metra, DB Drive, Roadview, Jensen, AudioControl, Polk Audio, PowerBass, Nakamichi, Audio Enhancers, SD Lighting, XPERT, Maximum Power, Planet Audio, MaxPro Film, Rydeen, LinksWell and SoundStream.
Concluding Holland stated “Our show is like having our large family come into our facility for a large get together and we have over 180 pre-registered for the event. We also have many of our vendors that have offered us special discounts before and after the show to make our dealers more profitable on their sales floors. We look forward to seeing our extended family on Saturday and Sunday, March 18th and 19th.”
Contact your Shiflet & Dickson inside or outside sales person to make sure you are able to sit down and take advantage of the special pricing being offered for dealers at the show. Contact 800-222-9411 for more.
MESA, AZ (03.15.23) – “No fairies, pixie dust… or unicorns, it’s all physics. We don’t make it up we just follow the laws… of physics,” according to Larry Van Sickle, that would be the first thing Larry Frederick would teach us if he were here today.
A few words to honor and commemorate the life of Larry Frederick, a 50-year veteran of the audio industry who passed last week.
Larry was a brilliant and passionate man who had a knack for making things work. He was a master of his craft and had a deep understanding of the inner workings of a wide variety of electronics, digital processing, speakers, and woofers. I am sure he, at one point in his life, help many of you to diagnose and repair a complex system with a speed and skill that amazed everyone who had the privilege of working with him. He was a trusted mentor and teacher who was always willing to share his knowledge with others. He was generous with his time and often took on the role of a teacher, passing on his expertise to all who sought it. One of his only requirements was that you owned a voltmeter and knew how to use it. Of course, if you didn’t, he would, send you to the store to buy one and do his best to train you how to use it.
Family and friends gathered for the Larry Frederick Celebration of Life in the Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home on Monday March 13th in Mesa, AZ.
Larry’s early career included working at Altech Lansing Professional, Audiomobile, a few years later, Larry joined Coustic, and drove the mix to include the famous XM3, AMP190 and AMP380 among many other products.
He joined Keith Peterson at Phoenix Gold in 1989 when they were only an audio accessory company. In a short amount of time Larry and Keith introduced the MS-250 and MS-2125 with 24 karat gold plated PCB’s that placed Phoenix Gold with a reputation for high quality products. Larry went on to develop many amps including the “Frank AMP’n stein”.
A large portion of Larry’s career was training, he trained 1000’s of enthusiasts and installers all over the world. He was famous for a flowerful tongue and his nerf gun, shooting students who were not paying attention or answering with a wrong answer.
Also, in the early 90’s Larry was also instrumental in the rules committee and judging of 1000’s of vehicles that competed in ISACA events nationwide. He was very passionate about the fact that the only seat in the car that mattered was the driver’s seat and would only judge a car from that seat.
His career path then took him to Electrromedia where he was instrumental in the introduction and training of the industry’s first serious aftermarket DSP, the Bit One. Larry helped to tune over 250 cars and could make any one of them sound good.
Followed by 10 years at Diamond Audio where he reintroduced the brand as a leader in Harley Davidson Audio.
Finally, he was presented with the opportunity to form his own company. His daughter, Catherine, came up with naming it Cicada, after the loudest bug on earth. Cicada Audio which was formed during the pandemic and started selling to the Motorcycle market just over a year ago. The successful introduction of his first Cicada product, the CH65 6-1/2” Coax Horn Loudspeaker and was first to stock 2 or 4 ohm versions. With its ability to fit into most locations with little or no modification it was a home run. Larry designed and developed 80 additional products in the current line. His passion for the category led him to a product plan of an additional 40 new products arriving to market in 2023 the second year of Cicada Audio’s existence.
Larry’s true passion was on display when he was the one who called the shots, decided the product plan, grooming the staff and was responsible for the bottom line.
Larry’s presence in the electronics industry was a guiding light, and he was a reliable source of support and guidance for all who had the good fortune of knowing him. His legacy in the industry will live on through the many people he touched with his vast knowledge and expertise. Larry will be remembered for his kind and generous nature and for the impact he had on ALL OF our lives. His life was a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft and his drive to make a difference in the world. Today we take this moment to remember, Larry Frederick, a beloved husband to Adriana, father to Catherine and Ashley, grandfather to Marcus and Addison, inventor, founder, friend and mentor to many. His passion for sharing knowledge was his life’s work.
STILLWATER, OK (03.14.23) – Experts from Stillwater, Oklahoma based performance marine audio systems manufacturer KICKER joined their European distributor Celsus UK for a series of engaging product training sessions in France, Italy & Germany ahead of what is anticipated to be a busy boating season.
Aaron Malin, Global Training Manager, and David Glasgow, International Sales Manager for KICKER accompanied by Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK embarked on a journey that would see them travel by plane, train and automobile to key partners in Europe.
First stop was Saint Herblain, to meet with KENT MARINE our distributor for France. Attendance in person and via video link allowed Aaron to deepen their knowledge of products, application and technical principals in the marine audio segment. Recent product introduction KM604W value line and the eagerly anticipated KMXL high-out speakers were discussed and warmly received.
Camogli in Italy is where the dynamic trio headed next to host a session at INDEMAR’S national agent meeting, an event hosted at a beautiful hotel and well attended by the distributor’s staff, agents and customers. A live technical training where onlookers were shown best practice for amplifier set-up followed a video message from Kicker founder Mr Steve Irby. The following morning before onward travel Aaron, Mike and David toured Indemar’s headquarters and met many of their team.
The last and final stop on the week’s tour was Bremen to visit the headquarters of BUKH-BREMEN German distributor for the fast growing marine audio brand. Bukh-Bremen had launched with KICKER as recently as BOOT Dusseldorf this year and the room was full of staff eager to learn as much as they could about what sets Kicker apart for both installers and boat owners alike.
Commenting on the roadshow Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK said;
“An extremely positive week, I have to thank Aaron and David for being great company and delivering such good content for our shared partners. Working with a brand like Kicker is a great experience. The attendance in these sessions was amazing, I must applaud our distributors for that and thank them for their hospitality”
David Glasgow, Kicker International Sales Manager adds:
“Looking back on the European marine training tour we just finished, all I can say is “Wow.”
After visiting with Kent Marine in France, Indemar in Italy and our new distributor Bukh-Bremen GmbH in Germany, I was blown away by the friendliness of the people, their facilities, and the overall knowledge they already demonstrate regarding KICKER Marine products. All three convey true professionalism in the marine marketplace, and I am super-excited to help and watch their business grow. A huge “thank you” goes out to all three companies for their hospitality, willingness to advise the KICKER group and their assistance in getting local dealers and installers to attend the training. Thank you all and a job well done.”
KICKER Marine is designed to deliver an exceptional entertainment experience season after season. Engineering excellence, rigorous testing and high-quality components combine to provide the best value premium performance marine audio on the market. The KICKER Marine range of source units, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and accessories has gained a powerful reputation for quality performance and value since their introduction to the European market in 2018.
TULSA, OK (03.13.23) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross 14-City Series rolled into the Tulsa Square Expo Pavilion on Friday March 10th. Expert Customs, a strong KICKER dealer in Tulsa, was in the house with a 3 member team. Owner Chester West, Deuce Carlson and Zach Johnson connected with attendees throughout the evening.
The track was very busy as the Pit Party got the Tulsa AMA KICKER ArenaCross off to a fast start.
“It was terrific to have the Expert Customs crew at the event and under the KICKER tent in the lobby. They really know their stuff when it comes to custom installations. It was also very good to work with Brad Ganz at the event. Brad is the KICKER Central Regional Sales Manager and it’s great to see him on the road following a serious accident on the bike trails” Lorin Morrell, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA Arenacross Series events, related.
KICKER dealer Expert Customs was in the house with a 3 member crew. Deuce Carlson, Lorin Morrell, Chester West and Zach Johnson (L to R). Morrell orchestrates KICKER activities for the Arenacross event series.
The KICKER tent was in the lobby area and virtually everyone attending the event had to pass by and see the selection of products displayed on the tables.
A very busy Pit Party got the action started very shortly after the doors opened. Attendees walked the track and had an opportunity to meet the riders and check out the motorcycles they would be riding around the track and flying high over the mounds. As soon as riders left the starting gate the track was red hot as riders and attendees were Livin’ Loud.
The stands in the Tulsa Square Expo Pavilion were filled with enthusiasts.
Attendees all had a chance to see KICKER’s products under the tent in the lobby.
“This was such a great event. Deuce, Zach and I talked with so many people, handed out all the KICKER lanyards and 150 of our stickers plus handed out nearly all of the 500 business cards we brought for the evening. Several of the people we talked with plan to come to the store next week to pick out a system for their rides.”
Continuing “I also walked the track during the pit party with my youngster. That was so much fun for us and we talked with other attendees and riders. Everyone was just so excited to be at the event. A very big Thank You to all at Kicker.”
Lorin Morrell holds the certificate for the Bullfrog prize and Chester West holds the Bullfrog for the happy winners.
Riders were flying high on the track.
Morrell added “In addition to the action on the track wrapped KICKER T-shirts were tossed into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog prize to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. The crowd member who caught the KICKER T with the certificate came to the booth to the booth and picked up his Bullfrog prize. His son was so happy holding the KICKER Bullfrog he could not stop jumping up and down.”
Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions as Wes Kain was on the PA system exciting members of the crowd to wave checkered flags for a chance to win KICKER Lifestyle products. All the winners smiled with Kicker prizes in their hands.
The next stop on the 2023 AMA KICKER ArenaCross 14-City Series is in Salem VA on Friday, March 17th.
SHREVEPORT LA (03.11.23) WTF…Win This Friday. Pro Auto Sound Miami won the Nakamichi prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 218 on Friday morning, March 10th.
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 5.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 218th time on Friday morning March 10th. The Wheel landed on the Nakamichi space and the Pro Auto Sound Miami 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 by telephone to the winning retailer in Hialeah FL Owner Luis Duarte answered the phone and was so happy to hear the news. He started singing “Happy Friday”. He went on to say they are working every day to showcase their high-end custom work to consumers in the marketplace. He looks forward to receiving the Nakamichi prize which Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager, is set to make happen.
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, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Nakamichi 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 and Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT.
Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, March 17th.
12VoltNews.com 