METAIRIE, LA (08.21.26) — Flashtech Lighting is proud to announce that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued U.S. Patent No. D1,143,138 S for its LED Magnetic Rock Light, marking an important milestone for the company and its Magnetic Mini6 product line.

The patent was officially issued on August 18, 2026, following an application filed on May 24, 2024.

The patented product is represented in Flashtech’s Magnetic Mini6 Rock Light platform, a compact lighting solution developed to provide installers and vehicle owners with greater flexibility when adding illumination to trucks, Jeeps, UTVs, off-road vehicles, show vehicles and other automotive applications.

A Different Approach to Rock Lighting

Traditional rock lights are often relatively large and require installers to choose permanent mounting locations.

Flashtech wanted to take a different approach.

The Magnetic Mini6 was developed around an exceptionally compact housing and magnetic mounting capability, allowing the light to fit into locations where traditional rock lights may be difficult to install while providing substantially more freedom in determining light placement.

The result is a small, powerful light that can be used for far more than traditional wheel-well illumination.

“Flashtech has always been about finding better solutions to real installation problems,” said Stephen Robert Gordon, founder of Flashtech Lighting and inventor of the Magnetic Mini6. “With the Mini6, we wanted to rethink what a rock light could look like and how easily it could be installed. Receiving this patent is an exciting milestone for Flashtech and validates the work that went into developing something genuinely different for the market.”

Small Footprint. Serious Lighting.

The Magnetic Mini6 platform is currently available in both White and RGBW configurations.

The Magnetic Mini6 White Rock Light is designed for customers looking for powerful functional white illumination from an extremely compact package.

The Magnetic Mini6 RGBW Rock Light adds customizable color capability while incorporating dedicated white illumination, giving enthusiasts the ability to create custom accent lighting while retaining useful white light when needed.

The compact format opens the door to installations throughout a vehicle, including wheel wells, suspension and chassis areas, engine compartments, truck beds, running boards, UTVs, off-road vehicles and other locations where larger lighting products may not be practical.

From Patent Pending to Patented

Customers and dealers familiar with the Magnetic Mini6 may have previously seen the product identified as Patent Pending.

That has now officially changed.

U.S. Patent No. D1,143,138 S was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office on August 18, 2026.
For Flashtech, the patent represents more than simply another number on a product.

It reflects the company’s continued commitment to creating distinctive products rather than simply following what already exists in the automotive lighting market.

“We operate in an industry where products are copied very quickly,” Gordon said. “We are going to continue investing in new ideas, new products and better ways to install and use automotive lighting. Protecting the products we develop is an important part of making that investment worthwhile.”

Available Now

The patented Flashtech Magnetic Mini6 is available in two configurations:

Magnetic Mini6 White Rock Lights
https://www.flashtechlighting.com/magnetic-mini6-white-rock-lights.html

Magnetic Mini6 RGBW Rock Lights
https://www.flashtechlighting.com/magnetic-mini-rgbw-rock-light.html

For dealer, distributor and media inquiries, visit FlashtechLighting.com.

STILLWATER, OK (08.21.26) – KICKER was on site at Sturgis this year with Triix Customs handling installs right at our booth. KICKER had Harley-Davidson kits for Street Glide, Electra Glide, Ultra Glide, and Road Glide riders looking for a clean upgrade that cut through wind and road noise, delivering premium-engineered performance without altering the bike’s appearance.

Each kit is a complete plug-and-play system. The weather-proof Powersports coaxial speakers feature polypropylene cones that resist moisture and neodymium magnet structures that reduce weight for better overall bike balance. Bridge-mounted 20 mm neo-titanium-dome tweeters produce clear, detailed highs that remain intelligible through a helmet even at highway speeds.

A compact four-channel amplifier delivers 75 watts RMS per channel at 2 ohms with VERY LOW current draw, placing minimal demand on the charging system. Custom mounting brackets and pre-terminated harnesses allow everything to bolt and plug directly into factory locations with no cutting or drilling required.

Available kits cover:

• 1996-2013 Street/Electra/Ultra Glide – 50HDS962
• 2014-2023 Street/Electra/Ultra Glide – 50HDS144
• 1998-2013 Road Glide – 50HDR982
• 2015-2023 Road Glide Shark-Nose fairings – 50HDR154

Full details and model fitment: Motorcyle Audio Kits For more see kicker.com.

TORRANCE, CA (08.20.26) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics, maker of 360° dash cameras, digital mirror systems, blind spot detection and ADAS technology for the 12Volt aftermarket, is launching its Dealer Portal this August. The new online system gives Installers and MESA buying group members their orders, and a direct view into what they’re paying before they check out, 24 hours a day.

The portal replaces a process that, like most of the industry, runs on phone calls, email chains and price sheets that may or may not be out-of-date the moment they were sent. Now, every account is assigned a tier level: and orders processed automatically based on their tier. No spreadsheets to cross-reference.

The system also solves a problem most dealer portals ignore: what happens when a customer qualifies for more than one discount at once. Rydeen’s portal runs on a single rule – best offer wins.

Buyers also get a live notice in their cart showing how close they are to the next pricing threshold — so a dealer deciding between a 24-unit order and a 30-unit order can see, in real time, what crossing that line does to their total. Access to the portal requires approval. New accounts must apply and be verified before they can place an order.

“We are pleased to bring a 24/7 ordering platform to our customers offering ease and convenience,” said Phil Maeda, President and CEO of Rydeen Mobile.

“Our customers succeed when they have faster, more direct ways to work with us,” said Rex Berfield, National Sales Manager at Rydeen Mobile. “This portal is about giving them another option that fits how they actually do business.”

The Dealer Portal goes live on August 19th, 2026, at rydeenbiz.com. Installers and MESA members can easily apply for an account, subject to approval, at rydeenbiz.com.

For more information about Rydeen or its product line, visit http://www.rydeenmobile.com or email us: sales@rydeenmobile.com  See more at www.rydeenmobile.com

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.20.26) – Built for those who demand more from any note, ALL-NEW Q-Series amplifiers redefine premium performance. Engineered through powerful, high-efficiency output, integrated DSP technology, and precision tuning controls, Q-Series gives you the freedom to create an audio system that sounds exactly the way you want it to.

Power your entire system with the QA1-900.6D Q-Series 900-watt 6-channel DSP amplifier. Made for audiophiles and professional installers alike, this amplifier combines high-efficiency power with integrated DSP tuning, giving you complete control over every channel. Fine-tune your system for exceptional clarity, balanced output, and uncompromising performance from front to back.

Or bring the bass to life with the QA1-1500.1D Q-Series 1500-watt monoblock amplifier that delivers. Built to drive demanding subwoofer systems with clean, relentless power, it provides the low-frequency impact, precision, and authority needed to complete a truly high-performance Music. Defined. audio experience.

https://mbquart.com/shop/products/mobile/mobile-amplifiers/?filter_prd-seri=q-series-2&query_type_prd-seri=or

LINCOLN CITY, OR (08.19.26) – The Pacific Northwest’s biggest car audio weekend is almost here. The 2026 Surf City Soundoff takes place this Saturday and Sunday, August 22–23, at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, bringing competitors, car audio enthusiasts and spectators together for two days of competition, demonstrations, entertainment and community fundraising.

The Surf City Soundoff has become a marquee event on the competitive car audio calendar, and this year’s event will feature an IASCA 3X World Record Event, with competitors battling in Sound Quality, SPL and Nite Glow, along with a dB DRA 3X competition.

Competitors from throughout the United States and Canada are expected to make the trip to the Oregon coast, bringing everything from meticulously tuned Sound Quality vehicles to extreme SPL builds capable of producing extraordinary levels of sound pressure. For spectators, the event provides a rare opportunity to see these vehicles up close, talk with their builders and experience the systems in action.

“Surf City Soundoff is one of those events where you really get to see what makes car audio so special,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA Worldwide. “You have competitors pushing the limits of technology and performance, but you also have people who simply love their cars, their music and the hobby. Bringing all of that together on the Oregon coast makes for an incredible weekend.”

More Than Just a Competition

While competition is at the heart of the Surf City Soundoff, the weekend offers considerably more for spectators. Demonstration vehicles, vendor displays, product showcases, raffles and other activities will give visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the latest in mobile audio and see some of the Northwest’s most impressive builds.

The event also continues its strong connection to the Lincoln County community through its support of Angels Anonymous. Proceeds from registrations, sponsorships, raffles and donations will benefit the organization and its efforts to assist local individuals and families. The 2025 Surf City Soundoff raised more than $20,000 for Angels Anonymous.

Spectator admission to the Surf City Soundoff is free, making it an opportunity for longtime car audio fans as well as people who have never experienced competitive mobile audio to come out and see what the hobby is all about.

Surf City Classics Adds Even More to the Weekend

The Surf City Soundoff will be joined Saturday by Surf City Classics, a major automotive show at Chinook Winds Casino Resort featuring classic cars, American muscle, rat rods, trucks, 4x4s, motorcycles and other unique vehicles.

Surf City Classics will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, with vehicle judging scheduled from noon to 3 p.m. and awards at 4 p.m. The car show adds another dimension to the weekend, giving visitors an opportunity to experience both traditional automotive craftsmanship and the cutting-edge technology found in today’s competitive car audio vehicles.

With the two events taking place together, Lincoln City will become a gathering place for automotive enthusiasts throughout the weekend—from classic-car collectors and muscle-car fans to serious car audio competitors and spectators.

The Surf City Soundoff is hosted in partnership with IASCA Worldwide and Chinook Winds Casino Resort.

Visit www.iascaworldwide.com for more.

LOS ANGELES, CA (08.19.26) – Diamond Audio has announced the launch of its all-new NEO Series DSP Amplifiers — a four-model lineup of multi-channel and monoblock Class D amplifiers engineered for riders and drivers who demand studio-quality precision without sacrificing space, weatherproofing, or ease of use.

Built from the ground up for the modern audiophile and motorcycle enthusiast, the NEO-DSP Series packs a full 31-band parametric EQ, onboard crossovers, time delay, and channel linking into a compact, Marine Ready, water-resistant chassis — solving the two biggest headaches in custom audio builds: limited real estate and unforgiving conditions.

Power Density, Engineered for the Open Road

Diamond Audio went back to the drawing board to design an amplifier platform that doesn’t flinch when exposed to the elements or squeezed into the tight confines of a saddlebag or console. The result is a masterclass in power density — full studio-grade DSP tuning wrapped in a housing tough enough for the open road, and smart enough to handle the electrical demands of a modern EV or a factory head unit alike.

The NEO Series DSP Amplifier Lineup

• NEO12004DSP – 4-Channel Class D DSP Amplifier (1200 Watts) 300W x4 @ 2 Ohm / 150W x4 @ 4 Ohm, bridged 2 x 600W @ 4 Ohm
• NEO10001DSP – Monoblock Class D DSP Amplifier (1000 Watts) 800W x1 @ 2 Ohm / 600W x1 @ 4 Ohm
• NEO15006DSP – 6-Channel Class D DSP Amplifier (1500 Watts) 250W x6 @ 2 Ohm / 150W x6 @ 4 Ohm, bridged 3 x 500W @ 4 Ohm
• NEO20001DSP – Monoblock Class D DSP Amplifier (2000 Watts) 1600W x1 @ 2 Ohm / 1200W x1 @ 4 Ohm

All four models share a common design DNA: ultra-low distortion (≤ 0.05% THD), staggered RCA connections for cleaner installs, over molded speaker connectors that can’t pull out, a high-current quick-connect removable power block, and 2 RCA DSP-controlled preamp outputs for easy system expansion.

Total Wireless Control — Right From Your Phone

Perhaps the biggest leap forward for the NEO-DSP Series is how riders and drivers interact with it. Every amplifier in the lineup is fully programmable wirelessly through a free companion app for both Android and Apple iOS devices, putting the entire DSP suite — EQ, crossovers, time delay, channel linking, and system configuration — in the palm of your hand, with no laptop or toolbox required.

Talking points for the wireless experience include:

• App-based tuning from any Android or Apple device — adjust the full 31-band parametric EQ, high-pass/low-pass crossovers, slopes, and channel gains right from a phone, trackside or curbside.
• Direct music streaming to the amplifier — the same wireless connection that powers tuning also lets riders stream music straight from their Android or Apple device to the amp, turning a phone into a true all-in-one source and command center.
• Walk-up convenience — no dash-mounted controller required for basic adjustments; riders can fine-tune their system from a phone before a ride or on the fly.
• NEODRC1 Diamond Remote Commander compatible (sold separately) for riders who want dedicated hardware control in addition to the app.
• PC software support is also included for installers and enthusiasts who want deep, desktop-level tuning control during setup.

This combination of pro-level tuning and phone-first convenience is designed to make the NEO-DSP Series as easy to live with day-to-day as it is powerful on paper.

Built for Real-World Installs

Easy OEM integration was a top priority throughout development. The NEO-DSP Series accepts signal inputs up to 20V (high/low level: 20V–0.4V), includes selectable onboard load resistors (10Ω, 20Ω, 60Ω, 20kΩ), and is EV friendly with voltage compatibility from 8–17V. VOX or DC offset auto turn-on rounds out a feature set built to drop into virtually any factory or aftermarket system without complicated workarounds.

“With the NEO-DSP Series, we set out to build the amplifier platform our dealers and customers have been asking for — full studio-grade DSP, real weatherproofing, and total wireless control, all in a footprint that finally respects how little room riders actually have to work with,” said John Catalano, Director of Product Development at Diamond Audio. “Being able to tune your system — or just stream a playlist — straight from your phone is the kind of no-compromise convenience that defines this series.”

Availability

The Diamond Audio NEO Series DSP Amplifiers (NEO12004DSP, NEO10001DSP, NEO15006DSP, and NEO20001DSP) are available now through authorized Diamond Audio dealers. For complete technical specifications or to find a dealer, visit diamondaudio.com or email info@diamondaudio.com.

LONG BEACH, CA (08.18.26) – Aligned Sales & Marketing Group (ASM) is pleased to share a positive update regarding its Founder and Principal, Hazim Jainoor, following a serious medical emergency earlier this summer.

On June 3, 2026, while on a family fishing trip, Jainoor suffered an aortic dissection followed by a stroke and cardiac arrest. After an extraordinary medical journey, he has made significant progress and continues to recover.

While there are still a few hills to climb before reaching a full recovery, his progress has been encouraging, and he remains focused on his health, family, and returning to full strength.

Hazim and his family extend their sincere appreciation to the medical professionals, family members, friends, colleagues, customers, and industry partners who have offered their support, prayers, and encouragement throughout his recovery.

Additional updates regarding Hazim’s return to normal business activities will be shared as appropriate.

ASM looks forward to Hazim’s continued recovery and his return to the business and industry he has dedicated much of his career to.

For more information, email hazim.jainoor@asmgroup-usa.com

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.18.26) – The strength and momentum of the global automotive aftermarket are on full display in the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan, now live on the SEMA Show website (www.semashow.com/floorplan). Spanning the full spectrum of specialty equipment, from performance and racing to trucks, SUVs and off-road, powersports, accessories, tools and equipment, and emerging technology, the layout reflects an industry continuing to innovate, investing with confidence, and preparing to exhibit at this year’s Show.

Exhibitor commitments have already surpassed 1 million net square feet of exhibit space and include more than 2,000 brands ready to welcome a global audience to Las Vegas and the newly renovated convention center Nov. 3-6. Through the support and growth of the aftermarket, the SEMA Show consistently ranks as one of the largest and best attended trade shows in the country.

The floorplan reflects broad-based participation across segments and makes a clear statement about the specialty-equipment marketplace: companies are innovating, launching, and scaling. As the industry continues to evolve, the 2026 SEMA Show is designed to connect buyers with the brands, products, and people driving the aftermarket forward.

“The 2026 SEMA Show floorplan reflects a resilient, growing global aftermarket, one that continues to invest in innovation, product development, and new customer connections,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “What you see on the floorplan is a powerful statement about the industry. Brands are showing up with purpose, and buyers are coming because this is where business gets done and trends take shape.”

Major OEM Participation Adds Momentum to 2026
The 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong participation from major automakers and performance organizations, reinforcing the event’s role as the global meeting place where OEM and aftermarket innovation intersect. Participating OEMs for 2026 include Ford Motor Company, Honda Racing Corp. (Honda/Acura), Mitsubishi, Nissan, Stellantis, (with representation from Dodge, Jeep, and Mopar), and Toyota North America.

“The enthusiast community is central to Ford Motor Company; we are a passion brand in every segment that we participate in. And the way we win with our audience is to meet them where they are, and they’re at SEMA,” said Ford Customization Executive Director Matt Simpson. “We are thrilled this year to increase our investment and presence at SEMA to show off what we’re working on, from our latest Ford Custom Garage offerings, to our growing Ford Racing Parts business, to our heritage crate engines.”

“This year, Ford will engage SEMA enthusiasts on a new level, offering consumers unprecedented opportunities to compete and customize directly with Ford,” said Simpson. “We invite you to visit our booth to connect with our team and partners, and to see firsthand how we are bringing vehicle customization to the masses at an impressive scale.”

Signature Experiences Return – Built for Discovery, Competition, and What’s Next
A strong floorplan is only part of the story. The 2026 SEMA Show will bring back key experiences that drive product discovery, spotlight craftsmanship, and explore emerging trends shaping the industry. The New Products Showcase will highlight the latest launches and solutions across categories. Battle of the Builders will return to celebrate elite vehicle builds and the creativity that defines the aftermarket. The FutureTech Studiowill offer a forward-looking window into advanced vehicle technologies and the ideas influencing what comes next for the aftermarket.

“Attendees are going to feel the momentum the moment they hit the halls: more product discovery, more hands-on experiences, and a layout that makes it easy to navigate and find the solutions they came for,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “Whether you’re here to source new products, meet with suppliers, or see the industry’s best builds and latest tech, 2026 is set up to deliver a week that’s productive, energizing, and inspiring.”

“SEMA Week” Experience: Business First, Public Friday, and SEMA Fest Friday Night
The 2026 SEMA Show will anchor a broader “SEMA Week” experience, beginning with the business-focused trade show early in the week, transitioning to public access on Friday, Nov. 6, and concluding Friday night with SEMA Fest, a signature celebration of automotive culture and music that extends the energy of the show beyond the exhibit halls.

Qualified attendees can secure a SEMA Show badge for $50 through June 26. Attendees are also encouraged to make hotel reservations at the guaranteed lowest available rates through SEMA’s official hotel provider.

While space is limited, high-quality exhibit locations remain available. Visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor or email sales@sema.org for more information.

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

WILMINGTON, DE (06.17.26) – Cars rolled in early on Saturday, August 8th, for the annual ‘The Champ Is Here’ Car Show at the Sound of Tri-State Concord Mall location.

Mario Abston, Store Manager, related “The weather was terrific for the event and nearly 250 cars surrounded our location. Our car shows bring together enthusiast that share ideas and get ideas for upgrades for their vehicles. There were lots of trophies available for the 40 classes of competitors.”

Continuing “Awesome cars, great people and a packed lot made for a terrific day. A huge thank you to everyone who brought out their ride, stopped by and helped make the show an amazing success.”

At the event, Sound of Tri-State offered specials along with swag for attendees.

For more see soundoftristate.com

LOS ANGELES, CA (08.17.26) – Diamond Audio, a premier leader in high-performance motorcycle audio, announced today that its revolutionary 8×12″ Cut-In Lid Kit (Model: MSHMX812F2BKLK24) for 2024 and newer Harley-Davidson touring models is officially shipping to authorized dealers and customers nationwide.

Engineered to set an unmatched benchmark in motorcycle audio output, design, and craftsmanship, this game-changing system delivers extreme volume and deeper bass without sacrificing valuable saddlebag space.

Patent-Pending Design & Unrivaled Cone Area

At the heart of the system is a patent-pending, two-piece waterproof housing design featuring integrated nut inserts to guarantee a rock-solid, weather-resistant fitment. By utilizing a massive 8×12″ coaxial speaker format (HMX812F2BK), Diamond Audio provides riders with the largest surface area available for maximum acoustic output.

Features & Technical Specifications (HMX812F2BK 8×12″ Coaxial System)

High-Output Performance: Rated at 250W RMS / 500W MAX with a nominal impedance of 2 Ohms and a sensitivity of 91 dB (1W/1M).

Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz for powerful low-end punch and extended high-frequency clarity.

Rigid Carbon Fiber Cone: Maximizes air movement and transient response for high-output impact on the highway.

1.5″ Oversized Titanium Dome Tweeter: Engineered for crisp, musical highs that cut effortlessly through wind and exhaust noise.

Ultra-Light Neodymium Motor: High-energy magnet structure paired with MAX XMAX suspension for extreme cone travel at minimal weight.

Weather-Resistant Build: 100% UV-stable, high-temp composite basket, resistant to water spray and salt water.

All-Inclusive Complete System

Every MSHMX812F2BKLK24 kit comes complete with everything required for a seamless installation:

• High-precision cutting templates
• OEM-grade plastics & durable mesh grills
• HMX812F2BK 8×12″ 2-way 2-ohm coaxial speaker pair
• Robust mounting hardware & plug-and-play wiring harness

“With the 2024+ Harley platform, we didn’t just want to make another speaker kit—we wanted to dominate the space,” said John Catalano, Director of Product Development at Diamond Audio. “By combining our 8×12″ coaxial drivers with a patent-pending housing that stands up to the harshest elements, we’re delivering more sound pressure and volume than anything else on the market without compromising bag functionality.”

Availability
The Diamond Audio MSHMX812F2BKLK24 Cut-In Lid Kit is now officially shipping and available through authorized Diamond Audio dealers. For complete technical specifications or to find a dealer, visit diamondaudio.com or email info@diamondaudio.com