Industry

MTX Audio Announces New Polaris RZR Audio Kits and Components Available for Pre-Order

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PHOENIX, AZ (01.31.22) – MTX Audio, of the MiTek Electronics and Communications Group, is announcing pre-order for their new audio kits and components for Polaris RZR Pro XP Side-by-side vehicles is now available through their website and authorized dealers. The new products are compatible with all 2020 and newer models.

The four main Thunder audio kits consist of three and five speaker options with power coming in at a thundering 1000 watts RMS for vehicles equipped with and without the Polaris Ride Command system. These complete audio solutions feature all wiring and hardware needed to quickly get you behind the wheel enjoying the industry-leading sound quality and trail tested durability you’ve come to expect from MTX Audio.

In addition to these, MTX is also offering two OE add-on audio kits that can expand or improve an existing factory audio system. First is the add-on subwoofer kit that comes complete with a loaded 10” ported subwoofer enclosure, 600-watt monobloc amplifier, amplifier mounting system and complete plug and play wiring. The second is the rear speaker kit to add a set of 6 1⁄2” coaxial cage mount speakers with integrated RGB lighting. This kit includes the speakers, mounting hardware, RGB lighting controller, plug and play harness and OE interface.

Also available for pre-order are the new PROXP-20-FS front component speakers with integrated RGB lighting and the PROXP-20-SW subwoofer enclosure for the same series of vehicles. The front speaker system features an all-weather 6 1⁄2” midrange driver preinstalled in a rotationally molded enclosure that mounts in the factory location beneath the dash. Combined with that is a high output, soft dome tweeter that mounts in the existing housing on the top of the dash. These components have been engineered to maximize your audio experience without sacrificing legroom or sound quality while riding. The PROXP-20-SW features a high output 10-inch subwoofer in a high mounted, ported design that installs in the dash. The enclosure is intended to be coupled with the MUD600-1 mono-block amplifier and features a front firing design to maximize bass output. The port allows it to produce deep vibrating bass while the high mount placement prevents water intrusion in most riding applications.

With an expected shipment time of mid-March, you won’t want to delay in getting yours secured today and be the first in your group to show off the next best audio solution in UTV audio systems. For more information and to find an MTX dealer near you visit them at www.mtx.com.

PowerBass Shipping The New BT-50 SoundCube

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ONTARIO, CA (01.28.22) – What better way to enjoy your favorite tunes when not in your car than with PowerBass’ new BT-50 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This portable speaker has built-in 1200 man Li-ion battery for hours of play while at the beach, camping, at home, or even at a party. Recharge the unit with the supplied USB charge cord and let the music play!

The new BT-50 portable Bluetooth speaker features FM radio, SD card, is true wireless stereo and waterproof design IPX7.

Packed with great features such as bluetooth, FM radio, SD card, and hands-free calling, the BT-50 also comes equipped with TWS pairing for True Wireless Stereo playback. Connect 2 separate BT-50 Sound Cubes together for an immersive stereo sound experience or share your tunes with a friend while out on a hike. The adventures never have to end with your PowerBass Sound Cube!

The BT-50 PowerBass Sound Cube is bluetooth-ready and will pair with most bluetooth devices such as iPhone, iPod, android and more. It provides a hands-free microphone so you can also take calls while enjoying tunes.

Do you want to listen to your favorite local radio station or catch the big game while relaxing at the pool? The BT-50 has a built-in FM radio tuner! If you are hosting a party with a playlist, this device has you covered as well. Simply slide your SD card into the BT-50 and let your playlist roll!

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

PowerBass Shipping New BT-200 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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ONTARIO, CA (01.27.22) – What better way to enjoy your favorite tunes when you are not in your car than with PowerBass’ new BT-200 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This portable speaker has dual built-in 1500 man Li-ion batteries for hours of play while at the beach, camping, at home, or even at a party. Recharge the unit with the supplied dual USB-A to USB-C charge cord and let the music play!

“This new BT-200 is pretty darn cool and sounds great,” stated David Holland, Shiflet and Dickson GM, pictured in the Gastonia NC showroom.

The PowerBass BT-200 SPLIT takes TWS True Wireless Stereo to a new level when you remove the rubber bumper protector and SPLIT your BT-200 into two speakers! Place them across the room or on each side of your pool or anywhere within 30 feet to completely surround yourself and your friends with this new modular stereo sound.

The BT-200 splits into two pieces for stereo and features passive radiators for enhanced bass.

The BT-200 PowerBass SPLIT is bluetooth-ready and will pair with most bluetooth devices such as iPhone, iPod, android, and more.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

SEMA Offers Exclusive Professional Development Training for Future Leaders

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.27.22) – A new Professional Development Program launched by the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN, formerly Young Executives Network, YEN) is helping aspiring leaders in the automotive aftermarket reach greater levels of success. Sponsored by FLN in partnership with Dale Carnegie, the two-day, in-person program focuses on improving individual and business performance and is available exclusively to FLN members at a significant discount.

“The SEMA Future Leaders Network is committed to helping aspiring leaders advance in the industry,” said FLN Chair Nick Caloroso. “Partnering with a world-class organization such as Dale Carnegie is just one example of what we are doing to invest in the membership. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to participate in the Dale Carnegie Training, and I’m excited that other FLN members will have access to the program as well.”

While Caloroso’s employer, Driven Lighting Group, supported his participation in the Dale Carnegie Training, most aspiring leaders in the industry do not have such opportunities. To make the training attainable for all employees, including junior level executives and those from small businesses, FLN is subsidizing 50 percent of the cost of the training, plus offering free hotel and meals for two days, two nights to a limited number of members.

“It’s important to invest in training, and the Dale Carnegie Program is among the best that is available,” said Brian Reese, current CEO of T Sportline and Caloroso’s employer at Driven Lighting Group at the time of the training. “Nick has always been a terrific leader and team member, but the Dale Carnegie program has given him greater skills and knowledge to become an even better leader. He’s learned strategies and tactics that many seasoned professionals have yet to learn.”

The program, which will take place in March 2022 in Diamond Bar, California, will teach participants to:

  • Communicate professionally and confidently in business situations
  • Engage others by building rapport, asking pertinent questions, and listening
  • Build relationships and deal effectively with people in a multitude of scenarios
  • Gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward
  • Use emotional controls to sustain success

The program is available at half of Dale Carnegie’s regular fee and includes complimentary meals and hotel accommodations for two nights. (Cost for the program is $1,600 direct from Dale Carnegie.) Participants will also need to arrange their own travel to the event.

The program is limited to 25 FLN members, but any SEMA member company employee aged 40 and under can apply for FLN membership at no cost. Individuals interested in learning more can visit pages.message.sema.org/FLN-Profession-Development/ or contact Denise Waddingham, FLN Director, at deniselw@sema.org

Nominations Open for 2022 SEMA Hall of Fame

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.26.22) – Nominations for the 2022 SEMA Hall of Fame class are open at www.sema.org/hof

Induction to the Hall of Fame is the most prestigious award presented to an individual by the association and honors the pioneers who have contributed to the growth of the automotive aftermarket over a long period of time.

March 18 is the deadline to submit nominations for the 2022 SEMA Hall of Fame, which honors the pioneers who have contributed to the growth of the automotive aftermarket.

“Our industry is fueled by nothing short of passionate and hard-working individuals. The SEMA Hall of Fame honors those whom without, our industry would not be what it is today,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA VP of Councils and Membership. “Our industry’s input in the selection process is an invaluable asset to the association in identifying deserving hall of fame inductees.”

Since its inception in 1969, 165 individuals have been inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame.

Click here to see the full list of inductees.

In any given year, it’s not unusual for three or four people to earn induction.

Nominations are open until March 18, 2022, and can be submitted here.

Questions can be directed to Chris Standifer, Project Manager-Recognition Programs, at chriss@sema.org, 909-978-6692.

Visit www.sema.org/hof for more.

P&E Distributors, Inc. Founding Partner Passes Away

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NASHVILLE, TN (01.25.22) – J. D. Eatherly, age 92 of Nashville, TN passed away peacefully in his favorite chair with his wife and grandson Josh by his side on Saturday January 22, 2022. He was Born and raised in Clarksville, TN and was the son of the late Jesse William and Douglas Serenia Chester Eatherly. He was preceded in death by his son, Steve Eatherly and step-daughter, Pam White.

When J.D. left the Marine Corps in the 40’s he went to Detroit and started working for a Rayco Auto Service franchise installing seat covers and vinyl tops. Shortly after that they opened a Rayco franchise store in East Nashville TN in the early 50’s and he transferred from Detroit to Nashville to be closer to home. In the late 50’s they opened a second Rayco Franchise downtown Nashville. It was there that in the early 1960s J. D. saw the need for a speed shop in Nashville, TN and started his own business known as Rayco Racing Division.

As the company started to grow, it later became Tennessee Speed Sport in 1962. The business continued to grow and in 1967 he incorporated P&E Distributors, dba Tennessee Speed Sport. All through the 1970’s and into the 1980’s the wholesale division of the company flourished and still continues today. He was an avid NASCAR fan. J. D. was also a very successful Real Estate Developer in his retirement and he was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

Survivors include his wife, Daisy Duke Eatherly of Nashville, TN; children, Sandy Cantrell (Gary) of Bell Buckle, TN, Donnie Eatherly (Donna) of Hendersonville, TN, Sue Ann Jennings (Al) of Lebanon, TN; step-children, Barry Burnette, Vickie Corbitt, Rhonda Burnette (LeAnne Searcy) and Martene Beasley all of Nashville, TN; daughter-in-law, Darcy Eatherly; step son-in-law, Barry White; many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Thursday January 27, 2022 at 3 PM from the Chapel of Taylor Funeral Home with Bro. Steve Baggett officiating. Place of rest will be in Dickson County Memorial Gardens. Visitation with the family will be Wednesday January 26th from 2 to 8 PM and on Thursday from 12 PM until time of service.

Those desiring memorials may be made to Glaucoma.org, Autismspeaks.org, NationalMSsociety.org or Fightingblindness.org.

Masters Car Stereo Wins SiriusXM Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 162

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.25.22) – WTF… Win This Friday. Masters Car Stereo won the SiriusXM prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 162 on Friday morning, January 21st.

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 has now rolled into year 4.

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 162nd time on Friday morning January 21st. The Wheel landed on the SiriusXM space and the Masters Car Stereo 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 Masters Car Stereo and gave Chris Hansen the good news that a SiriusXM Tuner would be headed their way.

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, AIS, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and USASpec. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a 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 and Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, January 28th.

Elite Electronics Named KICKER 2021 Dealer Of The Year South Central Region

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MILWAUKEE, WI (01.24.22) – Elite Electronics, based in Milwaukee, recently was named KICKER 2021Dealer of the Year for the South Central Region. Area representative Tom Ebeling, Tree Associates, presented owner Muhammad Choudhry with the award certificate at a dinner recently.

Tom Ebeling and Muhammad Choudhry (R) with the Elite Electronics KICKER 2021 Dealer of the Year South Central Region certificate. Mohammad Armand behind the lens.

“Elite Electronics has received the KICKER Dealer of the Year for this territory multiple times. He and his staff operate a very proactive store in Milwaukee that draws from across the surrounding area. They have been a very supportive KICKER dealer for well over a decade and put customer satisfaction at the top of their daily objectives,” Tom Ebeling related.

Choudhry commented to The 12volt Central Studios, “The KICKER brand supports our company with products that provide the features and performance consumers are looking for today. We have been a KICKER dealer for well over a decade. KICKER is working very hard to supply inventory in this current challenging marketplace. Additionally, they back everything up with excellent service and Tom at Tree is definitely very supportive. We look forward to a very strong 2022 with an eye to receiving the next KICKER of the Year Award for this region.”

Tom Ebeling, Tree Associates,  is flanked at dinner by Muhammad Choudhry (R) from Elite Electronics and Mohammad from Armando Sounds. At the dinner Elite Electronics received the KICKER 2021 Dealer of the Year Certificate.

Ebeling, based in Chicago, works very closely with dealers across his territory. At the dinner where he presented Elite with the KICKER award they were joined by Mohammad Armand. His 12volt store, Armando Sounds in Chicago, has also received a KICKER Dealer of the Year award.

Concluding, Ebeling offered, “Armando Sounds will soon be relocating to a new location three times the size of their current store. Both of these dealers are great retailers that represent the future of our business. Elite Electronics represents the best in Milwaukee and Armando Sounds represents the best in ChicagoLand.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Synergy Marketing Agency to Represent Dynamat

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HOUSTON, TX (01.24.22) – Synergy Marketing has been a appointed to represent Dynamat in the Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana territory effective January 3rd 2022.

David Toliver in his Houston office with the Dynamat Rep Kit he received on Saturday, January 22nd.

David Toliver, Synergy Marketing Principal, stated, “Synergy Marketing is excited and will work to revive the Dynamat business in the territory in Home, Marine and 12volt Markets. We will work with Dynamat distributors Wave Electronics on the home side, SSR on the 12volt side plus retailers across the territory. I received my Dynamat rep kit on Saturday, January 22nd, and am set to hit the road in the territory.”

Dynamat acoustic and thermal solutions reduce unwanted noise, heat and vibration which enhances the enjoyment of music and comfort for people in home, office, on the road, waves and trails.

Continuing Toliver offered “Dynamat is expanding its lineup of Custom Cut Kits and already has products for Tesla, Challenger, Bronco, F-150 and many more late model muscle cars… Harley Kits too.”

Synergy Marketing Agency is committed to partner with ONLY the best in class manufacturers that offer unique solutions and value for distributors, dealers, and end users. Check out their website for more at www.synergyagency.net.

Visit dynamat.com for more.

N&H on the Road at PowerSports Dealers

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HATTIESBURG, MS (01.21.22) – N&H Electronics is a proactive distributor based in Hattiesburg MS that distributes PowerBass in their territory. PowerSports is a hot category for PowerBass and on Thursday, January 20th, N&H staff member Van Lee was on the road making sales calls with UTV dealers in the area. Outdoor PowerHouse in Denham Springs, LA was the first stop of the day.

Van Lee related, “The key to driving all audio sales is for a customer to actually hear the music. The PowerBass SoundBar countertop display is ideal for a Powersports dealer to let their customers to hear the music in their showroom. Outdoor PowerHouse in Denham Springs is a perfect example. In their showroom they have a Polaris wall display. A PowerBass SoundBar display is on a shelf on the display.”

Van Lee (R) – N&H pictured with Josh Sewell at Outdoor PowerHouse in Denham Springs LA. The PowerBass SoundBar is placed on the Polaris rack display.

During the sales call Lee spent time with Josh Sewell covering the latest PowerBass products for PowerSports applications.

During a call with the 12volt Central Studios Sewell let it be known he is a real fan of the PowerBass SoundBar. “I have one on my Kawasaki and it rocks. My sister also has a Kawasaki with another brand of soundbar and she wants mine. The customers in the store like to hear the PowerBass SoundBar on the display play music from their phones. OEM systems for UTV’s cost a lot more plus roofs can be $4,000 or more. For me the PowerBass SoundBar plays loud and gets it done.”

Concluding, Lee stated, “We have several PowerBass SoundBar countertop displays placed with PowerSpots dealers like Outdoor PowerHouse and also with companies that sell golf carts.”

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP of Product Development & Global Marketing, stated, “N&H has been a longtime supporter of our brand and a great distribution partner for us. We are always happy to see distributors out supporting the dealers that support our brand. This is the true definition of team work amongst our PowerBass partners!”

Visit nandhelectronics.com and powerbassusa.com for more.