EDMOND, OK (03.26.26) – On April 8th from 11–1, Petra will host its annual Beats & Bites Car Audio Event, a customer appreciation day, dedicated to the 12-Volt community.
At the event, attendees will enjoy free BBQ lunch sponsored by DB Drive, along with drinks and dessert provided by Pioneer. The event will also feature exclusive one-day deals on some of the top car audio brands that Petra retailers rely on every day.
Retailers who attend will have the opportunity to connect with Petra team members, meet with representatives from DB Drive and Pioneer, plus learn about the latest products, technology, and trends in car audio. The event will also include giveaways throughout the day, including a 65” TV and other popular car audio and tech items.
Ed Lacy, District Manager and 12-Volt expert at Petra, shared, “This event is all about our customers. We want to give installers and retailers a chance to enjoy some great food, learn about new products, and take advantage of special deals we only offer during events like this. It’s a great opportunity to connect with our customers and the brands that help drive their business.”
WASHINGTON, DC (03.26.26) – The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) today announced its relaunch with an expanded advocacy strategy, enhanced research capabilities, and a renewed commitment to coalition-based action to protect the future of the off-road industry and enthusiast community.
With a focus on powersports and dirt bikes, as well as trucks and SUVs, ORBA’s core mission – to serve as the off-road business community’s leading advocate on issues affecting access, recreation, and responsible land use – remains unchanged. What is new is a more rigorous, data-driven approach that includes regional economic impact reports, consumer research, and deeper collaboration across the outdoor recreation ecosystem.
“No single organization can achieve our advocacy goals alone,” said ORBA leadership. “The future of off-road access depends on strong coalitions, shared expertise, and coordinated action. We are always stronger together. Thank you to all who have taken the time to provide us important guidance and insights as we developed the future of ORBA, including many members of SEMA’s TORA community and local and regional OHV advocates.”
By combining SEMA’s government affairs expertise and storytelling capabilities, and the reach of the enthusiast-driven SEMA Action grassroots network, ORBA will support and strengthen the work of nonprofit partners operating at the local, state, and regional levels. These organizations bring critical on-the-ground expertise that is essential to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the off-road community.
As ORBA enters a new chapter, the organization remains focused on advancing its mission through strong advocacy, collaboration, and responsible stewardship of public lands. Sean P. Holman has been named Interim Executive Director and Laura Butcheras Legislative Director. Karen Bailey-Chapman, SVP of Public and Government Affairs for SEMA, will continue to lead the organization’s strategy implementation. Fred Wiley will retire from his role with ORBA, marking the conclusion of his tenure with the organization. Wiley played a significant role in ORBA’s history and development, and we thank him for his years of service and dedication to the off-road business community.
What’s Ahead for ORBA
As part of its relaunch, ORBA outlined several priority initiatives already underway:
Protecting Access to Public Lands ORBA will continue to monitor and provide formal comments on administrative, state, and federal actions that impact access to public lands. Current efforts include ongoing engagement related to the Western Mojave (WEMO) plan, Johnson Valley, and Moab’s Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan, with additional projects expected in the months ahead. Additionally, ORBA will increase its work educating legislative staffers, political appointees, and other policy-related organizations about the threat to public lands access and the economic impact trail closures would have on the U.S. economy and, importantly, U.S. automotive manufacturing.
Supporting Federal Legislation that Preserves Motorized Access to Outdoor Spaces ORBA has joined other partners in support of the federal Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act (S. 2968), the Public Lands Access Restoration Act (H.R. 7979), and expanded funding for the Recreational Trails Program. Advancing these legislative efforts will be among the key priorities during SEMA’s upcoming Washington Rally in Washington, D.C.
Continuing the EcoLogic Partners Collaboration ORBA will maintain its partnership with EcoLogic Partners – a coalition that includes ORBA, American Motorcyclist Association District 37, and the American Sand Association – to challenge actions that threaten access to public lands. Most recently, SEMA and EcoLogic Partners jointly funded successful litigation against the California Coastal Commission’s attempt to close OHV access at Oceano Dunes.
Launching Regional Economic Impact Reports While national data demonstrates the economic significance of outdoor recreation, ORBA is focused on arming policymakers and the off-road community with localized data. The organization plans to complete four regional economic impact reports across geographically diverse areas of the United States in 2026 and 2027, highlighting the off-road industry’s role as a critical economic driver in local communities.
Expanding Coalitions and Partnerships ORBA does not exist to replace the work of other organizations in the off-road community. Instead, ORBA’s role is to support, amplify, and collaborate – whether through joint legislative initiatives, shared advocacy efforts, or by working with business members to educate customers and vendors about emerging threats and opportunities from government and special interest actions.
ORBA will strategically align efforts with SEMA’s Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) council.
Stewardship and Education Land stewardship and driver education are foundational to the long-term health and credibility of the off-road recreation community. Responsible use of public lands protects the environments that make off-roading possible, helps preserve access for future generations, and demonstrates to land managers and policymakers that enthusiasts are committed partners – not adversaries – in conservation. Driver education plays a critical role by teaching best practices such as staying on designated trails, minimizing resource damage, respecting wildlife and other users, and understanding local rules and conditions.
Together, stewardship and education reduce conflicts, prevent closures driven by misuse, and strengthen the community’s voice when advocating for continued access. Simply put, protecting the land and educating those who enjoy it are essential to keeping off-road recreation sustainable, respected, and accessible.
Looking Forward With new tools, deeper partnerships, and a renewed focus on collaboration, ORBA is positioning itself to be a more effective advocate for businesses, enthusiasts, and the lands that make off-road recreation possible.
Upgraded Membership Benefits Government affairs and advocacy remain the core competency of ORBA and a significant reason for business members to invest. We have upgraded the membership benefits to include regular communications, sponsored brand content across ORBA and SEMA Action Network digital channels and access to consumer research tools, and more.
Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President, Public and Government Affairs
Karen Bailey-Chapman is SEMA’s Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs, where she oversees all government affairs efforts for SEMA and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) and leads programs related to legislation, regulations, and government policies on issues affecting emission regulations, consumer choice, business opportunities, and more. Bailey-Chapman is passionate about exploring off-road spaces, often in her easily identifiable yellow Jeep, “Bananana.”
Sean P. Holman, Interim Executive Director
Sean P. Holman is a longtime automotive enthusiast and veteran off-road journalist who worked for Motor Trend Group for nearly 20 years, eventually overseeing content for the company’s Truck & Off-Road Group as its group content director. Holman is president of the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association, as well as co-creator and host of The Truck Show Podcast with Holman.
Laura Butcher, Legislative Director
Laura Butcher has worn many hats in the off-road community, including as owner/CEO of VORRA (Valley Off-Road Racing Association), program manager for Tread Lightly!, executive director of Farmy’s Off-Road Park, and board member for the Nevada Off-road Association. Butcher is a 2024 inductee in the Off-road Motorsports Hall of Fame, a testament to her lengthy career as an industry advocate and enthusiast.
SAWYER, MI (03.24.26) – The Mobile Electronics Competition Association (MECA) recently concluded a high-impact judge training session in Sawyer MI reinforcing its commitment to technical precision and industry-wide collaboration.
Bud and Shannon Ballinger conducting the MECA Judges trading.
Commitment to Consistency A group of nine dedicated participants attended the session, including new recruits entering the judging ranks and veteran officials completing their biennial updates. The primary objective of the training was to ensure consistent judging standards across the organization, a vital component in maintaining MECA’s reputation for fair and accurate competitive evaluation.
Industry Support & Team Building In a show of industry solidarity, Brett Barnes of Prodigy Audio was in attendance to support the MECA team. Barnes’ participation focused on team building and leadership, bridging the gap between manufacturer expertise and competitive officiating. His involvement underscores the importance of a unified industry front in elevating the car audio experience for competitors and fans alike.
The “MECA Family” Atmosphere Highlighting the community-driven spirit of the organization, the training was hosted by Bud and Shannon Ballinger. To promote a collaborative and relaxed environment, the Ballingers hosted the event in a local Airbnb rather than a traditional classroom. This unique setting was chosen to foster the “MECA family” atmosphere, encouraging mentorship and a shared passion for mobile electronics.
Consistency is the heartbeat of what we do,” said a MECA representative. “By bringing our judges together with industry leaders like Brett Barnes in a setting that feels like home, we ensure they are not just learning the rules, but also the culture of integrity and family that MECA stands for.”
For more information on upcoming events or to learn how to get involved, visit www.mecacaraudio.com
DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.24.26) – The SEMA Show has officially issued the “First Call” for automotive aftermarket manufacturers aiming to secure their footprint at the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nev. Companies looking to take advantage of Priority Space Selection should submit their exhibitor applications by the March 27, 2026, deadline.
The SEMA Show remains the premier global event for automotive aftermarket, and the Priority Space Selection process is the best way for exhibitors to influence their specific location on the floor plan. With more than 153,000 attendees, 2,600 media and content creators, and 70,000 buyers and decision-makers expected to attend in 2026, the demand for high-visibility real estate is expected to be at an all-time high.
“The SEMA Show floor is more than just an exhibit space; it’s a strategic asset for brands,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice president of Events. “Submitting by the March 27 deadline ensures that our partners have the best opportunity to position themselves in front of the global buyers and media that define this industry.”
Why the March 27 Deadline Matters:
Priority Ranking: Applications received by this date are assigned a selection time based on seniority points.
Strategic Positioning: Early applicants get first pick of hall placement, corner spots, and high-traffic corridors.
Integrated Marketing: Early registrants gain immediate access to SEMA’s promotional tools and pre-Show media opportunities.
Following the March 27 priority deadline, the space selection process will begin. While the SEMA Show will continue to accept applications after this date, those submitted by the deadline are guaranteed a position in the initial selection queue to secure their preferred location on the 2026 Show floor.
MESA, AZ (03.23.26) –The MasterTech Expo 2026 once again proved why it is the premier hands-on event for aftermarket fabrication, installation professionals, and shop owners. With more than 40 educational sessions, high-energy live competitions, and attendees representing 15 countries across six continents, this year’s event, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., set a new benchmark for innovation, craftsmanship, and community.
“From intensive training workshops to nonstop networking and live demos, the 2026 expo brought together the industry’s top fabricators, technicians, and manufacturers for a weekend focused on advancing skill sets and pushing creative boundaries,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This year’s revamped Build-Off format and elevated competition structure drove massive engagement both on the show floor and across social media. The combination of real-time fabrication, expert-level execution, and audience interaction created a dynamic environment unlike anything else in the industry.”
Standout Competitions Take Center Stage
Two major competitions captured the attention of attendees and dominated social media conversations throughout the weekend.
The MasterTech Build-Off headline event featured a high-stakes live fabrication battle sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. Two teams of three competed over sever total hours (3.5 hours per day) to design and build a fully finished subwoofer enclosure, complete with trim panels, lighting, and fine installation details.
Massive HD screens broadcast every cut, adjustment, and design decision, creating an immersive, high-adrenaline experience for spectators. Hats off to both the Red and Silver teams—true brotherhood was formed. With an incredibly close margin in voting, the Silver Team took home the top honor.
Special recognition goes to Dalton Trainer, Austin Moore, and Chris Britton—all under 32, representing the next generation of elite fabricators making a serious impact on the industry.
Over two days, eight competitors for the Clean Wire Challenge were tasked with building a fully customized amp rack in just 3.5 hours, using materials and equipment supplied onsite by leading manufacturers, including Stinger and SoundsGoodStereo.com. The completed builds were displayed for attendee voting, showcasing precision wiring, creative layouts, and execution at the highest level.
2026 Winner: Pablo Cruz
Industry Awards Recognize Excellence
The expo celebrated outstanding achievements across the industry: • Clean Wire Tech: Isai Hernandez • Fabricator of the Year: Dave Koz, Titan Motoring (Nashville, Tenn.)
Recognized for advanced, high-end builds and integration of 3D modeling techniques. • Lifetime Achievement Award: Andy Wehmeyer, President of AudioFrog
Honored for decades of influence, including 17 years at Harman and leadership as one of the industry’s foremost DSP experts. • Best Sounding Vehicle 2026: Orca Design & Manufacturing, built by Sage Weir (Sounds Good Stereo, Mt. Juliet, Tenn.)
Honorable Mention — third-time award recipient • Best Training Experience: MSC • Best Booth Experience: MSC
Global Reach and Industry Impact
MasterTech Expo 2026 welcomed distributors and dealers from around the world, including: United States · Canada · Mexico · Puerto Rico · Peru · Germany · Italy · United Kingdom · South Africa · Taiwan · The Philippines · Malaysia · Singapore · Australia · New Zealand
This international presence continues to reinforce the expo’s role as a global hubfor knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaboration.
A New Standard for Live Experience
The Clean Wire Challenge further highlighted the importance of precision and craftsmanship, delivering continuous inspiration for technicians at every level.
Looking Ahead
With record energy, growing international attendance, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, MasterTech Expo continues to raise the bar for what an industry event can deliver.
LOS ANGELES, CA (03.23.26) – Massive Audio is spotlighting the H82XX, an 8-inch Hippo Series subwoofer built for enthusiasts who want serious output, durability, and musical control in a compact format.
2.5″ dual 2-ohm voice coil for flexible wiring and strong thermal handling.
170oz dual-stacked strontium motor with vented back plate and basket for heat dissipation.
Cast aluminum basket, heavy-duty triple tinsel leads, and direct input wire connection.
Kevlar-reinforced cone, fiberglass woven dust cap, foam surround, and 15mm X-max for controlled excursion.
90.1 dB sensitivity with sealed and ported enclosure guidance available in the user guide.
“The H82XX was built for listeners who want serious low-end response from a compact woofer without giving up musical accuracy or daily reliability.” – John Velez
Built for Real-World Installs The H82XX brings the Massive Audio Hippo Series approach to an 8-inch format that works well where space matters. Its motor strength, cone rigidity, and cooling design help deliver clean, authoritative bass for custom builds, daily drivers, and output-focused systems alike.
Dealer and Product Information For product details, enclosure guidance, and dealer inquiries, visit Massive Audio or contact your Massive Audio sales representative John Velez. H82XX is part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to high-performance audio solutions built for enthusiasts and professionals.
Aaron and Jacob –STILLWATER, OK (03.20.26) – KICKER strengthened its commitment to technical education by visiting Franklin Technology Center in Joplin, Missouri, on February 19. KICKER Training representatives Aaron Malin and Jacob Luckey conducted an interactive session with automotive students as part of the SkillsUSA national workforce program.
KICKER’s Aaron Malin (left) and Jacob Luckey conduct class at FTC in Joplin.
This was the second time KICKER has partnered with instructor Joe Flynn’s class in the last three years. The session included an overview of KICKER, fundamentals of car-audio systems, listening demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Students assisted in setting up the KICKER’s SkillsUSA amplifier and subwoofer training rigs. Several pairs of KICKER earbuds were awarded as prizes to participating students.
Jacob assists – KICKER trainer Jacob Luckey (center) helps students with their project.
“We enjoy working with the students at the technical schools,” Malin said. “Many don’t know that car audio can be a very exciting and lucrative career. Everyone loves music!”
Flynn, the automotive mentor at Franklin Technology Center, noted, “Our students had a great opportunity to learn from Aaron and Jacob, who taught them the science behind mobile electronics and the proper way to wire and set up an audio system for the best performance.”
KICKER’s outreach highlights the company’s dedication to inspiring the next generation of mobile-audio enthusiasts and professionals. Through such initiatives, KICKER aims to showcase the rewarding opportunities in the car-audio industry and support hands-on learning in automotive technology programs.
MIAMI, FL (03.19.26) – Orion Car Audio is turning up the pressure on the 12V industry with the launch of five new high-output bass processors: XTR-BP25, XTR-BP20, HCCA-BP35, HCCA-BP30, and CBP10 — built to deliver maximum output, cleaner signal, and real-world results that sell on the spot.
Designed for today’s performance-driven market, every unit in the lineup features 10V pre-amp output, pushing a stronger, cleaner signal to amplifiers — translating into harder-hitting bass, tighter response, and noticeably louder systems with minimal noise.
This isn’t just an upgrade — it’s an instant, demo-ready difference your customers will hear immediately.
BUILT ACROSS THREE DOMINANT SERIES: XTR • HCCA • COBALT
XTR-BP25 — BASS RESTORATION THAT SELLS ITSELF
Engineered to recover low frequencies lost in compressed audio, making it a must-have add-on for streaming-based systems. Perfect for fast upgrades and easy attachment sales.
XTR-BP20 — TOTAL CONTROL, ANY BUILD
From tight punch to deep low-end, this processor gives installers complete tuning flexibility across any setup — making it a go-to solution for custom systems.
HCCA-BP35 — PURE SIGNAL POWER
Built on Orion’s legendary HCCA platform, delivering high-output signal strength for serious builds and high-performance customers who demand more.
HCCA-BP30 — PERFORMANCE YOU CAN SEE
Combines aggressive 10V output with a real-time voltage display, adding both function and visual impact — a premium upsell driver.
CBP10 — COMPACT, PROFIT-DRIVEN PERFORMANCE A high-value digital bass processor designed for entry-to-mid-level systems, delivering immediate improvement in output and clarity. Small footprint. Big sales potential.
WHY THIS LINE MOVES PRODUCT FAST
10V pre-amp output = instant system upgrade your customers can hear
Built for streaming-era audio (bass restoration is no longer optional)
Covers multiple price points — from entry to high-performance
Perfect add-on to head units, amps, and subwoofer packages
Fast, easy upsell that increases ticket size on every install
Backed by Orion’s proven brand power
This lineup isn’t just about performance — it’s built to help dealers close faster, sell bigger systems, and maximize every install.
STILLWATER, OK (03.19.26) – KICKER’s new KMFC65 and KMFC8 coaxial tower systems crank out serious mid-bases and high frequency volume, cutting through wind and waves! These flat mount marine speakers deliver loud, high fidelity sound was strong bass that keeps the party going strong on the water.
The new models come with stylish grills featuring 7-color LED lighting and are available in black or white to match the boats color perfectly. Built tough with UV treated polypropylene woofers and Santoprene surrounds the tower speakers mount easily to flat surfaces with hidden wiring for a clean professional look.
CAMARILLO, CA (03.17.26) – SSV Works announced the launch of its new Plug-&-Play Rear-Seat 10″ Subwoofer Add-On Kit engineered specifically for the 2026 Polaris RZR Pro R factory audio system.
For 2026, Polaris introduced an 8-channel, 1500-watt factory amplifier and pre-ran a rear subwoofer output harness to the rear seat area. SSV Works designed this kit to take advantage of that factory layout, creating a true add-on solution that drops under the rear driver-side seat and plugs directly into the factory rear subwoofer output, with no wire routing, no dash teardown, and no fabrication. The result is a fast, clean upgrade for Pro R owners who want more bass from their factory system without committing to a full aftermarket audio build.
“Not everyone wants to go all-in on a complete aftermarket kit, but a lot of riders still want the low-end the factory system is missing,” said Kelson, Marketing Director of SSV Works. “This add-on is the smart middle ground. You keep the factory audio system, and you get a noticeable bass upgrade in about 20 minutes.”
Designed for real off-road use, the rear-seat enclosure delivers deep, hard-hitting bass while staying tucked away and protected. Because the Pro R already has the rear sub output in place, installation stays simple and cost-effective, making it an ideal next-step upgrade for factory-audio Pro R owners.
“This is the kind of upgrade dealers love because it sells itself,” added Kelson. “If you have Pro R Ultimate’s sitting on the showroom floor, this is a perfect solution to install ahead of time. Customers hear it once and it helps close the deal.”
Key Features
• Built specifically for the 2026 Polaris RZR Pro R factory audio system
• Plug-&-Play connection to the factory rear subwoofer output harness
• Drops into the cavity under the rear driver-side rear seat
• No wire run, no cutting, no fabrication, and no dash access required
• 20-minute install for a fast, high-impact upgrade
• Limited Lifetime Warranty
• A cost-effective way to add more bass while keeping the factory amplifier and system intact
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