CERRITOS, CA (10.15.26) – SoundSkins Global is proud to announce a partnership with Car Toys that brings the full SoundSkins product line to Car Toys locations in Oregon. Customers can now buy SoundSkins and have it professionally installed at five Car Toys stores in Oregon.

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Seattle, Car Toys is the largest independent multi-channel specialty car audio and mobile electronics retailer in America, with more than 40 stores across the western United States.

The partnership covers the complete SoundSkins catalog: vehicle-specific pre-cut sound deadening kits, universal sound deadening and insulation materials like SoundSkins Pro, Classic, Heat Shield, Wavy Foam and more, and vehicle-specific and universal SoundSkins enclosures. Each kit is cut to fit an exact vehicle, so Car Toys installers get consistent coverage with no measuring or trimming, and customers get a quieter cabin and cleaner output from their audio system.

“Car Toys sets the bar for what a specialty retailer should be, from the showroom to the install bay,” said Dennis Garcia, COO at SoundSkins Global. “Having our full line, including our SoundSkins enclosures, stocked and installed at Car Toys locations in Oregon is a major step for SoundSkins in the Pacific Northwest.”

SoundSkins is available at the following Car Toys locations in Oregon:

Store	Address	Phone
Salem	448 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR 97301	503-540-3423
Clackamas	10305 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97086	503-788-5777
Gateway	10209 NE Halsey St, Portland, OR 97220	503-256-0030
Tigard	11710 SW Pacific Hwy #99W, Tigard, OR 97223	503-968-5477
Beaverton	12195 SW Canyon Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005	503-643-0944

For more information about SoundSkins Global and its product lineup, visit www.soundskinsglobal.com.

OZARK, MO (10.14.26) – Creative Audio, an industry-leadi ng car, home, marine, and powersports custom audio retailer headquartered in Ozark, Missouri, announced today the acquisition of Good Vibrations, a premier audio and electronics destination located in Hutchinson, Kansas. The strategic addition unites two multi-decade Midwest audio powerhouses with shared roots in high-performance sound, custom craft, and customer-first service.

Crucial to this transaction is a full commitment to local continuity. Mitchell “Mitch” Meyer, son of retiring founder Bill Meyer, will continue at the helm as Store Manager. Having grown up in the shop and directed day-to-day retail, mobile installation, and home integration operations for years, Mitch will maintain the store’s legacy while steering its next growth phase. Furthermore, Creative Audio is retaining 100% of the Hutchinson personnel, ensuring that every famil iar face—with support from Director of Retail Sales Edmond Sherrod and Home Audio Director Corey Puett— can drive the business forward.

Turning Up the Volume in Kansas
Good Vibrations was founded in 1984 by Bill Meyer, growing over 42 years from a local car stereo and window tinting shop into a regional institution offering remote start, custom wraps, lift kits, and home audio automation. Creative Audio, founded in 1991 in Pittsburg, Kansas, before expanding across Missouri and Arkansas with massive showroom, marine, and
e-commerce operations, shares that exact same Midwestern DNA.

“Bill Meyer built something truly special in Hutchinson—a 42-year legacy grounded in family, passion, and incredible customer loyalty,” said Don Fleury, Owner of Creative Audio. “Main Street Hutchinson feels just like our roots in Pittsburg and Joplin. When you look at what Mitch Meyer and this entire team have built, keeping every single employee wasn’t just a decision—it was the whole point. We are thrilled to welcome Mitch and the full Hutchinson team to the Creative Audio family as we crank the volume up together.”

“Good Vibrations has always been about family, great music, and taking care of people,” said Bill Meyer, Founder of Good Vibrations. “Handing over the keys is easy when you know your crew is taken care of and your son is leading the charge with a group like Creative Audio that lives and breathes the exact same values.”

Seamless Transition & Community Commitment
Over the past 90 days, the location is undergoing a gradual branding transition from Good Vibrations to Creative Audio. Customers can expect zero disruption in service, full honoring of existing commitments, and immediate access to expanded inventory, advanced vehicle integration technology, and deeper technical support.

“Our customers are going to see the exact same technicians and advisors they’ve trusted for years,” added Mitch Meyer, Store Manager. “With Creative Audio’s support behind us, we ‘ll have even better gear, bolder display setups, and broader capabilities in mobile and home electronics than ever before.”

To learn more, click www.creativeaudio.net

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (10.14.26) – Turn up your Jeep. Turn up Music. Defined. Take on every drive with LOUDER PERFORMANCE. The MBQJK-STG2AH-1 STAGE 2 system, MBQJK-28CRGB rear soundbar, and MBQJL-302 tailgate subwoofer give you everything for a complete sound stage right in your Jeep Wrangler JK vehicle.

From undistorted sound quality that brings consistent mids that never back down, to clean treble sound, and heavy bass punch — your Jeep Wrangler JK will be concert-tuned for every road ahead.

To learn more, click here.

The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) celebrated a successful 2026 SPL World Finals season with championship events in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 3–4, and Salem, Oregon, September 27. The Indianapolis finals delivered outstanding performances and new world records across multiple competition classes. The event also featured dB Drag Racing Association (dBDRA) competition, bringing another major name in SPL competition to the weekend. The complete list of IASCA SPL world records and Top 10 results is available on the IASCA website.  Industry participation added to the excitement, with B2 Audio, Slamology, and Sundown Audio represented with vendor booths.

The West Coast satellite event in Salem, presented by Car Toys Oregon, brought together more than 40 competition vehicles and strong support from the Pacific Northwest car audio community. IASCA thanks Car Toys Oregon, KICKER, and Crossover Marketing for supporting the event and helping make it a success.

IASCA thanks all competitors, sponsors, vendors, judges, and volunteers who contributed to both events and helped strengthen the car audio competition community.

The excitement continues in 2027 as IASCA prepares for the 2026 IASCA Sound Quality World Finals at the AXPONA Car Audio Showcase, April 16-18, 2027, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Schaumburg, Illinois. The event will bring the world’s top sound quality competitors together to showcase their vehicles and compete for world championship honors. For event details, official results, and upcoming competitions, visit www.iasca.com.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.13.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast will launch the industry’s premier trade event on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 7 a.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino ballrooms. Highlighting the program is an exclusive fireside chat featuring Jay Leno and Harley-Davidson President and CEO Artie Starrs, setting the tone before Show doors officially open.

This year, Harley-Davidson joins the Show’s expanding Powersports, SxS & Lifestyle section in West Hall, a strategic expansion that underscores the growing intersection between the automotive and powersports communities.

“The SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast gives attendees an early start on the industry’s most critical week of business,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “It’s a dedicated moment to celebrate the people, products, and achievements driving our industry forward, while strengthening the connections that define the SEMA community.”

A central highlight of the Kickoff Breakfast is the presentation of the 2026 SEMA Best New Product Awards, honoring exceptional innovation across 15 categories. Drawn from the New Products Showcase, these awards provide attendees with an advance look at breakthrough technologies shaping today’s automotive aftermarket.

The program will conclude with the announcement of the 2026 SEMA Manufacturer of the Year and 2026 SEMA Channel Partner of the Year awards, honoring two exceptional organizations for outstanding leadership and contributions over the past year.

“The Kickoff Breakfast is designed to energize attendees for a productive week,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “We look forward to uniting the global industry around product discovery, emerging trends, and business growth.”

Exhibitor demand for the 2026 SEMA Show has surpassed 1 million net square feet of indoor exhibit space, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the country, reflecting continued investment and growth across the automotive aftermarket.

Attendees can also experience signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers, and FutureTech Studio, offering a closer look at the trends and technologies influencing the next generation of automotive tools and shop environments.

The 2026 SEMA Show is part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes Friday public access and the high-energy SEMA Fest.

To learn more or register, visit www.semashow.com.

ROSWELL, GA (10.12.26) – Tech Marketing is pleased to announce that Brad Arnold has joined the company as a Manufacturer’s Representative. He brings more than three decades of sales, leadership and business development experience
in the automotive aftermarket and mobile electronics industries.

Brad began his career in 1992 with P&E Distributors, rising from salesperson to a leadership position overseeing the Georgia Division. Throughout his tenure, he helped drive regional growth while building lasting relationships with dealers, distributors and industry partners.

In his new role, Brad will focus on dealer development, expanding business opportunities and strengthening relationships between Tech Marketing’s manufacturer partners and the retailers they serve. His background in sales, purchasing, inventory management and customer retention provides valuable insight into the needs of independent aftermarket businesses.

Brad Arnold commented, “I’ve always believed that successful business is built on relationships. My goal is to be a resource for the dealers, distributors and manufacturers I work with – helping identify opportunities, solve problems and ultimately grow business together.”

Richie Holtzman Rep Principal Tech Marketing commented, “Brad’s appointment reinforces Tech Marketing’s commitment to knowledgeable, relationship-driven representation and dedicated support for its manufacturer and dealer partners throughout the Southeast.”

To learn more, click here.

MURRIETA CA (10.12.26) – GENEVO America announces the appointment of Murfco Inc. as its manufacturer’s representative firm for Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada. The partnership expands local sales representation and dealer support for GENEVO’s premium radar detection and laser protection systems.

Founded in 1985 by Dan Murphy, Murfco is a family-owned firm headquartered in Murrieta, California. The company brings more than 40 years of experience in manufacturer representation, dealer development, and specialty automotive electronics. Its team combines established dealer relationships with hands-on installation knowledge and technical sales expertise.

Through the partnership, Murfco will work with specialty retailers and professional installers to develop GENEVO’s presence across the territory. Its focus on product demonstrations, sales training, and installation support will help dealers present GENEVO systems with confidence and support their customers throughout the ownership experience.

“We’re excited to welcome Dan Murphy and the Murfco team to GENEVO America,” said Dave McKee, Director of Sales at GENEVO America. “Their technical experience, strong dealer relationships, and hands-on approach to support make them a great fit for our brand. We look forward to working together to give specialty retailers across Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada the product knowledge and local support they need to grow with GENEVO.”

Dan Murphy, Founder and President of Murfco Inc., shared his experience with GENEVO:

“Having represented radar detector brands in the past, I’ve learned that the biggest problem with many detectors is false alarms. When a detector constantly goes off for no reason, eventually you stop trusting it, unplug it, and put it in the glove box—and that’s when you end up getting a ticket.

“On a recent trip to Idaho, I had the opportunity to put Genevo to the test in real-world driving conditions, and I was genuinely impressed. The detector remained quiet unless there was an actual law-enforcement radar threat. No constant false triggers, no unnecessary alerts—just reliable performance when it mattered.

“That level of accuracy builds confidence in the product, and that’s exactly what a radar detector needs to do. I’m very excited for Murfco Distribution to represent the Genevo brand and bring these products to our customers.”

The appointment reflects GENEVO America’s commitment to building a knowledgeable representative network and lasting partnerships with specialty retailers. Murfco’s experience with premium automotive electronics and custom vehicle integration supports that commitment at the local level.

Dealers interested in working with GENEVO can contact Dan Murphy at Murfco at (800) 848-6038 or dmurphy@murfco.com, or Dave McKee at (847) 208-5990 or david.mckee@genevo.com.

TEMPE, AZ (10.09.26) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce that attendee registration for the 2027 event is now open, which will take place March 11 – 14 at the Mesa Convention Center and Delta Hotels in Mesa, Ariz. The event brings automotive aftermarket professionals together for elevated training, manufacturer education, live demonstrations, and direct access to the people and products shaping the industry.

“Designed for technicians, fabricators, shop owners, managers, and sales professionals, MasterTech Expo offers top-tier education that attendees can apply in their shops,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “The 2026 Expo was our biggest and most successful event to date, and we expect 2027 to be bigger and better by delivering an even stronger, more impactful experience.”

Attendees can choose any two main education tracks covering high-fidelity audio, advanced fabrication, digital design and CAD, luxury fabrication finishes, business growth, and sales performance.

New for 2027, the HiFi SQ track will feature the IASCA Top 12 sound quality finals and a live orchestra demonstration. An enhanced interactive event app will help attendees connect and navigate schedules, maps, and event updates, while staggered manufacturer training sessions will create an easy workflow.

Pre-workshop class options include Advanced Clean Wire Techniques, Radar/Laser Fabrication, Modern EV Integration, System Tuning & Design, 3D Printing & Additive Machining, and CAD Mastery. Manufacturer-led training adds opportunities to explore products, installation techniques, and real-world applications directly with participating brands.

Beyond the classroom, attendees can experience live competitions during the exhibit each day, including:
• Build-Off Competition
• Clean Wire Challenge
• Panel Light-Off
• Autodesk Fusion / Bambu Printer Contest

The iconic MasterTech Kick-Off Party, including dinner, drinks, music, and networking, will take place the first night of the event on March 11.

Saturday’s Battle of the Bowties Chevrolet Invitational and Car Show adds another attraction to the expo weekend, hosted by Dino from Dinos Git–Down.

In addition, the 2027 Owner Attendance Program gives shop owners another reason to invest in their teams: bring two technicians and the shop owner/manager attends for $250.00.

Registration and additional event information are available at www.mastertechexpo.com. Attendees are encouraged to register early and plan their education selections and hotel stay.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.09.26) – Seven leading automotive and powersports original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will showcase new vehicles, concept builds, performance products and customization experiences at the 2026 SEMA Show, Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Ford Motor Co., Harley-Davidson, Honda Racing Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors, Mopar/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota will connect with the automotive aftermarket and demonstrate how performance, personalization and emerging product opportunities are shaping vehicles across street, track, off-road and powersports applications.

“When an automaker is ready to debut a vehicle, the SEMA Show offers a combination of industry influence, media attention and enthusiast energy that is difficult to match,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Manufacturers are not simply unveiling vehicles here. They are introducing them to the people who will customize, promote and help define what those vehicles can become.”

Ford
Ford Motor Co. is returning to the SEMA Show in a big way, with a showcase celebrating performance, personalization and the creativity of the builder community. From some of its most iconic enthusiast vehicles to a broad range of accessories and performance parts, Ford builds on that passion by giving customers more ways to make their Ford their own. Attendees can expect plenty of inspiration, hands-on experiences and one very big surprise when the Show opens. And when Ford says big, it means big.

“People don’t just buy a Ford; they make it their own,” said Matt Simpson, executive director of Ford Customization. “SEMA celebrates the ingenuity of people who see a vehicle not as a finished product but as a starting point. That spirit has always been part of Ford, and we’re excited to return to the Show under the Blue Oval, alongside the builders, creators and enthusiasts who continue to push what’s possible.”

Harley-Davidson
For its 2026 SEMA Show activation, Harley-Davidson will immerse guests in the culture of self-expression through engaging customization experiences, including custom motorcycle showcases and an elevated garage environment that celebrates the craftsmanship behind custom builds. Anchored by a storytelling installation highlighting Harley-Davidson’s racing and performance heritage, the experience connects the brand’s iconic past with the creativity and individuality that define it today.

“Customization through parts and accessories is core to the Harley-Davidson brand and ownership experience, making the SEMA Show a natural fit,” said Bryan Niketh, chief operating officer of Harley-Davidson Inc. “We’re excited to be part of the expanded Powersports section and look forward to connecting with riders there.”

Honda
The Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) booth at the 2026 SEMA Show will bring together the worlds of two-wheel and four-wheel performance in a dynamic showcase of HRC’s racing heritage and future. Attendees will get an up-close look at championship-winning performance, new original merchandise for sale and authentic HRC Performance Parts developed for street, track and off-road enthusiasts.

The display highlights HRC’s growing product business, including performance products, merchandise and memorabilia. Interactive experiences and special appearances will give fans even more ways to connect with the people, engineering and competitive spirit behind HRC. Attendees can expect a few surprises that demonstrate how HRC continues to turn lessons learned through racing into new possibilities for customers.

“SEMA brings together the people who are most passionate about performance, innovation and personalization, making it the perfect place for HRC to share what we learn through racing,” said Jon Ikeda, senior vice president of Honda Racing Corporation USA. “The HRC display celebrates our championship heritage while offering a glimpse at how that experience can inspire new products and possibilities for Honda and Acura customers.”

Mitsubishi
“Mitsubishi is back, with our bold Momentum 2030 business plan providing the roadmap for our future,” said Mark Chaffin, president and CEO, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. “The plan calls for at least one all-new or significantly revised vehicle every year through fiscal-year 2030, while building a bolder, more distinctive Mitsubishi brand with a stronger identity and presence. At the heart of that future is our four-wheel-drive heritage and an unmatched record of success in the Dakar Rally and World Rally Championship, a legacy that will help inspire the exciting new models to come. Our return to the SEMA Show, with our first official presence since 2012, is more than a return — it’s a stake in the ground for the future of Mitsubishi Motors in America.”

Mopar/Stellantis
“Mopar is shifting the West Hall into high gear with an all-new home, bold concept vehicles, head-turning builds and a few unexpected surprises, all showcasing the creativity, innovation and performance engineering that powers our brands,” said Darren Bradshaw, senior vice president of Mopar North America. “There is no stage like the SEMA Show to ignite our passion for customization and performance, connect with enthusiasts and demonstrate the impressive breadth and depth of our quality-tested, factory-backed portfolio of parts and accessories.”

Nissan
Nissan’s 2026 SEMA Show display celebrates the passion of the enthusiast community with a collection of concept vehicles that blend creativity, capability and customization. Spanning heritage-inspired performance builds, off-road adventurers and motorsports-driven projects, the lineup showcases the spirit of customization that continues to inspire Nissan enthusiasts on and off the road.

Toyota
“SEMA is where creativity, performance and possibility come together,” said Owen Peacock, general manager of Toyota Marketing. “It’s the perfect venue to showcase the versatility of Toyota vehicles and explore what’s possible when imagination meets capability. From everyday driving to the next big adventure and beyond, these builds demonstrate how Toyota vehicles and its portfolio of powertrains and accessories can meet a wide range of needs while inspiring new ways for customers to make them their own.”

“Attendees will find a wide range of manufacturer experiences and where their products are headed into the future, from concept vehicles and custom builds to performance parts, accessories and interactive displays,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. “They will be able to compare approaches, talk with manufacturer representatives and gather ideas they can apply to their own businesses and projects.”

Qualified attendees are encouraged to register now and maximize their ROI. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA’s official hotel provider, onPeak.

Spaces are still available for companies interested in exhibiting and connecting with tens of thousands of qualified buyers. For more information, visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

ROGERS, AR (10.08.26) – Creative Audio participated in Bikes, Blues & BBQ from September 30 through October 3, connecting with motorcycle enthusiasts and providing on-site audio installations at Pig Trail Harley-Davidson.

Throughout the rally, Creative Audio worked with motorcycle audio brands including Cicada Audio, Diamond Audio, Soundstream and Rockford Fosgate. Attendees had the opportunity to explore audio upgrades, discuss equipment options with the team and have systems installed while enjoying the event.

The Creative Audio team helped riders find solutions suited to their motorcycles and listening preferences, bringing its installation expertise directly to the rally. Its presence at Pig Trail Harley-Davidson provided an opportunity to meet customers, connect with fellow riders, and work alongside brands serving the motorcycle audio community.

Creative Audio Team members on site at the crazy busy event included Chris King, Chad Weeden, Jordan Jacobi, Troy Saylor, Austin Chewning, Trevor Thrash, Mike Kane and Curran Hicks.

Creative Audio thanks Pig Trail Harley-Davidson, the participating brands and everyone who stopped by during Bikes, Blues & BBQ. The company appreciates the support and looks forward to connecting with riders at future events.

For more see creativeaudio.net