LONG BEACH, CA (05.20.25) – JVC’s Direct Replacement receivers are now officially shipping, giving installers a smarter way to upgrade factory audio systems — without the hassle of custom dash work. First shown at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas 2025, this new product line is designed for today’s vehicles, with a clean fit, premium features, and seamless integration.
And now, with iDatalink Maestro APX kits also shipping, the full solution is in dealers’ hands. Built around a T-Harness type installation made possible by iDatalink Maestro APX, JVC’s Direct Replacement receivers mount directly into factory dash locations and connect to OEM harnesses — no cutting, crimping, or soldering required.
Now Shipping: • KW-Z800AW – Clean, modern design with powerful features • KW-Z1000AW – Larger display and expanded performance
About the New iDatalink Maestro APX Kits: • 12 kits cover all supported vehicles at launch, giving dealers fewer SKUs and more install flexibility • Each kit includes metal mounting brackets to adapt to factory dash points • Includes vehicle-specific T-Harness wiring for true plug-free, streamlined installation • Requires the ACC-HU-KEN-1 harness to enable full direct-connect capability
Key Product Features: • Factory-Look Integration with support for over 50 million vehicles • Hi-Res Audio, Split-Screen CarPlay/Android Auto, Modular Chassis, and more • Bright 8″ and 10″ HD displays deliver a high-end look and feel • Designed to install quickly — and look like it’s always been there
“The combination of our Direct Replacement receivers and the new iDatalink Maestro APX kits gives dealers the tools they’ve been asking for,” said Steve Cote, Director of Sales for JVC Mobile Entertainment. “It simplifies the install, expands compatibility, and preserves the factory look customers love.”
JVC’s ready. iDatalink Maestro’s ready. The next chapter in in-car integration has officially begun.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.20.25) – Maxxsonics is poised for higher success in 2025 with the addition of new Regional Sales Manager — Chris Brinkley. With over two decades of experience in the car audio and mobile electronics industry, Chris Brinkley brings a deep and extensive background in (B2B) sales, installation, training, marketing, vehicle-specific integration, and brand development — along with a deep passion for the mobile audio space.
“I have an extensive background in some of the newest technologies in our industry and hope to help grow the passion, excitement, and drive the popularity of the entire family of Maxxsonics car audio brands,” said Brinkley.
“I am excited to be joining the Maxxsonics team — between the four different brands and their amazing story and history, I couldn’t be happier. I’m looking forward to building awareness and showing how good of a partner Maxxsonics can be for its dealers and distributors,” concluded Chris.
Chris Brinkley
Chris’s career began in 2001, and from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2014 to 2022, he served as a manufacturer’s representative covering the TX, OK, LA, and AR territory. In 2022, he transitioned into a larger direct role with another car audio manufacturer, where he was instrumental in sales strategy, technical training, marketing efforts, and overall brand growth. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Chris is uniquely positioned to support a diverse customer base and provide exceptional service across multiple regions.
Over the years, Chris has built strong relationships with dealers and distributors through his hands-on approach, technical expertise, and industry presence.
“Chris has the experience, energy, and industry knowledge we value. He’s joining a team of real enthusiasts and hitting the ground running with a product lineup that continues to gain momentum — from our Jeep and Tacoma STAGE Kits to the strong performance we’re seeing in car audio with Hifonics and Crunch,” said Eddie Ramirez, Maxxsonics National Sales Manager.
Chris Brinkley is expected to play a key role in enhancing Maxxsonics’ market presence, strengthening dealer and distributor relationships, and driving growth across all brand platforms. Known throughout the industry as @caraudiochris, his passion for the category and commitment to dealer success make him a valuable addition to the Maxxsonics team.
“We’re thrilled to have Chris join the Maxxsonics family,” said Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics. “His technical expertise, bilingual communication skills, and passion for the industry make him an outstanding asset to our team. We’re confident that Chris will make an immediate impact and help us take our sales and customer support efforts to new heights.”
Chris Brinkley’s addition to the Sales team reassures Maxxsonics’ commitment to investing in top-tier employee and sales talent to support its growth and innovation initiatives across the mobile audio industry landscape.
Maxxsonics continues to grow its presence across both aftermarket and OEM markets, investing in people, products, and partners to drive long-term success.
Follow the link for complete details on Maxxsonics and their entire family of audio brands. https://maxxsonics.com/
DALLAS, TX (05.19.25) – The timing was perfect for SSR Distributors to introduce and showcase the new Banda Car Audio lineup at the Show in Dallas on Sunday, May 18. During the event other breaking Banda news was David Toliver, Synergy Marketing, was announced as the new Banda Car Audio rep firm for Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
David Toliver-L and Tom Fritschi are in the booth ready for action at the SSR Distributors show yesterday.
Tom Fritschi, National Sales Manager, flew in from North Carolina to showcase the company’s broad lineup, introduce David, connect with dealers and the SSR Team in addition to hosting product trainings.
Tracy Farr with a Banda Amp and literature in this Dallas office.
SSR’s Manny Castillo holds a top Banda amplifier with the entire family from J&M Car Customs in Dallas who attended the family friendly SSR Show.
“David’s professionalism and caring for the customer with a ‘do whatever it takes to get the job done’ makes him the perfect choice for Banda” Fritschi stated.
Tracy Farr, SSR VP of Sales and Operations, related, “We had been looking at the Banda line for some time and a few weeks ago deecided to move forward as a distributor in the territory. The timing was perfect with our show just a few days after our first order arrived. The products were very well received on the show for and dealers took advantage of some of the specials that we had at the show.”
Dealer turn out for the Sunday show was very strong as dealers checked out over 40 brands on the show floor, attended training sessions, enjoyed networking while they had great burgers from the food truck. Being a family affair many dealers brought their wives and family to add to the enjoyment for the day.
Banda Car Audio is a family owned company in Sao Paulo Brazil. Amplifiers and Sound Processors are stocked in the Miami FL warehouse. Banda is now celebrating 24 years and makes everything they bring to market.
Watch for much much more coverage on the SSR Distributors Dealer Show 2025 the coming days.
Great images from Tom and David from the SSR Show.
TORRANCE, CA (05.16.25) – Rydeen Mobile is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo (PNWCEE), taking place May 19–21 at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton in Seattle, Washington.
“We’re thrilled to connect with industry professionals in the Pacific Northwest,” said Ruben Torres, Director of Sales at Rydeen Mobile. “This region is a key market for 12-volt electronics, and PNWCEE is the premier event for meeting dealers, installers, and manufacturers. We’re proud to showcase Rydeen’s latest innovations and demonstrate our commitment to providing high-quality, cutting-edge solutions for the mobile electronics market.”
As one of the leading events in the region, PNWCEE offers a unique opportunity for industry professionals to explore new products, network with top brands, and stay up to date on the latest trends. Rydeen Mobile will be showcasing its newest mobile electronics offerings, with hands-on displays and expert support available to attendees.
Rydeen’s New Products:
**OED-01** – is a dash cam with 1080P HD recording and HD video output for optional PV8 digital mirror monitor, 140° wide-angle lens, app control, and loop recording. Including Wi-Fi connectability to your smartphone APP.
**R10X-SPL** – offers a 4K/2K front camera, waterproof rear camera, HDR night vision, time laps recording and Wi-Fi for real-time streaming.
**R10-SPL** – features a 10-inch touchscreen, 1080P front camera, and IP67 waterproof rear camera with night vision.
**PV8-A** – 8.2″ OEM style ultra-bright digital rearview mirror with a high-definition AHD backup camera, delivering real-time HD video and enhanced safety with a 110° field of view.
**PV8-B** – sharp edge styleultra-bright digital rearview mirror with a high-definition AHD backup camera, delivering real-time HD video and enhanced safety with a 110° field of view.
Rydeen’s Best Seller:
**TOMBO360X** – 10-inch frameless touchscreen rearview mirror with 4K dash cam, 360° surround view recording, proximity sensor, blind spot indicator compatibility, and full installation kit for enhanced driving safety and monitoring.
The event provides Rydeen Mobile with an excellent platform to strengthen relationships, expand its presence in the region, and engage with professionals across the mobile electronics industry.
For more information about Rydeen Mobile products or to inquire about partnership opportunities, please visit www.rydeenmobile.com.
KUNKLETOWN, PA (05.16.25) – The founder of 1sixty8 media, Mitch Schaffer, is launching a new division aimed squarely at solving one of the most frustrating challenges facing mobile electronics retailers today: the overwhelming workload that comes from running a small business without enough help.
Mitch Schaffer
The new venture, 1sixty8 AI, is designed to help shop owners reclaim their time, reduce costs, and increase profits through smart, practical automation. By identifying and automating the everyday tasks that drain time and resources, 1sixty8 AI delivers solutions that streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.
“I’ve owned and worked with mobile electronics shops for more than thirty years,” says Schaffer. “I know exactly how exhausting it is to handle every little task while trying to grow your business. With 1sixty8 AI, we’re making automation accessible, affordable, and totally tailored to how shops actually work.”
Unlike one-size-fits-all platforms, 1sixty8 AI offers hands-on consulting, fully custom solutions, and ongoing support, helping retailers adopt automation at their own pace. The result: more consistent operations, fewer dropped balls, and more time to focus on what matters.
1sixty8 AI is now offering initial consultations to mobile electronics retailers across the United States.
ORLANDO, FL (05.15.25) – VoxxElectronics is excited to announce that they now have an Installation Solution available to add their VOXX SmartTV Seatback Systems to the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ and 2025 Cadillac Lyriq vehicles!
In the tech bulletins below, you’ll find instructions on modifying the Smart TV Seatback System’s mounting hardware to enable them to fit these vehicles.
Not yet familiar with the Smart TV Seatback Systems?
Our Smart TV Seatback Systems feature Dual 10.1″ HD Touchscreens, built-in Wi-Fi™ so your customers can stream their favorite content, and are available with and without DVD players.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.15.25) – More detail. Harder beats. Colossus Classic speakers. Colossus Classic speakers deliver more details to layers of audio while preserving the core of quality playback – undistorted music. Delivering highs that are much more defined and consistent mids throughout any genre – sound will feel refreshed through Colossus Classic speaker technology. Get ready to hear more of your audio!
The entire line of Hifonics Colossus Classic speakers features a wide range to choose from when building that perfect speaker setup for your audio system. 1-inch aluminum dome tweeters deliver high output and extend frequency response while keeping music reproduction feeling natural and smooth. Feel every beat in crisp clarity and sharpness throughout any low, mid, and high.
MEMPHIS, TN (05.14.25) – As Memphis Audio celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025, the company is proud to announce the launch of a bold new chapter: a transition to an independent, audio-only entity with employee ownership. Effective immediately, Memphis will operate as a standalone brand, solely focused on 12-volt and home audio innovation—and led by the same team that has propelled the brand’s momentum in recent years. This transition formalizes what’s already been true: the people running Memphis are fully invested in its future—and now have the ability to take full ownership of where the brand goes next.
Originally founded in 1965, Memphis Audio has operated as a family-owned business for the past six decades. With the recent retirement of its long-time owner and no succession plans within the family, the company is now in the process of transitioning to a fully employee-owned model. Nick LoMonaco, who has served as President, has assumed an ownership stake and will expand his role to CEO/President—guiding Memphis through this next chapter alongside the employee team.
“For the past several years, the entire industry has seen what this group of people can do. From product innovation to stronger dealer relationships, from unforgettable trade show experiences to the passion our brand inspires—every bit of that has been driven by the same dedicated employees and sales team that are now taking Memphis to the next level,” said LoMonaco. “This transition gives us the freedom to invest where it matters most: more innovation, better communication, faster distribution, stronger sales and marketing support, and a healthier, more reliable inventory strategy. We’re committed to keeping key SKUs and top-selling products in stock and ready—because our dealers should never be waiting on what sells. We’re building on everything that’s worked—with more energy, more clarity, and full control of our future.”
Memphis Audio has always been a force in the 12-volt world, but until now, it operated within a larger corporate structure with shared resources across unrelated industries. Those constraints created bottlenecks and workflow challenges that ultimately hindered productivity and growth. Over the last several years, however, the company has naturally expanded into the home audio space with the launch of SixFive Audio, its architectural and landscape audio division. That success created a clear path forward: focus entirely on audio and give the team full control to push the brand to new heights.
As the head of product development, Brad Diedrich sees the transition as a powerful opportunity to innovate and deliver on performance like never before. The added freedom to test, refine, and elevate Memphis products will allow the company to respond directly to dealer feedback and design future-forward solutions with even greater speed and precision.
On the marketing front, Head of Marketing Blake Franchini shared that the team is developing a brand-new dealer portal with instant access to specs, images, and marketing content—alongside a redesigned, consumer-facing website built to drive foot traffic directly to dealers. With an expanded content strategy that includes high-end video production, real-world install demos, and multi-platform ad campaigns, Memphis is positioning itself to expand reach and reinforce dealer support in new ways.
The operational structure remains rooted in Memphis, Tennessee, with warehousing and distribution continuing locally. The team will maintain a remote work model while building toward a hybrid approach—combining flexibility with a dedicated facility to support testing, training, and growth.
According to Head of Sales Ellis Mathis, the future is about more than just great products. With renewed energy across Sales, Customer Support, and Product Development, the company is focused on delivering a seamless experience for dealers—one that prioritizes accessibility, speed, and long-term value.
Memphis Audio’s 60-year legacy has been built by passionate audio professionals, loyal dealers, and a relentless drive to push the envelope. This new era isn’t a reinvention—it’s a re-energized evolution. With sharper focus, stronger leadership, and full control over its future, Memphis is doubling down on what it does best: delivering the sound, service, and support that set it apart.
BOCA RATON, FL (05.14.25) – ZZ2, a leading innovator in automotive integration, in-vehicle entertainment, and fleet safety solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Opus Marketing Group as its exclusive sales and marketing representative for the Mid-Atlantic region, covering New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.
This strategic partnership represents a key step in ZZ2’s national growth initiative, reinforcing its commitment to providing dealers with cutting-edge technology, profit-generating solutions, and exceptional customer support. In addition to its core offerings, ZZ2 continues to expand its impact with a growing portfolio of safety lighting solutions designed for commercial fleets and high-visibility applications.
“Opus Marketing Group has a strong reputation for successfully representing top-tier 12-volt brands and delivering outstanding service to their dealers,” said Justin Martin, Eastern Regional Manager at ZZ2. “Their market insight and established relationships make them an ideal partner as we increase brand visibility and support in the Mid-Atlantic market.”
“We are excited to represent ZZ2 and introduce their full product offering—including their expanding line of safety and visibility products—to our dealer base,” said Jamie White, Principal at Opus Marketing Group. “Their focus on high-quality, solution-oriented products empowers dealers to deliver more value, close more sales, and support a wide variety of customers. We’re looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”
Dealers in the Mid-Atlantic region interested in learning more about ZZ2’s product lines or becoming an authorized dealer can contact Opus Marketing directly:
CANTON, GA (05.13.25) – Greg Wallace and Brian Cargile, formerly with AVR Inc. and The Progressive Group, have launched a manufacturer’s rep firm named “3 Phases Marketing” to service dealers in the Southeast states of Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina.
“3 Phases Marketing was created out of the necessity for parody in the rep force. With very few rep firms in the territory, we feel that vendors are looking for alternative options that will be able to better represent their products with a more focused approach,” said Wallace.
With over 40 years of combined experience in the 12volt industry, Brian and Greg have represented numerous brands throughout their careers and have an extensive knowledge of the territory and deep-rooted relationships with the dealers in the Southeast.
3 Phases Marketing is currently representing Epsilon, Harman and Wavtech in the Southeast. “We are very fortunate and beyond excited to be able to partner with these vendors as we pursue our goal of providing exceptional service to both the vendors and dealers in the territory,” said Cargile.
For more information about 3 Phases Marketing and their representation, please contact sales@3phasesmarketing.com.
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