LIBERTYVILLE, IL (04.28.25) – Prepare to elevate every Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator JT adventure with MB Quart tuned sound. MB Quart Jeep Tuned Mobile Vehicle Kits are only engineered to deliver unmatched volume, clarity, and depth — purpose-built for Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT vehicles.

Have your customers hear more detail, feel every beat, and bring their outdoor journey to life with the precision-tuned performance of MB Quart. Designed for Jeep enthusiasts who demand more — more volume, more detail, and more thrill. Whether conquering the trails or setting up camp
under the stars, these kits bring concert-level audio to the outdoors.

The JC1-169SB is a 6×9-inch coaxial speaker system designed for Jeep® Wrangler (JL) models from 2018 to 2023 and Gladiator (JT) models from 2020 to 2023 – intended as a replacement for the factory rear soundbar speakers. The kit comes with OEM-matching grills, powder-coated mounting plates, and cutout templates to facilitate a seamless installation.

The MBQJ-STG4A-1 is an 800-watt STAGE 4 audio system upgrade designed specifically for Jeep® Wrangler (JL) and Gladiator (JT) models equipped with the OEM source unit. This system includes two 3.5-inch coaxial speakers and two 6.5-inch midbass drivers, all powered by two 400-watt Class-D amplifiers. The design ensures a seamless integration into the vehicle’s existing setup, providing enhanced audio performance without compromising factory aesthetics.

The JC2-169 is a 6×9-inch coaxial speaker upgrade tailored for the rear soundbar of 2024 and newer Jeep® Wrangler (JL) and Gladiator (JT) models. Each speaker features a 1-inch magnesium dome tweeter with a removable phase lens, coupled with a lightweight yet durable pop paper cone infused with a mica blend. The package includes OEM-matching grills and Plug-and-Play wiring harnesses, ensuring a straightforward installation.

The MBQJT-SUBA-1 is a 400-watt dual subwoofer system engineered for Jeep® Gladiator (JT) models from 2020 onwards. It features and includes two 8-inch, 8-Ohm, long-throw subwoofers housed in an HDPE enclosure and designed to fit under the rear seat without compromising space or requiring modifications to the vehicle’s floor mats. Installation is easy, utilizing OEM hardware and providing full access to the vehicle’s jack and top parts.

Experience music like never before with MB Quart Jeep Tuned Audio. Have your customers get ready to unlock the full potential of their sound with Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT Tuned Audio Kits — created to deliver high-fidelity performance that transforms every drive into an immersive sonic journey with Music. Defined. quality sound.

Follow the link HERE to learn about the complete line of MB Quart Jeep Tuned Mobile Vehicle Kits.

ORLANDO, FL (04.25.25) – VOXX Electronics by Gentex Corporation, is pleased to announce that it will be exhibiting its LEATHER CRAFT line of premium automotive upholstery products in Booth #RC22 at the annual Jeep Beach Vendor Show, to be held at the iconic Daytona International Speedway April 25^th-26^th. Jeep Beach is the world’s largest Jeep-exclusive expo and has raised over $4 million for Central Florida-based charities.

Attendees are invited to visit the booth to explore how LEATHER CRAFT can elevate interior style and comfort for Jeep enthusiasts. Product experts will be showcasing their mini demo seats, featuring various samples of their luxury-quality leather, stitching, inserts, paneling, and accents.

Jeep Beach is a non-profit organization that supports numerous local charities, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia & Flagler Counties, The NASCAR Foundation, and The Childhood Cancer Foundation. LEATHER CRAFT is proud to support this meaningful cause at one of the most iconic venues in motorsports history. While there, don’t miss other attractions, including the obstacle course and live DJ experience.

Join LEATHER CRAFT at Jeep Beach 2025 and see what’s possible when premium design meets Jeep performance.

For more information about LEATHER CRAFT by Rosen, VOXX Electronics Corporation, and their range of automotive aftermarket solutions, please visit http://www.leathercraft.pro/ and https://www.voxxelectronics.com.

WASHINGTON, DC (04.25.25) – In a letter to President Donald Trump, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is highlighting the impact of tariffs on the nation’s automotive aftermarket industry–which contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy–along with ways the administration can support domestic manufacturers during this transition period.

“Our primary request is that American automotive parts manufacturers, including our members, be provided a transition period to re-shore their manufacturing, as well as some form of economic relief to assist in that transition,” writes SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “That relief could include tariff exemptions for things like molds, tooling, and machinery brought back to the U.S., as well as tax incentives to offset the associated costs.”

The letter also sheds light on impacts that the Trump Administration might not be aware of, including those experienced companies that want to bring their operations back to the U.S., as well as ways domestic producers of steel and aluminum are making it hard for Made in America companies to stay competitive.

Read the letter.

SHREVEPORT, LA (4.24.25) – Many teens today don’t want to get their drivers license’s as soon as they can. In today’s digital and AI world so many teens, and adults, spent hours on their smart phone each and every day. Many do this in the comfort of the bedroom in rheir home. In speaking with 12volt retailers the 12volt Central Studios staff has learned that many retailers are not seeing as many young customers as in the past. In fact, one retailer recently mentioned, he had not seen a person under 30 years old in his store in a month.

For decades, many teenagers wanted to get their driver’s license as soon as possible, add a stereo system and get on the streets around town. In today’s world with social media, DoorDash,and Uber available many teens don’t seem to see the need to get out on the street as before. Also, in speaking with many fathers, they mention the expense of the automobile today, the price of gasoline plus the cost of insurance on top of actually purchase cost of the car. Recently 12volt Central Studios staff bumped into to an article posted on CNN that detailed reasons why many teens are delaying getting the driver’s licenses for two or three years after they turn 16.

Please check out the article below that details why teens are not getting their drivers licenses as soon as they could.

For many middle-aged and older people, getting a driver’s license was their first taste of long-awaited freedom –– and one they seized as soon as they could.

But many of today’s teens are putting off this rite of passage, data shows.

Nearly 40% of teens delayed getting their license by one to two years, and 30% delayed by more than two years, according to a 2020 study led by Dr. Federico Vaca, professor and executive vice chair of the department of emergency medicine at the University of California Irvine Medical School.

This continues a trend over the last 20 years: Between 2006 and 2015, the number of high school seniors with a driver’s license dropped from 81% to 72%, according to a 2017 study.

It may seem mind-boggling to adults who have been driving for decades that anyone would delay such a milestone, but it makes sense given the economic and mental health concerns surrounding teens, Vaca added.

Still, putting off getting a driver’s license may have impacts on teens safety as well as their development of independence, experts say.

Here’s what parents need to know.

Click to continue reading this article by Medeline Holcombe on CNN.com

This 12volt Central Studios staff member could not wait to get his license in 1961 and start driving his Mother’s red Corvair convertible.

NEW YORK, NY (04.24.25) – SiriusXM announced its coverage plans for the 2025 NFL Draft and will give listeners across North America access to the live announcements of every pick from every round as NFL teams select their next generation of stars, April 24-26, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Live coverage will air on SiriusXM NFL Radio (channel 88) Thursday, April 24 and Friday, April 25, starting at 7 pm ET and Saturday, April 26, starting at noon ET. SiriusXM will cover all 32 teams’ selections through all seven rounds, and SiriusXM hosts will conduct interviews with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, draftees, general managers and coaches.

SiriusXM NFL Radio’s NFL Draft broadcast team will be anchored by Jason Horowitz. SiriusXM’s expert analysts will be former NFL scout, coach and front-office executive Pat Kirwan, former NFL quarterback Jim Miller, former coach Rick Neuheisel, and former NFL running back Jacob Hester.

Immediately following the conclusion of SiriusXM NFL Radio’s Draft broadcast each day, the channel will have live call-in shows where fans can share their reactions and discuss their favorite team’s picks. Bill Lekas, Kirk Morrison, Fozzy Whitaker, Zig Fracassi and Leger Douzable will host these post-Draft shows.

Throughout the week, SiriusXM will cover the NFL Draft across multiple channels with varying perspectives, including SiriusXM NFL Radio, SiriusXM College Sports Radio, SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio, Mad Dog Sports Radio, and the SportsGrid and VSiN channels.

Live programming on these channels each day gives listeners access to the latest news, analysis from pro personnel experts on team needs and players that could improve rosters, and interviews with prospects, NFL executives and coaches.

In addition to SiriusXM NFL Radio’s live Draft broadcasts, SiriusXM will have other live programming originating from Green Bay this week.

On Wednesday, April 23, Jacob Hester and E.J. Manuel will host a special SiriusXM NFL Radio show live from the NFL Play Football Draft Prospect Clinic and Community Event in Green Bay from 11 am – 1 pm ET. The show will feature one-on-one interviews with several of the NFL Draft prospects in attendance.

Hester, Manuel and Kris Budden will host SiriusXM College Sports Radio shows live from the Stadium View Sports Bar in Green Bay on Thursday, April 24 and Friday, April 25 starting at 7 pm ET and airing through the final selection both of those days.

Visit www.siriusxm.com for more.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (04.23.25) – DD AUDIO is proud to introduce the PLE-112.1, a loaded enclosure featuring a 100 Series, 12 inch subwoofer powered by an integrated 400 watt monoblock. The PLE-112.1 was designed for performance with an emphasis on ease-of-use.

The precision tuned enclosure is made from 18mm MDF, incorporates a flared port, and is finished in black carpet with DDA embroidery. The 100 Series, 12 inch subwoofer features a high strength, high excursion motor with a rigid, non-pressed pulp cone for tight controlled bass response. The amplifier is a compact 400 watt RMS integrated monoblock using discrete outputs on a traditional DD style heat sink to ensure long-term cool runnings. It also comes with a remote control, allowing the user to adjust the balance of their sound palette on the fly.

Check out the PLE-112.1 and the entire line of sub enclosures, available to buy online or locally at an Authorized DD AUDIO Dealer.

JASPER, IN (04.23.25) – Meyer Distributing is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of its top manufacturing partners with the announcement of the 2024 Vendor of the Year Award winners. These annual honors celebrate excellence in product innovation, supply chain performance, and strategic collaboration across a wide array of categories within the Meyer portfolio.

“We’re excited to announce our 2024 Vendor of the Year award winners,” said Cody Ziegler, VP of Sales for Meyer. “Each year presents new challenges and opportunities. How we proactively capitalize on these opportunities relies heavily on a solid relationship, dedicated people, effective communication, and well-thought-out marketing programs. Brand integrity, enforcement of pricing policies, profitability, availability, marketing participation, and data quality are additional factors taken into consideration. As a family-owned-and-operated business, we realize how meaningful it is to recognize standout partners. Congrats to all the winning manufacturers!”

Bruce Terwiske, VP of Purchasing for Meyer, echoed the excitement, adding, “We are excited to congratulate this year’s Category Vendors of the Year for going the extra mile to be innovative with programs designed to ensure their lines are positioned for success within the Meyer Distributing portfolio of products. Meyer Distributing and its entire staff is appreciative of all vendor partners and the long-standing relationships we have built. We understand the importance of our vendor partners as being integral and the cornerstone of our overall success.”

2024 Meyer Distributing Vendor of the Year Award Winners:

• Truck Accessory Brand of the Year: Westin Automotive
• Performance Brand of the Year: Powerstop Brakes
• Tire & Wheel Brand of the Year: Method
• RV & Towing Brand of the Year: Dometic
• 4×4 & Off-Road Brand of the Year: Bilstein
• Commercial & Fleet Brand of the Year: Weather Guard
• Outdoor & Recreation Brand of the Year: GCI
• Industrial Supply Brand of the Year: Performance Tools
• Vehicle Detail & Protection Brand of the Year: Covercraft
• 12V & Audio Brand of the Year: Metra Electronics
• Marine Brand of the Year: Bob’s Machine
• Powersport Brand of the Year: Odyssey

Meyer Distributing extends its sincere appreciation to all vendor partners for their continued support and commitment. Together, we look forward to building on this momentum and achieving even greater success in the years ahead.

Visit www.meyerdistributing.com for more.

ARVADA, CO (04.22.25) – Mobile Electronics Specialists of America (M.E.S.A.) is proud to announce the appointment of its new Board of Directors. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for the organization, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, member success, and long-term strategic growth.

Appointed to the M.E.S.A. Board of Directors are James Alexander (New Hampshire), Kevin Cornutt (Oregon), Nathan Dunn (Tennessee), Vikas Moolchandani (New York), and Nick Paulson (North Dakota).

These industry leaders bring a wealth of knowledge, fresh perspective, and a shared passion for advancing the 12-volt industry. With a focus on innovation, adaptability, and future growth, this Board is well-positioned to help guide M.E.S.A. and its members through the evolving landscape of the industry.

The new Board will lead key initiatives including vendor promotions, national marketing campaigns, M.E.S.A. Summit planning, and exploration of emerging product categories. In addition, they will play an active role in guiding M.E.S.A.’s marketing direction and broader evolution—helping shape the future of its programs, initiatives, and impact within the 12-volt industry.

As part of this transition, M.E.S.A.’s former Board of Directors will now serve as the newly established Executive Team, which will focus on vendor program development, financial planning, membership growth, and long-term organizational direction.

“Our new leadership structure gives us the best of both worlds—fresh energy and ideas from our incoming Board, combined with deep-rooted experience and strategic oversight from our Executive Team,” said Ryan Gunter, Executive Director at M.E.S.A. “Together, this unified leadership approach positions us to boost our programs, strengthen our partnerships, and better serve our members as we shape the future of the 12-volt industry.”

As M.E.S.A. continues to grow, this dynamic leadership model ensures the organization remains agile, innovative, and aligned with the needs of its members.

Visit mesadealer.com for more.

HOLLY HILL, FL (04.22.25) –  Metra Electronics has begun shipping the state-of-the-art all-in-one audio systems that were unveiled at SEMA. Created in collaboration with VIBE Audio, these comprehensive audio kits include everything needed to install a premium aftermarket audio system in one convenient package. They are engineered for seamless integration and exceptional sound performance, with every component working harmoniously to deliver unparalleled sound quality and ease of installation. Vehicle applications available now include:

• Non-amplified 2024-up* Jeep JL (JP-PPKT-1)
• Amplified 2024-up* Jeep JL (JP-PPKT-2)
• Non-Amplified 2018.5-2023 Jeep JL (JP-PPKT-3)
• Amplified 2018.5-2023 Jeep JL (JP-PPKT-4)

In addition, a system designed to fit the BOSE amplified 2019-2025 GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado (GM-PPKT-1) will be shipping soon. More applications will be released in the future.

These kits combine VIBE’s premium amplifiers, a set of hand-picked VIBE speakers that complement the acoustics of each specific vehicle, VIBE subwoofers and enclosures, and Metra products that make installation easy, including vehicle-specific plug-n-play amplifier interfaces, pre-tuned to provide best-in-class audio performance. All necessary power and vehicle-specific mounting accessories are included for straightforward installation. The GM-PPKT-1, JP-PPKT-2, and JP-PPKT-4 are designed for amplified vehicles and include amplifier installation harnesses that bypass the factory amplifier and utilize OE speaker wires to minimize wiring.

*Visit the Vehicle Fit Guide at MetraOnline.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific information.

TORONTO, ONTARIO (04.21.25) – The Stinger family of brands made a commanding impression at this year’s CMA Expo in Toronto, with an impressive presence that showcased innovation, performance, and dealer support. Front and center at the booth was Matthew Palumbo from Stinger, who engaged with Canadian retailers and guided them through an elaborate display packed with the company’s top-selling gear and exciting new additions.

The New AudioControl Altitude Series amplifiers drew plenty of attention for their clean design, smart engineering, and impressive sound quality—features that have made them a hit with dealers and installers alike. Joining them this year is the all-new Epic Series, a cost-effective lineup of compact amplifiers designed specifically to help retailers compete with aggressive direct-to-consumer brands. Despite their small footprint, these amps deliver serious performance and value, giving 12-volt pros a powerful new tool in their arsenal.

But it wasn’t just about amplifiers. Canadian distributor GEMSEN expanded its offering of Stinger family brands, now including RaceSport Lighting. The lineup of products, including the impressive new ColorTrail series, offers an eye-catching solution that brings dynamic RGB lighting to any ride and can even be directly controlled from any Stinger HORIZON series head unit. Also added were several new PAC integration modules and harnesses, giving installers even more flexibility when tackling complex vehicle platforms.

One of the standout moments of the Expo was the GEMSEN-sponsored AudioControl/PAC training, which drew a crowd of over 100 attendees, filling the room to standing room only. The session covered integration solutions, new products, and sales strategies, with feedback from dealers overwhelmingly positive. Stinger’s Director of Training, Matthew Palumbo said, “CMA Expo 2025 was a resounding success for Stinger. Foot traffic in the booth was steady and the training sessions were packed beyond capacity. This truly continues to be one of my favorite shows to exhibit and train at, because the attendees are respectful, punctual, engaged, and interested in what we’re training on. The attendees aren’t just coming to the show to get free t-shirts and swag, they’re genuinely there to learn and it absolutely shows.”

Another hot topic at the show was Stinger’s vehicle-specific subwoofer enclosures featuring AudioControl subs. Retailers were especially excited about how these solutions blend OEM fitment with aftermarket sound quality—helping close sales with a cost-effective solution that offers incredible performance. 

With its growing lineup, new competitive price points, and unwavering support for the 12-volt community, AudioControl and the broader Stinger family made one thing clear at CMA Expo 2025: they’re not just keeping up—they’re leading the charge.

Visit stingersolutions.com for more.