CHICAGO, IL (01.27.25) – AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), the largest high-end audio event in North America, is excited to announce the debut of its Car Audio Showcase at the 2025 edition, which will be held from April 11-13 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. In partnership with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA), AXPONA is expanding its footprint to include the growing trend of high-fidelity car audio, offering car enthusiasts and industry professionals a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge car audio systems and innovations.

“The Car Audio Showcase is a groundbreaking addition that taps into the increasing demand for high-fidelity audio systems in vehicles. As in-car audio technology has evolved dramatically over the past decade, car audio enthusiasts are looking for the same clarity and precision they experience in their home systems,” said Liz Smith, AXPONA. “The Car Audio Showcase will bring these high-end systems into the spotlight, offering attendees an immersive experience like never before.”

“We’re thrilled to be part of AXPONA’s inaugural Car Audio Showcase. Our IASCA team can’t wait to demonstrate the incredible potential of car audio and show the world what’s possible when passion, precision, and technology come together. We’re redefining expectations of automotive sounds and encourage seasoned audiophiles and novices to swing by the showcase for a demo session,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA.

A New Level of Sound at AXPONA

This year’s Car Audio Showcase will feature a thrilling Sound Quality (SQ) competition, live demonstrations, and interactive exhibits highlighting some of the best in-car audio technology from top-tier manufacturers and dealers from around the world.

AXPONA’s live Sound Quality (SQ) competition will feature manufacturers and consumers who will compete for top honors in achieving unparalleled sound clarity and precision in custom-built car audio systems. Competition vehicles will be on the expo floor in a designated area and also be available for spectator demos throughout the show.

Attendees will be able to engage directly with leading car audio brands and see their innovations up close. With interactive displays and hands-on demonstrations, visitors will witness the performance and capabilities of cutting-edge products firsthand. Notable exhibitors include:

Apex USA
Audio Wave, USA
Coherence Systems
ESB Audio
Delorean
Harman International
Malbork
Zapco
Open to the public, AXPONA offers a variety of ticket options for attendees.

TICKETS:

1 Day – $30 online, $35 onsite

Multi-Day – $60 online, $95 onsite

Gen Z Pass – $15 online, $20 onsite

All general admission tickets grant access to the exhibits including Listening Rooms and Exhibit Hall, as well as educational seminars, live music, and special events.

AXPONA opens Friday, April 11 10am-6pm; Saturday, April 12 10am-6pm; and Sunday, April 13 10am-4pm.

For more information on ticketing and ticketing options, please visit www.axpona.com/register.asp

OXNARD, CA (01.24.25) – BOSS Elite, a leader in aftermarket car audio systems, proudly announces its newest line of car headunits is now fully compatible with iDataLink Maestro interfaces. This exciting development allows drivers to retain critical OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) features while upgrading to a cutting-edge, large-screen aftermarket stereo system.

“We’re thrilled to bring this new level of versatility to our customers,” said Matthew Delgado, BOSS Elite Director of Sales. “This collaboration with iDataLink Maestro ensures that our large-screen headunits don’t just enhance the driving experience with superior audio and visuals, but also preserves the convenience and functionality of the factory-installed features that drivers rely on.”

The new BOSS Elite headunits (BE14ACP.WX, BE12ACP.WX, BE10ACP.WX, BE9ACP.WX, BE7ACP.WX) are designed to deliver a seamless integration experience, combining advanced functionality with an easy-to-use interface. Thanks to the iDataLink Maestro compatibility, users can now enjoy enhanced control over their factory-installed systems, including vehicle diagnostics, climate controls, and steering wheel audio functions.

Key Features of the New BOSS Elite iDataLink-Ready line include:
• iDataLink Maestro Compatibility: Retains OEM features such as vehicle settings, factory camera views, and steering wheel controls.
• Large, High-Resolution Screens: Enhanced display quality for navigation, multimedia, Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM.
• Intuitive Interface: A user-friendly interface for smooth interaction and quick response.
• Universal Fit: Designed to suit a wide range of vehicle makes and models.

This new line continues BOSS Elite’s legacy of combining high-end technology with affordability, ensuring that a premium aftermarket audio experience is accessible to all.

Current BOSS Elite headunit models that end in .WX have the capability to work with iDataLink modules through a software update only at BOSSelite.com.

The new Elite headunits shipping iDataLink-ready will be available starting Q2 2025 through authorized retailers and online at BOSSelite.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA (01.24.25) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is expanding its footprint in California with the launch of its 13th location, now in Marina del Rey.

Tint World Marina del Rey, owned and operated by Zaw Pine Naing, offers world-class aftermarket styling, window tinting, paint protection films, premium audio upgrades, lighting and effects, and security systems for both vehicles and watercraft.

“Starting and owning my own business in this beautiful coastal community is a dream come true, and Tint World’s unparalleled support has made this possible,” said Zaw Pine Naing. “There is incredible demand in the area for aftermarket upgrades and services for watercraft and automobiles alike, and my team and I are looking forward to providing our customers with the very best solutions available.”

Naing’s Tint World location provides premium automotive and marine styling services throughout Marina del Ray and the surrounding Los Angeles County area, including Mar Vista, Venice, Oakwood, Playa Del Rey, Sunkist Park, and Fox Hills.

“Marina del Rey is home to the nation’s largest man-made recreational harbor and a premier destination for high-end boaters, so we knew we needed a strong leader and team to represent our brand,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Naing’s experience and enthusiasm make him a perfect fit for our Tint World family, and they will serve him well in this bustling, discerning community. We look forward to supporting him with the training, tools and marketing necessary to achieve his goals and cement Tint World as L.A. County’s choice supplier for drivers and boaters.”

Tint World Marina del Rey is located at 4130 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Marina Del Rey, call 424-467-1199 or visit the store online.

STILLWATER, OK (01.23.25) – KICKER introduces the long-awaited LX-Series Power Amplifiers, anticipated as the perfect marriage of SQL design and high-power output, utilizing feedback from the industry to deliver the most requested features while maintaining the highest performance possible. LX-Series Premium Amplifiers are currently available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live™ streamed show, LX Premium Amps will retail from $449.99-$899.99 and will also be available for purchase online at http://www.kicker.com.

Designed in-house from the ground up at KICKER World Headquarters in Stillwater, Okla., the LX-Series is made up of seven flexible models:  four monoblock amplifiers ranging from 850W to 3000W, a 4-channel full-range stereo amplifier, and a 5-channel amplifier and 7-channel amplifier each with its own subwoofer section. All come with KICKER’s FIT+™ technology, accepting low- and high-level signals up to 40V, with full differential inputs created to eliminate noise for crystal-clear sound. All subwoofer channels are 1-Ohm stable and ship with a feature-laden remote bass control (LXRC). All multi-channel amplifiers are bridgeable and come with a hard-wired, deep-diving LX Control Center (LXCC). All amplifiers feature a choice of turn-on modes and comprehensive protections for thermal, circuit, voltage stability, ensuring reliable performance.

All three multi-channel models feature the encompassing LXCC for fine-tuning and diagnostic display. Users can dial in or view DSP-controlled options like gain trim, LED output clip indication, selectable crossover type, slopes, and variable frequency ranges, and KickEQ+™ parametric bass boost on those full-range amps with sub sections. It also includes left-channel time delay on stereo channels, and phase control on sub channels.

The six amps with mono channels come with the LXRC, providing dynamic fingertip dash direction of bass level. It features SHOCwave2.0™ (Sub-Harmonic Octave Creation), KICKER’s 2nd-gen digital bass restoration algorithm that recovers lost, low-bass frequencies vital to your music selections. It also displays battery voltage in a fuel-gauge-style readout, control of its RGB LED brightness, and output clipping indication.

Visit kicker.com for more.

BOCA RATON, FL (01.23.25) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers was recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, the world’s first and most comprehensive franchise ranking. For 46 years, achieving placement on the annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500® has been a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry and is recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees. The 2025 Franchise 500® ranks Tint World as 230 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“The Franchise 500 is more than a list. It’s really a collection of life-changing opportunities, featuring strong and resilient brands that future franchisees will be proud to be a part of,” says Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “This year’s honorees represent the bold ideas, operational excellence, and adaptability that make franchising a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success.”

In Entrepreneur’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 46-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

Over its 46 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

“Being recognized for the 12th consecutive year on this prestigious list is a direct result of the dedication and hard work of our franchisees and the rest of the Tint World family,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “This accomplishment highlights our ongoing commitment to excellence and helping our franchise owners meet the needs of their customers in a discerning, high-demand market.”

To view Tint World in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2025 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands January 14th.

LONG BEACH, CA (01.22.25) – Hazim Jainoor, a respected 22-year veteran of the 12V aftermarket sector renowned for representing Tier 1 manufacturers, has officially announced his resignation from his position as Director of Key Accounts & District Sales – West Coast, with Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. after six impactful years. This marks the culmination of an illustrious career, including 13 years with Kenwood USA and three years with JVC Mobile Entertainment, during which Jainoor consistently drove excellence and solution-based principles in aligning manufacturer and retailer strategies within the 12V
aftermarket sector.

Reflecting on his career, Jainoor stated: “It has been a privilege to work with some of the most iconic brands in the 12V aftermarket industry and to collaborate with incredible teams and partners. These experiences have fueled my passion for fostering meaningful connections across regional and national sales channels to achieve shared success.”

During his tenure, Jainoor was instrumental in spearheading initiatives that optimized GTM strategies for manufacturers while aligning them with the unique revenue goals of diverse territories and sales channels. This approach resulted in measurable growth and fortified life-long relationships across the 12V aftermarket industry.

Jainoor extends his deepest gratitude to colleagues, partners, and clients who have supported him throughout his career. His commitment to excellence and passion for the 12V aftermarket industry remain steadfast as he prepares for the next chapter of his professional journey.

For more, contact hazim.jainoor@asmgroup-usa.com

FLOWER MOUND, TX (01.22.25) – Uniden America is excited to announce the appointment of Alpha Sales Group as its exclusive East Coast representative for Uniden’s 12V portfolio of radar and laser detection products. This partnership marks a significant step in Uniden’s commitment to providing superior service, industry knowledge, and innovative solutions to its valued customers and partners in the 12V market.

“I am thrilled to announce our partnership with Alpha Sales Group,” said Ray Woolf, Director of Specialty Radar Sales at Uniden America. “The Alpha team’s outstanding reputation for delivering unparalleled service and their deep expertise in the 12V market make them an ideal fit for Uniden. I look forward to working side by side with them as we continue to provide the best service and knowledge to the industry and grow our presence on the East Coast.”

Alpha Sales Group will represent Uniden’s full 12V product lineup, including its advanced radar detection systems, laser shifters, and innovative connectivity solutions. With their established network and dedication to excellence, Alpha Sales Group is well-positioned to expand Uniden’s reach and support in this key market.

This partnership reflects Uniden’s ongoing efforts to align with top-tier representation to ensure that dealers, distributors, and end users receive exceptional products and support.

For more information on Uniden’s 12V portfolio or to connect with Alpha Sales Group, please visit Uniden.com or contact rwoolf@uniden.com.

CORAL SPRINGS, FL (01.21.25) – Nav-TV has expanded their award-winning Zen Audio family with a brand new interface, the ZEN-H. This interface is for 2023.5+ Harley Davidson Street and Road Glide bikes, both CVO and non-CVO. This will be the first standalone Harley A2B interface available on the market.

• The ZEN-H allows removal of the OEM Rockford Fosgate amplifier and allows the installation of any aftermarket amplifier via its 6 RCA outputs.
• There will be two models, the ZEN-H Pro and ZEN-H. The Pro will have a full professional grade DSP in it that will be configurable through a PC tool via the USB port.
• All factory functionality is retained, including factory head unit updates, and will not generate any faults on Harley dealer diagnostics.
• The ZEN-H produces a flat signal from 20-20khz at 4V RMS
• It includes a Plug-N-Play harness for seamless integration with the existing speakers, leading to an installation with no wires cut.

Pricing on the ZEN-H will start at a $599 MSRP.

The ZEN-H will start shipping on the 17th of February. The ZEN-H Pro will start shipping roughly one to two months after.

The ZEN-H will be on display in the NAV-TV booth at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas. (Booth 815)

Visit https://navtv.com/ for more.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.21.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is accepting nominations for induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame, the Association’s highest honor, at http://www.sema.org/hof. The SEMA Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding persons in the automotive aftermarket who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or Association’s growth.

“SEMA’s Hall of Fame is a tribute to the leaders and changemakers who have propelled the industry forward in extraordinary ways,” said Jose Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “Each year, we seek to identify new individuals whose vision and accomplishments disrupted the status quo, set new benchmarks for excellence, and left an undeniable mark on the industry’s success.”

Established in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame is one of the Association’s longest-standing programs. To date, 180 individuals have been inducted, each exemplifying innovation, leadership, and positive change within the industry. These trailblazers have played a pivotal role in advancing the aftermarket industry through their dedication and passion.

Nominee qualifications include:

• The candidate must have made contributions that extended beyond the local level and reached throughout the national and/or international level.
• The candidate is and/or has been involved in the automotive specialty industry and/or SEMA for a minimum of 10 years, although 15 years is preferred.
• The candidate must have made outstanding contributions toward enhancing technology, professionalism, dignity, and/or general stature and growth of the automotive specialty industry.
• The candidate must have conducted himself/herself with a high degree of integrity both within and outside of the automotive specialty industry.
• The candidate must be at least 50 years of age prior to the SEMA Show during the year of induction or they may be at any age if deceased as long as the nomination is presented at least one year posthumous.

SEMA is also accepting nominees that have been employed by the Association or have served as a contractor and/or vendor of SEMA. In addition to meeting the above qualifications, the nominee must have no less than one year of total separation from SEMA in any and all capacities, arrangements, or relationships.

The 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will be announced in May and honored during the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala in July.

Nominations are due by Friday, March 14, at www.sema.org/hof. Questions can be directed to Escobar at josee@sema.org. To view a list of SEMA Hall of Fame Inductees, visit this link.

PHOENIX, AZ (01.20.25) – Cicada Audio is thrilled to announce the expansion of its representative team with the addition of two new firms: Trent Partners & Associates and Pacific Rim Marketing.

Trent Partners & Associates, represented by Matt Gonzales, Peter Huggins, and Matt Herald, will cover New York City and the New England states. Known as the premier Rep firm in the Northeast, Trent Partners is a six-member team highly regarded by retailers. With over 80 years of combined experience in the 12-volt industry, Gonzales, Huggins, and Herald bring a deep understanding of the unique dynamics of the New England and New York Metro markets. Their addition to the Cicada team ensures best-in-class talent in the Northeast.

“Adding Trent Partners to our Rep network is a game changer,” said Marty Dean, Director of Sales at Cicada Audio. “They are the best team in the territory to carry the Cicada brand to new heights.”

Pacific Rim Marketing, represented by Mark and Valentina Giovannetti, will serve the Pacific Northwest Territory. Mark and Valentina bring a wealth of experience and extensive industry knowledge, making them invaluable assets to our network. Their dedication and commitment to excellence are evident through their consistent visits to independent dealers, fostering strong relationships and a deep understanding of local market needs.

“We are thrilled to have Mark and Valentina join our team. Their expertise and passion for the industry align perfectly with our mission to provide exceptional service and products to our customers,” said Justin Miller, Regional Sales Manager of Cicada Audio.

“We are confident that Trent Partners & Associates and Pacific Rim Marketing will provide unparalleled service to our customers in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, enhancing the Cicada Audio experience for our exceptional dealers. We look forward to the continued growth and success that these partnerships will bring,” said Ron Trout, President of Cicada Audio.

Contact Information:

Trent Partners & Associates:
53 N. Park Avenue Suite 200 – Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Phone: 516-594-5000

Pacific Rim Marketing:
15717 154th Ave NE – Woodinville, WA 98072
Phone: (425) 483-8469

For more information, please contact:

Cicada Audio:
3757 E Broadway Rd Ste 3 – Phoenix, AZ 85040
Phone: (480) 887-8699

Cicada Audio is a high-end manufacturer of best in-class motorcycle audio products.

Visit cicadaaudio.com for more.