SASKATOON, SK (05.06.26) – Firstech Canada today announced it has been appointed Master Distributor for SKYWORTH in Canada, marking a major step forward in the company’s expansion into the residential custom integration market.

The strategic partnership brings SKYWORTH’s advanced lifestyle display technology to Canadian integrators through a trusted national distributor—delivering solutions that seamlessly blend technology with modern living spaces, reliability, and exceptional value.

Bryan Sack, President of Firstech Canada, said:

“Our partnership with SKYWORTH introduces a compelling new display solution for Canadian integrators—combining high performance, refined design, and exceptional value. It’s a natural extension of our commitment to delivering industry-leading products and unmatched partner support”

Michael Gleason, Director of Sales at SKYWORTH USA, added:

“This is an important milestone for SKYWORTH in Canada. Firstech brings the reach, expertise, and reputation needed to accelerate growth in the custom integration channel. We’re proud to partner with a team that shares our focus on quality, service, and long-term relationships.”

Together, Firstech Canada and SKYWORTH are set to redefine how displays are integrated into the home—transforming screens into statement pieces that complement the environments they live in.

ExploreSKYWORTHonFirstechCanada

Canadian integrators can now browse and shop the full lineup of SKYWORTH displays directly through Firstech Canada:

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The THHON12 Honda & Acura T-Harness is now available.

This harness is designed specifically for newer Honda and Acura smart key vehicles, helping simplify installations with DS3/DS3P and DS4/DS4P systems. It offers a clean, reliable solution that can help save time in the bay and ensure proper integration.

The THHON12 supports a wide range of popular models, including Honda Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, as well as Acura Integra and MDX.

Also, VOXX just released the AVXSB11DD 11.6” Smart TV Backseat Solution with Dual DVD Players.

Download the THHON12 Sell Sheet Now

Also, we just released the AVXSB11DD 11.6” Smart TV Backseat Solution with Dual DVD Players.

This 11.6” solution brings a full entertainment experience to the backseat, combining streaming, gaming, and DVD playback into one system. With built-in Wi-Fi capability, app access through Google Play, and 16GB of internal storage for offline content, it gives customers more flexibility in how they use their rear seat entertainment.

Additional features like VOXX Link app control, Bluetooth audio streaming, customizable mood lighting, and remote gameplay support for Xbox and PlayStation help set this system apart. The slim 11.6” HD touchscreen monitors (1080p) deliver a premium viewing experience while maintaining a clean, modern look in the vehicle.

Download the AVXSB11DD Sell Sheet Now

DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.05.26) – Attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show, returning to the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 3-6, is now open.

The SEMA Show is the premier destination for the global automotive aftermarket, bringing together the industry’s leading builders, brands, and innovators for four days of product discovery, education, and networking. Attendees will have access to the latest vehicle builds, exclusive product debuts, live demonstrations, and a full slate of education sessions highlighting emerging trends and technologies shaping the industry. Enthusiasts are also invited to experience the excitement during SEMA Show Friday–Open to the Public and SEMA Fest, with an exclusive ticket offer opening May 4.

“The SEMA Show is where the industry comes to see what’s next and experience innovation firsthand,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “This is the only place to see the products and technologies that will define the aftermarket landscape over the next five years.”

New for 2026, the Show will feature an expanded Powersports / SxS / Lifestyle section in West Hall, creating a unified “Adventure Lifestyle” destination alongside the Truck, SUV, and Off-Road section. The expanded footprint brings together side-by-sides, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, V-Twin performance, and related gear in one centralized location designed to reflect real-world enthusiast behavior.

Qualified attendees can secure a SEMA Show badge for $50 through June 26, after which pricing will increase.

“With registration now open, attendees can begin planning their Show experience,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “This year’s expanded floorplan and feature areas give attendees even more opportunities to explore, connect, and experience what’s happening across the industry.”

Attendees are encouraged to register early to secure credentials and begin planning, including building schedules, securing meetings, and maximizing time onsite.

Hotel accommodations are also available through onPeak, the official hotel provider for the SEMA Show, offering access to the lowest available rates and convenient proximity to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

View hotel and travel options: SEMAShow.com/attendee/?mode=HotelTravel

For the latest updates, deadlines, and Show information, visit SEMAShow.com and follow SEMANews.com.

BEDFORD OH (05.04.26) Recently TGS Audio created a promo with their social media followers to select which company graphic followers liked the best. 12volt Central Studios staff members noticed the post and reached out to owner Joe Leszyeski in Bedford OH to find out which company graphic was chosen.

Last December, in the height of the remote start season, 12volt Central Studios staff members noticed a VIPER post that Joe had made on social media.

This past Saturday, again, we reached out to Joe to follow up to find out which of his new graphics social media followers liked the best and to see how business is in today’s world. Joe indicated that they had a couple of cold days and were actually doing a couple of VIPER remote starts on Saturday. He also mentioned that they continue to promote and business with kicking along. They’re seeing projects for classic vehicles, the bike business is getting strong and that recently he went to the Davis Distribution show to see new products and connect with industry members.

It’s a great to see Joe and proactive 12volt retailers, making things happen. Please keep up the good work, Joe, that you and your team have been doing in Bedford Ohio for over the past 20 years.

Libertyville, IL (May 1,2026) Compact MEAN MACHINE amplifiers are engineered for performance in a smaller, more versatile form while bringing MEAN POWER into every car audio setup. These amplifiers are designed for easy installation and greater flexibility in your audio system while still delivering BIG SOUND in compact form.

Unleash CLEAN POWER with PRO-FI™ high-speed MOSFETs, that deliver clean, undistorted sound at every level of playback through the Compact MEAN MACHINE amplifier series. Power forward your amplifier game TODAY!

Taking place Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Show will feature the latest products from every corner of the aftermarket

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (April 30, 2026) – Registration for SEMA Show attendees, exhibitors, and media opens online Monday, May 4, for the 2026 event, taking place Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

From cutting-edge vehicle builds to the latest advancements from leading aftermarket brands, the SEMA Show remains the premier destination for automotive innovation, business development, and industry connection. Attendees will experience exclusive product launches, custom builds from top builders, live demonstrations, and a full slate of education sessions designed to help businesses stay ahead of evolving trends.

The 2026 SEMA Show will also feature an expanded Powersports / SxS / Lifestyle section in West Hall, creating a unified “Adventure Lifestyle” destination alongside the Truck and Off-Road areas. The expanded layout reflects real-world consumer behavior, as enthusiasts often own a complete package that includes a tow vehicle, trailer, and multiple two-wheel or four-wheel vehicles. The dedicated area will showcase side-by-sides, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, V-Twin performance, and related gear, bringing greater visibility to one of the fastest-growing segments.

“Each year, the SEMA Show serves as the global gathering point for the automotive aftermarket,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “It’s where attendees can experience the latest innovations firsthand, see groundbreaking vehicle builds, and discover what’s next for the industry all in one place.”

Attendees are encouraged to book hotel accommodations early through onPeak, the official hotel provider for the SEMA Show, to secure the lowest available rates and convenient access to the Las Vegas Convention Center. View hotel and travel options here.

“With registration opening on May 4, attendees can begin planning their experience for the 2026 Show,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “This year’s Show features a dynamic floor plan with new features such as the expansion of a dedicated Powersports section in West Hall, giving attendees even more targeted content and opportunities to connect across the industry.”

Organizers encourage attendees to register early once registration opens on May 4 to secure their place at the Show and begin planning. Early registration helps attendees maximize their time onsite and take full advantage of everything the Show has to offer.

Qualified attendees can secure their SEMA Show badge for $50 through June 26, after which registration pricing will increase.

For the latest updates, deadlines, and Show information, visit www.semashow.com and follow www.semanews.com.

Push power to the limit. Feel the details through Q performance.

(4-29-26) The ALL-NEW Q-Series amplifier lineup is engineered for enthusiasts and installers who expect more from their audio system. Designed as the flagship amplifier line, Q-Series delivers the perfect balance of high-efficiency power, advanced signal processing, and precision tuning capability. PUSH YOUR AUDIO with Q-POWER.

The QA1-900.6D Q‑Series 900-watt 6‑channel DSP amplifier is a powerful multi-channel amplifier built to run an entire system with integrated DSP control. With six channels of clean output and advanced digital tuning capability, get ready to maximize overall sound quality and system performance.

The built-in DSP equalizer allows for precise tuning with both Parametric and Graphic EQ options. The Parametric mode offers fully variable frequency customization.

For dedicated low-frequency authority, the QA1-1500.1D Q‑Series 1500-watt monoblock amplifier delivers massive power for subwoofer systems that demand serious output.

Designed for total efficiency and stability, this monoblock amplifier provides undistorted, clean power needed to drive high-performance subwoofers while maintaining a tight, controlled bass response.

Serious power deserves more control. Feel your audio like never before, innovated through Q performance with the Q Series.
Cleaner sound. Stronger bass. Total system control.

AUSTIN, TX (4-28-26) The dB Drag Racing Association (dBDRA) has officially released the schedule and qualification requirements for the 2026 Finals. The upcoming season finale events will feature locations in both Europe and North America, providing a premier place for elite competitors to showcase their builds.

NORTH AMERICAN FINALS

• Dates: October 3–4, 2026
• Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN

In a continued collaborative effort to support the car audio community, dBDRA, IASCA, and ISPLL will host their 2026 Finals concurrently at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. This partnership brings three premier sanctioning bodies together under one roof, providing a unified venue for the top SPL competitors.

By co-locating these season finales, the organizations offer a centralized destination that highlights the full spectrum of the sport—from music-focused builds to extreme, custom high-SPL vehicles. This co-location streamlines logistics for competitors participating in multiple organizations and creates a high-impact environment for industry sponsors and fans. The expansive space at the Fairgrounds ensures a professional atmosphere, giving competitors the ultimate environment to hit the lanes and put their builds to the test.

• Satellite Locations: A satellite venue is planned for Alberta, Canada. The dBDRA will assess the need for additional venues based on participation levels.
• Sponsorships: Companies interested in exploring sponsorship opportunities may contact: marketing@termpro.com or call 512-377-1055.

EURO FINALS

• Dates: September 19–20, 2026
• Location: Montichiari, Italy

The dB Drag Racing Euro Finals will be held in conjunction with the Festival dei Motori at the Centro Fiera del Garda. This venue offers an exceptional environment for competitors, sponsors, and enthusiasts to gather for the final European event of the season.

Sponsorship/Booths: Companies interested in securing a booth or exploring sponsorship opportunities may contact the event coordinators directly:

• Maxx Grassi: maxx@b2audio.it
• Yiannis Lekkas: prez@dbdragracing.gr
• Bine Zupan: bine.zupan@gmail.com

FINALS QUALIFICATIONS

To earn a spot in the lanes at either of the 2026 Finals, competitors must meet the following criteria:

• POINTS: 50 points are required for each specific format in which a competitor intends to compete.
• MEMBERSHIP: Competitors must hold a valid 2026 dB Drag Racing membership.
• DB DRAG RACING FORMAT: A certified score (2X or 3X) is required in the specific vehicle being used for the Finals.
• ADDITIONAL FORMATS: For Top Dog, Bass Race, Freestyle, and Psychlone, competitors must compete in at least one Multi-Point Event during the 2026 season.
• EXTREME DIVISION: The 50-point requirement is waived for Extreme classes; however, the vehicle must have a certified score (2X or 3X) on record for the season.

Palm Beach FL (4-27-2026) The ZW-FMV is a BCM-connected, plug-and-play module that allows installers to activate multiple flash patterns through the vehicle’s OEM lighting system, delivering a clean, factory-integrated solution without complex wiring.

Installed directly at the Body Control Module (BCM) with a simple power and ground connection, the ZW-FMV enables fast, efficient installs while maintaining OEM integrity. Flash patterns are easily controlled using the high-beam lever, with additional activation options including a push button or upfitter wire trigger for fleet and commercial applications.

The ZW-FMV is available now through ZZ2 and authorized dealers.

For ordering, dealer inquiries, or support, contact your ZZ2 sales representative or visit:

Enhance the driving experience by adding convenience and safety features that your customers will love.

STILLWATER, OK (04.24.26) – The 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) will soon take place in Atlanta June 1-5.  North America’s highest achieving skilled career and technical education students will participate in the premier showcase SkillsUSA Competition.  Students are currently competing at the regional and state levels to earn a coveted spot to compete at NLSC.  

Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater, OK recently hosted the 2026 SkillsUSA – Mobile Electronics Installation state contest.  The contest was attended by twenty-one students who are enrolled in automotive technology programs in high school and vocational schools all over Oklahoma.  Students competed in various contests which included soldering, Ohm’s law applications, amplifier tuning, and customer service.  Only two competitors will advance to the national contest: the top performing high school student and top performing post-secondary student.    

Kicker has been a major sponsor for SkillsUSA for over four years and contributes funds, equipment, course development, and volunteers.  Aaron Malin, Kicker Tech Force Global Training Manager, said, “We are constantly being reminded by our retail partners that skilled technicians are in high demand and hard to find.  SkillsUSA is a great organization that provides leadership, resources, and context to engage young people.” 

Mobile electronics professionals from manufacturers, rep firms, and retailers will be on hand to serve as judges and mentors for the national contest in Atlanta.  “We are still in need of funds for this year’s event. [Approximately $9,000]” said Chris Jack, Technical Chair for SkillsUSA – Mobile Electronics Installation. “If you could please scan the QR code below [or https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-train-future-car-audio-installers] and send just $50.00 we can make it.” 

Members of the industry are also encouraged to support SkillsUSA at the local and state levels.  “GET INOLVED!  Contact local trade and tech schools and see what you can do to be helpful.  Donating money is good, but working with excitement is the magic”, said Malin. 

For more information about SkillsUSA – Mobile Electronics Installation you can contact Chris Jack at 310-866-2454, or Bryan Gary at 806-922-1822.