TAMPA, FL (02.13.26) – DOW Technologies was recently awarded Distributor of the Year 2026 at the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. This is the eighth time that DOW has been honored with the award.

The Mobile Electronics association presents the awards annually to recognize and honor those in the mobile electronics industry. The Industry Awards are voted on by the retailers and vendors working in the 12Volt industry nationwide. The awards ceremony occurred Thursday night, February 5th, at the KnowledgeFest event in Las Vegas. The KnowledgeFest exposition, trainings and demo events were held at the Paris Las Vegas.

The DOW Technologies 12Volt team saw success over the past year with their focus on returning value to the independent dealer. DOW provides unique benefits and programs that support dealers to have healthy margins and sales practices.

• Smart Services program members receive freight credits when returning a defective product- accommodating a dealer for the shipping cost and time spent on return authorizations. 
• New freight program with an option to ship all the sub boxes on an order for as low as a $45 charge – acknowledges a dealer pain point with a program that allows them to be competitively priced and still maintain healthy margins.
• Black Friday and 12 Days of 12Volt Promotions- DOW exclusive promotions on high demand items that a dealer can advertise and sell through during the holiday sales season.
• Stable pricing during turbulent tariff uncertainty- made dealers aware of profitable opportunities on inventory that was brought in prior to tariffs
• Updated website for convenience and product awareness- better organization that highlights new product areas and makes it quicker to order installation solutions. 

“We’re really proud of the effort the team puts into providing the best customer service in the industry,” said Dave Elkin, senior vice president of sales and product management. “We put together these programs to help customers, but it’s the team that translates DOW’s value everyday that makes doing business easier for customers.”

“This award is recognition for the whole team that supports our customers, including our operations, marketing, and accounting teams,” said John Yodzis, president & ceo of DOW Technologies. “We are dedicated to making the process smooth at every touch point and giving the dealer more than just the product they ordered.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit http://www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

To read more about the Mobile Electronics Awards, please visit https://meindustryawards.com/what-are-the-industry-awards/

BONIFAY, FL (02.12.26) – Prodigy Audio is proud to announce the recent appointment of its new National Sales Manager, Brett Barnes. Bringing over 30 years of elite experience in the technology and music reproduction sectors, he is leading the brand’s aggressive push to expand its dealer and distribution networks across the United States.

A Legacy of Excellence Prodigy Audio was founded by audio enthusiast Jonathan Demuth, whose journey in the industry began in 1988. From his early days as an installer to his success in retail, distribution, and manufacturing, Demuth’s vision has always been rooted in providing top-quality products for users seeking loud, reliable daily-use equipment. His previous venture, T3 Audio, was a dominant force in SPL competition from 2005 to 2011, and that same competitive DNA is now foundational to the Prodigy Audio brand.

Industry Veteran Joins the Mission Brett, the newly appointed National Sales Manager, brings a diverse background that perfectly complements this heritage. His career began in the car audio scene of the 1990s and evolved into custom installations for home entertainment and security. He has served as a manufacturer’s representative for prestigious brands, including Bryston, PMC, Proceed, Revel, Niles Audio, Canton, and Straightwire.

Beyond acoustics, he brings sophisticated technical expertise in IT and automation, with deep experience in systems from Ultimate, Cisco, AMX, and Crestron. This rare combination of high-fidelity audio knowledge and technical integration ensures Prodigy Audio’s partners receive unparalleled support.

“Prodigy Audio is aiming to offer amazing products and solutions in the car audio space,” said Brett Barnes. “Our focus is specializing in high-quality subwoofers and amplifiers at a competitive price structure. We aren’t just selling hardware; we are providing a sustainable business model for our partners.”

Building a Robust Dealer Network Prodigy Audio is committed to dealer success through aggressive incentives and a market-leading warranty program, including a 3-year dealer-installed woofer warranty. The brand’s expansion is already underway:

Current Representation: Represented in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina by Vickers Distribution.

Expansion Pipeline: Potential partnerships are developing in Kentucky, Florida, and the Gulf Coast.
Future Growth: The company is executing a methodical expansion nationwide, prioritizing face-to-face evaluations to ensure dealers align with the brand’s high standards.

About Prodigy Audio Founded by Jonathan Demuth, Prodigy Audio delivers high-performance automotive audio solutions. With products optimized through computer simulations and rigorous field testing by renowned experts like Eric Stevens, the brand sets a new standard for value and quality in the mobile electronics industry.

For more see www.prodigyaudio.com.

TEMPE, AZ (2.12.26) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce the official launch of FabKit™, an engineered Speaker Grille & Panel System designed to dramatically reduce fabrication time while delivering premium, layered 3D interior styling.

“Too many shops avoid custom work because they believe it’s not profitable,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “We’ve challenged the status quo in fabrication by asking one simple question: How can we build smarter and save valuable time? FabKit is the answer. It increases efficiency, raises consistency, and gives shops the freedom to focus on generating revenue instead of sanding and routing for hours. Wrap it in material, install it, and you’re done.”

FabKit was created to eliminate some of the most time-consuming stages of custom panel fabrication. The system allows shops to focus more on creativity and finishing, and less on layout, routing, and grille-frame construction.

Engineered Efficiency Meets Premium Design

FabKit features a precision-machined, layered construction that is ready for upholstery in leather, suede, or vinyl straight out of the box. Its integrated magnet system allows effortless grille removal and secure reinstallation.

The system is designed for universal flexibility across multiple custom audio applications and produces consistent, repeatable results across builds.

Real-World Results: Major Time Savings

Early adopters are reporting significant labor reductions.

“The MS FabKit system is easily the biggest time saver since the release of the original Smart Template system,” said Peter Riker of The Specialists in Tucson, Ariz. “We easily save 8–10 hours of fabrication time using the FabKit.”

Built for Profitability

FabKit helps shops:
• Save 4–6+ hours per project
• Deliver OEM-inspired layered depth styling
• Increase shop throughput and revenue
• Improve client satisfaction with faster turnaround

With time savings translating directly to billable hours, FabKit positions shops to take on more projects and improve margins.

Available Models

FabKit Speaker Grille Panel Systems are available in four configurations:
• FK-APEX – 34.75in. x 13in.
• FK-GT – 41.25in. x 13in.
• FK-Shadow – 37.25in. x 12.5in.
• FK-Covert – 42in. x 13.5in.

Visit www.FabKit.com for more information

For more information, please visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.

TORRANCE, CA (2.11.26) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics is proud to announce the expansion of its sales representative network across the Pacific region. By partnering with three premier manufacturer’s representative firms, Rydeen is ensuring that drivers across California, Nevada, and the Pacific Northwest have easier access to safety vehicle technology, including digital rear view mirrors and 360° view camera systems.

As vehicle safety continues to become a top priority for modern drivers, Rydeen is committed to “bridging the gap” between factory-installed tech and the aftermarket.

“These new partnerships will allow local car audio retailers and professional installers to provide expert support and stock for Rydeen’s most sought-after safety solutions,” says Rex Berfield, Rydeen’s National Sales Manager.

We are proud to announce the appointment of Amplified Sales, Crossover Marketing Group, and RPM Sales Group to help us expand our brand coverage.

Amplified Sales
Amplified Sales and Marketing, led by 26-year industry veteran Micah Boren, provides hands-on representation and technical support throughout Northern California and Northern Nevada. The firm operates with a “storefront-first” philosophy, treating each retail partner as their own to ensure premium brands like Rydeen are correctly positioned, supported, and successful at the store level.

Crossover Marketing Group
Crossover Marketing is a Manufacturer’s Rep Firm servicing the Pacific Northwest market. The company was founded by Rob Sutton and Paul Pilat, who have decades of combined experience in leadership roles within the consumer electronics industry. The company focuses on sustainable dealer development and incorporates innovative marketing strategies with a priority on customer service.

“Rydeen creates value on both the sales floor and in the bay,” added Paul Pilat, Principal Owner and Co-founder, Crossover Marketing Group. “Paired with The Crossover Way, our process-driven approach to Customer Service. We see a tremendous opportunity to grow profitability across the territory.”

RPM Sales Group
RPM Sales Group is a premier manufacturer’s representative firm specializing in the mobile electronics, motorcycle, and power sports industries across the Southwest. They serve as the strategic bridge between innovative brands like Rydeen and a professional network of retailers in Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada. By providing expert technical training and market support, they ensure local installers are fully equipped to bring advanced vehicle safety solutions to their customers.

Visit www.rydeenmobile.com.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (2.11.26) – With cutting-edge amplification technology and a modern chassis footprint, the ALL-NEW BRUTUS BRL amplifier series is engineered to maximize power efficiency while providing raw, clean power to drive subwoofers and speakers to their full potential performance.

Every BRUTUS BRL amplifier is innovated with a built-in VU Meter —whether it’s the BRL1200.4D for high-fidelity multi-channel setups or the thunderous BRL3000.1D for bass-heavy builds, the Hifonics BRUTUS BRL series is built to dominate your audio setup.

To learn more, click here.

SHREVEPORT, LA (02.09.26) – The 12volt Central Studios offers multiple ways for 12volt industry members to connect across the 12volt community and with consumers while delivering fresh industry news. The 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball is the latest way. The 12voltSTP Tool, Custom QR Codes and 12volt Central Studios offer easy to use opportunities to connect with industry members and consumers. A SMARTPHONE is all it takes….318 469 2526 IS THE NUMBER!

In-person trade shows, consumer and distributor shows are terrific venues to connect and show new products in one-on-one settings. Tradeshow and distributor show attendance over the last years has diminished. The 12volt Central Studios can put a company in their own custom studio utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool and deliver their message to the 12volt industry with the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members must realize successful marketing is a 24/7 journey.

In today’s AI driven digital and social media world it is more important than ever for members of the 12volt industry to connect with industry members and consumers. These activities are more important than ever to drive in-vehicle automotive upgrade awareness and business for brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or appreciate the separation of mid-range and highs on a smartphone or laptop. The in-store experience is more important than ever!

A 12volt industry member can be out a show trade show, consumer show or a rep on the road calling calling on dealers. With the 12voltSTP Tool all it takes is for that industry member to snap and txt and Image, with a few words, to 318-469-2526 and we can put the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play showcasing your activities.

See 12voltnews.com for more.

METAIRIE, LA (01.09.26) — ORACLE Lighting continues to advance automotive interior customization with the release of its most comprehensive lighting system to date: the Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit. This premium, full-cabin LED illumination system delivers unmatched versatility, dynamic lighting effects, and refined ambient light across dashboards, door panels, footwells, door handles, and storage zones for virtually any vehicle. 

Built on ORACLE’s innovative Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ technology, this universal kit transforms the interior environment by enabling full-spectrum color shifts, synchronized multi-zone lighting, and customizable effects that enhance both aesthetic appeal and nighttime usability. Whether used to create a subtle ambient glow or bold animated lighting patterns, this solution reimagines interior lighting for drivers, enthusiasts, and automotive builders seeking a modern, immersive cabin experience. 

“We designed this all-in-one LED system to meet the rising demand for premium interior lighting that’s intuitive, expressive, and adaptable to any build,” said a spokesperson for ORACLE Lighting. “With complete cabin coverage, multi-zone control, and a universal fit, this kit offers both visual impact and functional illumination — bringing a new dimension to how vehicle owners personalize their interiors.”

Key Features & Benefits

• Full-Cabin Coverage: Comprehensive 18-piece LED ensemble with strips and accent pods engineered to illuminate dashboards, door panels, footwells, pockets, and door handles. 
• Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ Technology: Delivers smooth, seamless transitions across a full color spectrum, with customizable lighting modes and effects to match any mood or style. 
• Advanced Multi-Zone Control: Includes one main controller and four sub-controllers with five dynamic relays to maintain consistent performance across lighting zones. 
• Flexible Activation: Control lighting via an integrated switch button or Bluetooth-enabled interface for convenient mode selection. 
• Universal Application: Purpose-built for easy installation in a wide range of vehicles without model-specific modifications, offering enthusiasts and custom builders maximum flexibility. 
• Complete Kit: Includes LED strips (36″, four 30″, one 8″), footwell pod emitters, pocket and storage LEDs, door handle accents, controllers, relays, wiring harnesses, and a splitter for plug-and-play setup. 

This dynamic interior system enhances both ambiance and functionality, improving visibility after dark while delivering an elevated, professional-grade lighting experience far beyond standard interior lighting solutions. 

Availability

The Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit is now available for purchase through the ORACLE Lighting online store. For detailed product information, installation resources, and high-resolution visuals, visit www.oraclelights.com.

To visit the product page, click here.

TEMPE, AZ (2.6.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is proud to announce it has added world-class designer Ben Hermance to this year’s educational lineup, joining the MasterTech Expo faculty to lead Master Design Training – Session 1, a focused program centered on advanced professional 3D rendering and design workflow for automotive design and custom builds. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.

“Ben brings to MasterTech his renowned experience working with industry-leading builders, fabrication shops, and global aftermarket brands, blending artistic creativity with real-world engineering and production design,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This new training track gives attendees rare insight into professional-level vehicle concept development, digital design strategy, and turning ideas into build-ready reality.”

Hermance has worked and designed with everyone from top industry builders to fab, paint, and interior shops, plus major aftermarket corporations across the globe. Whether it’s a heartfelt portrait gift, a wild hot concept, or a full-blown high-budget custom ride, Ben brings the same passion and precision to every project.

“If you’re into next-level custom design, smart engineering, and turning ideas into jaw-dropping reality, you won’t want to miss this opportunity…only at MasterTech Expo,” Schmitt concluded.

Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.

Hotel information and booking links are available at:
www.MasterTechExpo.com/hotel

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com.

TEMPE, AZ (02.03.26) – Automotive audio pioneer Wayne Harris will feature his world-famous Terminator vehicle during a special live interview during MasterTech Expo 2026, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., offering attendees a rare look into one of the most iconic builds in car audio history.

Open to all MasterTech attendees and exhibitors, the Terminator will be on hand and the featured session will take place March 12 from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM in the Delta AZ Ballroom.

Harris has been a driving force in the 12-volt automotive audio industry since the early 1980s. A designer, engineer, entrepreneur, and innovator, he has earned multiple Design & Engineering awards, he holds several patents for audio technology innovations, and was named one of the Top Ten Most Influential People in Car Audio from 1987–1992.

Originally built in the mid-1980s – well ahead of its time – the Terminator featured groundbreaking concepts including one of the first true symmetry-based system layouts, including six Power 1000 amplifiers and a rotating amplifier rack that redefined what was possible in mobile audio design. The vehicle pushed extreme power levels for its era and became a benchmark for competitive audio builds.

The Terminator Vehicle
The Terminator began life as a 1960 Cadillac hearse before Harris transformed it into one of the most legendary show vehicles in automotive audio history. Packed with massive subwoofers, multiple drivers, and staggering power output for the time, it helped shape early competition culture and left a lasting impression on anyone who experienced it in person.

Today, Harris has been carefully modernizing, refurbishing, and rewiring the Terminator, preserving its original spirit while ensuring it remains period-correct. Decades later, the vehicle remains a cultural icon, still talked about by competitors and enthusiasts who remember seeing – and hearing – it dominate early car audio events.

Live Interview & Walk-Through
Attendees will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear directly from Harris as he walks through the history, design philosophy, and technical innovation behind the Terminator.

The session will be hosted by Matt Schaefer and Gary Bell of the Old Fashion Podcast.

For anyone passionate about car audio history, innovation, and legendary builds, this is a moment not to be missed.

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com.

WHITEVILLE, NC (02.03.26) – As the season is set to begin meet MAX Armor. MAX Armor Professional PPF Slip Solution is built for installers who demand precision. MAX Professional PPF Slip Solution delivers the perfect slip-to-tack balance with smooth foam generation…. making installs cleaner, faster and more controlled.

MAX Armor features professional-grade performance, gentle on skin and lungs, has no harsh additives and is eco-friendly plus 100% biodegradable. A small container of MAX Armor armor makes 7.5 gallons of solution.

The MAXPRO Window Films staff just wrapped presenting their latest products at the Mobile Tech Expo in Orlando and is now ready for the PPF Film season to begin.

For more see maxprofilms.com