GRAND RAPIDS, MI (06.25.24) – The Progressive Group is very pleased to introduce Mike Marshall, our new Regional Sales Manager for Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. Mike joined us this past March and is off to a fantastic start!

Mike has a 38-year history in the mobile electronics industry, beginning with a position at K’s Merchandise in Springfield, Illinois in 1986. He was enthusiastic about the industry and gained a wealth of product knowledge, resulting in a manufacturer’s representative position in St. Louis, Missouri three years later, specializing in Kenwood products.

A career working at the manufacturer level for Clarion and Rockford Fosgate followed, during which he traveled to 24 countries to train dealers.

“I wrote six technical training manuals and trained thousands of students throughout my career,” Mike explained. And his accomplishments continued to grow, establishing his reputation as a highly respected expert in consumer electronics. Mike continued, “I was fortunate to become an Alpine Rep Principal for 10 years, during which I established Alpine in the RV and Marine industry.”

With such an esteemed professional resume and reputation to match, it’s no wonder The Progressive Group had Mike on their list of top candidates to replace Brian Sandberg, manager of Progressive Group in the West, when he decided to retire. Once Mike came on board, he immediately fit in with The Progressive Group’s team attitude and customer-focused goals.

“The reason I came to the Progressive family is my 38-year history of knowledge and passion for the mobile electronics industry,” Mike explained.

Along with his dedication to helping dealers and staff, in his spare time Mike also enjoys biking and auto racing.

“We’re glad to have Mike on our team!”

Visit teamprogressive.com for more.

LOS ANGELES, CA (06.25.24) – Fantazy Motorsports of Thousand Oaks and Northridge, California, a premier auto salon, announced today that former VP at JL AUDIO Carl Kennedy has been named CEO. Founder George Armanious shared that, “Carl’s vision and experience make him the ideal candidate to refine our existing operation and expand to more communities throughout California.” Catering to exotic vehicles such as Ferrari, McLaren, Rolls Royce, Porsche and others, Fantazy has developed a dominant foothold in the massive Tesla community.

Following more than 2 decades in pivotal roles at JL AUDIO from launching a legendary Home Division to running Global Sales for more than a decade of dramatic growth, Kennedy now sets his sights on reimagining a California motorsports legend.

Fantazy is entering their 20th year and has long been known as a 1-stop facility for paint protection, high end audio, ambient lighting, wheels & tires and bespoke customizing. When asked about his plans for Fantazy Motorsports Kennedy said, “our overarching commitment to this demanding and savvy clientele is to provide peace of mind as they entrust us with some of their most precious investments.” He added that this mission statement has served him well across a wide variety of industries.

Visit www.fantazymotorsports.com for more.

OZARK, MO (06.24.24) – Creative Audio is excited to announce the re-branding of Car-fi to Creative Audio. The Car-fi locations in Springfield and Nixa will both undergo remodeling for the next few months along with a clearance sale. A Grand Opening is planned for this fall to celebrate the two new retail locations for Creative Audio.

Car-Fi originally opened its doors in November of 1986 as strictly a mobile electronics store offering a higher level of audio expertise and better quality of product. A concept that was outside the standard practice of electronics retail at that time. The jingle that Car-Fi used for many years produced by the Ozark Mountain Daredevils is still remembered today by many in the local Springfield area. In 2007 Car-Fi added a second location in Nixa.

“In the summer of 2021 Creative Audio purchased the two Car-fi locations. Fast forward to today and they are currently undergoing renovations and will give Creative Audio three retail locations in the area. Creative Audio will continue to honor the brand of Car-Fi moving forward in many ways. Currently there are plans to have a new Car-Fi sign made that will be located on the side of the building on Glenstone. There are also plans to include the Car-Fi name in sub boxes that will be manufactured at the Springfield location, along with possible other products” Don Fleury related.

“The last Car-Fi sale is slated to run July through August and rebranding target completion for October this year. All Car-Fi trademarks and intellectuel properties will remain in place as these will be used for future business endeavors” Fleury concluded.

Visit https://creativeaudio.net and https://car-fi.com for more.

ONTARIO, CA (06.24.24) – PBX Ultra High Efficiency Amplifiers are the result of extensive engineering, and testing, to develop the best sounding and most efficient power delivery we have ever produced. with the success of our previous XMA Series our engineers went to work on the PBX Series with the goal of creating true works of art featuring high quality parts and an ultra efficient circuit design proving to be some of the best Class D amplifiers on the market today.

The PBX Series represents the very latest in Class D technology.uses IR® (International Recti-fier) platform. IR®, a leader in PWM circuit design, has worked in conjunction with PowerBass engineers to produce more stable power output, minimal RF interference and improved sound quality.

Available in Full-Range Digital 4CH, 6CH and 5CH models as well as D-Class Mono Blocks from 800W to an astounding 3000W RMS the PBX Series has the power and channel configurations to meet the demands of the most demanding setups.

Controlling your sound just got easier with the PBX-600.6 & PBX-500.4 as we have added in multiple filter options from HPF, LPF and even BANDPASS network selection allowing you total control when tuning your system. For more details please download the user manual.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

STILLWATER, OK (06.21.24) – With a nod to its past competition and SPL successes, KICKER^® is announcing the highly anticipated arrival of the long-awaited WXA-Series “Warhorse” Mono Amplifier. KICKER is also unveiling a full line of matching accessories for power distribution and signal control. The WXA lineup began shipping and will be available very soon for purchase at Authorized KICKER Retailers in-store and online. As introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live™ streamed show in past weeks, the Warhorse WXA3600.1 will retail for $999.99 and will also be available for purchase online at some point on www.kicker.com.

Built to run extremely hard all day and night, the WXA3600.1 is engineered specifically for ultra-high SPL applications. Every aspect of the Warhorse was tested mercilessly to ensure extreme performance and reliability. From the layout of the board to the rails, to the Tiffany-style RCA connectors, everything about these amps will make a bass-head smile from ear to ear. This full-bridge, one-Ohm-stable amplifier features dual 1/0 AWG power and ground connections, 4 AWG speaker terminals, dual 8 AWG remote terminals, and quad micro-controller-regulated cooling fans for fast, accurate cooling as needed.

Equipped with KICKER FIT+™ differential inputs and 125mV-40V RCA input range, the Warhorse is fully compatible with most factory or aftermarket source units. The amp is also start/stop compliant with a DC range of 6.5-15.5 volts. Users can engage Competition Mode to lock in gain voltage at four volts for perfect gain matching across multiple amplifiers, more aggressive fan cooling, and a fixed crossover setting of 200 Hz at 24dB per octave.

The WXA3600.1 includes two additional accessories:  a heavy-duty, diagnostic display tool and a dedicated, premium bass-level control, both with magnetic mounting. The diagnostic tool is a real-time status center, monitoring battery voltage (including max hold for hi/lo), amp temperature, power-supply protection, and potential speaker current overload.

A full line of Warhorse wiring and brass accessories is also being released. Designed to thrive under the extreme demands of high-SPL systems, the lineup includes a four-position battery terminal (with side-post adapter), a six-position battery terminal, fused distribution blocks, a universal RCA bass-level knob with magnetic mounting, and power cable and ground cable in 20-foot lengths featuring 1/0 AWG, full-spec, oxygen-free copper. All are emblazoned with the KICKER Warhorse logo.

Visit kicker.com for more.

OXNARD, CA (06.21.24) – BOSS Audio Systems is set to elevate the in-car entertainment experience with the upcoming launch of BOSS Elite. This new line represents a significant step forward, introducing a series of premium products, with the first release being new Headunits and Amplifiers.

With BOSS Elite, BOSS Audio Systems is not merely expanding its product line but establishing a distinct brand identity. This new range offers advanced features and true power ratings, designed to provide superior performance and reliability. Dealers and distributors will have exclusive access to BOSS Elite products, enjoying enhanced margins and unique incentives, reinforcing BOSS Elite’s commitment to quality and exclusivity.

The new BOSS Elite Headunits feature an updated touchscreen design, intuitive tactile buttons, and dynamic ambient lighting, all crafted to enhance the driving experience. Built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) capabilities allow users to personalize their audio settings effortlessly, ensuring a customized sound experience. Notably, the oversized screen options, available in 12″ and 14″ sizes, set a new industry benchmark. The Headunits are also available in 9″, 10.1″ and 7″ Double DIN variations. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ ensures seamless connectivity with smartphones and streaming services, while built-in SiriusXM capability allows direct access to satellite radio without needing to connect your phone, although a separate tuner is required for this function.

Complementing the Headunits, the BOSS Elite Amplifiers boast compact Class-D technology, providing powerful and reliable performance without compromising space. True-power ratings guarantee honest and dependable power output to better ensure exceptional audio quality.

In addition to these new products, BOSS Audio Systems has strengthened its team with strategic new hires who bring expertise and increased support to the dealer network. Matt Delgado, Director of Sales at BOSS Audio Systems, states, “Our mission at BOSS Audio Systems has always been to make premium audio accessible to car enthusiasts everywhere. With the new BOSS Elite series Headunits and Amplifiers, we’re delivering top-performing products with better features at an exclusive price to our dealer and distributor network.”

In line with their promise to bring more elite products to the market, a comprehensive product lineup for BOSS Elite will be unveiled throughout the year.

For more information about the new BOSS Elite Headunits and Amplifiers or to become a dealer, visit sales.bossinternationalgroup.com.

STILLWATER, OK (06.20.24) – KICKER has added a powerful, 1,500-watt mono amplifier to the KXMA Marine lineup, as well as a new pair of 6.5-inch coaxial speakers that look and fit differently than any others in the KICKER lineup. The KXMA1500.1 Marine Mono Amplifier will be available very soon for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Soon to be introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live™ streamed show, the KXMA1500.1 will retail for $699.99 and will also be available for purchase online at http://www.kicker.com.

Also shipping, KM614FL Marine Thin-Profile Coaxial Speakers with two different grille looks will become available at a retail price of $209.99.

Delivering the same power at one or two Ohms, the KXMA1500.1 is an efficient Class-D marine amplifier, powerful enough to run multiple KICKER Marine subwoofers at high volume. This feature-rich amp is also equipped with KickEQ+^™ bass boost, a 24dB/octave crossover and a variable 24dB subsonic filter with adjustable frequency control. A full-range RCA pass-through is also included for easy system expansion. The amplifier also comes with a KMBLC Remote Level Control for easy customization of your sound on the fly. Now with eight options, the KXMA line also features two, four, five and eight-channel options for highly flexible system design.

KICKER has also integrated FIT2^™ (Fail-safe Integration Technology) into KXMA amps, ensuring a flexible, noise-free signal from virtually any radio – without the additional expense of a line-out converter. The DSP-controlled preamp offers superior sound quality and precise control of the signal.

All KXMA Marine Amplifiers are built specifically for the rigors of life on the water. The side-mounted acoustic controls are guarded with a gasket-sealed door for protection from the elements. In addition to heavily applied conformal coating on the circuit boards, all power connections are ABYC/NMMA compliant, per KICKER’s Real Marine™ protocol.

Same Real Marine™ durability can be attributed to the KM614FL.  They meet or exceed industry standards for environmental humidity and corrosion^** and for material degradation due to UV exposure.^*** Rust-proof, stainless-steel installation hardware is also included.

Extending only one-half-inch past any boat’s mounting surface, the KM614FL pair comes equipped with both white OE-style speaker grilles and silver with an open tweeter hole to match the theme of the craft with ease. Expandable, seven-color under-cone LEDs bathe the entire speaker in light.

Visit kicker.com for more.

BATTLE GROUND, WA (June 20, 2024) – In a strategic move to boost customer service in the Pacific Northwest, The Crossover Marketing Group proudly announces the addition of Maria Alejandra to its growing team. 

Maria’s creativity, enthusiasm for helping others, and bilingual proficiency (English and Spanish) make her a valuable new asset to the team. As a past sales agent with a diverse background as a chef, bartender, and administrator, Maria is uniquely qualified and has adept skills to handle various situations and the experience in understanding and supporting people’s needs… Now, she is ready to embark on the next chapter of her career with Crossover. 

Outside of the office, Maria is a creative soul, she enjoys crafting, designing bags and earrings, and painting. She is also furthering her education by studying architecture and the Japanese language. 

“Her dedication and passion are evident in every task we’ve given her over the past several weeks of training” said Rob Sutton, expressing his admiration for Maria’s remarkable energy and commitment. “I wanted someone who shared in my desire to really connect with people, and feel like we hit a home run here” 

As the new Client Success Manager, Maria will oversee order entry, warranty claims, and overall customer service. This strategic hire also enables Crossover to transition Sam Sutton outside the office into a new Relationship Manager role, where he will directly serve accounts alongside Rob and Paul. Maria’s appointment underscores Crossover’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering strong relationships in the territory. 

“We couldn’t be happier with Maria. She brings an energy and enthusiasm to every task, is very detailed oriented, and extremely personable, all the traits and skills that we strive for in the DNA make-up of the entire Crossover Marketing Group“ said Paul Pilat when asked about how she will fit with the team. 

Visit www.crossovermktg.com for more.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL (06.19.24) – A VIPAR Heavy Duty stockholder since 2010 and one of its first Mexico-based distributors, DIREGO added its three Colombian locations to the group’s network, expanding its footprint into South America.

Two of the Colombian locations are in Bogotá and one is in Cali. DIREGO is headquartered in Saltillo, the capital of Coahuila, Mexico, and operates four distribution centers and 24 stores in that country, as well as one in Houston.

“We are very pleased to continue growing our partnership with VIPAR Heavy Duty. Bringing our Colombian locations into the network strengthens our ability to serve customers in that region and positions us for further growth,” said Alejandro “Alex” Garcia Pérez, DIREGO’s commercial director. “Our reputation is built on exceptional service and providing truck and trailer parts of the highest quality from the industry’s most trusted brands. We are eager, in conjunction with VIPAR Heavy Duty, to strengthen that reputation among our Colombian customers and communities.”

Garcia, who joined DIREGO’s management team in 2013, serves on the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors. During his time with DIREGO, the distributorship has experienced significant growth. They also became a subsidiary of ZOR Capital Group, which is focused on Latin American transportation, manufacturing and distribution for automobiles and commercial vehicles.

“DIREGO and Alex have been essential to VIPAR Heavy Duty’s success and growth in Latin America where we have more than 100 locations and 15 years of experience,” said VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO Chris Baer. “Alex’s aftermarket expertise and market knowledge are great assets as we execute our strategy to further strengthen our presence throughout Latin America. We are proud to have the strongest and most progressive network of independent aftermarket distributors throughout the Americas – now serving end-user customer needs on two continents.

“It’s a great time to be in the heavy duty truck parts business!”

DIREGO was founded in 1994 and has steadily expanded its footprint through the years. They provide parts for all makes and models of trucks, trailers and buses.

“DIREGO is a top VIPAR Heavy Duty distributor, excelling in all areas,” said Jim Pennig, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ vice president of business development. “They are an outstanding ambassador of VIPAR Heavy Duty’s brand and principles, and we welcome their Colombian locations to our growing Latin American network.”

For more information on DIREGO, visit dirego.com.mx. For more information on VIPAR Heavy Duty, visit www.vipar.com or email: info@vipar.com.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.19.24) – Take on the thrill of the open waters and abundant sunshine by upgrading your Marine speaker game to the NH2 LEVEL! Creating a soundscape for every on-the-water listening experience, MB Quart Nautic compression horn speakers and Nautic compression horn tower speakers bring out the best in Nautic performance. Get ready to embrace more of summer adventures!

Four models are included in this Nautic speaker line – NH2-120, NH2-116,
NHT2-120, and NHT2-116, as each speaker set projects audio that is loud so
it can be heard from miles away. But just being loud on the open waters is not enough – every speaker model creates audio that is clean, sharp, and detailed, with sound displayed in crisp playback.

Showcasing audio and design in a customizable appearance, each set of Nautic compression horn/horn tower speakers will include interchangeable grills (Black, Silver, and White) allowing you to match your boat or audio system installation as desired. Hear sound that is customizable to every install!

HEAR CLEANER DETAIL THROUGH NH2

Both the NH2-120 and NH2-116 make clean clarity in every beat upscaling your sound to the maximum performance in audio delivery. In addition – both compression horn models have been LIFE SHIELD tested to the highest Marine and Motorsports standards that include protection against sun fade, fresh/salt water spray, dust, and even sand.

Creating steady mids, higher-in-detail trebles, and overall a richer layer of Marine speaker playback – both NH2-120 and NH2-116 compression horns have been innovated with UHS (Ultra-High Sensitivity) Technology and wavelength transparent acoustic lenses with a polypropylene cone – so sound is heard in top-notch detail. Take on MORE SOUND in MORE DETAIL.

Learn more details HERE on both the NH2-120 and NH2-116
Nautic compression horn speakers.

TAKE ON LOUDER SOUND WITH NHT2

Creating LOUDER VOLUME while maintaining incredible detail – both the
NHT2-120 and NHT2-116 come designed in a reinforced compact enclosure.
With mounting hardware included and packaged in pairs, natural Butyl rubber surround remains responsive in all weather conditions. A heavy-duty injection-molded ABS cast enclosure provides strength and improved bass response in any genre of music.

A woven fiber composite spider helps stabilize the cone and voice coil in all musical situations creating a clear sound that projects an immersive layer into every song. Front and rear venting allow air passage through the spider and back plate to exchange air over the voice coil.

Learn more details HERE on both the NHT2-120 and NHT2-116 Nautic compression horn tower speakers.