LAS VEGAS, NV (01.07.26) – Building on decades of audio innovation, Pioneer introduces SPHERA, the world’s first aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver to feature Dolby Atmos^® playback in Apple CarPlay. To date, in-vehicle Dolby Atmos has been available only in models equipped with Dolby Atmos-enabled sound systems. With SPHERA, Pioneer expands access to Dolby Atmos through an aftermarket solution that can be installed in millions of existing vehicles, delivering an immersive sound experience leveraging speakers already in the vehicle.

Following last year’s CES prototype demonstration of in-vehicle spatial audio, Pioneer now brings that vision to life with SPHERA, an Apple CarPlay in-dash receiver featuring Dolby Atmos playback capability. With SPHERA, drivers can stream their favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from many popular streaming services¹ for a richer in-car entertainment experience with added depth, clarity, and detail.

“For over 80 years, Pioneer has achieved many technological ‘firsts’—from the world’s first car CD player to the first aftermarket CarPlay integration,” said Chris Ono, CEO & Chairman of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “SPHERA is the next bold chapter in that legacy. Guided by our corporate mission, ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul’, we developed a product that brings the rich, detailed sound of Dolby Atmos that moves the soul, to a solution that can be installed in many vehicles on the road today. With SPHERA, we are expanding access to immersive sound, allowing more drivers than ever to enjoy music with the clarity and emotion its creators intended.”

OPTIMIZED 4-CHANNEL SOLUTION

Pioneer’s SPHERA features technology from Dolby that enables a rich Dolby Atmos experience delivered over 4-channels. SPHERA leverages a vehicle’s existing front and rear speaker locations to create a rich, immersive listening experience powered by Dolby Atmos. The combination of Dolby Atmos playback technology and Pioneer processing precisely manages sound reproduction to provide a practical, installation-ready upgrade path and the ability to add a spatial audio experience in many consumers’ existing vehicles.

POWERED BY PURE AUTOTUNING TECHNOLOGY

SPHERA integrates Pioneer’s PURE Autotuning technology, a proprietary in-vehicle calibration system engineered specifically for the acoustic challenges of the automobile interior. Vehicle cabins vary widely in size, shape, and materials, and aftermarket upgrades can further influence acoustical variables. To account for and adapt to these differences, PURE Autotuning technology precisely adjusts time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to optimize performance and place the listener at the acoustical center position. This level of accuracy is essential for delivering a Dolby Atmos experience that is true to the creative intent of musicians and content creators.

MODERN INTERFACE AND INSTALLATION-READY DESIGN

SPHERA pairs its audio innovations with a refined hardware and interface platform engineered for real-world automotive use. A vibrant 10.1” HD capacitive display delivers crisp visibility and responsive control, supported by Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface for fast, intuitive adjustments on the road. Leveraging the large screen size, a split-screen mode reserves a portion of the screen for easy access to key features and controls. The integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar adds a subtle visual signature to the dash, featuring an Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation support and Music Synchronization Mode to sync lighting with your audio. Wireless connectivity keeps the experience streamlined through wireless CarPlay, wireless Android Auto™, and Bluetooth®. Designed for universal aftermarket installation, SPHERA fits a wide variety of vehicles with minimal modification, ensuring that immersive audio reaches drivers without an overly complicated upgrade process.

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

Launching at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, SPHERA will be showcased at Pepcom at Paris Las Vegas as well as Pioneer’s booth located in LVCC, West Hall — 3527, where on-site demos will be available.

Pioneer SPHERA will be available in Spring 2026 through Pioneer’s network of authorized retailers, both in-store and online, including Best Buy, Crutchfield, and others. Pricing will begin at$1,300.

For more information about Pioneer SPHERA, as well as other products launched at CES 2026, go to usa.pioneer.

LONG BEACH, CA (01.08.26) — JVCKENWOOD announced expanded compatibility for its innovative Direct Replacement receivers, which now support select 2009–2017 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles with the shipment of ADS Maestro’s new APX-S8-IN1 installation kit.

Introduced in spring of last year, JVCKENWOOD’s Direct Replacement receivers offer a new approach to radio replacement. Unlike conventional installations that often require extensive dash kits—sometimes replacing entire dash panels or climate controls—Direct Replacement receivers are designed to replace the factory display directly.

These receivers feature high-resolution touchscreen displays that match the original 8-inch factory screen size, or in some applications offer a 10-inch floating display solution. Installation is simplified using basic mounting brackets, the Maestro RR1 or RR2 interface, and vehicle-specific wiring harnesses. Factory dash functions such as volume, climate controls, and other integrated features are retained capabilities that are often lost with traditional aftermarket installations.

The APX-S8-IN1 kit is particularly significant, as it provides a radio replacement solution for vehicles that previously had limited or no aftermarket upgrade options.

The launch of the APX-S8-IN1 marks the latest expansion of the Direct Replacement ecosystem, with additional vehicle-specific kits planned for release in the near future.

“We feel that Direct Replacement receivers are the future of car audio,” said Rick Noetzli, Product Manager at KENWOOD. “As we move forward, this approach allows us to support vehicles that previously could not accommodate a receiver replacement.”

The APX-S8-IN1 installation kit is available now from iDatalink.

Visit us.jvckenwood.com for more.

TEMPE, AZ (01.08.26) – 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.

WASHINGTON, DC (01.07.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is mourning the passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., a lifelong automotive enthusiast and champion of the aftermarket industry and the millions of Americans who love to modify and customize their vehicles. As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, LaMalfa fought on behalf of those who rely on their vehicles as a means for personal liberty, prosperity, and economic freedom.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend, Rep. Doug LaMalfa,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “His boundless enthusiasm for American car culture was matched only by his deep desire to ensure the prosperity of the people whose work fuels the automotive aftermarket. We will miss hearing about his latest missions to procure hard-to-source parts for one of his restoration projects, and future SEMA Shows won’t be the same without him walking the floors and talking with excitement about the builds he witnessed.”

LaMalfa was always there to help address the challenges facing the American car community and was a leading voice in Congress to preserve vehicle choice in the U.S., as well as Americans’ right to modify their vehicles and access public lands for motorized recreational use. He will forever be remembered by SEMA and its members for his public service, passion for his cars, and devotion to his constituents.

Scott Dilbeck, Sky-High Audio and Chris Jack (R) SKILLSUSA flank the winners.

Dear Mobile Electronics Industry Professional:

The 2026 SkillsUSA Competition season has already begun, and we are excited for this opportunity to inspire the careers of young people.   The students that achieve the chance to compete at the National Level have shown their ability and desire to work within the mobile electronics industry. They represent our future integrators, fabricators, salespeople, engineers, and business owners. 

We are grateful for the support that has been previously provided by several manufacturers and individual members of our industry, and we request your assistance again for our 2026 efforts.  Our operating expenses for this competition season are estimated to be around $15,000.  To achieve this fund-raising goal, we urgently request that all donations be made before April 30, 2026.  This ensures all things will be ready for the NLSC in June.  A GoFundMe site has been setup to make donating simple, as well as a QR code to make direct contributions.  (In addition to spending $20 a week on the tool truck, why not make a one-time donation for our future workforce.) We also encourage business owners to get involved by matching the donations made by their employees.  (150 stores each contributing $100 will be enough to reach our goal.)

Contribute to the GoFundMe here.

We also welcome products, tools, and P.O.P. materials in addition to your monetary contribution.  Some of these will be used for testing and demonstration purposes. Other miscellaneous marketing items, such as t-shirts, hats, key chains, and lanyards, will be presented as a gift package for all contestants.  The competitors that finish in the top 3 places of their division each receive a prize package including products, tools, and scholarships

SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization for school-aged students, empowering high school and secondary school students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible industry contributors. The 2026 National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) will take place in Atlanta June 1-5 and is one of the largest hands-on workforce development events in the world.  North America’s highest achieving skilled career and technical education students participate in the premier showcase SkillsUSA Competition. 

The Mobile Electronics Installation competition category is the ultimate career preparation experience at the NLSC.  The contestants will be evaluated according to the proven professional standards of the MECP by soldering, working with relays, using a multimeter to measure electrical components, troubleshooting electronic circuits, and installing consumer electronics in simulated vehicle setups.  In addition to these tests, they also take a written exam based on the MECP Apprentice Installation Technician certification.  And to further prepare them to enter the workforce, they experience a professional job interview and receive instant feedback on how to improve their performance.

SkillsUSA (formerly VICA/Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) is a 501(c3) not for profit organization. A W-9 form for your contribution is available upon request. 

We appreciate your consideration to help strengthen and grow the resource pool of qualified candidates in our industry and look forward to answering any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

For more information, please visit www.skillsusa.org

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.07.26) – SEMA has issued a call for speakers for the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. Organizers are seeking experts who can present new ideas, trends, technologies, and expertise at sessions that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level. The Show will host education days Tuesday, Nov. 3, through Thursday, Nov. 5.

Innovative thought leaders and dynamic presenters who can share new skills and ideas targeted to the automotive aftermarket are invited to apply at www.semashow.com/speakers.

The educational sessions are a key pillar of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals gather to learn new business strategies and best practices. The SEMA Show education program provides relevant, engaging, and inspiring information on the industry’s complex issues and topics.

Topics of focus for 2026 include:

• Aftermarket updates and future trends
• Emerging and executive leadership
• Legislative and regulatory
• Sales and marketing
• Small-business strategy
• Talent management
• Vehicle technology
• Industry segment-specific topics

Speaker proposals for the 2026 SEMA Show must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 13, at www.semashow.com/speakers.

For more details, contact SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development Gary Vigil at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at http://www.semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4; to sign up for notifications, visit here.

For more information, visit www.semashow.com.

LAS VEGAS, NV (01.06.26) – Building on decades of audio innovation, Pioneer introduces SPHERA, the world’s first aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver to feature Dolby Atmos^® playback in Apple CarPlay. To date, in-vehicle Dolby Atmos has been available only in models equipped with Dolby Atmos-enabled sound systems. With SPHERA, Pioneer expands access to Dolby Atmos through an aftermarket solution that can be installed in millions of existing vehicles, delivering an immersive sound experience leveraging speakers already in the vehicle.

Following last year’s CES prototype demonstration of in-vehicle spatial audio, Pioneer now brings that vision to life with SPHERA, an Apple CarPlay in-dash receiver featuring Dolby Atmos playback capability. With SPHERA, drivers can stream their favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from many popular streaming services¹ for a richer in-car entertainment experience with added depth, clarity, and detail.

“For over 80 years, Pioneer has achieved many technological ‘firsts’—from the world’s first car CD player to the first aftermarket CarPlay integration,” said Chris Ono, CEO & Chairman of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “SPHERA is the next bold chapter in that legacy. Guided by our corporate mission, ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul’, we developed a product that brings the rich, detailed sound of Dolby Atmos that moves the soul, to a solution that can be installed in many vehicles on the road today. With SPHERA, we are expanding access to immersive sound, allowing more drivers than ever to enjoy music with the clarity and emotion its creators intended.”

OPTIMIZED 4-CHANNEL SOLUTION

Pioneer’s SPHERA features technology from Dolby that enables a rich Dolby Atmos experience delivered over 4-channels. SPHERA leverages a vehicle’s existing front and rear speaker locations to create a rich, immersive listening experience powered by Dolby Atmos. The combination of Dolby Atmos playback technology and Pioneer processing precisely manages sound reproduction to provide a practical, installation-ready upgrade path and the ability to add a spatial audio experience in many consumers’ existing vehicles.

POWERED BY PURE AUTOTUNING TECHNOLOGY

SPHERA integrates Pioneer’s PURE Autotuning technology, a proprietary in-vehicle calibration system engineered specifically for the acoustic challenges of the automobile interior. Vehicle cabins vary widely in size, shape, and materials, and aftermarket upgrades can further influence acoustical variables. To account for and adapt to these differences, PURE Autotuning technology precisely adjusts time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to optimize performance and place the listener at the acoustical center position. This level of accuracy is essential for delivering a Dolby Atmos experience that is true to the creative intent of musicians and content creators.

MODERN INTERFACE AND INSTALLATION-READY DESIGN

SPHERA pairs its audio innovations with a refined hardware and interface platform engineered for real-world automotive use. A vibrant 10.1” HD capacitive display delivers crisp visibility and responsive control, supported by Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface for fast, intuitive adjustments on the road. Leveraging the large screen size, a split-screen mode reserves a portion of the screen for easy access to key features and controls. The integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar adds a subtle visual signature to the dash, featuring an Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation support and Music Synchronization Mode to sync lighting with your audio. Wireless connectivity keeps the experience streamlined through wireless CarPlay, wireless Android Auto™, and Bluetooth®. Designed for universal aftermarket installation, SPHERA fits a wide variety of vehicles with minimal modification, ensuring that immersive audio reaches drivers without an overly complicated upgrade process.

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

Launching at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, SPHERA will be showcased at Pepcom at Paris Las Vegas as well as Pioneer’s booth located in LVCC, West Hall — 3527, where on-site demos will be available.

Pioneer SPHERA will be available in Spring 2026 through Pioneer’s network of authorized retailers, both in-store and online, including Best Buy, Crutchfield, and others. Pricing will begin at$1,300.

For more information about Pioneer SPHERA, as well as other products launched at CES 2026, go to usa.pioneer.

OLATHE, KS (01.06.26) – Garmin has announced the JL Audio® AP Amplifiers, an all-new series that delivers powerful audio to every part of the boat or off-road vehicle with an ultracompact design. Boaters and adventure-seekers can choose from four different options, including a model with Bluetooth® technology that seamlessly connects with a compatible smartphone to stream audio on the go. 

“Make any boat or off-road vehicle’s audio system the life of the party with our new JL Audio AP Amplifiers that allow you to play your favorite songs loud and clear. They are built to withstand a demanding environment, delivering superior audio quality year after year.” 

–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing 

Choose your amplifier 

Operating with an efficient Class-D design, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers offer increased power to connected speakers and subwoofers with a lower battery drain than Class-AB amplifiers. Available in four different options, boaters and off-road enthusiasts can choose the model that best fits their audio setup. 

• For users looking for easy installation, the 200-watt RMS 4 Channel includes Bluetooth technology for direct audio streaming in addition to an AUX input. 
• For those with smaller systems that need more bass, the 300-watt RMS Monoblock is designed to power a single subwoofer. 
• For those looking to power a complete sound system, the 300-watt RMS 4 Channel powers four pairs of speakers or two pairs of speakers and a subwoofer. 
• For those with larger systems, the 600-watt RMS 6 Channel is designed with staggered power that can run up to six pairs of speakers or four speakers and one subwoofer. 

Three of the amplifiers contain Easy Tune functionality that offers audio optimization, speaker protection and allows for digital set-up. Customers can also easily access physical controls right on the integrated top panel display to manually adjust their amplifier’s settings. 

Resilient design 

Constructed with a tough cast alloy casing, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers keep the beat going year after year. They carry an IP67 rating2 for resistance to water and dust. The amplifiers also feature a built-in LCD display for manual control, while the 4 Channel model with Bluetooth technology includes a remote. 

These amplifiers are rugged and can be easily installed to a variety of boats, ATVs, UTVs and other power sports vehicles, augmenting any vehicle’s sound system. 

Available to purchase on www.garmin.com on Jan. 8, 2026, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers have suggested retail prices starting at $499.99. To learn more, visit garmin.com/jlaudio. 

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is now accepting applications for the 2026 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, an initiative designed to help students and emerging professionals launch successful careers in the automotive industry.

Through the scholarship program, eligible students may receive awards of up to $5,000 to support their education at accredited universities, colleges, and vocational or technical schools in the United States and Canada. SEMA also offers loan forgiveness awards of up to $2,000 for employees of SEMA-member companies who have completed a qualifying program of study and are actively repaying student loans.

“The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund exists to break down barriers and create opportunities for the next generation of aftermarket professionals,” said Joe Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “By investing in both students and existing employees alike, we are building a stronger talent pipeline, fostering career growth, and securing the future of our industry.”

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to promote career development and create access to opportunities in the automotive aftermarket. As part of this initiative, scholarship recipients are invited to attend the SEMA Show, where they can gain industry insight, connect with industry leaders, and explore career pathways firsthand.

For students like Zachary Beenen, the support from SEMA enabled him to attend the college of his choice: Oklahoma State University. Beenen is currently majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering with a future career in the area of performance vehicles.

“I am forever thankful for scholarships like SEMA’s that will help me achieve my career goals of working in the performance vehicle industry, while getting the many experiences that college has to offer,” he said.

Scholarship applications are open to high school seniors and college students in the United States and Canada who demonstrate a passion for working in the automotive industry. All disciplines are welcome.

Those interested in applying for a loan forgiveness award must be employed by a SEMA member business, demonstrate passion for an automotive career, possess a degree or certificate from a college, university, or career tech school in the United States or Canada, and have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans.

Applications are open through April 3, 2026, at www.sema.org/scholarships.

LOVELAND, CO (01.05.26) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross filled the Blue Arena in Loveland CO on Saturday January 3rd for Round 3 of the 25-26 PRO AMA ArenaCross schedule.

“It was cold outside but inside the action on the track was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Riders were Livin’Loud and fast on the track too. KICKER had a display set up in the lobby area and virtually everyone who entered the Blue Arena passed by the KICKER setup with a selection of products on display” Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series stated.

As enthusiasts came through the lobby they stopped at the booth to KICKER to check out products. Loiue and Ray from FOSS Car Toys in Ft Collins were in the booth with Morrell. “Colorado is truck country so the KICKER L7T under seat drew a lot of attention as did the Harley products and woofers. Powersports is strong in the Rockies so the KICKER PowerBar grabbed attention too. Marine is a growing category in the area along with life style products” Morrell continued.

The Blue Arena was built as a hockey arena that holds about 7000 people. For the ArenaCross event the stands were pushed back a bit to set up the fairly short, but well designed, dirt track for riders. Over 100 riders during the event were flying high and navigating the tight turns through the evening races from 3:30 until well after 9PM.

Saturday the event got off to an early start as attendees lined up to get on the track for the Pit Party. For about an hour before the racing action enthusiasts met the riders and asked them questions about their bikes while having an opportunity to get autographs, selfies and walk the track .

In addition to the action on the track T-shirts were fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fired wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BULLFROG to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I hand them their BULLFROG prize is always really special” Morrell offered.

Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a great start for the 25-26 circuit in Boise and Loveland continued the roll for the KICKER AMA ArenaCross series. It is terrific to see, and feel, the energy from members of the crowd as all are Livin’Loud at KICKER ArenaCross events.”

The next stop for the AMA ArenaCross and Maddog_Media is in Toronto Canada January 9th and 10th for Rounds 4 and 5.

Visit kicker.com for more.