TEMPE, AZ (03.10.26) – Mobile Solutions, a leader in creating the tools and training needed for custom automotive electronics, audio, and interior installations, is proud to announce a new Canadian distribution partnership with Automobility, expanding access to its industry-leading fabrication tools, training products, and the rapidly growing FabKit panel system brand.

“Automobility is a well respected Canadian distributor and so through this strategic partnership, they will provide improved availability, faster shipping, and localized support for customers across Canada,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “Automobility will not only carry Mobile Solutions’ product lines, but it will also play a key role in expanding advanced fabrication education throughout Canada.”

Mobile Solutions, known globally for its innovative fabrication tools and hands-on technical training programs, continues to invest in strategic growth initiatives that support fabricators, custom installers, and performance shops at every level of the industry.

“We are incredibly proud to join forces with Bryan and the Mobile Solutions team,” said Steve Coulombe, Automobility product manager. “This collaboration is built on a shared passion for our industry, and together, we’re focused on bringing world-class tools and training to the Canadian market.”

New Montreal Training Center

“As an important piece of our partnership, a new training center in Montreal is planned as a cornerstone of future expansion for both companies,” Schmitt continued. “The facility will host fabrication workshops, hands-on tool training, and MasterTech certification programs, thus strengthening both of our shared industry commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and professional growth.”

Schmitt added, “Together, we are expanding access to the tools, systems, and training that help fabricators work smarter, faster, and more profitably. The new Montreal training center represents the next step in growing our global fabrication community.”

Coulombe concluded, “Launching the Montreal training center will be a major milestone for us, providing a dedicated space for MasterTech certifications and hands-on workshops. While Montreal is our immediate priority, this is just the first step in our national growth plan; we’re already looking toward Vancouver for a future expansion to ensure pros across the country have the support they need. We are thrilled to get started and to help elevate the standards of our industry together.”

Customers can learn more at:
• Mobile Solutions: www.mobilesolutions-usa.com
• Automobility: https://automob.ca/EN/home.aspx

For distribution inquiries, training information, or product availability, please contact Automobility directly or visit the websites above.

PHOENIX, AZ (03.10.26) – MTX, a MiTek Electronics and Communications company, is excited to announce its participation in MasterTech Expo 2026, taking place March 12–15 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Arizona. The annual event brings together manufacturers, retailers, and installation professionals for hands-on training, product demonstrations, and industry collaboration focused on advancing technical expertise within the mobile electronics community.

Attendees are encouraged to visit MTX at the Trailer #3 spot, where the booth will display a wide range of MTX product lines across mobile, powersports, and marine audio. On display will be amplifiers, speakers, signal processors, and installation accessories that represent the breadth of the MTX portfolio. Attendees will also have the opportunity to see MTX’s iconic Anti-Bling Escalade on display, one of the brand’s most recognized demonstration vehicles.

The booth will also highlight newly released PS amplifiers, the latest RTX amplifier platform, and additional products debuting at MasterTech. These new offerings reflect MTX’s continued focus on delivering clean power, advanced technology, and dependable performance built for real-world installs.

In addition to exhibiting on the show floor, MTX will sponsor the Clean Wire Challenge, reinforcing its commitment to craftsmanship and technical excellence within the installer community.

MTX will also host its THUNDERLab Open House during the Manufacturer Night School trainings on Friday, March 13 from 4:30 PM to 5:45 PM in room Cholla 1–2. The session will feature live amplifier dyno testing with amplifier giveaways throughout the event, live demonstrations of the new MTX DSP platform, and additional premium giveaways. The THUNDERLab is designed to provide an engaging, performance-focused experience while offering direct interaction with the MTX team.

MasterTech Expo 2026 provides a valuable opportunity for manufacturers and installers to collaborate, learn, and experience the latest developments in mobile electronics. MTX looks forward to engaging with partners and continuing to push the limits of performance audio.

For more information about MTX or to find a dealer, please visit www.mtx.com.

OZARK, MO (03.10.26) – The Ozarks will turn up the volume on April 4th with AMP’D UP in the Ozarks. This is a car show that is Audio focused and brings enthusiast, custom vehicles and major industry brands together for a one day showcase of sound and innovation.

Hosted by Creative Audio, a well established and trusted retailer specializing in car, home, and marine audio the event will highlight the latest technology in mobile sound systems and vehicle customization.

The show will feature booths and demonstrations from leading audio brands, alongside a wide range of custom vehicles showcasing powerful audio installations and creative builds.

AMP’D UP in the Ozarks aims to celebrate the growth of the Car-Audio community by giving enthusiast the opportunity to experience cutting edge audio systems, meet industry experts and connect with others who share a passion for high performance sound.

Organizers expect attendees from across the region for what is shaping up to be one of the Ozarks most exciting Audio focused automotive events of the year.

The 2025 AMP’D UP event filled the Convention Center with vender booths and demos, show cars and enthusiasts. Creative Audio, KICKER, KENWOOD, HERTZ, JBL, Memphis Audio, Rockford Fosgate, Cicada and Wet Sounds plus ORCA/Focal were featured exhibitors.

For more see ampdupintheozarks.com

ORLANDO, FL (03.06.26) – VOXX By Gentex Corporation is proud to announce the release of the new VIPER SMARTSTART PRO and DIRECTED SMARTSTART PRO applications. The 2026 apps introduce a completely reimagined experience designed for clarity, speed, and intuitive interaction.

A More Responsive, Personalized, And Efficient Mobile Control Platform
Mobile access and automobiles go hand-in-hand. This next step in vehicle telematics highlights include an all-new interface for an easier in-app experience. A clean and modern design is now live, with real-time feedback and enhanced user controls. See how VIPER and DIRECTED step into innovation this spring with a redesigned vehicle status page, a streamlined menu structure, and simplified navigation, providing quicker access to key functions.

Additional app upgrades comprise new vehicle imagery, optimized image placement for improved clarity, and a vehicle activity page. View command and alert history in one convenient location, no more digging through pop-up screens. Users can now customize their controls and select how each command is executed by tapping or pressing and holding the command button. These 2026 applications have also added a garage quick command page.

A Bold Step Forward
With the launch of the 2026 VIPER and DIRECTED SMARTSTART PRO apps, VOXX continues its commitment to innovation in vehicle security and connected car telematics. The new phone applications reflect a forward-looking approach focused on enhanced usability, modern design, and improved performance. Note that the new apps will co-exist on the app stores with the current (original) VIPER SMARTSTART and DIRECTED SMARTSTART apps, as some legacy features are not initially supported on the new apps, but may be in the future.

For more information or to download the new 2026 VIPER and DIRECTED SMARTSTART PRO apps, visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

For more information on the VIPER SMARTSTART PRO VSM550 product, visit: https://viper.com/smartstart/products.aspx#ViperSmartStartPro 

For more information on the DIRECTED SMARTSTART PRO DSM550 product, visit: https://www.voxxelectronics.com/our-products/smartstart-pro-4g-lte-gps-module

OXNARD, CA (03.06.26) – Modus is proud to announce it will be a MasterTech Expo 2026 Diamond Sponsor as well as sponsor the event’s kickoff party on Thursday, March 12. During the expo, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., Modus will exhibit, conduct two product trainings, and sponsor two EV Evolution Workshops during the annual event.

“Both training sessions will feature Modus’ patented PREACT™ Current Averaging Technology, a unique approach to managing amplifier current for improved efficiency, consistency, and real-world performance,” said Jason Digos, Senior Sales Trainer at Modus. “We are also excited to be a MasterTech Diamond Sponsor as well as sponsor of the much anticipated EV Evolution Workshop featuring Ray West and Tony D’Amore. Understanding the intricacies and complications that may arise with installations of high-end aftermarket audio products in today’s electric vehicles are critical to modern system integration. Our workshop and trainings are a must see for those that want to understand and utilize these technologies that are in both standard and EV mobile audio solutions.”

EV Evolution Workshop:
• #1

• When: Thursday, March 12 (12:30pm)
• Where: Convention Center Conference Theater
  • #2
• When: Sunday, March 15 (8:00am)
• Where: Convention Center Conference Theater

Modus Tech Trainings:
• #1

• When: Friday March 13 (4:30pm)
• Where: Convention Center Conference Theater
  • #2
• When: Saturday March 14 (5:00pm)
• Where: Palo Verde Room 2

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

EAST WENATCHEE, WA 03.06.26) – The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) concluded a highly successful appearance at the Florida International Audio Expo, held February 20–22 in Tampa. The event brought together audio enthusiasts, manufacturers, retailers, and industry professionals from across the country to celebrate innovation and excellence in sound.

Throughout the three-day expo, IASCA showcased its continued commitment to high-performance mobile audio competition and sound quality standards. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about IASCA’s competition formats, judging standards, and the organization’s expanding role in supporting the mobile electronics industry.

IASCA representatives engaged with both longtime competitors and newcomers interested in entering the world of car audio competition. Demonstrations and discussions highlighted how IASCA events provide a platform for enthusiasts to showcase their builds, compete at the highest levels, and connect with the broader audio community.

“The Florida International Audio Expo provided a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with passionate audio enthusiasts and introduce many new people to IASCA competition,” said IASCA leadership. “The level of interest and engagement we saw throughout the weekend reinforces the growing excitement around high-quality mobile audio and the community that surrounds it.”

The expo itself featured a wide range of high-end home and mobile audio systems, live demonstrations, and educational sessions. IASCA’s presence helped bridge the gap between home audio enthusiasts and the world of competitive mobile sound, highlighting the craftsmanship and engineering behind today’s top vehicle audio builds.

Onsite with indoor displays and demonstration vehicles outside were Florida Sound Quality, HKI USA, MSC America, Prodigy Audio, OTS Audio, Sound Factory, and Kimballs Audio and Interiors.

Top winners of the IASCA Sound Quality event included John Senters, Jeffrey Hald, Justin Armor, Wayne Barron, and Scott Smith.

Visit iasca.com for more.

SHREVEPORT LA (03.02.26) It’s March and time to crank it up across the 12volt industry. Historically the 12volt industry kicks off in March with warmer temperatures, tax refund checks and people getting out on the road. March is a perfect time for proactive vendors, reps, distributors and dealers to connect at public events to let consumers and enthusiasts know about all the exciting products the 12volt industry offers for consumers.

Most importantly consumers must know what we offer across the 12volt industry. Exciting products must be experienced in-person. Laptop and smartphone platforms do not deliver the in-person experience of a show or 12volt retailers store. Consumer events are the perfect places to make that happen. Cities across the US hold events for consumers at area convention centers.

Recently proactive retailer Team Nutz had booths at 2 large events in Pittsburgh. The World of Wheels and Pittsburgh International Auto Show attracted attendance of 50,000 plus. Code Zero Customs was on site at a very well attended Starbird Car Show show in Tulsa OK. The following week Boomer’s Audio was on site at a Marine Show at the same large convention center. Just a week ago Stereo King had a major presence at the Portland International Auto show. Each of these retailers and vendor partners have noted the great turnout from area consumers with an interest in 12volt product categories they saw in the Show floor. This weekend Bike Week kicked off at the International Speedway in Daytona. Kenwood, along with Florida retailer Tunes-N-Tint, has a large booth.

In addition, KICKER recently wrapped the AMA KICKER ArenaCross Series that was held in local arenas across the US and attended by crowds of local enthusiast that came to see the racing on the track and have an opportunity to check out KICKER’s latest product lineup.

For more see 12voltnews.com

TEMPE, AZ (02.27.26) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce its 2026 Awards Program, a prestigious lineup of honors recognizing the individuals, vehicles, brands, and educators who represent the very best of the industry. The 2026 awards will be presented live on Sunday, March 15 at 1:30pm during MasterTech Expo, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz.

“Taking place during the Expo’s annual gathering, these awards celebrate not only technical excellence, but also the creativity, dedication, and leadership that continue to drive the industry forward,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “Rooted in the Expo’s long-standing mission of education, collaboration, and professional growth, the awards highlight the people and organizations setting the benchmark for excellence across the community.”

The 2026 awards include:

Industry Awards

• Clean Wire Tech; recognizes exceptional craftsmanship in wiring execution, organization, and installation standards.
• Fabricator of the Year; honors an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary skill, innovation, and dedication to custom fabrication within the industry.
• Lifetime Achievement; the highest honor presented at MasterTech Expo, recognizing an individual whose career has made a profound and lasting impact on the mobile electronics and fabrication community.

Manufacturer Awards

• Best Booth Experience; recognizes the exhibitor that delivers the most engaging, informative, and memorable presence on the show floor.
• Best Sounding Vehicle; honors the pinnacle of mobile audio performance and tuning excellence.
• Best Vendor Training Experience; celebrates the manufacturer or vendor that delivers the most impactful educational session at the Expo.

“MasterTech Expo brings together professionals, manufacturers, educators, and enthusiasts from across North America and beyond for a celebration of achievement and community,” Schmitt concluded. “Each award recipient embodies the passion, professionalism, and innovation that define our industry.”

For event details, registration, and updates, visit: www.MasterTechExpo.com

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (02.27.26) – The Progressive Group is set to power the 11th Annual Rock The House Tour. The tour is set to kick off in Grand Rapids MI on Tuesday, May 5th. Two days later on May 7, the Rock the House Tour will stop in Troy MI. The 2026 Rock The House Tour will include nine locations across the US.

At each of the tour stops there will be strong specials, networking with staff and vendors along with giveaways plus entertainment and delicious food.The Rock The House Tour provides dealers in the area of a Team Progressive location to see new products, meet with with industry members plus connect with other dealers in the area. The stops on the 2025 Tour were very well attended and the outlook for the 2026 tour is already very positive.

Jason Dubie, Director of Business-Midwest, “Turnout was strong across the 2025 Tour. At each event dealers from more than two hours away drove in attend our Rock The House stop in their area. We had positive comments from dealers and vendors at each Tour stop. We are looking forward to a very positive 2026 Tour.” 

For more see teamprogressive.com

LIBERTYVILLE, OH (02.27.26) – Compact MEAN MACHINE amplifiers are engineered for performance in a smaller, more versatile form. These amplifiers are designed for easy installation and greater flexibility in your audio system while still delivering BIG POWER in compact form.

Unleash MEAN 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!

To learn more, click here.