ORLANDO, FL (03.18.25) – VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC), a wholly owned subsidiary of VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX) and a leading innovator in aftermarket automotive electronics, connected car solutions, and vehicle interior enhancements, is pleased to announce that it’s LEATHER CRAFT brand will be hosting 2 training sessions during the MasterTech Expo in Mesa, AZ. The trainings will be held at the MESA Convention Center on Friday, March 21st in room Palo Verde 2 and on  Saturday, March 22nd in room Delta D, 7:00PM – 9:00PM MST, at which times the LEATHER CRAFT team will guide you on why you should be in this business and how to get into it.

The LEATHER CRAFT training sessions will provide you the tools, confidence, and strategy to capitalize on this opportunity and grow your business. You will learn the stages of development and essential steps to enter into this business. Show up and gain practical insights and knowledge to tap into this profitable segment. Perhaps you’re starting out in the field or simply an automotive professional seeking new skill sets, this class is for you. Don’t miss out!

LEATHER CRAFT will also be featured in booth #404 with a selection of other VOXX Electronics products. Stop by during the MasterTech Expo to meet the team and see LEATHER CRAFT’s products in person.

For more information about LEATHER CRAFT, VOXX Electronics Corporation, and their range of automotive aftermarket solutions, please visit http://www.leathercraft.pro/ and https://www.voxxelectronics.com.

GRAPEVINE, TX (03.18.25) – JVC Mobile Entertainment made headlines at Hotshots Reloaded 2025 with their groundbreaking Direct Replacement line of products. The event, which was hosted at the Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center, featured two breakthrough head units: KW-Z800AW and KW-Z1000AW, which are set to transform aftermarket car audio integration. The venue itself was held at an off-site location called Crashed Toys auction house in Dallas, Texas. Many attendees commented on the venue was a perfect choice due to the fun aesthetic of the location.

JVC contracted heavy hitters within the industry to offer the very best within their respective fields. CMA Networks was contracted to provide their world class services in recording and helped JVC expand their video resource library. Dean and Fernando; renowned car audio installers and internet personalities associated with Five Star Car Stereo, were invited to do a live installation of the new product category, Direct Replacement. And Chris Teerlink of Provobeast; a successful YouTube creator was invited to provide his expertise on how to make an impact in your online presence.

The main portion of the event had Josh Bowen, Marcus Vasconcellos, and Kelvin De Leon Rivera of JVCKENWOOD offering insight on this new product category while also doing a deep dive on the features and form factor. The live installation performed by Dean and Fernando demonstrated the ease of installation and provided an understanding of the actual application of the products. While Saturday offered a close look on this new product category; Sunday shifted the focus and discussed various strategies on how to drive success for attendees. Chris Teerlink of Provobeast spoke at the event, offering a unique point of view about marketing on social media platforms. Being a successful YouTube influencer, his perspective was extremely valuable in increasing presence on these platforms. Within that same time Steve Cote and Kelvin De Leon Rivera offered valuable knowledge and resources attendees can use to expand their customer base.

The newly launched Direct Replacement receivers set a new standard in the industry, offering seamless installation and expanded vehicle compatibility. Contrary to other aftermarket options, these models prevent the need for big dash kits and extensive changes. Josh Bowen, JVCKENWOOD Marketing Manager, pointed out the revolutionary nature of this new category, noting:

“This product will change the car audio industry for the better; it gives us hope for the future of aftermarket receivers by adapting to the new footprint that the OE manufactures have put in place for quite some time now.”

The event garnered tremendous attention, with aftermarket industry professionals eager to understand how the KW-Z800AW and KW-Z1000AW will revolutionize the aftermarket industry. JVC officials took the participants through the game-changing design, pointing out its ability to streamline installations and enhance product lines for installers and retailers. With Direct Replacement, JVC isn’t just introducing another head unit—they’re changing the way the business of aftermarket receiver replacement is done.

For direct replacement or custom installations, these solutions provide a premium, OEM-quality upgrade with performance and features customers demand today. The response at Hotshots Reloaded 2025 confirmed that the Direct Replacement category is set to make waves across the industry. Installers, retailers, and car audio enthusiasts alike can look forward to a smarter, more efficient, and better-integrated solution for aftermarket upgrades.

For more details on Direct Replacement receivers, visit us.jvckenwood.com

PHOENIX, AZ (03.14.25) – MiTek Electronics & Communications (MTX) announced a partnership with Hazim Jainoor of Aligned Sales & Marketing Group (ASM) to represent MTX Powersports in Southern California, Southern Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico. With an impressive track record of driving brand growth and market expansion, Jainoor brings invaluable expertise and strategic insight to further strengthen MTX’s powersports industry presence.

“We are beyond excited to join forces with MTX,” said Hazim Jainoor, Principal at Aligned Sales & Marketing Group. “Their commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver premium brands to our retail partners. Together, we look forward to driving growth and success in the marketplace.”

“We are excited to have Aligned Sales & Marketing Group, Hazim Jainoor join our team to represent MTX Powersports in So Cal, So Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico,” said Ceasar Olaes, Regional Sales Manager at MTX. “Our extensive powersports line up and his industry knowledge, passion, and strategic vision align seamlessly with our commitment to delivering a “Serious Sound for the Ride” experience. “

For more information about MTX and its industry-leading products, visit www.mtx.com.

CHICAGO, IL (03.14.25) – January 22 2025 – AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), the largest high-end audio event in North America, is excited to announce the debut of its Car Audio Showcase at the 2025 edition, which will be held from April 11-13 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. In partnership with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA), AXPONA is expanding its footprint to include the growing trend of high-fidelity car audio, offering car enthusiasts and industry professionals a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge car audio systems and innovations.

“The Car Audio Showcase is a groundbreaking addition that taps into the increasing demand for high-fidelity audio systems in vehicles. As in-car audio technology has evolved dramatically over the past decade, car audio enthusiasts are looking for the same clarity and precision they experience in their home systems,” said Liz Smith, AXPONA. “The Car Audio Showcase will bring these high-end systems into the spotlight, offering attendees an immersive experience like never before.”

“We’re thrilled to be part of AXPONA’s inaugural Car Audio Showcase. Our IASCA team can’t wait to demonstrate the incredible potential of car audio and show the world what’s possible when passion, precision, and technology come together. We’re redefining expectations of automotive sounds and encourage seasoned audiophiles and novices to swing by the showcase for a demo session,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA.

A New Level of Sound at AXPONA

This year’s Car Audio Showcase will feature a thrilling Sound Quality (SQ) competition, live demonstrations, and interactive exhibits highlighting some of the best in-car audio technology from top-tier manufacturers and dealers from around the world.

AXPONA’s live Sound Quality (SQ) competition will feature manufacturers and consumers who will compete for top honors in achieving unparalleled sound clarity and precision in custom-built car audio systems. Competition vehicles will be on the expo floor in a designated area and also be available for spectator demos throughout the show.

Attendees will be able to engage directly with leading car audio brands and see their innovations up close. With interactive displays and hands-on demonstrations, visitors will witness the performance and capabilities of cutting-edge products firsthand. Notable exhibitors include:

• Apex USA
• Audio Wave, USA
• Coherence Systems
• ESB Audio
• Delorean
• Harman International
• Malbork
• Zapco

Open to the public, AXPONA offers a variety of ticket options for attendees.

TICKETS:

1 Day – $30 online, $35 onsite

Multi-Day – $60 online, $95 onsite

Gen Z Pass – $15 online, $20 onsite

All general admission tickets grant access to the exhibits including Listening Rooms and Exhibit Hall, as well as educational seminars, live music, and special events.

AXPONA opens Friday, April 11 10am-6pm; Saturday, April 12 10am-6pm; and Sunday, April 13 10am-4pm.

For more information on ticketing and ticketing options, please visit www.axpona.com/register.asp

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (03.11.25) – The Lucas Oil Stadium grounds were active throughout the day on Saturday, March 9th. It was sunny but chilly outside as vendors had their tents with displays set up outside. PowerBass had a strong presence in the Privateer Paddock area. Power Bass, National Sales Manager, Jeff Falk was in the house along with the area representative Keith Selby Cardinal Sales Principal. Selby arranged for area retailers Adrenaline Cycles and Central Kentucky Motorsports team members to be in the booth. At 7PM that night the action started on the track inside the Lucas Oil Stadium as riders raced around the track and over mounds as a crowd reported to be at 50,000 roared their approval in the stands.

Jeff Falk related “It was a great event. A big turnout and spectators loved the music coming from our award-winning PowerBass Soundbars coming out of the Privateer Paddock booth. The event provided a lot of great exposure for the PowerBass brand and our products. Spending time with two proactive retailers was very informative to get their views from the territory.”

“The event drew a great crowd through the day and everybody was really happy and excited for the action on the track that night. This was my first Supercross event and the crowd in the Lucas Oil Stadium was really engaged in the action. Spending time with dealers Dan and Chris let us know what their customers were looking for to add audio on the trails” Keith Selby commented.

Adam Peterson, owner of Adrenaline Cycles, traveled to the event from London, KY over 250 miles away. “Our time spent outside in the Privateer Paddock booth was a great opportunity for me along with Dustin Greene, our in-house tech, to talk about PowerBass Soundbars and what enthusiast and riders are looking for as they upgraded their rides for the coming season. Connecting with riders too. Our main business is actually selling UTVs and Side X Side vehicles and adding audio upgrades. The PowerBass products have been great for customers at our store.”

Attempts to contact Chris Johnson at Central Kentucky Motorsports were not successful on Monday, March 10th.

PowerBass VP, Erik Harbour, stated “Partnering with Privateer Paddock has been a great opportunity for us to connect with enthusiasts and consumers in their set up at Supercross events across the country. This visibility is expanding enthusiast’s interest in adding PowerBass audio upgrades and other products to their rides. In addition, dealers attending the Supercross events have a fun day and racing experience they will remember for a long time.”

Super images provided by Keith Selby.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.11.25) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) names Dan Sparks as the Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division. Sparks brings a strong repertoire of sales and leadership experience to the position in addition to six years of service to the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division.

“We are thrilled to announce that Dan Sparks has accepted the role of the Director of National Sales,” said Kunihiko Sato, Executive Director of the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America. “Dan has a long history with the Alpine brand, and we are confident that he will continue to provide value and exceptional sales support to our retailers.”

After a successful stint as an Alpine Sales Representative at Online AV, Sparks began his career with Alpine in 2019 as a District Sales Manager, responsible for the growth and success of the Alpine Brand in the Midwest Region. Afterward, Sparks transitioned to a Senior Sales and Marketing Analyst in 2022, extending his support to the entire Alpine dealer base in North America. In 2024, Sparks spearheaded the “New Business Development” team, a new department that sought to showcase the Alpine product line to a new audience to strengthen the brand’s reputation and create new opportunities.

“It is truly an honor to take on this new role,” said Dan Sparks. “My affinity for the Alpine brand started when I was a teenager and has grown into a passion that gets poured into this business every day. I appreciate the opportunity and feel very blessed to be able to contribute to such a talented team.”

As the Director of National Sales, Sparks will oversee all sales activities for the Alpine Brand, supporting an extensive network of instore and online Alpine retailers throughout the United States.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

LOS ANGELES, CA (03.11.25) – Massive Audio, a company built for audio enthusiasts and professionals alike, proudly introduces the P8NTi, an 8-inch, 4-ohm mid-bass pro audio coaxial speaker designed for exceptional power, clarity, and durability. Whether for professional sound systems, automotive upgrades, marine applications, or outdoor setups, the P8NTi delivers superior performance with its lightweight neodymium magnet and weatherproof construction.

Key Features & Specifications of the P8NTi

• Uncompromising Power & Clarity
  With 160 Watts RMS and 320 Watts Max Power, the P8NTi is built for high-output systems that demand precision and strength. Whether installed in a custom audio build, a competitive car audio setup, or a professional outdoor system, this speaker ensures deep, resonant mid-bass and crisp highs without distortion—even at peak volume levels.

• Neodymium Magnet for Maximum Efficiency
  At the core of the P8NTi lies a high-temperature neodymium magnet, delivering exceptional magnetic strength with a fraction of the weight of traditional ferrite magnets. This efficient yet powerful design enhances responsiveness and sensitivity, ensuring that every beat, note, and vocal cut through the mix with precision, even in demanding environments.

• All-Weather Durability for Any Environment
  Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the P8NTi is built with weatherproof materials, making it an ideal choice for marine audio, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, and outdoor events. Its moisture-resistant cone, UV-resistant surround, and reinforced basket protect against harsh weather, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged exposure to the elements, ensuring consistent performance in any setting.
  
  
• Integrated 12dB Crossover with Smart Tweeter Protection
  Unlike conventional speakers, the P8NTi features a built-in 12dB crossover network that intelligently distributes frequencies between the mid-bass driver and the titanium tweeter. This ensures that low frequencies remain deep and punchy, while highs stay clean and distortion-free. Additionally, the poly switch protection safeguards the tweeter against power overloads, extending its lifespan and maintaining audio clarity over time.

• Precision-Engineered Heavy-Duty Construction
  Every detail of the P8NTi is crafted for maximum durability and sonic performance.
  • Heavy gauge basket reduces unwanted vibrations and enhances sound integrity
  • Hand-treated, hardened paper cone delivers an accurate and responsive sound profile
  • Plasticized cloth surround enhances flexibility while ensuring long-lasting structural integrity
  • Reinforced aluminum phase plug improves sound dispersion, making high frequencies more focused and defined

• Versatile Installation & Wide Application Range
  Built for flexibility and adaptability, the P8NTi can be seamlessly installed in a variety of audio systems. Whether you’re a car audio enthusiast looking for a competition-grade mid-bass driver, an installer outfitting a marine vessel, or a professional building a stage system, this speaker provides premium sound without limitations.

Industry Endorsement

“At Massive Audio, we take pride in delivering high-quality products that elevate the listening experience,” said Mr. Madani, Owner of Massive Audio. “The P8NTi is designed for those who demand performance, precision, and durability in every aspect of their sound system. Whether you’re upgrading a vehicle, installing a marine system, or enhancing a pro audio setup, this speaker is built to deliver.”

A Word from Our Sales Manager, John Velez

“We’re excited to bring the P8NTi to market because it’s exactly what our customers have been asking for—powerful performance, rugged durability, and crystal-clear sound,” said John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio. “If you’re interested in adding this to your inventory or learning more about our product lineup, I’d love to connect and help you find the right solutions for your needs.”

The P8NTi is now available through Massive Audio’s authorized retailers and website.

Interested in Selling Massive Audio Products?

For wholesale inquiries, dealership opportunities, or more information on becoming a reseller, please contact:

📞 John Velez, Sales Manager at +1(626) 523-8954
📧 Email: john.velez@massiveaudio.com

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (02.10.25) – On Tuesday afternoon Ed Nuttall and Ben Bjerky left the Team Nutz HQ in Pittsburgh and rolled to Atlantic City to spend three days getting the company’s crew ready for the Marine season 2025. The CWR Training and Expo was a 5-Day training and networking event, focusing on dealer education, at the Golden Nugget Casino February 3rd thru 7th. This was not a direct sales event, but there were incentives, raffles and giveaways during the manufacturer training sessions and expo. CWR, with the support of their manufacturers, representatives and industry trade groups was excited to host the event again in Atlantic City NJ.

The Pittsburgh area is big on the water activities being located on the Ohio River plus there are many of the opportunities for boaters in the area. “At Team Nutz we do a lot of dockside installations along the river in addition to customers bringing in their boats to prepare for the boating season” Nuttall related.

During the time at the CWR Expo Ed and Ben spent time on the floor meeting with various companies and representatives along spending time in training sessions. Spending time with fellow retailers, also added to the value of the very productive trip to the CWR Expo. On site they met with representative from Fusion, Garmin, JL Audio, KICKER and DS18. A highlight for the Ben was actually winning a raffle prize for a 4 Bank Battery Charger.

On the training side Ben earned a Basic National Marine Electronics Association Basic Certificate. Ed passed his MECP renewal and passed his NMEA Advanced Rnewal Certification.

CWR has locations in Bayville NJ and Tampa FL and stocks over 300 brands to support dealers in the marine aftermarketplace.

Team Nutz is very proactive retailer and this coming weekend will be on site at the International Auto Show in downtown Pittsburgh.

Visit teamnutztechnology.com for more.

TEMPE, AZ (01.31.25) – MasterTech Expo, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., is proud to announce a captivating new session, High Fidelity Sound: The Relationship Between Objective and Subjective Measurements of Sound Quality, led by the distinguished Dr. Sean Olive of Harman International.

“Dr. Olive, a world-renowned Senior Fellow in Acoustic Research at Harman International, will guide attendees through the fascinating intersection of science and sound perception,” explained Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “This session offers attendees exclusive insights into the groundbreaking methodologies pioneered by Dr. Olive and his mentor, Floyd Toole, in correlating objective data with subjective sound preferences. Whether you’re an audio professional, enthusiast, or innovator, you’ll walk away equipped with actionable knowledge to enhance system design and evaluation.”

With a career dedicated to bridging the technical and human aspects of audio, Dr. Olive will explore key questions, such as:

• Listening Tests and Demonstrations: Learn how to conduct scientific tests for reliable, unbiased data vs. random opinions.
• Subjective vs. Objective Debate: Discuss if audio quality is subjective or if objective data offers meaningful insights.
• Listener Preferences: Understand listener preferences and how they match measurable sound system traits.
• Predictability in System Design: See how objective data and subjective experiences improve audio system performance.
• Practical Implementation: Learn how to apply this understanding to system design and evaluation.
• Expert Insights: Benefit from the expertise of audio research from Dr. Olive.

“My session will provide some practical tips on how to evaluate the sound quality of reproduced sound, and the science behind what most listeners prefer and the measurements that best predict those preferences,” said Dr. Olive. “With this knowledge in hand, making good sounding audio systems becomes a straightforward engineering exercise with clearly defined performance targets.”

Dr. Olive’s impressive credentials include a Bachelor of Music from the University of Toronto and advanced degrees in Sound Recording from McGill University. A former president of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and collaborator with audio pioneer Floyd Toole, Dr. Olive brings unparalleled expertise to the MasterTech Expo stage.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the world’s foremost experts in sound quality,” Schmitt concluded. “Join us at MasterTech Expo 2025 for a session that promises to inspire and elevate your understanding of high-fidelity audio.”

Event Details:
Session 4: High Fidelity Sound
Instructor: Dr. Sean Olive, Harman International Senior Fellow, Acoustic Research

Date/Time/Location:

March 21: 4:30pm to 6:00pm
Location: MasterTech Expo – Mesa Convention Center

For more information and to register for MasterTech Expo, please email info@mastertechexpo.com and visit www.mastertechexpo.com.

About MasterTech Expo

MasterTech Expo is an event where aftermarket automotive electrical, upholstery, fabrication, design and automation professionals come together to learn, collaborate and define the next generation of vehicle interior customization in a process-driven atmosphere. MasterTech Expo 2025 is March 20-23, 2025 in Mesa, AZ.

For more information and to register, please visit www.mastertechexpo.com.

OXNARD, CA (01.31.25) – As part of their ongoing commitment of support to the Mobile Electronics Industry, Boss Audio will sponsor a special sales seminar during the Vendor Training portion of the upcoming KnowledgeFest convention, which is being held at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV from January 31st through February 2nd 2025. 

The seminar, titled “Tipping the Scales” which will be delivered by Jon Kowanetz, addresses the well-known truth in retail sales that “All else being equal, the customer will buy from the lowest price”. What then can be done to tip the scales in your favor, to upset the balance or to “de-equalize” the system, so to speak? This seminar aims to answer that question with a mix of statistical data, observations of various businesses and personal experience in sales along with a bit of common sense. 

The instructor, Jon Kowanetz, pulls from a long and multi-faceted history in the Mobile Electronics Industry to both create and present his classes, assuring attendees that the information is relevant, relatable and recent. Having started and grown his own business over the course of 15 years is where Jon learned much of what he knows and shares, when it comes to sales acumen. But that knowledge and experience has been strengthened and broadened by his later experience as a business coach, working with other businesses in the industry to help them improve their sales process, among many other aspects of creating and sustaining a successful company. 

In this seminar, Jon brings together all of that experience and knowledge to help the attendees improve their customer satisfaction, closing ratio, profitability and job satisfaction by sharing a sales process that builds trust, confidence, value and a relationship that will turn the customer into a client. “To a certain degree, price is only an issue in the absence of value”, Kowanetz said “and it is our job to ensure our customer understands the value of doing business with us.” This class will teach you how to do that job.

Matthew Delgado, Director of Sales for Boss International Group and 25 year veteran of the mobile electronics industry, knows very well the important roles that both innovation and education play in growth. As the company gets closer to the completion of the Elite line of products, designed from the ground up with specialty retailers in mind, Boss’ sponsorship of this seminar at the first KnowledgeFest event of the year exemplifies their commitment to providing the education retailers will need to be successful in 2025.

“This will be the third time that we have worked directly with Jon to provide unique, relevant educational content for our industry that is based upon extensive experience and I believe that this sales focused class will be the perfect compliment to the upcoming release of our newest products.” Said Matthew.
The special sales seminar “Tipping the Scales” will be delivered at 3:00 PM on Friday, January 31st, 2025 in the Champagne 2 room in the Paris Hotel & Convention Center.

Please contact Jon Kowanetz with any questions:
480-580-2283
jon.kowanetz@gmail.com