LINCOLN CITY, OR (09.05.25) – The Surf City Soundoff roared to life on August 23–24, drawing car audio enthusiasts and the local community together for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and charity. The event, held at the Chinook Winds Casino Resort, attracted over 100 IASCA competition vehicles from across the region, showcasing some of the most powerful and finely tuned car audio systems in the Northwest.

The highlight of the weekend wasn’t just the thunderous bass and crisp sound quality—it was the generosity of the community. Through entry fees, sponsorships, and donations, the Surf City Soundoff successfully raised $20,968 in support of Angels Anonymous, a local nonprofit dedicated to assisting individuals and families in crisis within Lincoln County. More than 60 sponsors supported the event, with many setting up as vendors and bringing demo vehicles.

“Surf City Soundoff has always been about more than just cars and sound systems—it’s about people,” said Travis Chin, IASCA Worldwide president. “We are incredibly proud of the support shown by our competitors, sponsors, and the community. Together, we made a real difference for Angels Anonymous.”

The competition featured IASCA Sound Quality and SPL formats as well as dB DRA SPL, giving both seasoned competitors and newcomers the chance to showcase their builds. With more than 100 vehicles entered, the event became one of the largest car audio gatherings in the region, drawing thousands of spectators eager to experience the energy, innovation, and passion of the sport. Saturday also featured the Surf City Car Show, with hundreds of classic cars filling the main lot.

Local businesses and volunteers played a critical role in making the weekend a success, from event setup and judging to supporting hospitality for attendees.

As the sound of the last bass note faded into the ocean breeze, the 2025 Surf City Soundoff cemented its place as both a premier competition and a force for good in the community. The 2026 Surf City Soundoff is scheduled for August 22–23, 2026.

For more info, click here.

WARREN, OH (09.05.25) – At Advanced Custom Sound, we have seen how much our industry has changed over the years. With more people shopping online, small businesses like ours have had to adapt to stay strong. True success is not about competing to push others out of the way—it is about building each other up and working together.

We believe local businesses should support one another rather than speak poorly about each other. When customers share complaints with us about other companies, we listen with understanding, express sympathy, and focus on making their experience with us a positive one. No business is perfect, but what matters most is how we respond to challenges and how we continue to grow.

Today, it takes more than selling products to keep a business thriving. You must show your community that you care and that you are part of it. That means investing in your storefront, your employees, and the people who make your business possible. At ACS, we have a small team of six, and we value the hard work and dedication they give every day. Without them there would be no business. The same is true for our community—we give back whenever we can because our success is connected to the strength of the businesses and families around us.

We are proud to be actively involved in our community. Two photos we shared highlight that commitment: one taken at a Harley dealership we work with, where we support each other’s businesses; the other shows us giving high fives at the end of a community event we host each year, celebrating a job well done alongside other local businesses. Each year we host three audio competitions and three local events of our own, while also supporting, donating to, and sponsoring many others.

When businesses support one another, we all win. Our community becomes stronger, customers are more likely to shop locally, and together we create an area that grows and thrives for everyone.

This article was supplied by Jeanna and Dan Nezbeth along with the Advanced Custom Sound Team.

Visit acsmotorsports.com for more.

SHREVEPORT, LA (09.05.25) – The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel was created six years ago to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry and provide visibility for 12volt companies with a space on the Wheel.

It’s always exciting to see a 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel winner spotlight their prize like Ray Holmes did with the KICKER Tabor 2 Bluetooth headphones. PMC Customs won the Spin-To-Win 335 on Friday, August 22nd. The Tabor 2 Bluetooth headphones feature long battery life, increased wireless range, and balanced, accurate sound with bass that gets the blood pumping as listeners are Livin’ Loud.

When Ray received the KICKER prize, he positioned the Tabor 2 box against a nice background and created an eye-catching “Thank You” graphic for a post on social media.

PMC Customs is a proactive 12volt retailer in White Oak, PA, with brands including The Pittsburgh Motorcycle Company, PMC Automotive, and more on the way.

Companies participating in the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel also receive visibility across the 12volt industry. In addition to KICKER, 12volt brands participating include RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, KENWOOD, JVC, ESB Audio, KING Boxes, MASSIVE AUDIO, Q Power, and VIPER. The 12volt News and the 12volt Beat also have a space on the Wheel for a $100 check prize.

Retailers are encouraged to use #12voltspin when making posts on social media to ensure they have a slip in the jar to win a 12volt Spin-To-Win Prize.

For more, see 12voltnews.com

HOUSTON, TX (09.03.2025) – Wet Sounds proudly announces a new distribution partnership with Land ‘N’ Sea Distributing, Inc., one of the largest wholesale distributors of marine and RV parts and accessories in the United States. This strategic partnership will significantly expand access to Wet Sounds’ full line of premium audio products throughout the U.S.

Effective immediately, Land ‘N’ Sea’s extensive network of marine and RV dealers can now source Wet Sounds’ cutting-edge audio solutions. These include marine speakers, amplifiers, soundbars, and subwoofers, all known for their durability, innovation, and exceptional sound performance on the water.

Industry Leaders Share Their Excitement

“This partnership with Land ‘N’ Sea represents a major milestone in Wet Sounds’ mission to bring our industry-leading marine audio experience to more customers across the United States. Land ‘N’ Sea’s strong dealer network and trusted reputation in the marine and RV industries make them an ideal distribution partner for us.” – Mark Gerick, Business Unit Director, Wet Sounds, Inc. – A Patrick Industries Company

“We’re excited to add Wet Sounds to our marine audio portfolio. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and performance aligns perfectly with what our customers expect. This partnership allows our dealers to meet the growing demand for premium sound on the water with convenient access through our national distribution network.” – John Luther, Category Manager, Land ‘N’ Sea Distributing, Inc.

For more info, click here.

LOS ANGELES, CA (09.03.2025) – CRUX Interfacing Solutions introduces the SWRHN-62CV, just one of the 11 new Honda Can Bus retention interfaces in the lines. This interface is the first-ever single-box radio replacement interface covering a wide range of Honda Civic, CR-V, Fit, and HR-V models (2016-up). Designed for both amplified and non-amplified systems, this plug-and-play solution retains the factory multi-angle rearview camera, LaneWatch™ camera, steering wheel controls, auxiliary input, and USB ports—without requiring multiple bulky modules or time-consuming button programming.

By combining multiple retention functions into one compact interface, the SWRHN-62CV saves valuable space behind the dash, reduces installation time, and ensures a seamless upgrade to aftermarket radios. The kit also includes an antenna adapter, USB retention cable, and outputs for reverse, illumination, parking brake, and vehicle speed sense.

The SWRHN-62CV is available now through authorized CRUX dealers and distributors. For more information, click here.

NEW YORK, NY (09.03.2025) – SiriusXM, the exclusive third-party provider of every NFL game, will deliver NFL fans comprehensive coverage of the 2025 season, with live broadcasts of every game and round-the-clock coverage on the exclusive SiriusXM NFL Radio channel, which will feature new additions to the talent roster this season.

From Thursday’s NFL Kickoff Presented by YouTube TV through Super Bowl LX, SiriusXM subscribers get access to every minute of every game in their cars and on the SiriusXM app. For this Thursday’s game between the defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys (8:20 pm ET), subscribers have the option of tuning in to the Eagles and Cowboys hometown radio broadcasts, Westwood One’s national radio broadcast, or a Spanish-language broadcast of the game.

The schedule of games airing on SiriusXM for Week 1 is available here.

The SiriusXM app offers 32 NFL team channels, each carrying the official radio broadcast for each NFL team, plus pre- and post-game shows for every game, so fans can be sure to hear their favorite team’s announcers all season long. All 32 team channels are also available in a growing number of vehicles equipped with SiriusXM’s 360L radios.

In addition to the comprehensive game schedule, SiriusXM offers fans in-depth NFL talk 365 days a year on SiriusXM NFL Radio (channel 88), the only 24/7 radio channel dedicated to the NFL.

Joining the SiriusXM NFL Radio team this season are two experienced pro personnel executives—former Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders general manager Tom Telesco and former Tennessee Titans general manager and NFL running back Ran Carthon—who will host on SiriusXM NFL Radio this season, bringing a front office perspective on the game to the channel.

Also joining SiriusXM this season is Carolina Panthers long snapper J.J. Jansen, an 18-year veteran of the league, who will join Miami Dolphins running back Alec Ingold to host the weekly show, “The Players’ Point.” Airing Tuesdays at 7 pm ET, “The Players’ Point” is the only radio show hosted entirely by active NFL players.

Sundays during the season, SiriusXM’s “NFL Sunday Drive” show airs live from noon to 8 pm ET as all afternoon games are in progress. Hosts Steve Torre and Bill Lekas keep listeners informed of all the latest developments happening around the league, take listeners in and out of multiple live game broadcasts so they can hear the most exciting game action in one place, and conduct one-on-one postgame interviews with the day’s star players.

SiriusXM NFL Radio listeners also get the weekly show “Let’s Go!”—hosted by L.A. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, three-time National Sportswriter of the Year Peter King, and Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Jim Gray—Monday nights at 6:30 pm ET.

SiriusXM NFL Radio’s team of hosts also includes Hall of Famers Tim Brown and Bill Polian, former NFL executive Pat Kirwan, and NFL Legends including Rich Gannon, Todd Haley, Brad Hopkins, Ryan Leaf, Ed McCaffrey, Jim Miller, Kirk Morrison, Allen Robinson, Alex Smith, Isaiah Stanback, Max Starks, Robert Turbin, Solomon Wilcots, Matt Simms, Leger Douzable, Brian Hoyer, Patrick Peterson, Christian Fauria, and Isaac Rochell.

SiriusXM NFL Radio voices also include a number of NFL insiders and radio veterans including Vic Carucci, Adam Caplan, Zig Fracassi, Dan Leberfeld, Rhett Lewis, Jade McCarthy, David Moulton, Bruce Murray, Bob Papa, Amber Theoharis, Amy Lawrence, Andrew Siciliano, and Damon Amendolara.

Fans can also search their favorite team’s name in the SiriusXM app for additional content from NFL teams including podcasts, coach’s shows, player interviews, and press conferences.

For more info, click here.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (09.02.25) – The American Flat Track Labor Day Weekend Doubleheader took place Saturday and Sunday, August 30th & 31st, at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield IL. The weather both days was ideal as enthusiasts filled the grounds both days.

The KICKER booth was ready to go late Friday afternoon as Lorin Morrell had all set to go for the 2 days of racing activities.

“When the gates opened Saturday morning all was set for the Labor Day Doubleheader. The setup was right outside the main grandstand entry and it was like a vendor midway as crowds checked out products under vendor tents. KICKER’s wide selection of lifestyle, automotive, marine and powersports products definitely gave attendees a lot to checkout” Morrell related

“The Labor Day Weekend Doubleheader definitely provided a lot of branding for KICKER and attendees were excited to be onsite. Being in the booth I didn’t see any racing but could hear the racers on the straightaway. A lot of lanyards were handed out and some T’s too. During each awards ceremony the MC gave shout-outs to KICKER as an event sponsor also” Morrell added.

“There was a large percentage of bike enthusiasts in the crowd. Bikers are a close knit community.. actually a biker’s blue Harley was in the booth. I met Bill H at an AMA ArenaCross a couple years ago when he added KICKER gear to one of his Harleys. Earlier this year he was at an ArenaCross event in Lima OH and added more KICKER to his Blue Harley. There he offered to bring his Blue Harley to Springfield. His Harley was definitely Livin’Loud for dozens of demos on the midway both days” Morrell concluded.

For more see kicker.com

SHREVEPORT, LA (09.02.25) – The in-store experience is more important than ever to drive brick and mortar sales. The ever-growing AI universe and online activity is adding to the problems today for all categories of brick and mortar retailers across the board.

Proactive 12volt retailers have big cards in the deck to play to drive business. The ‘In-Store Listening Experience’ and the ‘Professional Installation’ cards are strong aces to play to every day! The in-store experience of demonstrating top quality sound with orchestrated live demos in the showroom is the first ace. Concert goers are spending billions every year to enjoy the live music experience. Proactive 12volt retailers can put the concert experience in a consumer’s daily driver to enjoy on the way to work…without the hassle of crowd aggravation in a concert arena.

Offering expert installation is another ace in the deck for 12volt retailers to play every day. Installation professionals understand the important aspects of speaker placement for staging and system tuning. Consumers need to understand the importance of professional installation to deliver the concert experience in their daily drivers.

The 12volt Central Studios recently posted a feature that showcased a proactive retailer delivering the ultimate in-store experience to consumers in the Fresno CA marketplace.

The in-store experience actually begins outside with the appearance of a 12volt retailer’s store from the street. 559 Car Stereo & Alarm in Fresno CA in a prime example. Sako Topalian and his team do a great job. Attention grabbing vehicles are placed in front of the store for photo ops used for social media posts. Each vehicle is positioned so the 559 signage is visible for the post.

The in-store experience continues as customers are spotlighted at the sales counter with the products they just purchased. In the background the impressive showroom display is visible. All customers have happy smiles on their faces for the image that will be in a 559 Car Stereo post.

A conversation on the phone with Sako was another engaging experience for 12volt staff. Sako answered the phone and wanted to have a conversation. Business is super at their location and all their staff members go over and above to greet customers and spend time and show how 559 Stereo delivers the best for their customer’s in-vehicle experience.

Stay tuned as more proactive 12volt retailers, like 559 Car Stereo & Alarm, will be spotlighted driving the in-store experience.

For more, follow @559CarStereo.

TEMPE, AZ (08.19.25) – Mobile Solutions, the global leader in professional automotive fabrication tools and training, proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary. Founded in 2005 by industry veteran Bryan Schmitt, Mobile Solutions has grown from a grassroots vision into a world-renowned brand, empowering fabricators, installers, and technicians across the globe.

“We’re celebrating two decades of fabrication tools and training, and it’s all thanks to you,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder and president of Mobile Solutions. “Looking back on our milestones, I’m incredibly proud of the community and family we’ve become. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey.”

From the company’s iconic fabrication tools such as the Router tools – bits and Smart Templates, to its transformative hands-on workshops, Mobile Solutions has consistently raised the bar for quality, education, and innovation. At the core of its success is a world-class training program that has shaped the careers of thousands of professionals over the past two decades. Through immersive, in-person classes and real-world instruction, Mobile Solutions has become the trusted resource for advanced fabrication, audio system design, and interior customization training.

“Huge congratulations to my great friends, Bryan and Michele Schmitt, on 20 years of Mobile Solutions,” said Jeremy Carlson of Avant Guard Design, Palm City, Fla. “Your drive, dedication, and passion have brought the 12-volt community closer together while setting a new standard for education in our industry. For over 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching classes at Mobile Solutions, and each visit reminds me how much I enjoy giving back to the industry that helped shape who I am today. Here’s to 20 incredible years of innovation, mentorship, and community, and to many more to come.”

Said Christerfer Pate of Mobile Toys Inc., College Station, Texas, “Congratulations to my close friend and brother from another mother, Bryan Schmitt, on 20 incredible years of innovation, mentorship, and education, and for creating a platform that continues to bring our industry together and drive it forward. All of us here at MTI are proud of everything you and your team have achieved. Thank you for all that you do.”

Added Phill Cantu of Mobile Toys Inc., College Station, Texas, “I want to congratulate my friend and mentor on 20 incredible years in business. You’ve pioneered countless innovative tools, techniques, and ideas, creating a home for like-minded individuals to collaborate, learn, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. What started as a place to build and grow turned out to be so much more. The skills gained and the friendships formed are part of a lasting legacy. I’m proud to have played even a small role in car audio history through my involvement with @mobilesolutionsfabrication. Thank you, Bryan, and the entire team, for shaping such a huge part of the industry I love.”

Concluded Justin Marks Team of Witt Customs, Nashville Tenn., “I want to congratulate Bryan, his amazing wife Michele, and the entire @mobilesolutionsfabrication team for the knowledge, opportunities, growth, and lifelong relationships I’ve gained through the incredible community they’ve built. Thank you for everything you’ve done.”

Join us in celebrating 20 years of craftsmanship, education, and innovation. Here’s to the next chapter!

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

LONG BEACH, CA (08.19.25) – KENWOOD and JVC Mobile Electronics are pleased to announce the addition of Phillip Patterson as the company’s new Digital Marketing Manager.

Phillip brings a fresh perspective to the mobile electronics industry, joining the team from outside the field with an impressive background in graphic arts, social media management, and creative brand development. His past experience includes producing impactful packaging and digital content for well-known consumer brands such as Skechers and Penguin Cases, where his innovative designs and marketing strategies helped elevate brand visibility and customer engagement.

In his new role, Phillip will focus on enhancing KENWOOD and JVC’s online presence, driving digital engagement, and providing new tools and resources to support the company’s network of dealers. With his strong creative skill set and proven track record in digital marketing, Phillip is uniquely positioned to help strengthen the connection between the brands and their customers while delivering fresh, engaging content across platforms.

“We are excited to welcome Phillip to the KENWOOD and JVC family,” said Scott Caswell Director of Marketing. “His creativity, experience, and passion for design will play a vital role in how we evolve our marketing efforts and deliver greater value to our partners and customers.”

Phillip Patterson officially joined the team in June. Please join us in welcoming him as he begins this new chapter with KENWOOD and JVC.

To check out the full lineup and compatibility details, visit:
👉 www.kenwood.com/usa