I'd like to find a nice local shop in Melbourne, but I suppose Orlando is going to have the best selection. I'm looking for an audio install shop that sells high-quality gear and does a bang-up job on custom installs (fiberglass, etc.).

List 'em up!

 

Your in luck
http://ultimate-audio.com
I know Joe the owner and Imran the manager and my brother did their web-site and they take very good care of me, currently they are doing my stereo install on the lotus! give Imran a call and tell him you are a friend of mine!
Nick

 

Nick,

Spoke with Imran today, I'm goig to try and get out to speak with Joe. Looks like they do awesome work. The problem is, it also seems like they will charge a premium price for the quality... even if I get one of their main companies to sponsor me, it's going to cost an arm and a leg to get the install itself done. That may price the whole thing out of my budget (which is nearing zero, at this rate!). We'll see...

 

You want to win HIN BAD!

 

Well, yes frankly, but I know it's not going to happen for Orlando.. now WAY I'll get everything done in time. Miami still has possibilities, though!

 

Since you talked to Imran I will give him a call on Monday and see if he can help you out a bit, These guys are top notch and win competition after competition - I am suprised you did not try and Hock your wares did you mention what you can do for them? Your trick lighting should be of interest to them and their custom installs!

 

I hope I can pick up some sponsors so I can compete. Doing my own stereo now.

 

It came down to this, and I completely understand (as a business owner who is continually asked to sponsor people for free)... they've put me in touch with one of the audio companies they work with, one that will more than likely offer me a deep discount, if not free components. However, they aren't able to offer me any sponsorship whatsoever when it comes to the install work, and as we all know, an install good enough to at least win a few awards is not cheap.

I don't expect miracles, and I don't expect free work/products without giving a lot back in return (advertising, my time, etc.). It comes down to me more than likely looking for another semi-local shop that is willing to trade a freebie install for the noteriety, maybe a shop that is a little more desperate to be put on the map. Ultimate Audio already has a sweet reputation, so they really don't need to sponsor someone like me who is just coming up through the ranks from the bottom... kind of like me putting free lights on a stock Yugo.

Nick, by all means, talk to them when you get the chance and see if they'll change their minds, but if the roles were reversed I can't imagine the answer changing. I didn't push my lights because I didn't want today's meeting to be about that, but I would certainly love to put a relationship together with them for any lighting needs they might have... let me know what they say about it.

 

Still looking for an install shop...

 

Pics of new car color or ban!!!!!! JK

I wish I had contacts at any shop for you. It is getting down to crunch time and I am sure it is frustrating (especially if you are on a budget).

Good luck