The Fender Twin Reverb Decoded
The Fender Twin Reverb, introduced in the mid-1960s, built upon the success of its predecessors by providing increased power, improved clean tones, and the addition of built-in reverb and tremolo effects. Its dual 12-inch speakers and 85-watt output made it a powerhouse on stage, and its clean, bright sound became synonymous with the Fender brand.
From its early inception to its evolution through different eras, the Twin Reverb has been a steadfast companion for guitarists seeking pristine, crystalline tones.
The Fender Twin Reverb is a legendary embodiment of sonic excellence in guitar amplification.
This amplifier dates back to the 1960s and has found its place in music history as an essential piece of equipment that is appreciated by guitarists of all musical genres.
Renowned for its exceptional clarity and robust power, the Fender Twin Reverb has become synonymous with the unmistakable Fender sound.
At its core, the Fender Twin Reverb is a tube amplifier, incorporating dual 12-inch speakers that contribute to its distinctive and full-bodied tone.
One of its defining features is the inclusion of both reverb and tremolo effects, elevating its sonic versatility.
The spring reverb, in particular, imparts a lush and spatial quality to the sound, while the tremolo adds a subtle rhythmic modulation that enhances the overall expressiveness of the amplifier.
The Fender Twin Reverb's design emphasizes a clean and pristine sound, with ample headroom that allows it to handle high volumes without sacrificing clarity.
This characteristic makes it a preferred choice for musicians who desire a platform that faithfully reproduces the nuances of their playing, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles from country and jazz to rock and blues.
The synergy between Fender amplifiers and their iconic guitars, like the Telecaster and Stratocaster, is legendary.
Launched in the 1960s, the Fender Twin Reverb guitar amplifier has become a staple in the music industry, celebrated for its clean, bright sound and ample headroom. It features dual speakers and a distinctive spring reverb and tremolo effect, making it a favorite among musicians seeking a classic, versatile amplifier for various genres.
Over the years, the Fender Twin Reverb has undergone various iterations, each building upon the legacy of its predecessors while incorporating modern enhancements.
Its continued popularity is due not only to its exceptional sound, but also to its reliability and longevity, which make it the first choice for both studio recordings and live performances.
Fender Precision Timeline
Before the Fender Twin Reverb, Fender had a series of influential amplifiers that paved the way for its success.
The Fender Twin Reverb itself evolved from the original Fender Twin, which made its debut in the late 1950s.
As Fender continued to innovate and respond to the demands of musicians, the Twin Reverb emerged with its distinctive features, including dual speakers, reverb, and tremolo effects.
| Year | Description/Model Name | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Fender Twin Reverb-Amp | Original release with 85 watts, dual 12-inch speakers, and spring reverb. |
| 1964 | Blackface Era | Introduction of the "Blackface" cosmetics and circuitry. Maintained the 85-watt power and iconic clean tones. |
| 1968 | Silverface Transition | Cosmetic changes with the introduction of the "Silverface" design. Circuitry alterations to meet changing industry standards. |
| 1972 | Master Volume Controls | Addition of master volume controls for both channels, offering more control over overall volume. |
| 1977 | Ultralinear Output | Transition to ultralinear output transformer design for improved efficiency and tonal characteristics. |
| 1981 | Red Knob Era | Major cosmetic changes with the introduction of red control knobs. |
| 1982 | Reissue Series | Reintroduction of the "Blackface" cosmetics in response to demand for vintage-style amplifiers. |
| 1987 | Rivera-Era Models | Paul Rivera redesigns the Twin Reverb, introducing changes to the circuitry and control layout. |
| 2002 | '65 Reissue Series | Launch of the '65 Reissue series, faithfully recreating the Blackface aesthetics and classic tones. |
| 2013 | Limited Edition Amps | Release of limited edition models celebrating the amp's 50th anniversary. |
| 2020 | Tone Master Series | Introduction of the Tone Master series with digital modeling technology, replicating the classic tones in a lighter, more versatile package. |
| 2022 | Continuing Legacy | Ongoing production of various reissues, maintaining the Fender Twin Reverb's legacy as a quintessential amplifier. |
This timeline highlights key milestones in the evolution of the Fender Twin Reverb, showcasing its enduring popularity and adaptability over several decades.
Clean, Mean, and Iconic: The Fender Twin Reverb
The Fender Twin Reverb, with its unmistakable silver grille cloth and dual 12-inch speakers, has become a symbol of sonic excellence.
Fender Twin Reverb: Vintage Tone Beyond the Knobs
The story of the Fender Twin Reverb begins with a visionary pursuit of clean, powerful tones.
In the early days of electric guitar amplification, Fender aimed to create an amplifier that could faithfully reproduce the nuances of the guitar without coloration.
The result was the birth of the Twin Reverb, designed with a clear sonic objective and an emphasis on tonal purity.
Evolution of the Fender Twin Reverb
As the years progressed, the Fender Twin Reverb underwent evolutionary changes, adapting to the shifting landscape of music and technology.
From its initial incarnation, the amplifier saw modifications in circuitry, aesthetics, and features.
Each era brought forth a new chapter, showcasing Fender's commitment to refining and enhancing the sonic capabilities of the Twin Reverb.
Original Specifications
At its core, the Fender Twin Reverb is defined by its original specifications that set the standard for clean and powerful amplification.
With dual 12-inch speakers, a robust tube-driven power section, and a straightforward control layout, the Twin Reverb delivers a platform for expressive and dynamic guitar playing.
The marriage of simplicity and sonic excellence has made it a timeless choice for musicians across genres.
Tube Technology
Central to the magic of the Fender Twin Reverb is its utilization of tube technology.
The warm, responsive tones emanating from the amplifier are a testament to the distinctive characteristics of tubes.
The interaction between the tubes and the circuitry creates an environment where the guitarist's touch is translated into rich, harmonically complex soundscapes.
It's this reliance on tubes that imparts the unmistakable warmth and depth to the Twin Reverb's sonic signature.
Blackface vs. Silverface
A significant juncture in the Twin Reverb's journey is marked by the transition from Blackface to Silverface models.
Each iteration comes with its unique tonal characteristics and aesthetic features.
Blackface models, known for their pristine cleans, are often revered by purists, while Silverface models introduced circuit changes that influenced the amp's overall response.
Understanding the nuances between these models allows players to make informed choices based on their tonal preferences.
Reissues and Modern Variations
In response to the demand for vintage tones coupled with modern conveniences, Fender has introduced reissues and modern variations of the Twin Reverb.
These amps retain the essential tonal DNA of the original while incorporating features such as improved reverb tanks, reduced weight, and additional connectivity options.
The marriage of vintage charm and contemporary functionality ensures that the legacy of the Twin Reverb continues to resonate with a diverse range of players.
Sonic Brilliance: Tonal Characteristics
The hallmark of the Fender Twin Reverb is its ability to produce clean, crisp tones that retain clarity even at higher volumes.
The amp's inherent design, with ample headroom and dual speakers, allows the guitar's natural voice to shine through without distortion.
Whether employed for jazz, country, or blues, the Twin Reverb's clean tones serve as a canvas for a guitarist's sonic expression.
Versatility Across Genres
One of the defining attributes of the Twin Reverb is its versatility across genres.
While renowned for its clean tones, the amp is not confined to a singular sonic territory.
It serves as a versatile platform that adapts seamlessly to diverse musical styles.
From the sparkling cleans favored by country pickers to the slightly overdriven blues tones embraced by rock guitarists, the Twin Reverb is a chameleon, adept at accommodating the demands of various genres.
Fender Spring Reverb
A key element contributing to the Twin Reverb's allure is its spring reverb system.
The spring reverb, known for its lush and ambient qualities, has become synonymous with the Fender sound.
Guitarists have harnessed the evocative nature of spring reverb to add depth and dimension to their playing.
Whether creating atmospheric soundscapes or enhancing lead lines, the spring reverb in the Twin Reverb remains a sonic palette for expressive musicians.
Fender Tremolo Effect
Complementing the reverb is the classic tremolo effect embedded in the Twin Reverb.
The tremolo, with its rhythmic modulation of volume, introduces a pulsating quality to the amp's output.
This effect, when wielded judiciously, adds a touch of vintage character to the guitar signal.
The interplay between reverb and tremolo is a defining feature of the Twin Reverb, contributing to its timeless appeal.
Playing Techniques and Tips
To harness the full potential of the Fender Twin Reverb, understanding how to optimize its settings is crucial.
For pristine clean tones, start with a balanced EQ, keeping the treble, mid, and bass controls in the midrange.
Experiment with adjusting the volume and master volume controls to find the sweet spot for your desired level of breakup.
The Twin Reverb's sensitivity to touch allows players to manipulate the dynamics by varying their playing intensity.
Volume Control Dynamics
The volume control on the guitar becomes a powerful tool in sculpting tones with the Twin Reverb.
Lowering the guitar's volume can yield cleaner, softer tones, ideal for jazz or ambient playing.
Conversely, cranking up the volume unleashes the full potential of the amp, pushing it into natural overdrive territory.
Understanding how to navigate the volume control dynamically enhances the expressive capabilities of the Twin Reverb.
Studio Recording Techniques
In a studio setting, capturing the essence of the Fender Twin Reverb requires thoughtful techniques.
Placing microphones strategically in front of the amp's speakers can significantly impact the recorded tone.
Experimentation with different mic placements, such as close-miking or room-miking, allows engineers to sculpt the desired sound.
The goal is to translate the Twin Reverb's sonic brilliance faithfully onto recordings.
Live Performance Considerations
For live performances, considerations extend beyond the amp itself.
The Fender Twin Reverb, with its ample power and projection, can fill a venue with ease.
Communicating effectively with sound engineers, finding the right balance on stage, and utilizing the amp's controls to adapt to different performance spaces are essential aspects.
The Twin Reverb's reputation as a stage workhorse stems from its ability to deliver consistent and reliable tones in diverse live settings.
Maintenance and Modifications: Tube Replacement and Biasing
Maintaining the health of a Fender Twin Reverb involves periodic tube replacement and bias adjustments.
The tubes, crucial components in shaping the amp's tone, require attention to ensure optimal performance.
Understanding the process of biasing, or adjusting the voltage applied to the tubes, is vital when replacing tubes.
Proper maintenance not only preserves the amp's longevity but also ensures that it continues to deliver the desired tonal characteristics.
Common Modifications
While the Fender Twin Reverb is celebrated for its stock tones, some players opt for modifications to tailor the amp to their preferences.
Common modifications include changes to the speaker configuration, modifications to the reverb circuit, or even tweaks to the EQ circuit.
However, it's essential to approach modifications judiciously, as they can alter the amp's original character.
Each modification should be carefully considered to strike a balance between customization and preserving the amp's intrinsic qualities.
Famous Users and Signature Sounds
The Fender Twin Reverb has graced the stages and studios of countless iconic musicians, leaving an indelible mark on their signature sounds.
Stevie Ray Vaughan's fiery blues licks, Larry Carlton's soulful expressions, and Freddie King's powerful and expressive playing have been shaped by the distinct sonic imprint of the Twin Reverb.
Jimi Hendrix who is primarily associated with Marshall amplifiers used a Fender Twin Reverb during the recording of "Electric Ladyland." The song "All Along the Watchtower" is one notable track where a Fender Twin Reverb was reportedly used.
Investing in a Fender Twin Reverb: Purchasing Guide
Engaging with online communities such as forums and discussion groups allows enthusiasts to exchange insights, tips, and experiences related to the Fender Twin Reverb.
Platforms like The Gear Page, Strat-Talk, or Reddit's guitar-related subreddits provide valuable spaces for discussions on gear, including the Twin Reverb.
For those seeking in-depth knowledge and historical context, books and articles dedicated to Fender amplifiers offer comprehensive insights.
Vintage vs. Modern
The decision to invest in a Fender Twin Reverb involves weighing the merits of vintage versus modern models.
Vintage amps, with their historical charm and original specifications, appeal to collectors and enthusiasts.
However, they come with considerations such as authenticity verification, potential maintenance needs, and pricing.
Modern reissues, while offering the convenience of contemporary features, seek to capture the essence of the original, providing players with a reliable platform for vintage-inspired tones.
Authenticity Verification
Ensuring the authenticity of a Fender Twin Reverb before making a purchase is paramount.
Serial numbers, when cross-referenced with official Fender records, provide insights into the manufacturing date and origin of the amp.
Physical inspections, including an assessment of cosmetic condition and internal components, aid in verifying the amp's originality.
Additionally, documentation such as original receipts or provenance adds another layer of assurance for potential buyers.
The serial number on vintage Fender amps can provide crucial information. Online resources and Fender's official website offer guides to decode these numbers, revealing the manufacturing date.
If possible, gather information on the amp's history. Documentation, such as original receipts or previous owners' anecdotes, adds to its authenticity.
The Quest for Vintage Tone
Acquiring a vintage Fender Twin Reverb is not just a purchase; it's a quest for a piece of musical history.
These amplifiers, with their unique characteristics and historical significance, are not merely instruments but gateways to the soulful tones of the past.
Each scratch, scuff, and worn-in groove tells a story, and owning a vintage Twin Reverb is like holding a piece of that musical narrative in your hands.
Versatility and Enduring Appeal
What sets the Fender Twin Reverb apart is its versatility.
While revered for its clean tones, it has proven equally adept at handling the nuances of various genres.
From the rhythmic punch of funk to the soaring leads of rock and blues, the Twin Reverb's sonic adaptability has ensured its enduring appeal.
From the gritty tones of the Tweed era to the pristine cleans of the Blackface and Silverface eras, Fender amps have become sonic signatures in their own right.
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Tube Amp: The Fender Twin Reverb is a classic tube amplifier, utilizing vacuum tubes (valves) in its circuitry. The choice of tubes, including the 6L6GC power tubes and 12AX7 preamp tubes, contributes significantly to the amp's warm, responsive, and dynamic sound. Tube amps are cherished for their natural compression, harmonic richness, and the unique way they respond to a guitarist's playing dynamics.
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12-inch Speakers: The Fender Twin Reverb is typically equipped with two 12-inch speakers, a configuration that contributes to its powerful and articulate sound. The choice of speakers, whether Jensen or Oxford, plays a crucial role in shaping the amp's tonal character. The pairing of the Twin Reverb with these speakers provides a canvas for a wide range of musical genres, from crystal-clear cleans to gritty overdrive.
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85 Watts: The Fender Twin Reverb boasts an 85-watt power rating, making it a powerhouse in the world of guitar amplification. This substantial wattage not only provides ample headroom for clean tones but also allows the amp to handle pedals and effects with ease. The 85-watt output contributes to the Twin Reverb's ability to fill large venues and studios with its robust and commanding sound.
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Spring Reverb: One of the defining features of the Fender Twin Reverb is its built-in spring reverb. This classic reverb effect, achieved through springs in a physical tank, provides a lush and ambient sound that has become synonymous with the Fender brand. The spring reverb in the Twin Reverb adds depth and dimension to the guitar tones, creating a sense of space and immersion.
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Vibrato Channel: The Fender Twin Reverb features a dedicated Vibrato channel, offering a tube-driven vibrato effect that adds a subtle modulation to the guitar signal. This unique feature allows players to infuse their tones with a gentle warble, providing a touch of vintage character to the sound. The Vibrato channel in the Twin Reverb is a sonic playground for those seeking to experiment with expressive and dynamic modulation.
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Classic Tone: "Classic Tone" is more than a descriptor; it's the essence of what defines the Fender Twin Reverb. The amp's classic tone is characterized by its pristine cleans, warm midrange, and the ability to transition seamlessly from a whisper to a roar. The Fender Twin Reverb's classic tone has left an indelible mark on the history of music, gracing countless recordings and stages with its timeless and unmistakable sound.
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Dual Channels: The Fender Twin Reverb's dual-channel architecture is a hallmark feature that contributes to its versatility. The amp provides both Normal and Vibrato channels, each with its own set of controls. This dual-channel setup allows players to easily switch between clean and modulated tones, providing a wide sonic palette for various musical styles and playing preferences.
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TMB Tone Stack: The TMB (Treble, Middle, Bass) tone stack is a crucial component of the Fender Twin Reverb's tonal shaping capabilities. This circuit allows players to finely adjust the frequency response of the amplifier, tailoring the highs, mids, and lows to suit their preferences. The TMB tone stack is integral to achieving the iconic Fender Twin Reverb sound, providing a versatile tool for sculpting the amplifier's tonal character.
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Guitar Combo Amp: The Fender Twin Reverb is a quintessential example of a guitar combo amp. A combo amp integrates the amplifier and speakers into a single unit, providing a convenient and portable solution for guitarists. The Twin Reverb's combo design makes it an all-in-one package, delivering powerful amplification and iconic tone in a format that's easy to transport and set up for performances or recording sessions.
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Clean Sound: The Fender Twin Reverb is renowned for its pristine clean sound. The clean channel on this amplifier provides a clear and uncolored representation of the guitar's signal, allowing the instrument's natural tonal qualities to shine through. The clean sound of the Twin Reverb is a canvas for a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and country to pop and beyond.
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Iconic Design: The Fender Twin Reverb's iconic design is instantly recognizable. From its silver grille cloth to the black control plate and vintage-style "tailed" amp logo, every detail exudes a sense of classic elegance. The amplifier's design not only reflects Fender's commitment to aesthetics but also serves as a visual representation of the sonic heritage encapsulated within its circuitry.
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6L6GC Tubes: The Fender Twin Reverb relies on 6L6GC tubes for its power amplification. These tubes are known for their robust and articulate performance, contributing to the amp's dynamic range and clean headroom. The 6L6GC tubes are a key factor in shaping the Twin Reverb's signature sound, providing a foundation for the amplifier's responsiveness and ability to handle varying playing styles.
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Reverb Tank: The reverb tank in the Fender Twin Reverb is a critical component responsible for the lush and ambient reverberation that defines the amplifier's sound. A reverb tank uses springs to create reflections of the audio signal, adding a sense of space and depth to the guitar tones. The Twin Reverb's reverb tank is renowned for its classic spring reverb sound, making it a key ingredient in shaping the amp's sonic character.
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Vibrato Effect: The Vibrato effect in the Fender Twin Reverb's Vibrato channel is a classic modulation feature that imparts a subtle, pulsating movement to the guitar signal. Achieved through a tube-driven circuit, the Vibrato effect adds a touch of vintage charm and expressive depth to the amplifier's tonal palette. It's a feature cherished by players exploring the realms of dynamic and textured guitar playing.
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Open-back Cabinet: The Fender Twin Reverb's open-back cabinet design is a deliberate choice that influences its sound projection and spatial characteristics. An open-back cabinet allows sound waves to disperse more freely, creating a more expansive and ambient sonic environment. The Twin Reverb's open-back design contributes to its lush reverb and overall sense of spaciousness, making it well-suited for a variety of musical genres.
The Fender Twin Reverb isn't just an amp; it's an institution in the world of guitar amplification, offering players a platform to articulate their musical vision with unmatched clarity and power.
Vintage Amplifier
The term "Vintage Amplifier" refers to the Fender Twin Reverb's classic status and historical significance in the world of musical amplification.
Vintage amplifiers, such as the Fender Twin Reverb, are often sought after for their unique tonal characteristics and craftsmanship.
These amplifiers harken back to a specific era, capturing the essence of the sound and design principles of their time.
Features, Specifications, and Highlights for the Fender Twin Reverb
With its extensive features and classic design, the Fender Twin Reverb is still a leading name in the world of guitar amplification.
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Model Name: Fender Twin Reverb
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Amplifier Type: Tube Amplifier
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Power Output: 85 Watts
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Tubes: 4 x 6L6GC, 2 x 12AT7, 5 x 12AX7
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Channels: Dual Channels (Normal and Vibrato)
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Controls (Per Channel): Normal Channel: Volume, Treble, Bass - Vibrato Channel: Volume, Treble, Bass, Reverb, Speed, Intensity
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TMB Tone Stack: Treble, Middle, Bass (Per Channel)
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Reverb: Tube-Driven Spring Reverb
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Vibrato: Tube-Driven Vibrato Effect
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Speakers: 2 x 12" Jensen C12K
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Cabinet: Open-Back Design
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Output Impedance: 4, 8, or 16 Ohms (Selectable)
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Effects Loop: Yes
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Footswitch: 2-Button Footswitch for Reverb and Vibrato On/Off
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Cabinet Material: Birch/Pine
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Grille Cloth: Silverface Style
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Control Panel: Blackface Style
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Handle: Molded Plastic Strap with Nickel-Plated Caps
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Cover/Grille Cloth: Included
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Weight: 64 lbs. (29.03 kg)
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Dimensions (H x W x D): 19.87" x 26.5" x 10.5" (50.46 cm x 67.31 cm x 26.67 cm)
The Fender Twin Reverb is renowned for its dual-channel setup, featuring distinctive Normal and Vibrato channels, both delivering a pristine canvas for a guitarist's sonic exploration.
Amplifying Legacy: How the Fender Twin Reverb Became an Icon
The Fender Twin Reverb remains a cornerstone in the world of guitar amplification, celebrated for its tonal purity, versatility, and timeless appeal.
From its early genesis to the modern iterations, the Twin Reverb has etched a sonic legacy that transcends genres and generations.
Whether on stage, in the studio, or gracing iconic recordings, the Fender Twin Reverb stands as a testament to the enduring quest for sonic excellence in the realm of electric guitars.
Fender Twin Reverb: FAQ
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