Having trouble enjoying your favorite dialogues, intense scenes, and heart-throbbing moments because of moderate sound quality? There is no need to worry, as we have covered you by reviewing the best available center channel speakers that will improve and boost the sound quality of your favorite shows and games.
When it comes to surround sound, the center channel speaker is the most crucial speaker because it performs most of the work.
A Top-notch center channel speaker has a premium quality tweeter that produces high frequencies so you can hear a clear sound at high volume. It has sophisticated woofers that replicate and produce the sound clearly and more dynamically. The center channel speaker should have a clear-cut crisp sound that provides clear and high-quality audio.
Don’t Forget to Read – How Important Is A Center Channel Speaker
- 10 Top Rated Center Channel Speakers In 2024
- 1. Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 Best Center Channel Speaker Under $100
- 2. Polk Audio T30 Top Center Channel Speaker Under $200
- 3. Pioneer SP-C22 Best Center Speaker For Home Theater
- 4. Cerwin-Vega SL-45C Excellent Vocal Clarity
- 5. KEF Q650c Best Center Channel Speaker For Dialogue Clarity
- 6. Yamaha NS-C210BL Best Center Channel Speaker Of All Time
- 7. Polk Audio CS10 Best Budget Center Channel Speaker
- 8. Definitive Technology Procenter 1000 One Of The Most Compact Center Speaker
- 9. Polk Audio CS1 Best Value For Money
- 10. Klipsch R-52C- best klipsch center channel speaker
- Some FAQs About Best Center Channel Speakers!
10 Top Rated Center Channel Speakers In 2024
Below is a list of the top 10 center channel speakers with supreme sound quality for a complete viewing experience.
| Service | Main Features | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Badge | Polk Audio Blackstone TL1
| Check Price | |
2  | Polk Audio T30
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3  | Pioneer SP-C22
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4  | Cerwin-Vega SL-45C
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5  | KEF Q650c
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6  | Yamaha Audio NS-C210BL
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7  | Polk Audio CS10
| Check Price | |
8  | Definitive Technology ProCenter
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9  | Polk Audio CS1
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10  | Klipsch R-52C
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1. Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 Best Center Channel Speaker Under $100
Editor’s take: Having experienced the Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 performance is awe-inspiring. The Time Lens Technology delivered powerful bass and added a new dimension to my favorite tunes. It’s compact, yet the impact on my home entertainment system was profound. This gem has undeniably enriched my listening journey.
- Time Lens Technology
- Handles Up To 125 Watts
- Frequency Response: 125-20,000 Hz (-3db)
- Sensitivity: 89Db
- 1/2″ Silk Dome Tweeter
- Dual 2-1/2″ Dynamic Balance™ Mids/Woofers
Polk is one of the leading speaker manufacturers over the past decades and they have launched models that have become a huge hit because of the appropriate and clear sound quality they deliver. The slim and lightweight model blends in perfectly with your cabinet, and not only will it produce premium quality output and be a cozy addition to your room.
This time around Polk came up with another exciting center speaker that has a lightweight and curved design, which not only improves user accessibility but the curved shape also aligns the acoustic centers of the tweeters and mid-bass at the same level, providing a clearer sound that is free from disruptions and distortions.
In addition to this, you can build your very own home theatre system of 5.1, 6.1, and 7.1 at your convenience. The sound quality through this channel will be crisp original to the extent that you will feel more indulged during the intense movie scenes.
The sound quality produced by this brilliant channel speaker is because of the Aperiodic-tuned rear bass port that controls the airflow necessary for delivering a perfect bass boost, making your sound feel more natural and rich. You will get all such features in the best center channel speaker for the money on this list.
Pros
- Cheapest price
- Smart curved shape
- Easy to use
- Aperiodic-tuned rear port
- Silk dome tweeter
- Value for money features
Cons
- Lack of support accessories
- Small for some users
2. Polk Audio T30 Top Center Channel Speaker Under $200
Editor’s take: After spending quality time with the Polk Audio T30 100 Watt Home Theater Center Channel Speaker, I can confidently say it’s an audiophile’s dream. The way it impeccably brings life to every note and the clarity of dialogues in movies made my audio experience incredibly immersive. The richness and power this speaker packs are stellar for its price. I’m thoroughly impressed.
- Peak Power Handling: 100 watts
- Speaker Type: Center
- Driver Size : 2x 5 1/4″ Mid/Woofer, 1x 1″ Tweeter
- Recommended Watts/Channel: 20-100 Watts/Channel
- Impedance: 6 ohm
- Frequency Response: 60Hz-24kHz
Next up on our list is another brilliant channel speaker that can make a 5.1 home theatre. The Polk Audio T30 channel speaker has a 1-inch silk dome tweeter that increases the frequency of your audio and it produces a dynamic sound. The Polk audio stereo system makes your experiences more cozy and vibrant. The sound produced by this Polk Audio T30 center channel speaker adds ambiance to your room and gives a very realistic feel to your playback experience.
You will feel that the sound produced is adaptable as per the usage; there will be a different vibe when you are gaming in contrast to listening to an audio podcast or a Netflix show. The dynamic sound quality is necessary as every moment that is happening on the screen might have a different level of feeling which can be heard justifiably through this super-smart center channel.
The brilliant center channel has a high-performance rear-firing bass port that has been built with Polk’s latest dynamic balance technology. This ensures that a great clear sound is delivered through the rear port on the condition that it is placed correctly.
This is a convenient center channel speaker that delivers brilliant audio with an emphasis on a rich and clear sound. The center channel speaker will enhance your experience of watching a TV show, listening to your favorite tracks, or playing a game.
Pros
- Dynamic sound output
- Ideal for a 5.1 home theater setup
- 1’’ silk dome tweeter
- Two 5.25’’ composite drivers
- Tuned rear-firing bass port
Cons
- Amplifier support issues
- Poor customer service
3. Pioneer SP-C22 Best Center Speaker For Home Theater
Editor’s take: In my experience, the Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones Home Audio Center Channel Speaker has genuinely impressed me. Its dynamic, room-filling sound and crystal-clear dialogue bring a captivating theater-like experience into my living room. It’s a worthy investment that’s revolutionized my audio setup.
- Maximum Input Power: 90W
- Frequency Response: 55Hz – 20kHz
- Speakers Configuration: 2-way
- Driver Units: Two 4″ Structured Surface Woofers
- 1″ High-Efficiency Soft Dome Tweeter
- Nominal Impedance: 6 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 88 dB
No 3 on our list is another exclusively designed center channel speaker which has a curved shape that will not only look elegant in your living room but it also has a science behind it. You will be delighted with the quality and performance of the Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones Home Audio Center Channel Speaker.
In case you haven’t heard about this speaker before, let me tell you that Pioneer made a commitment to their customers that quality would never be compromised, and with this model, they keep that commitment and this bad boy won’t break your budget.
The Pioneer SP-C22 merges in the cabinet design in such a way that it reduces the standing sound waves inside the wall ultimately resulting in powerful sound quality.
The channel speaker has two 4” woofers that provide exceptional sound output. The woofers have a mechanism that enables them to deliver a sound that matches the quality of the stuff you are watching. There is no interference or distortion in the output audio and it is clear.
Moreover, the soft dome tweeter transmits the high frequencies in such an elegant way that you will not feel any sort of difference in the sound quality even at high volumes. The tweeter and the woofer combination are ideal for reproducing a sound that is clear, feasible, and crisp.
The frequency range of the Pioneer SP-C22 central channel speaker is 55Hz – 20KHz. The speaker’s maximum output is 90 watts and they provide a smoother and complacent audio transmission that will be most effective while playing video games or watching a Netflix show.
A top-rated center channel speaker that has a complex crossover mechanism. It transmits ideal frequencies between the tweeter and the woofers to achieve precise and clean audio quality.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Complex crossover mechanism
- Curved design suits cabinet
- 4” high-quality woofers
- Soft dome tweeter
Cons
- Heavier design
- Customer service issues
4. Cerwin-Vega SL-45C Excellent Vocal Clarity
Editor’s take: I’m awestruck after testing the Cerwin-Vega SL-45C Quad 5 1/4″ Center Channel Speaker. Its impactful low-frequency response and immersive soundstage gave my home cinema an unforgettable edge. This is an absolute audio powerhouse that’s earned its place in my setup.
- Speaker Type: Quad 5 1/4″ Center Speaker
- Description: Quad 5″ Drivers – 1″ soft dome tweeter – Center Speaker
- Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 26 kHz
- Power Handling (RMS/Peak): 300 Peak
- Sensitivity (1W/1M): 89 dB
This top-class center channel speaker has been designed to produce audio rich in clarity and free from any noise and distortions. The speaker will fit perfectly with your receiver and enhance your audio and video playback experiences. Because of the high quality of tools equipped, you will be able to get first-hand experience of everything you are watching, whether football games, MMA, or any TV shows. The premium sound quality will make it more exciting.
Moreover, there are 5 Quad .25’’ drivers, which combine with perfection to produce audio waves that sound elegant and cozy to your ears. Your favorite songs will feel more in-depth and soothing because of the optimal alignment of the individual drivers. That produces the sound of premium quality, making your leisure time much more enjoyable and fun.
There is a 1” soft dome tweeter installed in the speaker that deals with the high frequencies comfortably and produces a sound output that is clear, crisp, and rich in originality. Your favorite TV shows will become much more enjoyable because of the clear high pitch sound production by the soft dome tweeter.
A top-quality center channel speaker that optimizes your audio and produces crystal clear, rich sound. The soft dome tweeter ensures that the dynamism aspect of the audio is not lost. Overall, it is a great center channel speaker that is available in a moderate price tag.
Pros
- Great design
- 1’’ soft dome tweeter
- Affordable price tag
- High audio clarity
- 5 Quad .25’’ drivers
Cons
- Average build quality
- Somewhat heavy
5. KEF Q650c Best Center Channel Speaker For Dialogue Clarity
Editor’s take: The KEF Q650c Center Channel Speaker has thoroughly wowed me. Its pinpoint accuracy and exceptional clarity have breathed new life into my favorite movies and tracks. This speaker, for me, is a shining example of auditory excellence that’s enhanced my overall audio experience.
- Drive Units: 165mm (6.5in.) aluminum Uni-Q
25mm (1in.)vented aluminum dome HF
165mm (6.5in.) aluminium LF
165mm (6.5in.)aluminium ABR - Frequency Range : 55Hz (-6dB)
- Amplifier Requirements: 15-150W
- Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms (min.4.2 Ohms)
- Sensitivity: 87dB (2.83V/1m)
- Crossver Frequencies: 2.5kHz
Moving on, we have another excellent product that has some of the best features and advanced technology installed in it. The new KEF Q65O center channel speaker has been built with such a great mechanism that it ensures that the audio quality output has clarity, it has a rich and pure intensity level and it complements the video playback perfectly.
The speaker has been designed in sleek matte black and white vinyl finishes, two premium colors. The speaker looks elegant when you look at it and it will merge perfectly with the view of your room cabinets.
In terms of performance, the KEF Q650c center channel speaker is equipped with a Uni-Q 6.5” driver in the center, and it has two 6.5” bass drivers adjacent to it. This combination of speakers enhances the voice quality of the audio, and it also negates any incoming noise and distortions.
The center channel system is equipped with a new damped tweeter tube that allows better transmission of the sound produced from the back of the tweeter, ultimately enhancing sound delivery. In terms of bass, the manufacturer has installed low-distortion inductors in the center channel speaker that provides a cleaner and smoother bass.
The manufacturer has put great effort into the performance aspect of the center channel speaker and he has equipped it with the latest technology in all the relevant aspects. Everything is nearly perfect whether it is a cleaner bass, driver combination, or the smooth tweeter. It has brilliant features and advanced technology, making it the best center channel speaker of 2021.
Pros
- Great design finishing
- Elite drivers’ combination
- Low-distortion inductor
- Q-series optimized cabinet
- Speakers maximum output is 150 Watts
Cons
- Expensive
- Warranty speculations
6. Yamaha NS-C210BL Best Center Channel Speaker Of All Time
Editor’s take: The Yamaha Audio NS-C210BL Center Channel Speaker has genuinely charmed me. Its seamless integration with my setup and its ability to reproduce clear, natural vocals have brought an elevated dimension to my listening sessions. It’s a no-brainer pick for those who crave detailed and vibrant audio delivery.
- Two-Way Bass Reflex Design
- Power Handling: Up to 120W
- Balanced Dome Tweeter: 7/8 inches
- Dual 3.1″ Cone Woofers
- Frequency Response: 65 Hz – 45 kHz
Yamaha has launched an affordable center channel speaker that performs exceptionally well with a receiver and it also improves certain aspects of the sound quality. The design has a piano black finish that looks exquisite. The manufacturer has designed the Yamaha NS-C210BL center speaker in a compact shape that can easily be placed in your living room.
In terms of performance, this is a 2-way bass-reflex speaker that distributes the audio with clarity. The transmission of the frequency notes between the tweeter and woofer is sublime and the resulting sound output is better than a single driver speaker.
The woofers perform by using light aluminum cones to add extra fast responsiveness to the sound and there are no audio delays of any sort. The woofers add dynamism to the audio playback and you get a sort of real feels while watching a movie or TV show.
For high volume audio playback, there are premium quality 7/8’’ balanced dome tweeters that do not allow the audio to lose clarity while playing high-frequency notes. Hence, the resulting sound is of top quality and you can instantly feel the difference.
It is a good quality center channel speaker with a 2-way bass-reflex mechanism that smoothes the sound quality. The speaker does not allow the audio to lose clarity, pure delivery, or other essential aspects. It is available for around 100 USD and is the best affordable center channel speaker.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Piano black finish
- 7/8’’ balanced dome tweeter
- 2-way bass-reflex speaker
- Speakers max output is 80 Watts
- Impedance is 6 ohms
Cons
- Sometimes minor echo issue
- Durability is average
7. Polk Audio CS10 Best Budget Center Channel Speaker
Editor’s take: Having experienced the Polk Audio CS10 Center Channel Speaker, its robust performance completely takes me. The crisp dialogues and rich tones it delivers have amplified my home theater escapades. It’s an indispensable gem in the realm of quality sound.
- Max Power Handles: 20-125 watts
- Overall Frequency Response: 53-25,000 Hz
- Frequency response (-3dB): 63-24,000 Hz
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: 91 dB
Next up is an excellent center channel speaker engineered with the latest technology. It has some of the most advanced features that drastically improve the audio playback quality.
The Polk Audio CS10 center speaker has been constructed in a non-resonant all MDF enclosure that makes the sound quality clearer and suits the room’s ambiance. The center channel speaker maximizes the multidimensional sound distribution free from distortions.
The speaker has a 1” dynamic balance dome tweeter with a strong neodymium magnet structure. The tweeter deeply deals with the high-frequency notes and ensures that the output is crystal clear and dynamic. The tweeter also ensures that realistic reproduction of the vocals and instruments adds luxury and fun aspects to your entertainment experiences.
Furthermore, the brilliantly designed speaker has two 5.25’’ Bi laminate composite balanced drivers that are solid and light in terms of construction. The drivers have great damping that ensures no distortion interrupts the clean quality output of audio.
As apparent from our review, this center channel speaker has elite features and advanced technology that aims at delivering cozy and high-quality sound output to make your experiences more fun and entertaining. This is the top-rated center channel speaker with a positive user rating of around 4.7.
Pros
- Lightweight
- 1’’ dynamic balance dome tweeter
- Two 5.25’’ Bi laminate composite balanced drivers
- Top rated
- Affordable price
- Non-resonant all MDF enclosure construction
Cons
- No return policy
- Minor fitting issues
8. Definitive Technology Procenter 1000 One Of The Most Compact Center Speaker
Editor’s take: After getting my hands on the Definitive Technology ProCenter 1000 Compact Center Speaker, I’m absolutely enchanted. Its compact design belies the breathtaking audio precision and depth it offers, turning my media consumption into an immersive affair. This is a small-sized marvel that delivers a big sound.
- Single Pro center center-channel speaker
- Frequency Response: 47-30,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Impedance: 8-ohm
- Power handles: up to 200 watts
- one 1″ pure aluminum dome tweeter
- two 4-1/2″ BDSS bass/midrange drivers pressure-coupled to two 4-1/2″ bass radiators
This is a speaker that has a modern design that is quite lightweight and easily portable. The speaker has great features that ensure that your sound quality is improved and you are satisfied. The speaker has been designed like a pill that looks quite nice and it is available in two great colors i.e. a black version and a white version.
In addition to this, the speaker is equipped with top of line 1” pure aluminum dome tweeter that plays the high-frequency vocals and notes loudly and with great clarity and richness.
Furthermore, there are two sophisticated 4.5’’ cast basket drivers, which are merged with two 4.5” pressure-driven low-frequency radiators. This subtle combination ensures that the low-frequency notes have a deep and rich effect, making the audio sound more pleasing.
The speakers have a maximum output of 100 watts which is quite convenient and it has a frequency response range of 47Hz – 30 kHz.
It is a good-looking speaker with great features like the two 4.5” low-frequency radiators and a powerful sound output of 100 watts. A 4.7 positive user rating further enhances the reputation of the center channel speaker.
Pros
- Modern Design
- 4.5’’ cast basket drivers
- Max speaker output of 100 watts
- 1’’ pure aluminum dome tweeter
- Lightweight
Cons
- Durability is normal
- Small for some users
9. Polk Audio CS1 Best Value For Money
Editor’s take: The Polk Audio CS1 Series II Center Channel Speaker has left me an indelible impression. Its unique design and the striking sound balance it produces have made my audio experiences richer and more profound. It is a must-have for me, whether as a standalone or a companion to other premium speakers.
- Drivers :2x 5.25″ Dynamic Balance woofers
1x 1″ Dynamic Balance tweeter - Power handling: 20 watts to 125 watts
- Frequency response: 65 Hz to 24,000 Hz (-3dB)
- Sensitivity: 89 dB (2.83 volts @ 1 meter)
- Impedance: 8 ohms
The Polk Audi CS1 center channel speaker is the latest generation speaker that enhances the audio quality of your videos and gameplay so that you can have a better overall experience. The reversible upside-down design allows you to position the loudspeakers as per your convenience and have more flexible sound output.
In addition, there are two 5.25” Polk’s proprietary balance woofers that provide an ideal sound output free from distortions and noises. You can turn your home theatre’s audio output and make it feel like you are in a cinema enjoying a movie. The dynamic woofers combine the low-frequency vocals and transmit them clearly and flexibly. The 1’’ premium tweeter ensures you always listen to crisp and clean sound when playing a game with your friends and family.
The CS1 can be paired up with a monitor 60 or 70 tower speakers for large rooms and monitor 40 bookshelf speakers for smaller rooms to eventually achieve a magnificent sound system that makes everything more exciting.
Polk has continued the tradition of launching great quality speakers that receive positive user reviews. This particular speaker has rated 4.8 stars out of 5 and this further adds to the credibility of the crisp and clear sound that it produces.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Two 5.25’’ Polk’s proprietary balance woofers
- 1’’ premium tweeter
- Combines with tower speakers
- Sound clarity is 25 kHz
Cons
- Warranty speculations
10. Klipsch R-52C– best klipsch center channel speaker
Editor’s take: While using the Klipsch R-52C, I’ve found it to be a game-changer for my home theater setup. The clarity of dialogues in movies and the depth of vocals in music tracks have been unparalleled. Its sleek design enhanced my living space aesthetically and delivered a sound quality that immersed me in every viewing and listening experience. This speaker has undoubtedly elevated my audio encounters to a professional cinema-grade level.
- Design: 2-way speaker design with a 1″ aluminum LTS tweeter coupled to a 90×90 square Tractrix Horn.
- Power Handling: 400 watts.
- Woofers: Dual 5.25″ Spun-Copper IMG Woofers.
- Frequency Response: 89 Hz – 21 kHz /- 3 dB.
- Sensitivity: 95 dB at 2. 83V/1m
When you invest in a Klipsch product, you’re not just purchasing a piece of equipment. You’re becoming a part of a 70-year legacy of audio excellence, which is why Klipsch stands tall as one of the top sellers in the audio speaker industry. The founder aimed to introduce cutting-edge audio devices to replicate cinema-grade sound quality in your living room.
The Klipsch R-52C, being a center channel, plays a pivotal role in your home theater system. This speaker promises to deliver clear, powerful, and detailed sound with its dual 5.25″ spun-copper IMG woofers and a 1″ aluminum LTS tweeter mated to a 90×90 square Tractrix Horn.
Its frequency range of 89Hz – 21kHz ensures that dialogues in movies and song lyrics are presented with utmost clarity. With a power handling capacity of up to 400 watts, it’s built to handle dynamic soundtracks easily.
From my firsthand experience, the R-52C truly stands out. The dialogues in movies are crisp, and the overall sound quality is immersive. It feels like the characters are right there in the room with you. While it might be pricier, the performance justifies the cost.
In a market flooded with audio equipment, the Klipsch R-52C stands out because of its brand name and performance. It’s a testament to Klipsch’s commitment to quality and its legacy of audio excellence. If you’re looking for a center channel speaker that delivers on all fronts, the R-52C is well worth the investment.
Pros
- Sound clarity is top-notch.
- Dialogues are lifelike and clear.
- Woofers are robust and aesthetic.
- Great sound, even at low volumes.
Cons
- Costly but worth every penny.
- Bulky and heavy for some setups.
- The design might not suit modern interiors.
Top 3 Recommendations:
The top 3 recommendations based on my personal experience and positive customer feedback are as follows:
Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 as it is the best center channel speaker for the money.
KEF Q650c as it is one of the best center channel speakers of 2022.
Polk Audio CS10 as it is the top-rated center channel speaker.
Some FAQs About Best Center Channel Speakers!
What is the best center channel speaker for the money?
While we have compiled a list of the ten best products, if you asked us to pick one, we would say Polk Audio T30 is one of the best center channel speakers for the money out there.
You can expect power, compactness, style, and everything you need.
What is the best Klipsch center channel speaker?
In Klipsch’s Reference Premiere series, the RP-504C stands out among other center channel speakers. Featuring four 5.25″ Cerametallic woofers and a 1″ Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter, it delivers clear dialogue and vocals. Due to its high-quality design and build, it is both aesthetically pleasing and auditorily pleasing. However, the “best” Klipsch speaker is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs.
Is a center channel speaker better than a soundbar?
A center channel speaker and a soundbar have distinct functions regarding audio setups. A center channel speaker is specifically designed to produce clear dialogue and vocals, ensuring that a multi-speaker home theater system is optimized for sound clarity. On the other hand, a soundbar is an all-in-one solution that is intended to enhance TV audio and often simulate surround sound. While soundbars are space-saving and convenient, a dedicated center channel speaker typically offers superior vocal clarity in a complete home theater setup.
Do you really need a center channel speaker?
Installing a center channel speaker in your home theater setup is highly recommended but not strictly necessary. It ensures that dialogues and vocals are clear and distinct. Without it, dialogues in surround sound systems can get diffused between left and right channels, potentially reducing clarity. For those prioritizing immersive movie or TV show experiences, a center channel speaker significantly enhances audio quality and clarity.
Final Words!
The center channel speakers are the perfect speaker system that makes your entertainment and leisure time more fun and joyful. They act as the core tools in enhancing the quality of your sound to make it clear, rich, natural, and vibrant.
Everyone wants to enjoy watching a movie scene with a great audio output so that every intense scene feels more natural. Your gaming experiences are greatly influenced by a great speaker and a great track feels cozier if it is played on a great audio quality speaker. Please let me know if you have any queries regarding the models we have listed.
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