Component acoustics: types, characteristics, choice

New cars are often equipped with fairly simple sound systems. They provide neither deep bass nor clean high frequencies. Of course, such speakers are also suitable for listening to the news, but such speaker systems will cause real disgust for real music lovers, because you won’t hear normal music in them. Purchasing a normal one is a completely different matter. In this case, you need to choose one of two options: component or coaxial acoustics.

Some become adherents of coaxial speaker systems. Such all-weather acoustics consists of several speakers, each of which reproduces sounds of a strictly defined frequency. They are separated by special filters - crossovers. They recognize the frequency of the signal and transmit it to a specific speaker. Sometimes, mostly more expensive models stereo systems, crossovers are designed in a separate housing, which protects sounds from unintentional mixing.

To get the right sound, you need to choose the right filter materials. Thanks to filters, coaxial acoustics reproduce a wider range than broadband ones. Often such acoustics are also placed on special podiums, which greatly improves the sound quality.

Another type that is more widespread among real car enthusiasts and music lovers is Like coaxial acoustics, it has become widespread. The principle of its design is very similar to the device coaxial acoustics, however there is one small difference. If in the previous acoustic system the speakers of all three frequency groups are located in one housing, then in the component system the low-frequency, mid-frequency and tweeters separated from each other. Consequently, the motorist receives three separate speakers, which are best placed close to each other. In this case, you get a good musical picture that will satisfy even the most picky listener.

There are a few basic tips that are important when choosing any coaxial speaker system. Firstly, the main thing is to choose speakers based on their sound, and not on appearance. Of course, the design of the speakers should match the design of the car's interior, but this is not as important as getting the sound right. Secondly, remember that speaker crossovers are the main operating part. The degree of sound separation depends on the number of filter elements, because the more there are, the better the sound. Thirdly, regardless of the type of speaker system (component or coaxial speakers), it is advisable to use them with an external amplifier. In this case, the sound will be better. If the speaker system is connected to a car radio or other head unit, pay attention to the sensitivity of the speaker, since it will depend on it maximum volume sound. Recommended sensitivity is from 92 decibels.

Music in a car showroom is a common occurrence. Owners try to choose powerful radios for high-quality sound tracks, forgetting that the best should be component acoustics - a sound reproduction system. Car speakers may vary in design and quality. For example, there is a coaxial type of system - the most popular and easier to install. At its base there is a speaker with low-frequency sound, as well as heads for other frequencies. The sound from these speakers is average. The second type of system is component. It consists of mid- and high-frequency speakers that are excellent in sound and clarity. It's a little more complicated to set up, but the sound is ultimately better and richer. The rating included only the best component car acoustics according to the Mark.guru portal.

To make your purchase a joy and have a pleasant sound response, you should know about some selection criteria:

Stripes– are responsible for the sound quality and frequency of music from the speakers. The standard speaker system has 2 bands, but for higher quality reproduction there is also four-way equipment.
Material of manufacture. The best are considered to be wooden devices with silk tweeters. It is better to buy low-frequency speakers on pressed cardboard or paper. Particular attention should be paid to the presence of protective impregnation. The dome is preferably made of titanium, but the magnet should be made of neodymium - this will ensure good endurance.
Power. There is a nominal and maximum indicator. The first is a permanent working option for the speakers, and the second allows you to connect amplifiers and bass. The difference between the indicators should not be more than 3 times. Standard power is 50-150 W.
Size and shape. There are round, square and oval bases. Columns can be 13 cm, 16 or more. Small ones are sometimes more powerful and have better sound quality.
Manufacturer. You need to pay attention only to proven brands.
Price. Can vary from 2100 to 30,000 rubles.

1. Focal Performance PS 165

The equipment reproduces crystal sound and has adjustable crossovers (a couple of adjustments at high frequencies).

Features and Specifications:

size – 16 cm;
stripes – 2;
power – 80 W (nominal) and 160 W (maximum);
frequency – 60 – 20000 Hz.
Includes customizable external crossover;
The speaker material is aluminum.

pleasant bass;
dense, clear sound;
crossovers can be configured;
convenient installation;
laconic design.

with increased bass, noise appears, but this effect is rarely observed;
short wire;
For maximum comfort In use, you will need to purchase an additional amplifier.

The average cost is 17,500 rubles.

Prices for Focal Performance PS 165:

2. Alpine SPG-17CS

Alpine SPG-17CS is a good audio system without an amplifier, but at a nice price.

Different powerful characteristic speakers.

The tweeter has a silk dome and the magnetic drive is made of neodymium. The design is equipped with ventilation ducts for proper distribution of air flows. Overall, the system has a smooth, high quality sound.

Specifications:

size – 16 cm;
stripes – 2;
power – 70 W (nominal) and 280 W (maximum);
frequency – 68 – 20000 Hz.
tweeter material - silk.

transparent sound;
high-quality assembly;
reasonable price;
Possibility of installing a tweeter of your choice.

low frequencies play well when tuning;
Great possibilities of equipment only with door installation;
without an amplifier they do not produce high-quality bass.

The average cost is 6200 rubles.

Alpine SPG-17CS prices:

3. Hertz ESK 165L.5

Due to the configuration, it has a longer lower register than other models.

The tweeter is made of cellulose with protective impregnation, and the dome has an expanded radiation angle. All acoustics are distinguished by high quality manufacturing materials: the rear is rubberized, and the basket is protected against damage, scratches and corrosion.

Specifications:

size – 16 cm;
stripes – 2;
power – 100 W (nominal) and 300 W (maximum);
frequency – 50 – 23000 Hz.
included - external crossover;
The tweeter material is Tetolon.

excellent sound ranges for any genre of performance;
high-quality bass;
Italian production;
good value for money.

long warm-up of car speakers in winter;
You need to adjust the sound through an equalizer.

The average price is 8800 rubles.

Prices for Hertz ESK 165L.5:

This component acoustics rightfully takes first place in the segment of economical models with amazing performance sound reproduction. The Audison Prima APK 165 car speaker includes: a 16-centimeter speaker, additional acoustics of 6.5 centimeters, and a crossover.

The benefits include ease of installation, advanced design and a traditional approach to Audison's unique sound.

The kit includes all the necessary accessories for varying the installation of speakers in the car, and the miniature crossover does not require special attention. There is a three-wave suspension that is designed to reduce unstable resonances - it also improves frequencies at each volume level. The speaker is presented in a soft silk dome with special impregnation.

Technical indicators:

size – 16.5 cm;
stripes – 2;
rated power – 100 W;
maximum power– 300 W;
frequency – 60 – 20000 Hz.
crossover included;
tweeter material – silk with protective impregnation.

great sound;
increased calibration sensitivity;
bright transmission of timbres;
high volume.

simple design;
high frequencies need to be corrected.

The average cost is 12,100 rubles.

Prices for:

The Ground Zero GZTC 165TX acoustics are suitable for motorists who love loud and clear sound.

The top rating is based not only on technical characteristics, but also on German build quality.

The sound of the speakers is particularly bright.

Key indicators:

size – 16 cm;
rated power – 110 W;
maximum power – 160 W;
frequency – 50 – 20000 Hz.
The kit includes an external crossover;
HF speaker magnet – neodymium, silk diffuser;
woofer magnet – nerrite, paper diffuser.

nice design;
detailed, soft frequencies;
good sound effects.

plastic case;
The speakers are difficult to dismantle.

The average cost is 6,300 rubles.

Prices for:

Component acoustics of domestic production. Has a claim to sound accuracy, and according to consumer ratings is a leader in playback quality low frequencies.

At correct installation characterized by a lively and natural sound.

The system copes very well with music of any genre. However, it may cause installation problems for beginners - there are no instructions included in the kit.

Technical indicators:

size – 16 cm;
rated power – 70 W;
frequency – 65 – 20000 Hz.
external crossover;
HF speaker magnet – neodymium, fabric diffuser;
woofer magnet – composite, paper diffuser;
additions: protective mesh, adjustment of woofer band, tweeter signal.

soft, high-quality bass;
the crossover has overheating protection;
ability to install tweeters at the required angle.

small cross-section of acoustic wires;
no instructions.

The average cost is 4800 rubles.

Prices for:

Kicx ALN 8.3 has 3 bands for enhanced sound.

The peculiarity of this system is aluminum diffusers, which are slightly harsh in sound to balance the sound.

This material is able to efficiently withstand loads and changes in sound frequency, and is also neutral to changes in temperature and humidity. The system provides maximum precision in sound control.

Specifications:

three-way component speaker;
size – 20 cm (suitable for high-quality bass playback);
rated power – 160 W;
maximum power – 320 W;
frequency range – 40 – 22000 Hz;
crossover included.

perfectly reproduce low frequencies;
good, clear sound of any genre;
power can withstand heavy loads.

small sound gaps at mid-frequencies.

The average cost is 7,700 rubles.

Prices for:

The system has 13 cm speakers, but this only affects the quality in a good way - the bass sounds great.

Specifications:

size – 13 cm;
stripes – 2;
rated power – 35 W;
maximum power indicator – 180 W;
sensitivity – 88 dB;
crossover included.

The woofer sounds bright and clear;
no additional amplifier required;
bass potential.

high cost;
The speaker may not reproduce high frequencies clearly;
Manual sound adjustment is required.

The average cost is 6610 rubles.

Prices for:

9. Mystery MR 61.5

A budget option for a car audio system. In the economy segment it represents a model with quite acceptable sound.

For softer sound, additional sound insulation is required.

The advantages of acoustics are their simplicity and speed of installation, and, of course, cost.

Specifications:

size – 16 cm;
stripes – 2;
rated power – 60 W;
maximum power indicator – 210 W;
sensitivity – 92 dB;
frequency range – 45 – 21000 Hz;
the tweeter has a neodymium magnet and a silk cone;
woofer made of polypropylene;
external crossover included.

ease of use;
the best price-quality ratio among component models;
The acoustics are clearly divided into high and low frequencies - this gives purity of sound.

on higher frequencies an unpleasant sound appears;
amplifier required;
Soundproofing required.

The average cost is 2200 rubles.

Prices for Mystery MR 61.5:

Finally - the most “delicious”, like the cherry on the cake, or rather the most “sounding”. The design of the P 165 VT 20 is the result of collaboration between Focal and the domestic brand Chernov Audio. All her performances are at a high level.

The acoustic diffusers are equipped with a special dust-repellent coating and a profile that improves mid-range frequencies even when the radiation is deflected.

The speakers are tonally balanced, and this gives an open and clear range of sound for the mid-range speakers, and a high extension of the high frequencies.

Specifications:

size – 16 cm;
stripes – 2;
rated power – 70 W;
maximum power – 140 W;
sensitivity – 93 dB;
frequency range – 60 – 28000 Hz;
the tweeter has a neodymium magnet;
Aluminum woofer.

beautiful effects at every volume;
good sensitivity;
high quality sound.

plastic speaker housing;
high cost.

The average price is 17,800 rubles.

Prices for:

In conclusion

So, to summarize: to select a component speaker system, you should decide on the size - this significantly affects the installation. Models with low cost and at the same time simple design are popular. If the goal is to obtain sound quality, then it is better to choose French and German assemblies. They are able to satisfy the most demanding tastes, and deliver heavenly bliss from playing any composition. Both types of acoustics can be found in this review.

Owners of modern cars approach the choice of speaker systems with great trepidation. Naturally, almost all cars already have standard system and the average person is generally satisfied with it. However, among car enthusiasts there are true connoisseurs of high-quality, real sound. Therefore, music in the car is increasingly being modernized. This raises the question of what to choose. Component and coaxial acoustics are available on the market. And if latest systems suitable for most, this is not enough for real music lovers.

Component system: characteristics

Component acoustics are a set of several speakers designed to reproduce audio frequencies in certain frequency ranges.

By installing two or three or more such speaker systems, you can cover all frequencies.

What is a component audio system for?

Thanks to speakers designed for different frequency ranges, the car audio system gains enormous flexibility in adjustment and configuration when compared with coaxial-type acoustics. By using additional equipment(and these are various electronic processor systems, crossovers, amplifiers), each speaker of a component system can be made to reproduce a specific frequency range.

Individual volume can also be adjusted. As a result of such manipulations, it is possible to obtain the correct sound stage. Three-component acoustics when configured correctly it gives very realistic effect presence. The sound is comparable to expensive home theaters. By changing the placement of speakers and their direction, you can customize the visualization of sound. 3-component acoustics allow you to expand the sound, remove it at certain frequencies, or bring it closer. This is a big plus.

Speakers for component speaker systems

While in a coaxial speaker system for a car two or three bands can be reproduced in one speaker, component acoustics require each frequency range use a separate element.

The system includes several components:

Tweeters - designed to reproduce high frequencies. People call them nothing more than “squeakers”. They are used to voice a range of sounds from 1 kHz and more.
Midranges are mid-frequency speaker systems. Their job is to reproduce sound range at frequencies from 150 Hz to 3 kHz.
Midbass - speakers designed to reproduce mid and low frequencies. The operating range is from 60 Hz to 3 kHz.

You can buy and assemble a component speaker system either individually or in the form of ready-made kits from one brand. Assembling an audio system from individual components allows you to select the sound to suit your needs, while the kit has unchanged characteristics. Also, the system must have two devices. These can be frequency dividers or crossovers.

They must divide the sound stream into separate ranges and send these signals to specific speakers. To put it simply, thanks to crossovers, the device will only voice strictly those frequencies for which it is intended. If 2-component acoustics are used, then the division will look like this. The speaker responsible for midrange/bass will operate within the range of 60-4000 Hz. High frequency element - 4000-20000 Hz. If this is a 3-component acoustic system, then there will be a speaker for mid frequencies, which takes the mid/low range from 1000 to 4000 Hz. Of course, these division options are quite abstract, since each crossover works as the manufacturer intended.

Characteristics

Any component audio system has a number of features and special characteristics. You should pay attention to this during the selection process and before purchasing. For example, one of the important characteristics is size, or rather diameter. This parameter very important for the large speaker in the system. This is a midrange/bass element that is mounted in car doors. Here, manufacturers often try to focus on the dimensions of standard places for acoustics on most cars. The most widely available speaker systems are the following. This is 10 cm, component acoustics are 13 cm, 15 and 16 cm. Almost all modern car acoustic components have these diameters. In this case, it is not at all necessary to select the size of the speakers to fit the existing places in the car for their installation.

When choosing, a parameter such as sensitivity is also important. This parameter of an acoustic system is the ratio of sound pressure to power supplied to the speaker. This is a technical concept that reflects the efficiency of the speaker system. Sensitivity is expressed in the fact that with the same power input, component acoustics (16 cm included), the sensitivity of which is much higher, will produce a stronger sound pressure, that is, it will sound louder.

For many sound lovers, such a parameter as power is important. Manufacturing companies often indicate on product packaging that the power characteristics produced by component acoustics are different. On the box they write the parameter that the coil on the speaker can withstand - this is the same power input. No judgment should be made about the speaker system and its power based on these figures. Therefore, you must always look for power ratings. Almost all component car speakers on the market have a power in the range of 60-120 W. The choice depends on many factors.

Pros and cons of component speaker systems

The main advantage of such systems is the ability to take advantage of all the advantages that a remote installation provides. If coaxial speakers are mounted at the bottom of the door and all the frequencies they emit go to the feet, then in the case of component speaker systems the car owner has an excellent opportunity to install the elements where they should be. For example, the main speakers are on the bottom, and the tweeters are on top.

In order for frequencies to be separated, component speaker systems use crossovers, while coaxial systems use only capacitors. The latter can only cut off the lower boundary of the tweeter. The crossover can work with more than two frequency boundaries for each individual speaker system. This is a clear and undeniable plus.

Another advantage of such systems is the wide range of customization options. To do this, you need a processor-based head unit or external processor. As for the shortcomings, there are two of them. This is the price and complexity of installation. Price - important parameter for most car owners. If you choose 2-component acoustics or a coaxial system, then in most cases it will be coaxial acoustics that will be purchased.

It's more budget friendly. It is a pity that due to the desire to save money (and this often amounts to several tens of thousands of rubles), most motorists do not get the sound they dreamed of.

Best choice

Morel Tempo 6

This is a two-pole component system with speakers measuring 16 cm. Manufactured by the Israeli brand Morel. The package includes two tweeters and two crossovers. The main ones here are 16 cm component acoustics with a mesh, as well as an installation kit. The set is well assembled and made of good materials. The sound is very detailed at all frequency ranges. The cost of the kit starts from 6330 rubles.

Focal Performance PS 165

This, if not the best component acoustics, is definitely very solid, and at the same time affordable. It is ideal for most cars. At reasonable prices, these speakers have a number of advantages. This is amazing sound quality, dynamic and rich in bright colors. The system sounds very balanced. The cost of the set is from 14 thousand rubles. For this price, this is the best component acoustics.

When upgrading their car audio system, quality music lovers are replacing existing devices. In the process of car tuning, it is impossible to replace one type of equipment; any changes entail an improvement in other components of the sound system. The most important criteria When choosing radio equipment, the quality of music reproduction and the price of the speaker system become factors.

Speakers for component acoustics

The professional term “component acoustics” means speakers with broadband, high-frequency emitters assembled in one housing. The name, which characterizes the differences between coaxial and component speakers, has also taken root in the trade designations of diffusers.

Replacing low-quality standard speakers is the first step in acoustic tuning. Without changing the factory car radio, you can use inexpensive coaxial speakers (they have a high-frequency diffuser built into the broadband) or two-component acoustics.

In terms of sound quality when selecting a signal from a standard car radio budget models, only a specialist can distinguish between coaxial and component speakers. But even relatively inexpensive component speakers in cars last much longer than coaxial speakers.

2-component acoustics (which is correctly called “two-way”) combines two diffusers in one housing, allowing you to reproduce both high and mid frequencies. For background listening to music, a two-component system is sufficient, but it does not meet the high requirements for the quality of overtone transmission.

A complete set of two-component acoustics includes:

two tweeters (professionals often call tweeters “tweeters”);
two midbass (bass/midrange speaker with a range of 50 Hz - 3.5 kHz);
two passive two-way crossovers.

Most inexpensive standard radios It is not equipped with built-in crossovers, which must be purchased separately. A device combining an inductor and a capacitor is necessary to accurately separate the frequency spectrum.

To this set, 3-component acoustics add two midrange and mid-range speakers for reproducing the mid-range (frequencies 150 Hz - 1 KHz). To complete three-component acoustics, you will also need to replace two-way crossovers with three-way ones.

Both dynamic systems playback sound waves Designed for frontal placement (in the front part of the cabin). They can be installed in door panels (in place of standard speakers), above the dashboard, on the side pillars of the windshield.

When creating a three-lane front for the third pair (midranges), you need to think about the installation location. In addition, midrange models without a phase-equalizing tip will require the manufacture of a three-dimensional body. Most often, the third pair of speakers is installed on the central tunnel of the cabin. There is no point in installing midranges near the rear window; this will worsen the sound volume.

Component acoustics in practical use

Two-component car acoustics in a car can improve the sound quality and volume slightly. For noticeable results, it is necessary to purchase and install high-quality head unit.

The possibilities of three-component acoustics are wider, but even here a significant jump in quality will only be achieved by channel-by-channel amplification. Connecting each device to a separate channel of a four-channel or eight-channel amplifier, completing the system with filters, correct setting time delays - provide quality comparable to listening to a high-quality home audio system.

In the lower price segment, the best component acoustics from the brands Audison, Challenger, Kicker, Polk Audio, Alpine cost $80 - $210. The advantages of inexpensive but high-quality speakers include decent maximum power (up to 300 W), silk dome tweeters, the ability detailed settings, size (available for installation in standard places of serial foreign cars), compatibility with various amplifier models.

When choosing component speakers, important characteristics are:

equipped with an external crossover;
aluminum diffuser;
magnet power;
cast basket;
chromed back;
Convenience of mounting holes;
durable protective grilles;
swivel tweeter design.

Advantages various models midbass user reviews consider the package to include additional mounting and installation accessories. For installation on domestic car models, a small installation depth is important.

Car audio lovers consider the common disadvantage of all component speakers to be manifestations of crossover defects and insufficient bass depth. The design disadvantages of some models will be short tweeter wires, demands on the precise direction of sound, high sensitivity of the coils, close location to the core (manifested in squeaks after washing the car). Larger remote crossovers may require special sockets for installation.

Installing component speakers in a car showroom

Installing speakers in door panels faces certain challenges. If you do not want to redo the door panel, it is better to first remove one of the speakers in order to be guided by its dimensions. For domestic models (in particular, the tenth VAZ family), the installation location is designed for speakers with a diameter of thirteen centimeters. Most foreign manufacturers produce high-quality component diffusers measuring 6 inches (16 centimeters).

In addition, it is necessary to redesign the mounting systems that do not prevent the speakers from rattling.

To install a new imported speaker you need:

disassemble the door panel;
cut off the installation location;
trim and straighten the stiffener;
plan the installation location of the speaker (the best location is considered to be towards the center of the cabin);
close and seal the technological holes (use masking tape, fiberglass, epoxy glue);
install a complete or homemade podium under the speaker (necessarily a tight fit to the door metal);
improve the sound insulation of the door (glue the internal surfaces with vibroplast or other sound insulator);
install speaker;
mount a crossover (installed next to the midbass);
cut holes in the door panel for diffusers and cables;
assemble the door;
strengthen protective grilles;
decorate the door panel from the outside.

A homemade podium can be assembled from several plywood rings various diameters(repeating the speaker configuration), held together with an adhesive connection. For the bottom ring, it is necessary to provide ears with holes for fastening. In foreign cars, new speakers are usually installed in standard places. An improvement could be the manufacture of a more massive wooden podium.

The location for installing tweeters must be selected individually, depending on the interior of the car. On a Zhiguli, a triangle near the mirror shift control can be a convenient place, although this arrangement lacks a bit of sound stage height. The protruding standard “cup holder” of the tweeter can be replaced with a homemade podium of an original shape, glued together from fiberglass with epoxy. For the wire you need to make a hole from the door panel.

What is the difference between coaxial acoustics and component acoustics?

Every car owner countless times faces the most difficult choice: save on car stuffing or buy the best, punching a hole in the budget. When it comes to car audio, coaxial and component systems can force a lot of balancing, studying the advantages and disadvantages of both and weighing preferences. But you can take a serious choice only when the names are not a set of letters, but terms that speak volumes. So, coaxial and component car acoustics: what they are used with and what they hear from them.

What are coaxial and component acoustics

Coaxial car speaker system is a single design of speakers: high-frequency ones are also located on the axis with the low-frequency one. There are two-way and three-way, and this separation is carried out through a crossover built into the design.

Component speaker system represents different-frequency speakers, spaced separately.

Comparison of coaxial and component acoustics

The fundamental difference between coaxial and component acoustics is the location of the sound source in the space of the car interior. The single design of coaxial systems makes the sound highly directional, so such speakers are often installed as an addition - in the rear seat area, for example, while a component system operates at the front. The latter scatters the sound source throughout the cabin - we get a kind of super-surround at the output, but there is a catch: each high-frequency, low-frequency and mid-frequency speaker reproduces sound from its own “point”, so the acoustic picture is very heterogeneous. However, combining speakers in a coaxial cable creates the effect of mixing frequencies, causing the sound to lose purity. For small cars, component acoustics are not suitable, since in a limited space there will be no difference from coaxial ones.

Philips component speakers

In addition to the dispersion of the speakers, purely technical difference coaxial from the component system lies in the crossover, which acts as a frequency filter. In coaxial systems it is built-in (with the exception of some models of the hi-end segment), in component systems it is external.

Another key point in the process of comparing coaxial and component speakers is the installation method. What is in the car “from the factory” is most often sound system called with a stretch. Both the coaxial and component systems in the car interior are the work, if not the hands, then the expenses of the car owner. To install the first one, no special knowledge or technology is required, and this is most often done independently. The component system involves installing speakers in accordance with the correct acoustic zones, equipping shelves and applying sound insulation. In addition, a lot depends on the radio: the lower the level of technology, the more useless it is to fuss with component systems that simply cannot provide high-quality sound. However, if you are not an avid music lover, and on the road you are accompanied by simple chanson or disco of the 90s, or even the radio, the component system will be an unnecessary burden, and again, you simply will not feel the difference from the coaxial one.

The deciding factor for many car owners may be the cost of the acoustics itself, not to mention the cost of paying for its technical support. This category of comparison is accessible to everyone and is arithmetically simple: coaxial systems are usually cheaper than component ones. The only exception is transformer systems that convert component ones into coaxial ones using special fasteners.

The difference between coaxial and component acoustics

In coaxial systems, multi-frequency speakers are combined, in component systems they are autonomous.
Coaxial systems produce highly directional sound.
Crossover ( frequency filter) built-in in coaxial systems, external in component systems.
The component system is more difficult to install and requires compliance with a number of conditions.
Coaxial acoustics are cheaper than component ones.

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