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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
FD1
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Dimensions: 61.5 × 61.5 × 9.5 mm
- Weight: 27 g
- Chipset: SA2000 + dual ES9118
- DAC & Amp: Dual ES9118
- DSD Decoding: Native (SA2000)
- Audio Format Support: Native PCM & DSD decoding
- Buttons: Play/Pause, Volume +, Volume –
- Status Display: Tri-colour LED
- USB Port: Type-C
- Headphone Output: 3.5 mm single-ended (supports wired remote)
- Balanced Output: 2.5 mm balanced headphone port
Description
The HiBy FD1 is a USB headphone amplifier for use with computers, smartphones etc. With SE and balanced headphone outputs, use this with all your headphones!
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- They leverage their expertise in software, including the HiBy Music app and HiBy OS, to enhance the user experience and functionality of their audio products.
- The brand focuses on utilizing high-quality components, such as AKM DAC chips, ELNA Silmic II capacitors, and discrete amplifier designs, to deliver detailed and dynamic sound.
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Select product comparisons
Hiby FC3
- Positioning: Entry-level, designed for portability and compact performance.
- Description: Offers a small digital amplifier solution with essential connectivity and ease of use, making it a solid choice for personal and on-the-go listening. In contrast to its siblings, it has fewer advanced features and display options, which suits buyers with tighter budgets and simpler functionality needs.
Hiby FC3 With Display
- Positioning: An enhanced version of the entry-level line, featuring a built-in display for clearer interface feedback.
- Description: Provides the same portable design as the FC3 but adds a display that simplifies monitoring settings and playback details. Compared to the basic FC3, it offers improved user interaction while being more affordable and less feature-rich than the FC4 or FD series.
Hiby FC4
- Positioning: A mid-range option aimed at users who need more connectivity and processing power than entry-level models.
- Description: Brings refined digital processing and a broader range of connectivity options. When compared with the FC series, it stands out with better performance and more versatile functionality, yet remains less premium than the FD series.
Hiby FD3
- Positioning: A performance-focused model offering advanced sound quality and richer connectivity for discerning listeners.
- Description: Delivers improved digital signal processing and build quality that appeal to those seeking a fuller sound in both home and portable environments. Relative to the FC models, it offers more technical sophistication while still presenting a more budget-friendly option than the flagship FD5.
Hiby FD5
- Positioning: A high-end amplifier designed for users with premium budgets looking for top-tier sound quality and advanced features.
- Description: Incorporates the latest digital circuitry and precise tuning to deliver clear, full-range audio performance, making it ideal for larger rooms and high-performance setups. In comparison to the FD3 and FC series, it provides superior connectivity and functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
813
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
6
Founding Year
2011
Our take on the brand
HiBy is a hifi audio brand that built its own Android audio stack (Direct Transport Architecture) to bypass Android's standard audio processing for bit-perfect playback from any app. The company also developed its own high-resolution Bluetooth codec (UAT) that transmits up to 192kHz at 1.2Mbps across their DAPs, dongles, and wireless earbuds. What's more, they made the Darwin R2R DAC platform, a software-defined ladder DAC with user-selectable filters and downloadable firmware updates that allow users to tune the sound signature of their portable players.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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HiBy
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What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Product Page
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iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
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Rega
io
725
725
/
23
Reviews
The io has been designed to offer exceptional Rega performance at an affordable price point. It uses the same amplifier stage as the multi-award winning Brio now designed to run at 30 W per channel into 8 Ω. The io features two line level inputs, a high specification Rega moving magnet phono stage, and a dedicated high quality headphone output. The io will integrate seamlessly into any home audio system whilst remaining simple to use and easy to set up. A must for demonstration.
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Product Strengths
- Detailed, rhythmic, and fun sound, recognizable as a descendant of the Rega Brio
- Moving magnet (MM) phono stage offers palpable midrange richness and three-dimensionality
- Good headphone output duplicates the good qualities showcased during lower-volume loudspeaker experiments
- Compact size and well-built chassis, with a satisfyingly simple remote control
Product Considerations
- Limited power output (30W per channel) demands careful speaker pairing
- Lacks digital connectivity, as it is purely an analogue amplifier
- Plastic front panel gives it an unremarkable aesthetic
- Number of inputs is limited to two line-level inputs and one phono input
- Volume control via the remote control goes up in relatively large steps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Brio: The Brio is bigger-sounding with a more polished presentation, greater detail, and dynamic precision
- Vs Marantz PM6007: The Marantz PM6007 offers more space around the vocals and an overall maturity to the rendition, but its smoother, more laid-back approach comes at the cost of not quite being able to capture the track's energy
- Vs Rotel A8: The Rotel A8 offers a more even sonic balance, more refinement, and space
- Vs PS Audio Sprout: Although lacking an onboard digital section, the sound quality of the Rega's discrete design and overall build quality is superior
- Vs Naim Nait: The Rega io is similar to the Naim Nait, but it has better bass control
Takeaway: The Rega io is a small but capable amplifier, perfect for those who prioritize sound quality and simplicity in an analogue setup. Its compact size and engaging sound make it a great entry point into hifi audio, especially for vinyl enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Bluesound
Powernode
949
949
/
18
Reviews
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive “just add speakers” hi-res sound system for modern music lovers. The compact minimalist exterior disguises 2 x 80 watts of award-winning HiFi amplification, a premium hi-res DAC design, and access to all the music ever recorded with a tap in our BluOS Controller app for smart devices and laptops.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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What competes at this price?
HiBy
FD5
429
/
Released
2024
The HiBy FD5 is a multifunction desktop-grade heavy-duty headphone amplifier, supporting USB and Bluetooth input, with independent 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs and line outputs and high driving power of up to 1523mW.
HiBy is a hifi audio brand that built its own Android audio stack (Direct Transport Architecture) to bypass Android's standard audio processing for bit-perfect playback from any app. The company also developed its own high-resolution Bluetooth codec (UAT) that transmits up to 192kHz at 1.2Mbps across their DAPs, dongles, and wireless earbuds. What's more, they made the Darwin R2R DAC platform, a software-defined ladder DAC with user-selectable filters and downloadable firmware updates that allow users to tune the sound signature of their portable players.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Eye-catching and unique 'cyberpunk' design, with a separate power source and glass accents, makes it stand out from other DAC/amps
- Versatile connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth (with LDAC and UAT), 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs, and line outs
- Good build quality with an anodized aluminum finish contributes to a premium feel
- Powerful amplification provides ample power for both IEMs and demanding headphones
- Ability to switch between Class A and Class AB amplification modes provides flexibility in sound signature
Product Considerations
- The two-part design may be seen as unconventional, as it consists of two separate boxes for the amplifier and power supply
- Generates a significant amount of heat, especially in Class A mode
- Some reviewers wish it had more inputs, like optical or coaxial, or a line-in option
- The volume knob's position can be awkward when the unit is assembled
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Soncoz QXA1 + QXD1, the HiBy FD5 has a faster, more transparent bass and a more revealing midrange, while the Soncoz combo has a deeper bass
Takeaway: The HiBy FD5 offers a unique design with great sound for IEMs and headphones. It's a powerful and versatile device that could be a good choice for someone wanting a cool-looking desktop setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
HiBy is a hifi audio brand that built its own Android audio stack (Direct Transport Architecture) to bypass Android's standard audio processing for bit-perfect playback from any app. The company also developed its own high-resolution Bluetooth codec (UAT) that transmits up to 192kHz at 1.2Mbps across their DAPs, dongles, and wireless earbuds. What's more, they made the Darwin R2R DAC platform, a software-defined ladder DAC with user-selectable filters and downloadable firmware updates that allow users to tune the sound signature of their portable players.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Burson
Funk
491
/
Released
2021
Hi-Fi companies are spoiling headphone enthusiasts with a wide range of choices, but they often overlook near-field audiophiles who listen to speakers in small studios or from their desktops. Instead, near-field audiophiles are left with subpar Class-D amps or active speakers. Alternatively, they have to settle for larger Class-AB amps that disrupt the aesthetic of their setups. The Burson Funk breaks that rule by offering a combination of exceptional performance and a design that fits seamlessly into any living space.
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, especially in the midrange, leads to vivid and well-formed vocals
- Versatile, it works well with both efficient headphones/IEMs and moderately powered speakers
- Compact design and good build quality, with the chassis acting as a heatsink
- Ability to roll op amps allows users to customize the sound signature
- Ample power for most headphones and nearfield speaker setups
- Only one RCA input, which may be limiting for some users
Product Considerations
- Speaker amplifier power (35-45W) might be insufficient for power-hungry speakers or larger rooms
- The base model op amps are sonically inferior to upgrade options
- Mild turn-off thump present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Funk has a narrower but deeper soundstage with better imaging and layering than the Arylic A08 Pro
- The Funk has superior imaging, but less potential power output depending on the Arylic's power supply than the Arylic A07/A08 Pro
- The Funk is preferred for desktop speaker setups with Vivid opamps when compared to Schiit Aegir
Takeaway: The Burson Funk is a solid choice for people wanting good sound from both their headphones and speakers in a single, convenient unit. The ability to change the sound by swapping op amps is a welcome feature for those who like to tinker and upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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Fosi
ZA3
129
/
Released
2023
The next generation balanced dual-mode Class-D power amplifier. Fosi Audio's first amplifier supporting both stereo and mono modes.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great value for the money and an attractive price point
- Balanced input and single-ended RCA input
- Op amps are swappable
- Compact form factor
- Versatile with stereo and mono mode
Product Considerations
- The volume control was found to be touchy by some reviewers
- The included power brick is quite large, almost as big as the unit itself
- The binding posts are small
- The RCA input sounds inferior to the XLR input
- The amplifier does not high pass the mains when a subwoofer is plugged in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3: ZA3 is considered a more mature version with stylistic elements and new features like balanced inputs and mono mode, with a naturalness in the tonal quality
- Vs SMSL AO200 MKII: AO200 MKII delivers better clarity, definition, and resolution of the sound
Takeaway: The ZA3 is a versatile and compact amplifier that offers great value, especially for those starting their audio journey. Its ability to be used in both stereo and mono configurations and the option to upgrade components make it a flexible choice for various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a CNC milled aluminum chassis and durable construction
- Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology by THX, aiming for transparent sound reproduction without coloration
- Relay volume control provides precise channel matching
- Plenty of power to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars
- Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- No pre-amp output
- The notched volume control might not be to everyone's liking
- Gets quite warm during use, especially with the SU-9 DAC stacked on top
- Some reviewers noticed a clicking noise when adjusting the volume
- The three-feet design may not be as stable as a four-feet design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SMSL SP200: Better unit at repelling noise, with a higher signal-to-noise ratio and lower total harmonic distortion—completely solved the SP200's issue with not having a pitch-black background
- Vs. Benchmark HPA4: Very close to the HPA4 in performance, with some minor differences observed only with high-end headphones
Takeaway: The SMSL SH-9 is a well-built and powerful headphone amplifier with a clean, transparent sound. It is a good choice for audiophiles looking for an accurate and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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