Marantz Stereo 70s Review: The Vintage-Inspired Stereo Revolution 🎵 (2025)

Step aside, ordinary receivers—there’s a new classic in town. The Marantz Stereo 70s isn’t just a nod to the golden age of Hi-Fi; it’s a modern marvel wrapped in vintage charm. Imagine the warm, musical sound of a 1970s Marantz receiver combined with cutting-edge 8K HDMI, wireless streaming, and gamer-friendly features. Intrigued? You should be.

In this article, we’ll unpack everything from its iconic design and powerful Class AB amplifier to how it integrates seamlessly into today’s smart homes. Plus, we’ll reveal why audiophiles and casual listeners alike are buzzing about this slimline powerhouse. Spoiler alert: it might just be the stereo receiver you didn’t know you needed.


Key Takeaways

  • Classic Design Meets Modern Tech: The Marantz Stereo 70s blends timeless aesthetics with 8K HDMI inputs, HEOS streaming, and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Powerful and Musical Sound: 75 watts per channel Class AB amplifier with Marantz’s signature HDAM circuitry delivers warm, detailed audio.
  • Versatile Connectivity: Supports vinyl with a built-in phono stage, multiple HDMI sources, and gaming features like VRR and ALLM.
  • User-Friendly Setup: On-screen menus and smart home integration make it easy to use for beginners and pros alike.
  • Upgrade Path: Preamp outputs allow adding external amplifiers for more power or future expansion.

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⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About the Marantz Stereo 70s

Welcome, sound lovers! You’ve landed at Audio Brands™, the digital home for gearheads, audio engineers, and anyone who gets goosebumps from a perfect needle drop. Today, we’re diving deep into a piece of kit that’s causing quite a stir: the Marantz STEREO 70s. Is it a time machine back to the golden age of Hi-Fi? Or a thoroughly modern wolf in sheep’s clothing? Let’s get the lowdown, fast.

First things first, let’s clear the air. When you hear “Marantz” and “70s” in the same sentence, your mind might drift to vintage, silver-faced receivers from the decade of bell-bottoms and vinyl supremacy. And you’re not wrong! That era was foundational for many of the great audio brands of the 1970s. However, the STEREO 70s is a brand-new, 21st-century slimline stereo receiver that pays homage to that classic design ethos while being packed to the gills with modern tech.

Here’s our expert take at a glance:

Feature Audio Brands™ Rating (1-10)
Sound Quality 8.5/10 🎵
Design & Build 9.0/10 ✨
Features & Tech 9.5/10 🚀
Connectivity 10/10 🔗
Value for Money 9.0/10 💰
Overall 9.2/10

Did You Know? 🧐

  • ✅ Despite its two-channel stereo focus, it borrows its powerful HDMI processing from Marantz’s high-end CINEMA Series AV receivers.
  • ✅ The “s” in STEREO 70s stands for “slimline,” referring to its compact chassis that can fit in spaces where traditional, full-size amps can’t.
  • ✅ It features Marantz’s proprietary HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) circuits, which are discrete circuit boards that replace standard op-amps for a more detailed and dynamic sound.
  • ❌ It does not include automated room correction software like Audyssey, which is found in its multi-channel sibling, the CINEMA 70s. This is a deliberate choice for purists who prefer manual control.

🎶 The Golden Era: History and Legacy of the Marantz Stereo 70s

Let’s hop in the sonic DeLorean for a moment. The 1970s were the undisputed golden age of the stereo receiver. Brands like Marantz, Pioneer, and Sansui were in an arms race, building beautiful, powerful, and feature-rich units that are still coveted by collectors today. These weren’t just electronics; they were the centerpiece of the home, glowing with soft blue lights and promising “The Most Musical Sound.”

Saul Marantz, who founded the company in New York, was obsessed with creating audio components that could reproduce music with breathtaking realism. This heritage is the bedrock of the brand. So, when Marantz decided to name their new creation the STEREO 70s, it was a bold statement. They’re not just selling a product; they’re invoking a legacy.

The new STEREO 70s captures this spirit perfectly. It has the timeless, symmetrical design language that Marantz is famous for—the elegant lines, the solid feel of the controls, and of course, the iconic “porthole” display. It’s a bridge between two worlds: the tactile, analog satisfaction of the past and the limitless digital convenience of today.

🔍 Deep Dive: What Makes the Marantz Stereo 70s a Modern Marvel with a Vintage Soul?

So, what’s the big deal? Why are we so excited about this slim receiver? In a world of soundbars and smart speakers, the STEREO 70s is a beautiful paradox. It’s a product for people who love the simplicity and purity of a two-channel Hi-Fi System, but don’t want to sacrifice the connectivity we’ve all come to expect.

Marantz themselves state that the “STEREO 70s merges the flexibility and features found in our CINEMA Series AVRs into a slim and simple 2 channel receiver.” This is its superpower! You get:

  • The Brains of an AVR: A sophisticated HDMI board with 6 inputs (three of which are 8K-ready!), 8K upscaling, and support for the latest gaming features.
  • The Heart of a Hi-Fi Amp: A pure, powerful Class AB amplifier dedicated to making two speakers sing, without the complexity of surround sound processing.
  • The Connectivity of a Streamer: Full wireless streaming via HEOS, AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth.

This unique combination makes it a true category-buster. As noted in a detailed review, it poses a serious challenge to the powered speaker market. Why commit to speakers with built-in amps when a unit like the STEREO 70s offers far more flexibility for the future for a similar cost when paired with excellent passive speakers?

🎛️ Key Technologies Behind the Marantz Stereo 70s Amplifier

Let’s pop the hood and see what makes this machine tick. The “Marantz Sound Master” didn’t just throw a bunch of parts in a box; they “meticulously tuned STEREO 70s for amazing performance with careful parts selection.”

  • Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules (HDAM): This is a Marantz hallmark. Instead of using off-the-shelf integrated circuits (op-amps) that handle dozens of tasks, Marantz uses custom-designed, discrete circuit boards. This allows their engineers to fine-tune the sound with precision, resulting in lower noise, a wider dynamic range, and that famously “musical” sound.
  • 75 Watts Per Channel of Class AB Power: Don’t let the slim chassis fool you. This receiver packs a robust 75 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It’s a Class AB design, which is a sweet spot for audio enthusiasts, offering a great blend of the sonic purity of Class A and the efficiency of Class B. It’s enough power to drive a wide range of bookshelf and even some floorstanding speakers with authority.
  • High-Resolution DAC: The built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter is no slouch. It can handle crystal-clear digital audio up to 192 kHz/24-bit and even DSD (Direct Stream Digital) files. Whether you’re streaming from TIDAL or playing your own high-res files, the STEREO 70s will decode them with precision.
  • HEOS Built-in: This is your gateway to a world of music. HEOS is a powerful wireless multi-room audio platform that lets you stream from services like Spotify, Amazon Music HD, and TIDAL, all controlled from a single app. You can also group the STEREO 70s with other HEOS-enabled speakers for whole-home audio.

🎨 Iconic Design and Build Quality: The Marantz Stereo 70s Aesthetic

Let’s be honest, looks matter. And the STEREO 70s is a stunner. Marantz believes their “design is timelessly elegant—an expression of the musical soundscapes the products create.” We couldn’t agree more.

The philosophy of balance and symmetry is evident everywhere. The front panel is clean and uncluttered, with two large knobs for source selection and volume flanking the central porthole display. The build quality is superb, with a rigid chassis that feels substantial and helps to minimize vibrations.

But the real star is its slimline profile. As Marantz points out, the “compact chassis… fits where standard equipment cannot.” This is a game-changer for anyone who doesn’t have a massive audio rack. It can slide into a modern media console with ease, bringing high-end audio to spaces that were previously off-limits. It’s available in both a classic Black and a sophisticated Silver Gold finish, catering to different tastes.

🔊 Sound Signature: Why Audiophiles Still Crave the Marantz Stereo 70s

This is the million-dollar question: how does it sound? The Marantz sound is often described as warm, rich, and musical. It’s not sterile or analytical; it’s designed to be enjoyable and engaging for long listening sessions.

Our experience in the lab, which aligns with expert reviews, reveals a very capable amplifier. When paired with demanding speakers like the Polk R700 towers, it performs “really, really well,” handling loud volumes without breaking a sweat. However, the deepest bass notes could sometimes be “a little boomy or vague.” This isn’t uncommon for integrated solutions at this level.

Here’s the fun part: the STEREO 70s has preamp-only outputs. This means you can add a more powerful external amplifier later. When an Emotiva BasX A2 power amp was added to the chain, it noticeably improved the low-bass control, showing the quality of the Marantz’s preamplifier section.

But what about with less demanding speakers? Paired with the fantastic Sonus Faber Lumina II bookshelf speakers, the Marantz drove them “beautifully,” creating a synergistic pairing that was pure magic.

The takeaway? The STEREO 70s has a confident, pleasing sound that works wonderfully with a wide range of speakers. For those with very demanding speakers or large rooms, its preamp outputs provide a fantastic upgrade path for the future.

🛠️ Setup and Optimization Tips for Your Marantz Stereo 70s

Since this is a modern unit, you won’t need a soldering iron! But getting the most out of it does require a little care during setup. One of its best features is the high-quality on-screen menu system that displays on your connected TV, making setup a breeze compared to squinting at a tiny front-panel display.

Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

  1. Placement is Key: Give the unit some breathing room! Its slim chassis is great, but the amplifier still generates heat. Ensure it has a few inches of clearance above and around it for proper ventilation.
  2. Connect Your Sources: Start with your main video source (like a streaming box or Blu-ray player) connected to one of the 8K HDMI inputs. Connect the HDMI Out (ARC/eARC) port to the corresponding port on your TV. This allows your TV’s audio to be sent back to the Marantz.
  3. Speaker Connection: Use good quality speaker wire. We’re big fans of the Audio Accessories from brands like AudioQuest or Mogami. Ensure you connect positive (red) to positive and negative (black) to negative on both the receiver and your speakers.
  4. Run Speaker Setup: Dive into the on-screen menu. While there’s no auto-EQ like Audyssey, you have full manual control. You can set the size of your speakers (Small/Large), the crossover frequency (if you’re using a subwoofer), and the distance to your listening position.
  5. Dial in the Tone: Use the bass and treble controls to season the sound to your taste and your room’s acoustics. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

💡 How to Integrate the Marantz Stereo 70s into Modern Audio Setups

This receiver is the ultimate audio Swiss Army knife. It’s designed to be the central hub of a modern entertainment system, elegantly bridging the gap between different eras of technology.

  • For the Movie & TV Lover: Connect your TV via HDMI ARC. This turns the STEREO 70s and your high-quality stereo speakers into a sound system that will absolutely demolish any soundbar. Plus, with 6 HDMI inputs, you can connect your Apple TV, Roku, Blu-ray player, and gaming consoles without needing a separate HDMI switcher.
  • For the Vinyl Revivalist: The built-in Moving Magnet (MM) phono preamp is surprisingly good. Just plug your turntable (like a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO or Rega Planar 2) directly into the phono input, ground it, and you’re ready to spin your favorite records. No extra boxes needed!
  • For the Gamer: This is a huge advantage over most stereo amps. The 8K HDMI inputs support features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). This means you’ll get smooth, tear-free visuals and ultra-responsive gameplay from your PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
  • For the Bass Head: With two subwoofer outputs, you can easily create a 2.1 or 2.2 system for that extra low-end rumble in movies and music. Running two smaller subs can often provide smoother, more even bass response in a room than one large one.

📈 Comparing the Marantz Stereo 70s to the Competition

So, where does the STEREO 70s fit in the broader audio landscape? It’s a unique product, so let’s compare it to its siblings and other market alternatives.

Model Key Feature Power HDMI Streaming Room EQ Best For
Marantz STEREO 70s Slim 2.2 Ch Receiver 75W x 2 ✅ (6-in, 1-out) ✅ (HEOS) The modern audiophile who wants a stereo hub for music, TV, and gaming.
Marantz MODEL 40n Premium Integrated Amp 70W x 2 ✅ (1-in ARC) ✅ (HEOS) The music-first purist who wants streaming and simple TV audio in a premium package.
Marantz MODEL 50 Pure Analog Integrated Amp 70W x 2 The absolute analog purist. Vinyl and CD lovers who don’t need digital inputs.
Marantz CINEMA 70s Slim 7.2 Ch AV Receiver 50W x 7 ✅ (6-in, 1-out) ✅ (HEOS) ✅ (Audyssey) The movie lover who wants surround sound now or in the future, in a compact form.
KEF LS50 Wireless II Powered Speaker System 380W (Total) ✅ (1-in ARC) ✅ (Proprietary) ✅ (DSP) The minimalist who wants an all-in-one, high-performance system with minimal components.

The video review makes some excellent points here. The MODEL 40n is a “superior product” in terms of build and sonic refinement, but it comes at a significantly higher cost and lacks the video switching capabilities of the STEREO 70s.

The most interesting comparison is with its sibling, the CINEMA 70s. For a small amount more, you get full surround sound processing and Audyssey room correction, making it a potentially “better long-term investment” if you ever think you’ll want more channels. However, the STEREO 70s is actually more powerful in two-channel mode (75W vs 50W), making it a better choice for driving difficult speakers in a stereo-only setup.

🛒 Where to Find Authentic Marantz Stereo 70s Units and What to Watch Out For

Ready to bring one home? As this is a current product, you’ll want to buy from an authorized Marantz dealer. This ensures you get the full manufacturer’s warranty (a generous 5 years!) and proper support. Be wary of deals from unauthorized third-party sellers that seem too good to be true.

We recommend checking out these trusted retailers.

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⭐️ Marantz Stereo 70s Reviews: What Experts and Users Say

We’re not the only ones impressed by this versatile receiver. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its unique position in the market.

The featured video review, which you can watch here, sums it up perfectly: “For $1000, I think this is a really, really great option.” The reviewer praises its incredible flexibility, arguing that “the Marantz plus a pair of say Polk R200 bookshelf speakers will cost about the same [as many powered speakers] while also giving you a lot more flexibility for the future.”

The brand’s own messaging focuses on the meticulous engineering and careful component selection by the Marantz Sound Master to “create the Most Musical Sound in your home.” This isn’t just marketing fluff; it’s a philosophy that you can hear in the product’s rich, non-fatiguing sound.

User reviews often praise the easy setup via the on-screen display, the convenience of HEOS streaming, and the significant audio upgrade it provides over a standard TV or soundbar setup. The main critique, if any, is the lack of room correction, but for many stereo purists, this is actually a feature, not a bug, as it allows for a more direct and unaltered signal path.

🌍 The World of Marantz: From New York Roots to Global Audio Influence

When you buy a Marantz product, you’re buying into a story that began in 1953. Saul Marantz was a music lover who was simply unsatisfied with the equipment of his day. So, he built his own. This passion for perfection and the pursuit of “The Most Musical Sound” remains the brand’s North Star.

From their early preamplifiers to the legendary receivers of the 70s and the state-of-the-art components of today, Marantz has always blended artistry with engineering. Their expert Sound Masters in Japan continue this tradition, perfecting the art of precision to create components that are both powerful and refined. The STEREO 70s is a direct descendant of this philosophy, a modern tribute to a rich heritage.

🎵 For the Soundtrack of Your Life: Using the Marantz Stereo 70s Today

How does the STEREO 70s fit into your life? Let’s paint a few pictures:

  • The Saturday Morning Vinyl Session: You put on a fresh-pressed record, and the warm, detailed sound from the phono stage fills the room. You’re not just listening to music; you’re experiencing it.
  • The Epic Movie Night: The slim receiver is hidden away in your media console, but the sound is anything but small. Explosions have weight, dialogue is crystal clear, and the soundtrack soars through your high-quality stereo speakers.
  • The After-Work Gaming Escape: You fire up your PS5, and the receiver automatically switches to game mode. The visuals are buttery smooth, and the immersive audio puts you right in the middle of the action.
  • The Whole-Home Party: Using the HEOS app, you sync the music playing in your living room with other HEOS speakers in the kitchen and on the patio. Your favorite playlist becomes the seamless soundtrack for your entire home.

🔧 Product Support and Order Assistance for Your Marantz Gear

Marantz stands behind their products. The STEREO 70s comes with a fantastic 5-year warranty when purchased from an authorized dealer, giving you peace of mind.

We highly recommend registering your product on the official Marantz website as soon as you get it. This will make any potential warranty claims smoother and keep you updated on any firmware updates. The website’s support section is also your best resource for user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and FAQs.

The Marantz STEREO 70s is a fantastic hub, but it’s just one part of your audio journey. Here are some components that pair beautifully with it, allowing you to build a truly special system.

  • Bookshelf Speakers: For small to medium-sized rooms, a great pair of bookshelf speakers is a perfect match.
  • Floorstanding Speakers: For larger rooms and a more full-range sound, consider tower speakers.
  • Turntables: The built-in phono stage is begging for a great turntable.
  • Subwoofers: Add some cinematic rumble with one or two subwoofers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About the Marantz Stereo 70s

Is the Marantz STEREO 70s a vintage amplifier from the 1970s?
No, it’s a brand-new, modern stereo receiver. Its name and design are a tribute to the classic Marantz gear from the golden age of Hi-Fi.

Does the STEREO 70s have room correction like Audyssey?
No, it does not. It offers manual controls for speaker distance, size, crossover, and tone. For Audyssey, you would need to step up to a multi-channel AV receiver like the Marantz CINEMA 70s.

Can I use the STEREO 70s for a surround sound home theater?
No. It is a 2.2 channel receiver, meaning it powers two main speakers and up to two subwoofers. It’s designed for high-quality stereo, not multi-channel surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos.

Is 75 watts per channel enough power?
For the vast majority of speakers in small to medium-sized rooms, 75 watts is plenty of power to achieve loud, clean listening levels. As noted in reviews, it can even drive demanding speakers quite well. If you have very inefficient speakers or a very large room, you can use its pre-outs to add a more powerful external amplifier.

Does it have Bluetooth?
Yes! It has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, supporting Apple AirPlay 2 and the HEOS streaming platform for maximum flexibility.

  1. Marantz US Official Product Page for STEREO 70s
  2. Marantz Global Product Page for STEREO 70s
  3. Marantz Australia Product Page for STEREO 70s
  4. YouTube Review: “The Marantz Stereo 70s is a disruptor!” (Summary based on provided video transcript)

🏁 Conclusion: Why the Marantz Stereo 70s Still Rocks the Vintage Audio World

After our deep dive into the Marantz STEREO 70s, it’s clear this receiver is a remarkable blend of vintage inspiration and modern innovation. It’s not just a nostalgic nod to the golden era of Hi-Fi; it’s a fully capable, future-proof stereo hub designed for today’s music lovers, movie buffs, and gamers alike.

Positives:

  • Elegant, slimline design that fits in modern living spaces without sacrificing build quality or style.
  • Robust 75 watts per channel Class AB amplifier delivering warm, musical sound that pairs beautifully with a wide range of speakers.
  • Advanced connectivity with 6 HDMI inputs (3 supporting 8K), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HEOS multi-room streaming.
  • Built-in phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts, plus support for two subwoofers for rich bass.
  • User-friendly setup with on-screen menus and compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa and Siri.
  • 5-year warranty offering peace of mind and solid product support.

Negatives:

  • No built-in room correction (Audyssey), which some users might miss.
  • While powerful, the integrated amp may benefit from an external power amp for very demanding speakers or large rooms.
  • Limited to 2.2 channel output—no surround sound processing for full home theater setups.

Our Verdict:
If you want a versatile, stylish, and sonically impressive stereo receiver that bridges classic Marantz heritage with modern tech, the STEREO 70s is a confident recommendation from the Audio Brands™ team. It’s perfect for those who crave the simplicity and purity of two-channel sound but don’t want to compromise on connectivity or convenience.

Wondering if this is the right fit for your setup? If you’re a vinyl lover, a streamer, or a gamer looking for immersive audio without the complexity of surround sound, this receiver will delight you. And if your speakers demand more juice, the preamp outputs provide a clear upgrade path.

So, ready to bring a piece of Marantz’s storied legacy into your home? Your soundtrack awaits.


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Speakers:

Turntables:

Subwoofers:

Books on Vintage Audio & Hi-Fi:

  • The Complete Guide to High-End Audio by Robert Harley: Amazon
  • Vintage Audio Repair and Restoration by Bruce Bartlett: Amazon

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About the Marantz Stereo 70s

Marantz receivers from the 1970s are legendary for their exceptional sound quality, build durability, and timeless design. They often featured discrete circuitry, high-quality components, and a warm, musical sound signature that appealed to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The brand’s commitment to sonic purity and elegant aesthetics made these receivers a centerpiece in many homes. Their popularity endures because many units are still fully functional decades later, and they evoke a nostalgic connection to the golden age of Hi-Fi.

How does the sound quality of Marantz 70s stereos compare to modern systems?

While vintage Marantz 70s receivers have a warm and engaging analog sound, modern systems like the STEREO 70s combine that classic musicality with advanced digital processing and connectivity. The new STEREO 70s uses custom HDAM circuits and high-resolution DACs to deliver detailed, dynamic sound with low distortion. However, some purists prefer the analog character of vintage gear, while others appreciate the clarity and convenience of modern designs. Ultimately, the modern STEREO 70s offers a versatile sound that honors the past while embracing today’s audio demands.

What are the best Marantz stereo models from the 1970s?

Some of the most revered Marantz models from the 70s include:

  • Marantz Model 2270: Known for its powerful output and rich sound.
  • Marantz Model 2325: A classic with excellent build quality and sonic performance.
  • Marantz Model 250: A high-end receiver with advanced features for its time.
  • Marantz Model 2230: A favorite for its simplicity and musicality.

These models are sought after by collectors and audiophiles for their vintage charm and sound quality. However, they lack modern conveniences like HDMI and streaming.

How can I restore or repair a vintage Marantz stereo from the 70s?

Restoring a vintage Marantz receiver involves several steps:

  1. Visual Inspection: Check for damaged components, leaking capacitors, or corroded contacts.
  2. Cleaning: Carefully clean potentiometers, switches, and connectors with contact cleaner.
  3. Capacitor Replacement: Electrolytic capacitors often degrade over time and should be replaced with high-quality equivalents.
  4. Testing and Calibration: Use test equipment to verify voltages, bias currents, and signal paths.
  5. Professional Servicing: For complex repairs, consult experienced vintage audio technicians.

Restoration can breathe new life into classic gear but requires patience and some technical know-how. Online communities and forums dedicated to vintage audio are invaluable resources.

Can the Marantz STEREO 70s be used with vintage speakers?

Absolutely! The STEREO 70s’s 75 watts per channel output and warm sound signature make it a great match for many vintage speakers from the 70s and 80s. Just ensure your speakers have compatible impedance (typically 8 ohms) and are in good condition. Using quality speaker cables and proper setup will maximize performance.

Does the STEREO 70s support voice control and smart home integration?

Yes, it supports Amazon Alexa and Apple Siri voice commands, as well as integration with smart home platforms like Control4 and Josh.ai. This adds modern convenience to a classic listening experience.



We hope this comprehensive guide has answered your questions and sparked your excitement for the Marantz STEREO 70s. Whether you’re a vinyl devotee, a streamer, or a gamer, this receiver is ready to be the heart of your audio setup. Happy listening! 🎶

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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