Have you ever seen a guitar with more than one neck? If so, you’ve probably seen a multi neck acoustic guitar. These guitars are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer a number of advantages over traditional single-neck guitars, including:
Editor’s Notes: Why is “multi neck acoustic guitars” Important?
After analyzing through digging lots of information and doing our own research, we decided to put together this multi neck acoustic guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways in a table format
| Feature | Multi Neck Acoustic Guitar | Traditional Single-Neck Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Necks | Two or more | One |
| Range of Sounds | Wider range, allowing for more versatility | More limited range |
| Tuning Options | More tuning options, allowing for more complex chords and melodies | Fewer tuning options |
| Price | Typically more expensive | Typically less expensive |
Transition to main article topics
- The benefits of multi neck acoustic guitars
- The different types of multi neck acoustic guitars
- How to choose the right multi neck acoustic guitar for you
- Tips for playing multi neck acoustic guitar
1. Number of Necks: Multi neck acoustic guitars have two or more necks, which allows for a wider range of sounds and tuning options.
The number of necks on a multi neck acoustic guitar is one of its most defining features. While traditional single-neck guitars have only one neck, multi neck acoustic guitars can have two, three, four, or even more necks. This gives multi neck acoustic guitars a wider range of sounds and tuning options than traditional single-neck guitars.
For example, a two-neck acoustic guitar might have one neck tuned to standard tuning and the other neck tuned to open tuning. This would allow the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between the two tunings, which can be useful for playing songs in different keys or styles.
Multi neck acoustic guitars are also often used by guitarists who want to play multiple instruments at the same time. For example, a guitarist might use a multi neck acoustic guitar to play both guitar and bass guitar at the same time. This can be useful for solo performances or for creating unique and interesting soundscapes.
Overall, the number of necks on a multi neck acoustic guitar is a key factor that determines its sound and versatility. Multi neck acoustic guitars with more necks offer a wider range of sounds and tuning options, making them ideal for guitarists who want to explore different musical styles or who want to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Key Insights:
- The number of necks on a multi neck acoustic guitar is one of its most defining features.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars with more necks offer a wider range of sounds and tuning options.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are often used by guitarists who want to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Table: Key Differences Between Single-Neck and Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
| Feature | Single-Neck Acoustic Guitar | Multi Neck Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Necks | One | Two or more |
| Range of Sounds | More limited range | Wider range |
| Tuning Options | Fewer tuning options | More tuning options |
| Versatility | Less versatile | More versatile |
| Complexity | Less complex | More complex |
| Cost | Typically less expensive | Typically more expensive |
| Availability | More common | Less common |
| Maintenance | Less maintenance required | More maintenance required |
| Skill | Less skill required | More skill required |
2. Range of Sounds: Multi neck acoustic guitars can produce a wider range of sounds than traditional single-neck guitars, making them ideal for a variety of genres.
The wider range of sounds that multi neck acoustic guitars can produce is due to the fact that they have multiple necks, each of which can be tuned to a different tuning. This allows guitarists to play chords and melodies that would be impossible to play on a traditional single-neck guitar. For example, a guitarist could use a multi neck acoustic guitar to play a bass line on one neck and a melody on the other neck at the same time.
The wider range of sounds that multi neck acoustic guitars can produce makes them ideal for a variety of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and folk. Multi neck acoustic guitars are also often used by guitarists who want to play multiple instruments at the same time, such as guitar and banjo or guitar and mandolin.
Here are some specific examples of how the wider range of sounds that multi neck acoustic guitars can produce can be used in different genres:
- In rock music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create heavy riffs and solos.
- In blues music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create slide guitar solos and funky rhythms.
- In jazz music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create complex chords and melodies.
- In folk music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create traditional folk songs and ballads.
Overall, the wider range of sounds that multi neck acoustic guitars can produce makes them a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used in a variety of genres.
Key Insights:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars have a wider range of sounds than traditional single-neck guitars because they have multiple necks, each of which can be tuned to a different tuning.
- The wider range of sounds that multi neck acoustic guitars can produce makes them ideal for a variety of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and folk.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are also often used by guitarists who want to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Table: Examples of How the Wider Range of Sounds of Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars Can Be Used in Different Genres
| Genre | Example |
|---|---|
| Rock | Heavy riffs and solos |
| Blues | Slide guitar solos and funky rhythms |
| Jazz | Complex chords and melodies |
| Folk | Traditional folk songs and ballads |
3. Tuning Options: Multi neck acoustic guitars offer more tuning options than traditional single-neck guitars, allowing for more complex chords and melodies.
The increased number of tuning options available on multi neck acoustic guitars open
s up a world of possibilities for guitarists. With multiple necks, each of which can be tuned to a different tuning, guitarists can create chords and melodies that would be impossible to play on a traditional single-neck guitar. For example, a guitarist could use one neck tuned to standard tuning and the other neck tuned to open tuning. This would allow the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between the two tunings, which can be useful for playing songs in different keys or styles.
The ability to use different tunings on different necks also allows guitarists to create more complex chords and melodies. For example, a guitarist could use one neck to play a bass line and the other neck to play a melody, or they could use one neck to play a rhythm part and the other neck to play a lead part. This opens up a whole new range of possibilities for creating and performing music.
Here are some specific examples of how the increased tuning options available on multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create more complex chords and melodies:
- In rock music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create heavy riffs and solos that use alternate tunings.
- In blues music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create slide guitar solos and funky rhythms that use open tunings.
- In jazz music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create complex chords and melodies that use extended tunings.
- In folk music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create traditional folk songs and ballads that use modal tunings.
Overall, the increased tuning options available on multi neck acoustic guitars make them a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used to create a wide range of music.
Key Insights:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars offer more tuning options than traditional single-neck guitars.
- The increased tuning options allow guitarists to create more complex chords and melodies.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used to create a wide range of music.
Table: Examples of How the Increased Tuning Options on Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars Can Be Used to Create More Complex Chords and Melodies
| Genre | Example |
|---|---|
| Rock | Heavy riffs and solos that use alternate tunings |
| Blues | Slide guitar solos and funky rhythms that use open tunings |
| Jazz | Complex chords and melodies that use extended tunings |
| Folk | Traditional folk songs and ballads that use modal tunings |
4. Versatility: Multi neck acoustic guitars are more versatile than traditional single-neck guitars, as they can be used for a wider variety of musical styles.
The versatility of multi neck acoustic guitars is one of their key advantages over traditional single-neck guitars. With multiple necks, each of which can be tuned to a different tuning, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to play a wider variety of musical styles. For example, a guitarist could use a multi neck acoustic guitar to play rock, blues, jazz, and folk music, all on the same instrument.
The versatility of multi neck acoustic guitars is also due to the fact that they can be used to play multiple instruments at the same time. For example, a guitarist could use a multi neck acoustic guitar to play guitar and bass guitar at the same time, or they could use a multi neck acoustic guitar to play guitar and banjo at the same time. This opens up a whole new range of possibilities for creating and performing music.
Here are some specific examples of how the versatility of multi neck acoustic guitars can be used in different musical styles:
- In rock music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create heavy riffs and solos, as well as more delicate fingerpicking passages.
- In blues music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create slide guitar solos and funky rhythms.
- In jazz music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create complex chords and melodies, as well as improvisational solos.
- In folk music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create traditional folk songs and ballads, as well as more modern folk-rock songs.
Overall, the versatility of multi neck acoustic guitars makes them a valuable tool for any guitarist who wants to explore different musical styles or who wants to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Key Insights:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are more versatile than traditional single-neck guitars because they have multiple necks, each of which can be tuned to a different tuning.
- The versatility of multi neck acoustic guitars allows guitarists to play a wider variety of musical styles and to play multiple instruments at the same time.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are a valuable tool for any guitarist who wants to explore different musical styles or who wants to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Table: Examples of How the Versatility of Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars Can Be Used in Different Musical Styles
| Musical Style | Examples |
|---|---|
| Rock | Heavy riffs and solos, delicate fingerpicking passages |
| Blues | Slide guitar solos, funky rhythms |
| Jazz | Complex chords and melodies, improvisational solos |
| Folk | Traditional folk songs and ballads, modern folk-rock songs |
5. Complexity: Multi neck acoustic guitars can be more complex to play than traditional single-neck guitars, due to the increased number of necks and strings.
The increased complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars is due to the fact that they have multiple necks and strings. This requires guitarists to have a higher level of technical skill in order to play them effectively. For example, guitarists need to be able to coordinate their picking and fingering across multiple necks, and they need to be able to quickly and accurately switch between different tunings.
The complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars can also be a benefit, as it allows guitarists to create more complex and interesting music. For example, guitarists can use multiple necks to play different parts of a song at the same time, or they can use different tunings to create unique and innovative sounds.
Here are some specific examples of how the complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create more complex and interesting music:
- In rock music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create heavy riffs and solos that use alternate tunings.
- In blues music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create slide guitar solos and funky rhythms that use open tunings.
- In jazz music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create complex chords and melodies that use extended tunings.
- In folk music, multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create traditional folk songs and ballads that use modal tunings.
Overall, the complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars is a key factor that determines their sound and versatility. While they can be more challenging to play than traditional single-neck guitars, they offer a wide range of possibilities for creating complex and interesting music.
Key Insights:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are more complex to play than traditional single-neck guitars due to the increased number of necks and strings.
- The complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars can be a benefit, as it allows guitarists to create more complex and interesting
music. - Multi neck acoustic guitars are a valuable tool for any guitarist who wants to explore different musical styles or who wants to play multiple instruments at the same time.
Table: Challenges and Practical Applications of Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
| Challenge | Practical Application |
|---|---|
| Increased technical skill required to play | Allows guitarists to create more complex and interesting music |
| Can be difficult to find and purchase | Can be a valuable tool for guitarists who want to explore different musical styles or who want to play multiple instruments at the same time |
| Can be expensive to purchase and maintain | Can be a valuable investment for guitarists who are serious about their music |
6. Cost: Multi neck acoustic guitars are typically more expensive than traditional single-neck guitars, due to the increased cost of materials and labor.
The increased cost of multi neck acoustic guitars is directly related to the increased cost of materials and labor required to build them. Multi neck acoustic guitars require more wood, more hardware, and more labor to build than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because each neck on a multi neck acoustic guitar must be individually crafted and assembled, and the more necks a guitar has, the more expensive it will be to build.
The increased cost of multi neck acoustic guitars can be a significant barrier to entry for some guitarists. However, it is important to remember that multi neck acoustic guitars are a specialized instrument, and their price reflects the quality of craftsmanship and materials that go into them. For guitarists who are serious about their music, a multi neck acoustic guitar can be a valuable investment.
Here are some specific examples of how the increased cost of materials and labor affects the price of multi neck acoustic guitars:
- The wood used to build multi neck acoustic guitars is often more expensive than the wood used to build traditional single-neck guitars. This is because the wood for multi neck acoustic guitars must be carefully selected and matched to ensure that the different necks are in tune with each other.
- The hardware used to build multi neck acoustic guitars is also more expensive than the hardware used to build traditional single-neck guitars. This is because the hardware for multi neck acoustic guitars must be specially designed to accommodate the multiple necks.
- The labor required to build multi neck acoustic guitars is also more expensive than the labor required to build traditional single-neck guitars. This is because building a multi neck acoustic guitar is a more complex and time-consuming process.
Overall, the increased cost of materials and labor is a key factor that determines the price of multi neck acoustic guitars. While they can be more expensive than traditional single-neck guitars, multi neck acoustic guitars are a valuable investment for guitarists who are serious about their music.
Key Insights:
- The increased cost of materials and labor required to build multi neck acoustic guitars is directly related to their price.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are a specialized instrument, and their price reflects the quality of craftsmanship and materials that go into them.
- For guitarists who are serious about their music, a multi neck acoustic guitar can be a valuable investment.
Table: Cost Comparison of Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars and Traditional Single-Neck Guitars
| Type of Guitar | Cost |
|---|---|
| Multi neck acoustic guitar | $2,000-$10,000 |
| Traditional single-neck acoustic guitar | $500-$2,000 |
7. Availability: Multi neck acoustic guitars are less common than traditional single-neck guitars, so they may be more difficult to find in stores.
The availability of multi neck acoustic guitars is directly related to their popularity. Because multi neck acoustic guitars are less common than traditional single-neck guitars, they are less likely to be found in stores. This can make it difficult for guitarists to find and purchase multi neck acoustic guitars, especially if they live in a remote area or have a limited budget.
There are a number of reasons why multi neck acoustic guitars are less common than traditional single-neck guitars. First, multi neck acoustic guitars are more expensive to build than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because they require more materials and labor to construct. Second, multi neck acoustic guitars are more difficult to play than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because they require guitarists to have a higher level of technical skill. Finally, multi neck acoustic guitars are less versatile than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because they are typically designed for a specific genre of music.
Despite their lower availability, multi neck acoustic guitars can be a valuable investment for guitarists who are serious about their music. They offer a unique and versatile sound that can be used to create a wide range of music genres.
Here are some tips for finding and purchasing a multi neck acoustic guitar:
- Do your research. Before you start shopping for a multi neck acoustic guitar, it is important to do your research and learn as much as you can about them. This will help you to make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
- Shop around. Once you have done your research, it is important to shop around and compare prices from different retailers. This will help you to find the best deal on a multi neck acoustic guitar.
- Be patient. Multi neck acoustic guitars are not always easy to find, so it is important to be patient. If you do not find the right guitar right away, do not give up. Keep looking and you will eventually find the perfect guitar for you.
Key Insights:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars are less common than traditional single-neck guitars because they are more expensive to build, more difficult to play, and less versatile.
- Despite their lower availability, multi neck acoustic guitars can be a valuable investment for guitarists who are serious about their music.
- It is important to do your research, shop around, and be patient when looking for a multi neck acoustic guitar.
Table: Availability of Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
| Factor | Impact on Availability |
|---|---|
| Cost | Multi neck acoustic guitars are more expensive to build than traditional single-neck guitars, which makes them less affordable for some guitarists. |
| Difficulty | Multi neck acoustic guitars are more difficult to play than traditional single-neck guitars, which can make them less appealing to some guitarists. |
| Versatility | Multi neck acoustic guitars are less versatile than traditional single-neck guitars, which can make them less appealing to guitarists who want to play a variety of genres of music. |
8. Maintenance: Multi neck acoustic guitars require more maintenance than traditional single-neck guitars, due to the increased number of necks and strings.
The increased number of necks and strings on multi neck acoustic guitars requires more maintenance than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because each neck and string must be individually adjusted and maintained to ensure that the guitar is playing properly. Additionally, the incr
eased number of necks and strings can make it more difficult to clean and restring the guitar.
- Increased Number of Adjustments
Multi neck acoustic guitars require more frequent adjustments than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because the increased number of necks and strings can cause the guitar to go out of tune more quickly. Additionally, the different necks and strings may require different adjustments to ensure that they are playing properly together. - More Difficult to Clean and Restring
The increased number of necks and strings on multi neck acoustic guitars can make it more difficult to clean and restring the guitar. This is because it is more difficult to reach all of the nooks and crannies of the guitar, and it can be more time-consuming to restring all of the strings. - Increased Risk of Damage
The increased number of necks and strings on multi neck acoustic guitars can increase the risk of damage to the guitar. This is because the necks and strings are more likely to be bumped or knocked around, which can cause them to become damaged. - More Expensive to Maintain
The increased maintenance requirements of multi neck acoustic guitars can make them more expensive to maintain than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because guitarists may need to pay for more frequent adjustments, cleaning, and restringing.
Overall, the increased maintenance requirements of multi neck acoustic guitars are an important factor to consider when deciding whether or not to purchase one. While multi neck acoustic guitars can offer a number of advantages over traditional single-neck guitars, they also require more care and attention to keep them in good playing condition.
9. Skill: Playing multi neck acoustic guitar requires more skill than playing traditional single-neck guitar, due to the increased complexity.
The increased complexity of multi neck acoustic guitars means that they require more skill to play than traditional single-neck guitars. This is because guitarists need to be able to coordinate their picking and fingering across multiple necks, and they need to be able to quickly and accurately switch between different tunings. Additionally, the increased number of strings on multi neck acoustic guitars can make it more difficult to play chords and melodies.
The increased skill required to play multi neck acoustic guitars can be a challenge for some guitarists. However, it can also be a rewarding experience. Multi neck acoustic guitars offer a unique and versatile sound that can be used to create a wide range of music genres. For guitarists who are willing to put in the time and effort, learning to play multi neck acoustic guitar can be a great way to expand their musical horizons.
Here are some specific examples of how the increased skill required to play multi neck acoustic guitars can be a benefit:
- Multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to create complex and interesting chords and melodies that would be impossible to play on a traditional single-neck guitar.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to play multiple parts of a song at the same time, which can create a fuller and more dynamic sound.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars can be used to explore different musical genres, as they can be tuned to a variety of different tunings.
Overall, the increased skill required to play multi neck acoustic guitars is a key factor that determines their sound and versatility. While they can be more challenging to play than traditional single-neck guitars, multi neck acoustic guitars offer a wide range of possibilities for creating complex and interesting music.
Key Insights:
- Playing multi neck acoustic guitar requires more skill than playing traditional single-neck guitar due to the increased complexity.
- The increased skill required to play multi neck acoustic guitars can be a challenge for some guitarists, but it can also be a rewarding experience.
- Multi neck acoustic guitars offer a unique and versatile sound that can be used to create a wide range of music genres.
Table: Skill Requirements for Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
| Skill | Importance |
|---|---|
| Coordination | Guitarists need to be able to coordinate their picking and fingering across multiple necks. |
| Accuracy | Guitarists need to be able to quickly and accurately switch between different tunings. |
| Dexterity | The increased number of strings on multi neck acoustic guitars can make it more difficult to play chords and melodies. |
FAQs on Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
This section addresses frequently asked questions and aims to provide comprehensive and informative answers to enhance your understanding of multi neck acoustic guitars.
Question 1: Are multi neck acoustic guitars difficult to play?
Answer: Yes, multi neck acoustic guitars generally require more skill and dexterity to play compared to traditional single-neck guitars. The increased number of necks and strings demands greater coordination, accuracy, and finger independence.
Question 2: What are the advantages of multi neck acoustic guitars?
Answer: Multi neck acoustic guitars offer several advantages, including:
- Expanded sonic capabilities due to the use of multiple necks with different tunings.
- Increased versatility, allowing guitarists to play multiple parts or instruments simultaneously.
- Unique and distinctive sound that sets them apart from traditional guitars.
Question 3: Are multi neck acoustic guitars suitable for beginners?
Answer: No, multi neck acoustic guitars are not typically recommended for beginners due to their complexity and the higher level of skill required to play them effectively.
Question 4: How much do multi neck acoustic guitars cost?
Answer: Multi neck acoustic guitars tend to be more expensive than traditional single-neck guitars due to the increased materials, labor, and craftsmanship involved in their construction. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the number of necks, the quality of materials used, and the brand.
Question 5: Where can I find multi neck acoustic guitars?
Answer: Multi neck acoustic guitars may not be as readily available as traditional single-neck guitars. They can be found in specialized guitar stores, online retailers, or through custom guitar makers.
Question 6: What are some tips for playing multi neck acoustic guitars?
Answer: To effectively play multi neck acoustic guitars, consider the following tips:
- Develop strong finger independence and coordination.
- Practice regularly to build muscle memory and accuracy.
- Experiment with different tunings and combinations to explore the guitar’s full potential.
- Seek guidance from experienced guitarists or teachers who specialize in multi neck acoustic guitars.
Summary: Multi neck acoustic guitars offer unique sonic possibilities and versatility but require a higher level of skill to play effectively. Their cost and availability may vary, and interested guitarists are advised to research and consider their individual needs and playing style before making a purchase.
Transition: For further exploration of multi neck acoustic guitars, including their history, notable playe
rs, and ongoing innovations, continue to the next section of this article.
Tips for Playing Multi Neck Acoustic Guitars
Mastering the multi neck acoustic guitar requires dedication and a strategic approach. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your playing skills:
Tip 1: Develop Finger Independence and Coordination
Multi neck guitars demand exceptional finger independence and coordination to navigate multiple fretboards simultaneously. Practice exercises that isolate each finger, gradually increasing the complexity and speed of your movements.
Tip 2: Practice Regularly and Consistently
Regular practice is crucial to building muscle memory and improving accuracy. Dedicate time each day to practice scales, chords, and arpeggios on all necks of your guitar. Consistency is key to developing proficiency.
Tip 3: Experiment with Different Tunings
The beauty of multi neck guitars lies in their ability to accommodate various tunings. Experiment with different combinations to discover unique sonic possibilities. Explore open tunings, alternate tunings, and extended range tunings to expand your musical vocabulary.
Tip 4: Seek Guidance from Experienced Players or Teachers
Learning from experienced multi neck guitarists can accelerate your progress. Seek guidance from teachers or mentors who specialize in this technique. They can provide valuable insights, personalized feedback, and help you overcome challenges.
Tip 5: Explore Different Playing Techniques
Multi neck guitars offer a wide range of playing techniques. Explore fingerstyle, hybrid picking, and tapping to create intricate and dynamic soundscapes. Experiment with different picking patterns and finger combinations to develop your own unique style.
Tip 6: Record Yourself and Listen Objectively
Recording your playing can be a powerful tool for self-assessment. Listen back to your recordings objectively to identify areas for improvement. Analyze your timing, intonation, and overall performance to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses.
Tip 7: Stay Patient and Persistent
Mastering the multi neck acoustic guitar is a journey that requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks; view them as opportunities for growth. Keep practicing, stay focused, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Summary: Embracing these tips will enhance your multi neck acoustic guitar playing skills, allowing you to explore new sonic territories and achieve greater musical expression.
Transition: As you continue your journey with the multi neck acoustic guitar, remember to embrace the learning process, seek inspiration from others, and let your creativity soar.
Conclusion
Multi neck acoustic guitars stand as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation within the realm of musical instruments. Their unique design and sonic capabilities have captivated musicians and audiences alike, pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
This article has explored the complexities, advantages, and challenges of multi neck acoustic guitars. From the intricate craftsmanship required in their construction to the advanced playing techniques they demand, these instruments demand dedication and a thirst for sonic exploration.
As the world of music continues to evolve, multi neck acoustic guitars will undoubtedly continue to inspire and challenge musicians. Their ability to transcend genres and create new sonic landscapes ensures their place in the ever-expanding tapestry of musical innovation.
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