Drums - Singer-Songwriter Drum Gear

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This list features drum gear selected for Singer-Songwriter contexts — where subtlety, musicality, and dynamic sensitivity are key. Whether you're supporting an acoustic ballad, folk-rock anthem, or stripped-down coffeehouse set, this gear delivers warm tone, responsive touch, and intimate control designed to enhance the story, not overpower it.

🥁 Recommended Drum Kits for Singer-Songwriter

Gretsch Catalina Club Jazz Kit (18/12/14)

The Gretsch Catalina Club Jazz Kit is a compact, stylish drum set crafted for drummers who appreciate classic tones and vintage flair in a portable format. Built around the traditional bop-sized shell configuration of 18" bass drum, 12" rack tom, and 14" floor tom, this kit channels the golden age of jazz while delivering surprising versatility for modern players. Whether you’re laying down soft swing grooves in an intimate venue or recording blues tracks in the studio, the Catalina Club Jazz Kit responds with warmth, punch, and clarity.

Features:

Mahogany Shells with 30-Degree Bearing Edges

At the heart of the Catalina Club’s sound is its 7-ply mahogany shell construction, which emphasizes low-end warmth and musicality.

Vintage tone: The shells produce deep, woody resonance with a controlled attack—ideal for jazz, blues, and classic R&B.
Soft edges: The 30-degree bearing edges promote greater head-to-shell contact, giving the drums a rounded, mellow response and quick decay.

Compact Bop Configuration

The 18" kick, 12" rack, and 14" floor tom setup is beloved by jazz drummers for its responsiveness and portability.

Tight spaces: This kit is perfect for small venues, home practice, and studio sessions where space is limited.
Articulate sound: The smaller drums allow for nuanced, dynamic playing while still offering a rich tone.

Vintage Aesthetic with Modern Functionality

Gretsch combines retro styling with performance-grade hardware for a kit that looks as good as it sounds.

Classic finishes: Available in timeless wraps like Satin Walnut Glaze, Gloss Crimson Burst, and Blue Satin Flame.
Mini lugs and round badge: These details nod to Gretsch’s heritage while keeping weight low and aesthetic crisp.

18" Bass Drum with Built-In Lift

The bass drum includes a built-in riser, elevating it off the ground so the beater hits dead-center.

Centered attack: Ensures optimal tone and punch from the compact kick.
Tight, punchy low end: Ideal for jazz, fusion, or even indie rock.

Sound and Performance:

Warm, Round Tones

The mahogany shells generate a lush tone with a dark, vintage timbre.

Focused midrange: Each drum sings with warmth and subtle resonance, perfect for melodic grooves and brushwork.
Controlled sustain: Great for live environments where overtones need to be naturally tempered.

Expressive Dynamics

The kit responds beautifully to subtle nuances and quiet playing—a hallmark of jazz drums.

Brush-friendly: The snare and toms articulate well with brushes or rods, making them excellent for intimate acoustic sets.
Dynamic range: While mellow by nature, the kit still holds up under moderate rock or funk playing when tuned higher.

Ideal for Studio and Live

Thanks to its compact size and tonal character, the Catalina Club Jazz Kit works well in a variety of musical situations.

Mic-friendly: The dry, warm tone makes it easy to mic in the studio without excessive EQ or gating.
Quick setup: Lightweight and easy to position, especially on cramped stages or small risers.

Ideal Use:

For Jazz and Blues Drummers

With its bop setup and vintage sound, this kit is tailor-made for traditional jazz, bebop, swing, and blues.

For Gigging Musicians

Its portability and aesthetic make it a practical and stylish choice for drummers who play frequent live gigs in tight quarters.

For Home Practice

The smaller bass drum and toms keep volume levels lower than larger kits—ideal for home use without compromising tone.

Conclusion:

The Gretsch Catalina Club Jazz Kit (18/12/14) is a go-to choice for players who seek an elegant, vintage-inspired kit that delivers warm tone, portability, and classic Gretsch character. It offers an expressive range perfect for jazz, blues, and softer acoustic genres, while still providing enough tonal versatility to adapt to modern playing. With its distinctive look and compact punch, this kit stands out on any stage or recording session, embodying the spirit of traditional jazz drumming with modern reliability.

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Yamaha Tour Custom Maple Kit (20/12/14)

The Yamaha Tour Custom Maple Kit in the 20/12/14 configuration is a professional-grade drum set crafted for serious musicians seeking rich tonal warmth, stage-ready projection, and the legendary reliability Yamaha is known for. Designed with touring artists in mind, this kit strikes a perfect balance between portability, dynamic tone, and beautiful finish work. Its versatile shell sizes make it ideal for a wide range of musical genres—from rock and funk to jazz and gospel—while its construction delivers articulate, expressive performance in both live and studio settings.

Features:

100% Maple Shells

At the heart of the Tour Custom’s sound is Yamaha’s signature 6-ply, all-maple shell construction.

Tone and warmth: Maple shells are known for their full-bodied warmth, with a smooth high-end and rich low frequencies.
Punch and articulation: The 6-ply design offers a powerful, direct attack with quick, musical decay—ideal for dynamic playing.

45-Degree Bearing Edges

The precise 45° bearing edges maximize head contact for enhanced resonance and tuning range.

Consistent tone: Whether tuned high for jazz or low for rock, the shells respond with clarity and definition.
Smooth feel: The edges provide a responsive rebound, making the drums easy and comfortable to play.

U.S.-Style Aesthetic and Durability

Inspired by Yamaha’s high-end kits, the Tour Custom sports a retro-modern look and premium build quality.

Gloss lacquer finishes: Rich, deep stains such as Butterscotch Satin, Candy Apple Red, or Caramel Satin highlight the wood grain and enhance visual appeal onstage.
Low-mass lugs: Lightweight Absolute lugs minimize shell contact, preserving tone and resonance.

Yamaha Y.E.S.S. Mounting System

The Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System (Y.E.S.S.) supports the rack tom with minimal contact.

Improved resonance: Frees the shell to vibrate more naturally, leading to better tone and sustain.
Stable and secure: Designed to hold toms firmly in place during heavy playing while reducing stress on the shell.

Sound and Performance:

Warm, Balanced Tones

Thanks to the 100% maple shells, the Tour Custom kit offers a smooth, round tone suitable for any musical style.

Bass drum (20"): Delivers punchy low end with a controlled boom—perfect for funk, rock, or gospel.
Rack tom (12"): Offers a tight, articulate voice that sings when tuned high or low.
Floor tom (14"): Provides warm, thunderous resonance with enough attack to cut through the mix.

Responsive and Expressive

The shell configuration and bearing edge design give players a broad expressive range.

Dynamic playability: Responds well to ghost notes, rolls, and rimshots with consistent articulation.
Great projection: Whether mic’d up on stage or recorded in a studio, the kit offers clarity and depth.

Studio and Stage-Ready

The Tour Custom Maple Kit is optimized for both live and recorded performances.

Tuning versatility: The shells tune up easily and stay in tune, even during long sessions or gigs.
Mic-friendly tone: The balanced maple tone records naturally, needing minimal EQ to sit well in the mix.

Ideal Use:

For Working Drummers

Portable, durable, and high-performing, this kit is a dream for drummers who play frequently in live or session environments.

For Intermediate to Professional Players

Its combination of quality craftsmanship and affordable pricing makes it a top-tier option for players upgrading from beginner kits or pros needing a reliable workhorse.

For Versatile Applications

The 20/12/14 configuration is compact yet powerful, making it suitable for everything from club gigs and worship services to recording sessions and touring.

Conclusion:

The Yamaha Tour Custom Maple Kit (20/12/14) is a standout option for drummers who want premium maple tone, robust construction, and sleek, modern styling. With its articulate response, warm resonance, and stage-ready looks, it bridges the gap between performance and portability. Whether you're gigging, recording, or practicing at home, this kit delivers professional-level sound and Yamaha’s trusted dependability—making it a worthy centerpiece for any serious drummer's setup.

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🥁 Recommended Snares for Singer-Songwriter

Ludwig Acrolite Snare (14x5)

The Ludwig Acrolite 14x5" Snare Drum is a legendary piece of percussion history, beloved by drummers for its distinctive tone, lightweight design, and unmatched versatility. Originally introduced in the 1960s as a student model, the Acrolite quickly earned a place in professional kits due to its crisp, dry sound and reliable performance. Today, it is a sought-after studio and live snare, prized for its vintage character and modern reliability.

Features:

Aluminum Shell Construction

The Acrolite’s seamless, beaded aluminum shell is the defining feature of its sound.

Dry and focused tone: The aluminum shell delivers a crisp attack with short sustain, making it ideal for clean articulation.
Lightweight build: Easier to carry and mount than heavier metal snares, without sacrificing tone.

Classic 8-Lug Design

The snare features 8 bowtie lugs, a hallmark of Ludwig’s design.

Open tone: Fewer lugs allow for a more open, resonant sound with a touch of vintage looseness.
Easy tuning: Fewer lugs also mean quicker tuning changes, and the drum holds its pitch well under tension.

Rounded Bearing Edges

The rounded bearing edges help the head seat naturally, contributing to the snare’s signature dryness and tuning ease.

Controlled resonance: Promotes a warm, centered sound with minimal overtone.
Great brush response: The shell and head combo gives an excellent surface for brush playing, popular in jazz and acoustic genres.

Ludwig P88AC Throw-Off

Modern Acrolites often feature the Ludwig P88AC throw-off, offering precise snare wire engagement.

Smooth operation: Easily toggled for fine snare tension control.
Quiet and reliable: Perfect for studio use where mechanical noise is unwelcome.

Sound and Performance:

Tight, Crisp Attack

The Ludwig Acrolite is renowned for its sharp attack and dry tone, making it perfect for genres that demand articulate snare work.

Pop and rock clarity: Ideal for snappy backbeats and ghost notes.
Jazz finesse: The sensitivity and response make it suitable for dynamic, expressive playing.

Studio Favorite

Engineers and producers love the Acrolite for its easy-to-mix sound.

Minimal overtone: The dry tone means it needs less EQ and processing in studio environments.
Microphone-friendly: Sits well in both overheads and close-mic settings.

Versatile in Any Genre

Though often seen in rock, punk, and indie setups, the Acrolite’s tuning range and sensitivity make it suitable for almost any style.

Wide tuning range: Tunable for fat, low-end thump or tight, cutting crack.
Brush and stick compatible: Equally at home in acoustic or amplified settings.

Conclusion:

The Ludwig Acrolite 14x5" Snare Drum is a time-tested classic that delivers exceptional value, musical versatility, and iconic sound. Whether you're a gigging professional, a recording artist, or a home studio enthusiast, the Acrolite provides a dry, articulate tone that blends beautifully across musical contexts. Its lightweight construction, no-nonsense design, and legendary voice make it a must-have in any serious drummer’s snare arsenal.

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Canopus Stave Ash Snare (14x5.5)

The Canopus Stave Ash Snare (14x5.5") is a boutique-level instrument that brings powerful projection, sharp articulation, and striking tonal complexity to any drummer’s arsenal. Built from vertical stave construction—unlike the more common ply method—this snare exhibits explosive attack, full-bodied tone, and remarkable dynamic sensitivity. Ash, known for its strength and brightness, makes this drum an outstanding choice for players who demand precision and power wrapped in a beautifully crafted shell.

Design & Construction:

Stave Shell Architecture

Unlike standard ply shells, the Canopus Stave Ash Snare uses solid blocks of ash arranged in a circular formation and bonded vertically.

Thicker shell = more projection: The solid stave build results in powerful volume and resonance.
Greater shell integrity: Fewer glue layers mean the natural wood tone speaks more freely.

Ash Wood Characteristics

Ash is prized for its bright, punchy sound, often compared to maple or oak but with a slightly more aggressive midrange.

Brilliant attack: Excellent stick definition, especially useful in funk, gospel, fusion, and high-energy rock.
Warm undertones: While bright, ash still carries a warm foundation that prevents it from sounding too harsh.

Sound Profile:

Explosive Attack with Depth

This 14x5.5" configuration balances cut and control, providing tight snap on the high end with just enough body from the shell depth.

Ghost note clarity: Superb articulation even at low dynamics.
Crisp rimshots and cross-sticks: The ash responds with a quick, dry crack that cuts through any mix.

Broad Tuning Range

From a fat, low-end thud to a tight, high crack, this snare’s robust construction holds tension beautifully.

Low tuning: Produces a deep, bark-like tone great for hip-hop, neo-soul, or vintage styles.
High tuning: Delivers a quick, slicing pop ideal for funk, fusion, or modern gospel.

Hardware and Finish:

Premium Components

Canopus spares no expense in equipping the drum with top-tier lugs, snare wires, and throw-offs.

Bolt-tight lugs: Maintain stable tuning during extended sessions or live gigs.
Vintage snare wires: Contribute to its warm yet crisp voice.
Smooth throw-off system: Allows fast, silent on/off switching with snare wires responding cleanly.

Visual Aesthetics

The natural grain of ash, often highlighted with a satin or oil finish, gives the drum a luxurious, handcrafted appearance.

Elegant wood grain: Each stave drum is visually unique due to the solid wood segments.
Minimalist badge and detailing: Underscores Canopus’s commitment to quality craftsmanship without distraction.

Ideal Use:

Studio Recording: The focused articulation and natural tone make it a favorite among engineers looking for clarity with minimal EQ.
Live Performance: Projects effortlessly on stage without losing tonal detail.
Versatile Genre Fit: Excels in funk, rock, jazz fusion, R&B, and even orchestral or chamber percussion contexts.

Conclusion:

The Canopus Stave Ash Snare (14x5.5") is a masterfully crafted drum that blends raw power with refined musicality. Its stave shell construction and ash wood composition produce a sound that’s both commanding and sensitive. Whether you're performing in a studio, on stage, or practicing in a high-level ensemble setting, this snare delivers high-performance tone and top-tier aesthetics. It's not just an instrument—it's a statement piece for discerning drummers who want both sonic and visual excellence.

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🥁 Recommended Cymbals for Singer-Songwriter

Zildjian K Light Ride (22")

The Zildjian K Light Ride 22" is an expressive, versatile cymbal known for its warm, dark tonal palette and buttery stick response. Part of Zildjian’s legendary K Series, this ride is favored by jazz musicians but adaptable enough for rock, funk, and studio applications. With a handcrafted, traditional finish and rich overtones, the K Light Ride strikes a perfect balance between vintage character and modern dynamic control.

Tonal Character and Sound

Warm, Dark, and Complex
Crafted with a medium-thin weight and large diameter, the 22" K Light Ride is deeply musical—offering a dark, smoky wash paired with clear articulation.

Warm wash: The cymbal blooms with a lush, open resonance that fills the room without overpowering the mix.
Dry stick definition: Especially when played near the bell or edge, the cymbal retains clarity even amidst complex playing.
Low-pitched tonality: Great for players seeking a more relaxed, earthy vibe rather than a piercing, glassy ride.

Dynamic Sensitivity
The K Light Ride responds beautifully to the softest brush strokes or the hardest stick hits.

Low-volume response: Ideal for acoustic or jazz combos, especially in intimate settings.
High-volume potential: Can open up and roar when needed in larger venues or more aggressive styles.

Versatility

A Ride and a Crash
While primarily a ride, the K Light is exceptionally crashable, opening up with a smooth, low-frequency swell.

Crash-ride duality: Many drummers use it as a left-side ride or crash-ride due to its soft edge and wide dynamic range.
Bell tone: The unlathed bell offers a focused, woody sound—more subtle than bright, but musically integrated.

Musical Genres
This cymbal shines in:

Jazz: Its subtlety and warmth match the nuanced dynamics of swing and bop.
Indie and singer-songwriter: Supports vocals and acoustic instruments without becoming intrusive.
Studio work: Engineers appreciate its blend of clarity and body, making it easy to mic and mix.

Craftsmanship and Aesthetic

Hand-Hammered Tradition
Each K Light Ride is individually hammered, a process that creates slight variations in tone and appearance, giving every cymbal a unique sonic signature.

Traditional finish: A visually rich, unlathed surface with tonal grooves that reflect its heritage and quality.
Aged aesthetic: The cymbal looks as classic as it sounds, with a natural patina that matches vintage setups or modern kits seeking a timeless look.

Conclusion

The Zildjian K Light Ride (22") is a cymbal of nuance, expression, and depth. It blends rich harmonic overtones with a controlled, articulate response, making it equally suited to subtle jazz work, textured studio tracks, and modern fusion environments. Whether you’re playing a smoky jazz club or recording clean cymbal tracks in a studio, the K Light Ride delivers character, control, and a whole lot of class. It's not just a ride—it's a voice in your musical storytelling.

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Meinl Byzance Vintage Crash (18")

The Meinl Byzance Vintage Crash 18" is a highly musical cymbal known for its rich, warm tones and dry, earthy character. It belongs to the acclaimed Byzance Vintage series, which blends old-world hand-hammered craftsmanship with modern sound design tailored to the needs of today’s drummers. This cymbal is often chosen by players looking for expressive warmth, trashy decay, and a vintage aesthetic.

Tonal Character and Sound

Warm, Dirty, and Expressive
Crafted from B20 bronze and hammered by hand, the Byzance Vintage Crash delivers a dark, slightly trashy tone with a short, musical sustain.

Vintage warmth: Offers a mellow response that blends smoothly with other instruments rather than cutting sharply through.
Complex wash: The cymbal produces a warm, shimmering wash full of character and overtones, ideal for adding atmosphere to a groove.
Controlled decay: The crash sound blooms quickly but doesn’t overstay its welcome, allowing for rhythmic precision and sonic clarity.

Trashy Edge with Musical Control
It has just the right amount of grit to give a track texture without sounding harsh or unpredictable.

Modern dry-vibe: Perfect for players who want a vintage-inspired sound that still sits well in contemporary mixes.
Dynamic sensitivity: Whether tapped lightly or struck hard, the cymbal responds with articulation and emotion, making it ideal for dynamic playing.

Versatility

Not Just for Jazz or Funk
While it’s a favorite in vintage, funk, and indie-rock settings, the Byzance Vintage Crash is flexible enough for:

Studio recordings: Its dry, focused response minimizes bleed into other mics and tracks cleanly.
Modern pop and R&B: Adds an organic layer of tone that supports vocals and soft instrumentation.
Experimental genres: The slightly trashy character makes it a creative tool for ambient and cinematic music.

Works as a Left-Side Crash or Effects Cymbal
This 18" cymbal is often placed as a second crash or effects cymbal for players wanting to add color and contrast to their setup.

Craftsmanship and Appearance

Hand-Hammered B20 Bronze
The Meinl Byzance Vintage line is forged from B20 bronze alloy (80% copper, 20% tin), giving it a robust tonal character.

Raw finish: The cymbal’s surface is left mostly unlathed and untreated, contributing to its vintage vibe and earthy look.
Artisan details: Each cymbal is individually hammered by Meinl’s cymbalsmiths in Turkey, so every piece is unique in tone and appearance.

Conclusion

The Meinl Byzance Vintage Crash (18") is a sonic gem for drummers seeking warmth, depth, and texture. It offers a vintage-inspired voice that complements both acoustic and electric music, with just enough trashiness to add edge without becoming abrasive. Whether you're tracking in the studio, gigging in tight venues, or layering complex rhythms, this cymbal is an inspired choice for players who want tone, character, and soul in every crash.

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🥁 Recommended Kick Pedals for Singer-Songwriter

DW 5000 Single Chain Drive Pedal

The DW 5000 Single Chain Drive Pedal is a legendary bass drum pedal favored by drummers for its responsive feel, sturdy construction, and iconic action. It’s part of DW’s long-standing 5000 Series, known for setting the standard in professional kick drum pedals for decades. While the newer Accelerator and Turbo drive options offer distinct performance styles, the single chain drive model appeals to players who prefer a more classic, balanced feel with a slightly rounder response.

Feel and Action

Classic Chain-Drive Response
This pedal delivers a smooth, linear action thanks to its single chain and sprocket system. Unlike the Accelerator (eccentric cam) model, this version provides a more even, natural stroke from heel to toe.

Balanced rebound: Ideal for players who want consistent resistance and control at every speed.
Dynamic versatility: Whether you're playing ghost notes or heavy downbeats, the pedal responds fluidly and evenly.

Tri-Pivot Toe Clamp
DW’s patented Tri-Pivot Toe Clamp ensures rock-solid connection between the pedal and your bass drum hoop.

Secure fit: Prevents slippage mid-performance, even on thick or vintage hoops.
Easy adjustability: Clamping system accommodates a wide range of bass drum rims without damaging them.

Build and Design

Solid, Tour-Ready Construction
The 5000 Single Chain model is built with heavy-duty components designed to withstand the demands of frequent gigging and aggressive play.

Steel base plate: Adds stability and weight for a solid foundation underfoot.
Nylon carry case: Many versions come with a DW-branded case for transport and protection.

Adjustable Features
The pedal includes several customizable features to fine-tune your feel:

Dual-spring tension adjustment for customizing resistance
Adjustable beater angle and height
Two-way DW beater (felt and plastic) for tone flexibility

Performance

Perfect for Traditionalists and Feel-Oriented Players
If you value precision, control, and a classic mechanical feel, the single chain model offers:

Reliable speed with a traditional response curve
Excellent control for jazz, blues, funk, and classic rock
A more organic connection between foot and drumhead, compared to direct-drive or eccentric-cam models

Conclusion

The DW 5000 Single Chain Drive Pedal delivers tried-and-true performance with modern stability and adjustability. It’s built for drummers who want a classic, responsive, and comfortable feel without sacrificing durability or reliability. Whether you’re playing in a studio, on tour, or in local venues, this pedal offers the craftsmanship and feel that have made the DW 5000 series a benchmark in bass drum pedals for generations.

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Ludwig Speed Flyer Pedal

The Ludwig Speed Flyer Pedal is a premium single bass drum pedal designed to meet the demands of modern drummers while paying homage to Ludwig’s legacy in drum hardware innovation. Engineered for precision, speed, and comfort, this pedal is Ludwig’s flagship entry in the high-performance pedal market and a favorite among players who want a responsive, roadworthy, and stylish design.

Features and Design

Sleek, Lightweight Frame
The Speed Flyer features a streamlined footboard with a laser-cut Ludwig logo and a balanced length that supports both heel-up and heel-down techniques comfortably.

Aircraft-grade aluminum construction makes the pedal both light and strong.
A low-profile design reduces weight while maintaining excellent pedalboard stability.

Chain-Drive System with Smooth Action
Utilizing a single-chain drive with a round cam, the Speed Flyer provides a traditional feel with smooth, fluid response and even tension throughout the stroke.

Great for drummers seeking consistent control for dynamic playing.
Offers just enough resistance for quick footwork without feeling stiff.

Beater and Adjustability
The pedal includes Ludwig’s modern dual-surface beater with felt and hard plastic options for tonal variation, and allows for precise angle and height adjustments.

Beater angle adjustment offers flexibility for customizing the attack and rebound.
Footboard angle adjustment allows players to tailor the action to their foot position and playing style.

Spring Tension and Clamp Mechanism
With adjustable spring tension, the Speed Flyer accommodates a wide range of feel preferences. The side-adjusting hoop clamp is designed for ease of use, making setup quick and secure.

Ludwig’s patented hoop clamp ensures compatibility with all standard bass drum hoops.
The tension system maintains settings reliably, even during intense sessions.

Performance

Responsive and Quiet Operation
The pedal is remarkably quiet and smooth, offering a low-friction experience that favors speed without compromising power.

Ideal for fast genres like fusion, jazz, gospel, or technical rock.
Stable baseplate and anti-slip rubber grip ensure no unwanted movement during play.

Balance of Tradition and Innovation
True to Ludwig’s design philosophy, the Speed Flyer blends vintage aesthetics with modern functionality, making it appealing to both traditionalists and progressive players.

Conclusion

The Ludwig Speed Flyer Pedal is a top-tier choice for drummers who value speed, precision, and Ludwig’s iconic design pedigree. It delivers the responsiveness and durability needed for professional performance while maintaining a smooth, classic feel. Whether you're performing live, tracking in the studio, or rehearsing at home, the Speed Flyer offers exceptional comfort and control for players across genres.

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