Firearms/Gun

The best earbuds for strong hearing protection 2024

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Imagine being at a concert or in a bustling workshop—those loud sounds might be thrilling, but they can wreak havoc on your ears over time. Protecting your hearing is more important than ever, and that’s where the best earbuds for hearing protection come in. They’re compact, comfortable, and packed with features like noise cancellation and sound isolation to shield your ears without sacrificing convenience. Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of earbuds, and I’ve learned the hard way how vital it is to invest in quality protection. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the right pair and keep your hearing safe for the long haul.


Best 33 earbuds for hearing protection comparison table

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Manufacturer

Key Feature

Price

‎G & F Products

NRR of 23 dB for hearing protection.
Adjustable headband for comfort.
Compact and sleek.

Walker's

NRR of 23 dB for protection.
Lightweight design for comfort.
Helps you hear soft sounds.

3M

NRR of 26 dB for excellent protection.
Speech amplification for clear communication.
Cushioned for long-wear comfort.

Walker's

NRR of 22 dB for protection.
Adjustable headband for a better fit.
Lightweight design for comfort.

3M

Listen to music while shooting.
Hear voices clearly.
Soft ear cushions for all-day use.

3M

Bluetooth for music and calls.
NRR of 24 dB for protection.
Cushioned ear cups for comfort.

SureFire

NRR of 24 dB for effective noise blocking.
Soft, comfortable ear tips.
Durable and portable design.

3M

NRR of 30 dB for superior protection.
Cushioned ear cups for long-lasting comfort.
Solid construction for frequent use.

3M

NRR of 30 dB for protection.
Adjustable headband for comfort.
Lightweight for ease of use.

3M

Built-in AM/FM radio for entertainment.
NRR of 24 dB for decent noise protection.
Comfortable ear cushions for long wear.

 Bushnell - Accessory

NRR of 23 dB for solid protection.
Lightweight design for comfort.
Budget-friendly option for casual shooters.

 ‎Howard Leight

NRR of 30 dB for maximum protection.
Cushioned ear cups for comfort.
Durable construction for regular use.

Walker's

Bluetooth for music and calls.
NRR of 23 dB for hearing protection.
Soft ear cups for extended comfort.

Apothecary Products, Inc.

NRR of 29 dB for noise protection.
Soft foam material for easy insertion.
Portable and lightweight for on-the-go use.

Walker's

NRR of 23 dB for protection.
Adjustable headband for comfort.
Lightweight and easy to wear.

3M Standard

NRR of 26 dB for superior noise reduction.
Speech amplification for clear communication.
Cushioned ear cups for comfort.

3M WorkTunes

Built-in AM/FM radio for entertainment.
NRR of 24 dB for decent protection.
Amplifies speech for clear communication.

ZOHAN

NRR of 25 dB for protection.
Adjustable headband for a perfect fit.
Lightweight and comfortable for kids.

3M

NRR of 26 dB for great noise blocking.
Speech amplification helps you hear voices.
Cushioned ear cups for comfort during long shoots.

‎GSM LLC

NRR of 23 dB
Lightweight design
Amplifies soft sounds

Zound Industries

Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connection
80+ hours of battery life
Foldable design for easy storage

Otium Shenzhen Na Yin Technology CO.,LTD.

Bluetooth connection
Noise isolation for clear listening
Long battery life

JBL

Bluetooth 5.0
40mm drivers for clear sound
Hands-free calling

SONY

Industry-leading noise-canceling
30 hours of battery life
Touch-sensitive controls

Apple

‎In-line remote and mic
Compatible with most Apple devices
Compact design

Anker

Deep bass performance.
20 hours of battery life.
Comfortable ear cups

SONY

9mm driver units for clear sound.
Tangle-free design.
In-ear style for a snug fit

Beats

Active noise cancellation.
IPX4-rated for water resistance.
Seamless switching between Apple and Android devices.

OneOdio USA

50mm drivers for high-quality sound.
Comfortable ear cushions.
Foldable design.

Floriogra

NRR of 34 dB for noise reduction.
Adjustable headband for comfort.
Soft ear cushions.

Loop

NRR of 27dB for hearing protection.
Soft silicone material for comfort.
Compact and discreet design.

Decibullz

Customizable fit with thermoplastic material.
High noise reduction rating (NRR of 31dB).
Ideal for shooters and noisy environments.

Shenzhen Fendou Technology Co.. Ltd.

Soft foam material for comfort.
High noise cancellation.
Ideal for light protection during shooting activities.


How Do Headphones Protect Hearing?

Have you ever been somewhere so loud it made your head spin? That’s what your ears deal with in noisy places like concerts or worksites. Over time, it can harm your hearing. But the right headphones, especially the best earbuds for hearing protection, can help keep your ears safe.Headphones protect your hearing in two ways: noise cancellation and noise blocking. Noise-canceling earbuds use tiny microphones to pick up outside sounds. Then, they create opposite sound waves to cancel the noise. It’s like turning down the world’s volume. These are great for planes, offices, or loud crowds.


Best 33 earbuds for hearing protection

3M – 90541-80025T WorkTunes

Pros

  • Built-in AM/FM radio feature.
  • Comfortable and protective.
  • Offers solid hearing protection headphones for noise.

Cons

  • The radio feature may not be necessary for everyone.

The 3M WorkTunes earmuffs combine hearing protection headphones with built-in AM/FM radio, offering a balance of safety and entertainment. Ideal for those who need protection in noisy work environments, these earmuffs help you stay connected with music or news while keeping your ears safe.

Earmuffs Hearing Protection with Low Profile

Pros

  • Low-profile design for comfort.
  • Lightweight, great for extended wear.
  • Provides effective noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection.

Cons

  • May not block the loudest sounds as effectively as larger models.

Earmuffs with a low profile offer reliable hearing protection without the bulk. They’re lightweight and designed to fit comfortably, making them perfect for long periods of use. These ear protection headphones for noise exposure work well in environments like construction or shooting ranges. They ensure comfortable headphones for hearing protection without compromising on noise reduction.

Walker’s Razor Slim Ultra Low Profile

Pros

  • Slim, comfortable design.
  • Best noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection.
  • Perfect for use with helmets.

Cons

  • May not offer as much protection in extremely loud environments.

The Walker’s Razor Slim Ultra Low Profile earmuffs are an excellent choice for those who need hearing protection headphones for noise with a slim design. Ideal for both shooting and industrial use, these earmuffs provide reliable noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection. The sleek design makes them great for users who wear helmets or other headgear.

3M PELTOR Ear Muffs

Pros

  • Excellent noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection.
  • Comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Durable for tough environments.

Cons

  • A bit bulky compared to some low-profile models.

The 3M PELTOR Ear Muffs are popular headphones for hearing protection when working in noisy environments. Whether you’re on a construction site or a shooting range, these earmuffs offer excellent sound reduction and comfort. The padded design makes them a top choice for people who need durable ear protection headphones for noise exposure.

Walker’s Standard Earmuffs

Pros

  • Great value for money.
  • Comfortable for extended use.
  • Comfortable headphones for hearing protection.

Cons

  • Not as effective at blocking higher frequencies.

For reliable hearing protection headphones for construction and general use, Walker’s Standard Earmuffs are a great choice. They offer solid noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection with a simple, user-friendly design. These earmuffs are perfect for anyone needing basic, effective ear protection headphones for noise exposure without extra features.

3M WorkTunes Connect

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls.
  • Comfortable for long use.
  • Best hearing protection headphones for noisy environments.

Cons

  • Slightly more expensive than other models.

The 3M WorkTunes Connect earmuffs provide excellent hearing protection headphones for noise with Bluetooth connectivity. These headphones for hearing protection are perfect for people who want to stream music or take calls while working. Whether you’re on a construction site or in a noisy workshop, they keep you safe and connected.

SureFire EP4 Sonic

Pros

  • Compact and low-profile.
  • Sound amplification for clear conversations.
  • Comfortable for long wear.

Cons

  • May not block noise as effectively as larger earmuffs.

SureFire EP4 Sonic earplugs offer excellent hearing protection for noise with a compact, low-profile design. These earplugs feature sound amplification to hear conversations while blocking harmful noise, making them perfect for shooting or other loud activities. They offer an affordable and effective solution for ear protection headphones for noise exposure.

3M H10A Peltor Optime

Pros

  • Superior noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection.
  • Comfortable for long periods.
  • Durable and long-lasting.

Cons

  • Slightly bulkier than low-profile options.

The 3M Peltor Optime H10A earmuffs provide superior noise reduction for industrial and recreational use. Whether you’re working on a construction site or at a shooting range, these earmuffs are designed for all-day comfort and high protection. They offer one of the best noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection available.

3M Pro-Grade Earmuff

Pros

  • Best hearing protection headphones for high-noise environments.
  • Provides large, cushioned ear cups.
  • Comfortable for extended use.

Cons

  • Bulky design might be uncomfortable for some users.

3M Pro-Grade Earmuff offers professional-level hearing protection. These earmuffs are designed for heavy-duty environments, providing a high level of noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection. Perfect for construction sites or any environment with dangerously high noise levels, these earmuffs help protect your hearing in the most demanding conditions.

3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM

Pros

  • Bluetooth and AM/FM features.
  • Noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection.
  • Comfortable for long periods.

Cons

  • Radio reception might not be perfect everywhere.

3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM earmuffs are an all-in-one solution for both entertainment and hearing protection. They feature Bluetooth connectivity and an AM/FM radio, making them ideal for workers who want to stay connected while protecting their ears. These earmuffs offer excellent hearing protection and are a great option for those in noisy environments.

Walker’s Shooting Ear & Hearing Protection

Pros

  • Perfect for shooting range use.
  • Adjustable fit for comfort.
  • Excellent noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection.

Cons

  • Not as effective for extremely loud environments.

Walker’s Shooting Ear & Hearing Protection earmuffs are specifically designed for shooting sports. They combine hearing protection headphones with a design that allows you to hear important sounds, like range commands, without compromising on ear safety. Perfect for anyone looking for ear protection headphones for noise exposure while shooting.

Howard Leight by Honeywell Laser

Pros

  • Comfortable and durable.
  • Provides excellent noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection.
  • Good for industrial environments.

Cons

  • Bulkier than some other earmuffs.

Howard Leight by Honeywell Laser earmuffs offer great protection from loud noises. These earmuffs are ideal for industrial or recreational use, providing hearing protection headphones with a comfortable fit. The padded ear cups ensure they stay comfortable even during long hours of use.

Walker’s Silencer Wireless

Pros

  • Wireless connectivity for music and calls.
  • Comfortable for long wear.
  • Best hearing protection headphones for those who need entertainment.

Cons

  • Higher price due to wireless features.

Walker’s Silencer Wireless earmuffs offer hearing protection headphones for noise exposure along with Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music or making calls. Whether you’re at the range or working in a noisy environment, these earmuffs keep you connected and protected.

Flents Foam Ear Plugs

Pros

  • Affordable and easy to use.
  • Comfortable for extended wear.
  • Great for moderate noise levels.

Cons

  • Less effective than earmuffs for very loud noises.

Flents Foam Ear Plugs offer an easy and affordable solution for hearing protection headphones. These disposable earplugs are perfect for sleeping, attending concerts, or working in noisy areas. Though not as effective as larger earmuffs, they provide sufficient protection for moderate noise levels.

Walker’s Shooting Training

Pros

  • Ideal for shooting training.
  • Adjustable for a perfect fit.
  • Effective noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection.

Cons

  • May not provide the same level of protection in extreme noise situations.

Walker’s Shooting Training Protection earmuffs are designed to provide excellent protection while practicing at the shooting range. These earmuffs are lightweight and adjustable, making them ideal for hearing protection headphones for noise during shooting. They reduce harmful sounds while still letting you hear necessary commands.

3M PELTOR Ear Muffs

Pros

  • Blocks harmful sounds well.
  • Comfortable for long wear.
  • Durable and tough for harsh environments.

Cons

  • A bit bulkier than other models.

These 3M PELTOR Ear Muffs are a must-have if you’re working in loud environments like construction sites or shooting ranges. They’re designed to provide solid hearing protection for noise exposure without compromising comfort. The padded design ensures a snug fit, even for long hours of use. These earmuffs are built to block out harmful sounds effectively. They’re reliable and durable, making them a go-to choice for those who need serious protection.

3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM Hearing Protector

Pros

  • Built-in AM/FM radio for entertainment.
  • Comfortable enough for long shifts.
  • Bluetooth for music streaming and calls.

Cons

  • The radio reception isn’t always the best.

The 3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM Hearing Protector combines hearing protection with entertainment, making it a great option for those who want to listen to music or stay updated on news while they work. Whether you’re in a noisy workshop or construction zone, this device helps block out harmful noise while you enjoy your favorite radio stations. The Bluetooth feature also lets you stream music directly from your phone, keeping you connected and protected.

ZOHAN EM030 Kids Ear Protection Safety Ear

Pros

  • Adjustable fit for growing kids.
  • Comfortable with soft padding.
  • Blocks harmful noise effectively.

Cons

  • Not as durable as some adult models.

When it comes to protecting young ears, the ZOHAN EM030 Kids Ear Protection is an excellent choice. These earmuffs are designed specifically for children, providing an adjustable fit and solid noise reduction. Whether you’re at a concert, on a plane, or just in a noisy environment, these earmuffs ensure your kids’ hearing stays safe without discomfort. They’re lightweight and cushioned, making them comfortable for extended use.

3M PELTOR Ear Muffs

Pros

  • Blocks harmful sounds well.
  • Comfortable for long wear.
  • Durable and tough for harsh environments.

Cons

  • A bit bulkier than other models.

These 3M PELTOR Ear Muffs are a must-have if you’re working in loud environments like construction sites or shooting ranges. They’re designed to provide solid hearing protection for noise exposure without compromising comfort. The padded design ensures a snug fit, even for long hours of use. These earmuffs are built to block out harmful sounds effectively. They’re reliable and durable, making them a go-to choice for those who need serious protection.

Walker’s Razor Slim Ultra Low Profile

Pros

  • Slim, comfortable design.
  • Excellent at reducing noise.
  • Great for use with helmets.

Cons

  • May not provide the best protection in extreme noise conditions.

The Walker’s Razor Slim Ultra Low Profile earmuffs are a favorite among shooters and those in industrial settings. With their sleek, slim design, they don’t compromise on comfort or protection. These earmuffs fit easily under a helmet, making them ideal for various work environments. They offer a great balance of noise-blocking headphones for hearing protection while ensuring comfort for long hours.

Marshall Major IV

Pros

  • Great sound quality.
  • Comfortable for extended wear.
  • Sleek, stylish design.

Cons

  • Not sufficient for extremely loud environments.

The Marshall Major IV On-Ear headphones are more than just stylish—they offer solid noise isolation, making them a great option for light hearing protection when working. These headphones provide comfortable wear and high-quality sound, allowing you to block out some background noise while enjoying music. While not designed for industrial use, they’re perfect for moderate environments like offices or casual workspaces.

Otium Bluetooth Headphones

Pros

  • Affordable and easy to use.
  • Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music.
  • Comfortable for long use.

Cons

  • Not the best at blocking out very loud noise.

If you’re looking for wireless headphones for hearing protection, the Otium Bluetooth Headphones offer great value. They’re designed for casual wear, whether you’re working, exercising, or just relaxing. With a comfortable fit and Bluetooth connectivity, you can stream music or take calls while blocking out some noise. They’re lightweight and affordable, making them an accessible option for many.

JBL Tune 510BT

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Clear, crisp sound.
  • Wireless for added convenience.

Cons

  • May not block extreme levels of noise.

The JBL Tune 510BT headphones are a solid option if you’re looking for comfortable headphones for hearing protection. These wireless headphones provide good sound quality and some noise isolation, making them suitable for moderate noise environments. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and offer an affordable price point without compromising on comfort or style.

Sony WH-1000XM4

Pros

  • Exceptional noise-canceling performance.
  • Comfortable all-day wear.
  • Long-lasting battery life.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other options.

When it comes to best noise-canceling headphones for hearing protection, the Sony WH-1000XM4 are top-tier. These headphones are perfect for blocking out loud noises like construction sounds or air travel. The noise-canceling technology is among the best in the industry, ensuring you can focus on work or relaxation without any distractions. They also provide an ultra-comfortable fit, making them great for long periods of use.

Apple EarPods Headphones

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Affordable option.
  • Decent sound isolation.

Cons

  • Not sufficient for high noise exposure.

If you need a simple solution for hearing protection headphones when working, the Apple EarPods are a great starting point. They provide decent sound isolation, making them a good option for moderate noise levels like in a cafe or office. While not ideal for extremely loud environments, they’re lightweight, easy to carry, and compatible with all Apple devices.

Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid

Pros

  • Comfortable for long periods of wear.
  • Active noise-canceling technology for a quiet environment.
  • Good battery life for extended use.

Cons

  • Sound quality may not be as rich as high-end models.

The Soundcore Anker Life headphones offer an excellent balance between sound quality and noise isolation, making them a solid choice for hearing protection when you need it most. Their ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for extended wear, while the noise-canceling technology helps block out unwanted noise. Perfect for work or casual use, these headphones provide a safe and comfortable listening experience.

Sony MDREX15LP

Pros

  • Affordable for everyday use.
  • Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Good sound quality for the price.

Cons

  • Not the best at blocking out extremely loud noises.

The Sony MDREX15LP is a lightweight and affordable choice for those looking for basic hearing protection headphones. With decent noise isolation, these headphones are perfect for moderate noise environments. They’re ideal for anyone looking for simple yet effective hearing protection without breaking the bank.

Beats Studio Buds

Pros

  • Active noise cancellation for a quiet, focused environment.
  • Comfortable in-ear fit for extended use.
  • Good sound quality and bass response.

Cons

  • May not be as effective in extreme noise environments.

Beats Studio Buds offer great noise-canceling features in a compact, wireless design. They’re a perfect option for those who want hearing protection while working, commuting, or just relaxing. With their sleek design and excellent sound, they make for an all-in-one solution for keeping your ears safe from loud environments.

OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones

Pros

  • Wired design ensures a stable connection.
  • Comfortable over-ear cups for long use.
  • Great sound quality at an affordable price.

Cons

  • Wired connection limits mobility.

If you’re looking for affordable, reliable hearing protection, the OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones are a great pick. These headphones offer solid noise isolation and are perfect for noisy work environments like construction sites. The over-ear design helps block out distractions, providing a quieter workspace.

2 Pack 34dB Noise Canceling Headphones

Pros

  • 34dB noise reduction provides excellent hearing protection.
  • Comfortable for all-day use.
  • Great for industrial or loud environments.

Cons

  • Bulkier design might not suit everyone’s preferences.

These 34dB noise-canceling headphones are a game-changer when it comes to protecting your hearing in loud environments. The pair ensures maximum noise reduction, making them ideal for construction or woodworking jobs. They are built for durability and comfort, so you can focus on your work without worrying about hearing damage.

Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs

Pros

  • Comfortable for long-term wear.
  • Effective noise reduction without complete isolation.
  • Discreet and lightweight.

Cons

  • Not as effective in extremely loud environments.

Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs are a top choice for individuals seeking hearing protection with a low profile. They reduce noise effectively without completely isolating you, so you can still hear important sounds, like conversations. Ideal for use in crowded or noisy environments, these earplugs offer an unobtrusive solution to hearing protection.

Decibullz – Custom Molded Earplugs

Pros

  • Custom fit for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
  • Excellent sound isolation.
  • Reusable and durable.

Cons

  • Requires molding process, which may take a bit of time.

Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs are designed to offer personalized fit and maximum protection. They are custom-molded to your ear, providing a comfortable and secure seal that blocks out harmful sounds while still allowing you to hear essential noises. Whether you’re working in construction or attending a concert, these earplugs provide the protection you need.

Ear Plugs for Sleeping Noise Cancelling

Pros

  • Soft and comfortable for extended use.
  • Highly effective at reducing noise.
  • Affordable and easy to use.

Cons

  • May not offer complete protection in very loud environments.

Ear Plugs for Sleeping Noise Cancelling are a perfect solution for individuals who want to block out disruptive noise during sleep. These earplugs are soft and comfortable, providing a high level of sound isolation to ensure a peaceful night’s rest. They’re also ideal for reducing noise when working in noisy environments or traveling.


Earmuffs vs. Earbuds for Hearing Protection

Choosing the right protection for your ears can be tricky. Both earmuffs and earbuds offer great hearing protection, but each works differently.

Earbuds are small, light, and easy to carry. They fit in your ear and block out noise. Some of the best earbuds for hearing protection have features like noise cancellation and sound isolation. These are great for places like concerts or workshops, where you need to hear some sounds but block out the harmful noise.

Earmuffs are bigger but offer more coverage. They are better for industrial noise or shooting environments. I’ve used hearing protection headphones for shooting, and they work well in these loud settings. They also let you hear low sounds, which can be helpful when you need situational awareness.

So, when do you choose one over the other? Earbuds are perfect for moderate noise. They are easy to wear and carry around. But if you need heavy-duty protection, like in a factory or shooting range, earmuffs are your best bet.Both options protect your hearing. But the right choice depends on what you’re doing. For casual use, earbuds for ear protection work great. For extreme noise, earmuffs are the way to go.

Buying Guide: Best earbuds for hearing protection

When it comes to protecting your hearing while enjoying high-quality audio or blocking out noise, choosing the right earbuds is crucial. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.

1. Types of Hearing Protection Earbuds

2. Key Features to Consider

3. Iconic Brands

4. Intended Use

5. Price Range

Hearing protection earbuds vary in price, with basic models starting around $30 and premium options going up to $300+. Define your budget and prioritize the features you need most.

6. Additional Tips


FAQ of Best earbuds for hearing protection

What are the best earbuds for hearing protection?

The best earbuds for hearing protection are those designed with noise reduction technology, such as the 3M PELTOR EEP-100 or ISOtunes PRO 2.0. These models offer excellent noise isolation and are ideal for both noisy work environments and leisure activities.

How do noise-canceling earbuds protect your hearing?

Noise-canceling earbuds reduce harmful ambient sounds by using active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which blocks out external noise and allows you to listen to audio at a lower, safer volume.

Are noise-isolating earbuds better than noise-canceling earbuds for hearing protection?

Both serve different purposes, but noise-isolating earbuds physically block sound by creating a seal in your ear, making them effective for hearing protection in extremely loud environments. Noise-canceling earbuds are better for moderate noise and improving audio clarity.

Can I use hearing protection earbuds for music?

Yes, many hearing protection earbuds, like the ISOtunes series, are designed for both music and protection. They combine noise reduction with high-quality audio playback to keep your ears safe while enjoying music.

What should I look for when choosing earbuds for hearing protection?

When choosing earbuds, look for a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), durable materials, comfort, and compatibility with your desired use case (e.g., work, travel, or music). Models with certifications for hearing protection are ideal.


Which is the best earbuds for hearing protection?

Ear Plugs for Sleeping Noise Cancelling are a perfect solution for individuals who want to block out disruptive noise during sleep. These earplugs are soft and comfortable, providing a high level of sound isolation to ensure a peaceful night’s rest. They’re also ideal for reducing noise when working in noisy environments or traveling.

Conclusion

Choosing the best earbuds for hearing protection ensures you safeguard your ears while enjoying quality sound. These earbuds deliver comfort, durability, and noise reduction, making them ideal for various environments. Protecting your hearing requires the right tools, and investing in the best earbuds for hearing protection keeps your hearing safe and stress-free.

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