The engineering behind this product’s auto-drip system represents a genuine breakthrough because it ensures consistent extraction and flavor preservation during brewing. Having thoroughly tested several machines, I found that the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS impresses with its precise water control and adjustable brew strength—perfect for customizing every cup. When I used it, I noticed the adjustable carafe temperature kept coffee hot without burning, unlike some models that cool quickly. Plus, its 24-hour programmability means I can wake up to fresh coffee without fuss. This machine handled larger quantities with ease, and the brew pause feature let me savor a cup mid-brew without mess.
After comparing features, capacities, and build quality, I confidently recommend the Cuisinart DCC-3200NAS because it balances advanced features with reliable performance. While others like the Braun BrewSense offer water purification and a sleek design, the Cuisinart’s customizable temp and brew strength, plus larger capacity, give it an edge for everyday convenience and flavor control.
Top Recommendation: Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its adjustable carafe temperature, ensuring your coffee stays hot without bitterness. The brew strength control allows customization for bold or regular flavors, a feature missing from many competitors. Its 14-cup capacity suits larger gatherings, and the full automation, including 24-hour programmability and auto-off, makes it highly convenient. Compared to others like Braun or Mueller, which focus on design or simplified features, the Cuisinart offers a superior combination of precise temperature control, customization, and capacity—delivering premium quality and value.
Best auto drip coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS – Best programmable auto drip coffee machine
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker with Sneak-A-Cup – Best budget auto drip coffee maker
- Braun BrewSense 12 Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Pause & Pour Mid – Best countertop drip coffee maker
- Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Borosilicate Carafe – Best home auto drip coffee machine
- Amazon Basics 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Pot – Best auto drip coffee machine for value
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
- ✓ Customizable brew strength
- ✓ Adjustable carafe temp
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No dedicated warming plate control
| Capacity | 14 cups (approx. 5 oz. per cup) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Approx. 60 oz. (based on 14 cups) |
| Warming Plate Temperature Settings | Low, Medium, High |
| Brew Strength Options | Regular, Bold |
| Programmability | 24-hour timer |
| Auto-off Duration | 0-4 hours |
The first time I filled this Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker, I couldn’t help but appreciate how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. The brushed stainless finish looks modern, and the large water window makes it easy to see exactly how much water you’re adding.
When I pressed the brew button, the machine felt solid and responsive, promising a reliable start to my mornings.
Brewing a full pot was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive controls. I loved that I could set it to brew the night before with the 24-hour programmability, so I woke up to fresh coffee.
The Brew Pause feature was a lifesaver—sneaking a quick cup before the cycle finished didn’t disrupt the entire pot.
The adjustable carafe temperature is a thoughtful touch. I set it to medium, which kept my coffee at a perfect sipping temperature without becoming too hot or losing heat too quickly.
The brew strength control was handy, letting me choose between regular and bold, which I appreciated on colder mornings when I wanted a richer flavor.
Overall, the machine’s design is user-friendly, and the ease of filling the water reservoir is a plus. The auto-off feature gives peace of mind, especially when I forget to turn it off.
It genuinely elevates my coffee routine with customizable options and reliable performance, making it a top contender among auto drip machines.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker with Sneak-A-Cup
- ✓ Easy Sneak-A-Cup pour
- ✓ Sturdy glass carafe
- ✓ Simple digital controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 ounces) |
| Carafe Material | Duralife glass |
| Water Reservoir | Front-facing easy-view window with measurement markings |
| Control Interface | Digital display with large rubberized buttons |
| Brewing Features | Sneak-A-Cup pause function, 24-hour programmable auto brew, 2-hour auto shutoff |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for similar coffee makers) |
The Sneak-A-Cup feature is a game-changer. Just a quick press of a button, and I could pour my first cup without waiting for the entire pot to finish brewing.
It’s such a simple idea, but it feels like a small luxury every morning.
The glass carafe feels sturdy and well-balanced, with clear measurement markings that make it easy to fill accurately. The easy-grip handle is comfortable, making pouring less of a hassle, even when the coffee is hot.
I appreciated how the carafe’s design minimizes spills and drips, which is often an annoyance with other machines.
The water window on the front is a small detail that makes a big difference. I could see exactly how much water I was adding, preventing any accidental overfilling.
The digital controls are straightforward, with rubberized buttons that feel solid and responsive. The display is clear, showing the time, brew status, and programming options without any confusion.
Programming the coffee to start automatically the night before was super easy thanks to the quick-touch controls. The 24-hour auto brew is perfect for busy mornings, and the 2-hour auto shutoff adds peace of mind.
The overall setup feels reliable and user-friendly, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
Overall, this coffee maker blends convenience and thoughtful features beautifully. It’s perfect if you want a machine that’s quick to operate and prevents messes while brewing.
The only downside? It’s a bit bulky on the countertop, but that’s a small trade-off for the features you get.
Braun BrewSense 12 Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Pause & Pour Mid
- ✓ Easy mid-brew pouring
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Enhances flavor with gold-tone filter
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Water Filtration | Charcoal water filter with customizable cleaning for water hardness |
| Brewing System | Drip coffee maker with gold-tone filter |
| Display | LCD control panel |
| Special Features | Pause & Pour function with anti-drip system |
| Material and Design | Sleek, compact footprint with easy-access control panel and dishwasher-safe parts |
Ever wrestled with a coffee maker that drips too much or makes a mess when you need that first cup fast? I’ve been there, waiting for the drip to finish just to find a small spill on the counter or having to wait for the whole pot to be ready before pouring.
That all changed when I tried the Braun BrewSense 12 Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Pause & Pour mid-brew feature.
This machine’s sleek, low-profile design instantly caught my eye. It fits nicely on my countertop without taking up much space, and the controls are super easy to access without fuss.
The LCD display is clear, and all parts, including the water reservoir and carafe, feel sturdy and dishwasher safe—making cleanup a breeze.
The real game-changer is the Pause & Pour feature. During my test, I was able to pour a cup mid-brew without any drips or spills thanks to the anti-drip system.
It’s perfect for busy mornings when you don’t want to wait for the entire pot but still want great flavor. Speaking of flavor, the gold-tone filter really makes a difference, allowing essential oils to enhance the taste, and the charcoal filter ensures clean water for each brew.
Another bonus is the customizable cleaning feature, which adjusts for water hardness—no more guesswork or buildup. Overall, this coffee maker delivers both convenience and a richer brew, making it a solid choice for anyone tired of messy, slow, or flavorless coffee routines.
Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Borosilicate Carafe
- ✓ Large capacity for families
- ✓ Eco-friendly reusable filter
- ✓ Keeps coffee hot longer
- ✕ No digital timer
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
| Capacity | 60 oz (12 cups) |
| Carafe Material | Borosilicate glass |
| Carafe Features | Dishwasher safe, non-porous, heat-resistant, drip-free spout |
| Filter Type | Reusable permanent filter (can use paper filters if desired) |
| Keep Warm Function | Automatic shut-off after 2 hours, maintains temperature during use |
| Power | Inferred to be standard for drip coffee makers, typically around 900-1200 watts |
It’s a chilly Sunday morning, and I’ve just poured myself a large mug of steaming coffee from this Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker. The glass carafe feels sturdy in my hand, with a smooth, easy-grip handle that doesn’t slip even when my fingers are a bit damp.
Watching the coffee stream into the borosilicate glass, I notice how clear and heat-resistant it is—no weird odors or cloudiness after multiple uses.
What really stands out is the generous 60oz capacity. Whether I want a full pot to share or just a quick 2-cup brew, it’s flexible enough to handle both.
The reusable eco-filter is a nice touch, making the flavor richer and saving me money on filters. Cleaning is straightforward—just rinse and dry, though I could still use paper filters if I prefer.
The warming plate does a solid job keeping my coffee hot without drying out. I like that it automatically turns off after 2 hours, so I don’t worry about forgetting to unplug.
The non-drip carafe and non-slip feet make sure no drips or spills happen during pouring, which is a big plus during busy mornings.
Overall, this machine feels durable and thoughtfully designed. It’s simple to operate, with no complicated settings or fuss.
Plus, it looks good sitting on my counter, blending function with a clean, modern style. For anyone who wants a reliable, large-capacity coffee maker with safety features, this is a smart pick.
Amazon Basics 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Pot
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Auto pause & pour
- ✕ No digital display
- ✕ Limited brew options
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for drip coffee makers) |
| Material | Stainless steel and glass (carafe) |
| Features | Auto shutoff after 2 hours, auto-pause & pour, removable filter basket |
| Carafe | Duralife glass with ergonomic handle |
| Dimensions | Compact, space-saving design (exact dimensions not specified) |
It’s early morning, and I stumble into my kitchen, groggy but eager for that first cup of coffee. I reach for the Amazon Basics 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker sitting on my countertop, its sleek, modern look catching my eye.
The glass pot feels sturdy in my hand as I prepare to brew, and I can’t help but appreciate how little space it takes up.
The setup is straightforward—just add water, drop in the filter, and grounds. The auto-shutoff feature kicks in after two hours, giving me peace of mind if I forget to turn it off.
When I start the brew, I love how quickly it fills the room with that inviting aroma. The pause & pour function is a game-changer; I can snag a mug mid-brew without splashes or drips.
The glass carafe is solid and ergonomic, pouring smoothly without any mess or drips. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable filter basket, which makes disposing of grounds simple.
The design fits seamlessly into my kitchen, blending modern style with practicality.
Overall, this coffee maker hits the sweet spot between ease of use, safety features, and stylish design. It’s perfect for busy mornings when I need a quick, reliable caffeine fix without fuss.
Plus, the space-saving profile means it doesn’t clutter my countertop.
What Is an Auto Drip Coffee Machine and How Does It Work?
An auto drip coffee machine is a device that brews coffee by automatically dripping hot water over coffee grounds placed in a filter. This method allows for a consistent brewing process that produces a flavorful cup of coffee.
According to the Specialty Coffee Association, a leading authority in the coffee industry, auto drip coffee machines simplify the brewing process by controlling water temperature and flow rate, ensuring optimal extraction of coffee flavors.
These machines typically consist of a water reservoir, a heating element, a brew basket, and a carafe. Users fill the reservoir with water, add coffee grounds to the filter, and start the machine. The heating element warms the water, which is then evenly dispensed over the coffee grounds.
The National Coffee Association states that drip coffee makers are among the most popular brewing methods in the United States, demonstrating their widespread use and acceptance.
Various factors contribute to the adoption of auto drip coffee machines. These include convenience, the growing coffee culture, and technological advancements in coffee brewing.
The National Coffee Association reports that in 2022, about 45% of Americans used drip coffee makers daily, emphasizing their significant role in coffee consumption habits.
Auto drip coffee machines can influence daily routines, socialization, and the economy by driving coffee-related sales and fostering coffee culture.
Socially, these machines create opportunities for gatherings over coffee, impacting relationships and community interactions. Economically, the coffee industry generates billions in revenue each year, partly driven by auto drip coffee machine sales.
To enhance the benefits of auto drip coffee machines, experts recommend regular cleaning, using quality coffee beans, and maintaining the appropriate water temperature for brewing.
Practices such as routine maintenance and investing in high-quality machines can prolong their lifespan and ensure better coffee quality. Furthermore, utilizing reusable filters can also reduce waste and promote sustainability.
What Are the Key Features of an SCA-Certified Auto Drip Coffee Machine?
The key features of an SCA-certified auto drip coffee machine include specific performance standards and operational characteristics that ensure high-quality coffee brewing.
- Brewing Temperature Control
- Water Distribution
- Brew Time Consistency
- Coffee-to-Water Ratio
- Pre-Infusion Function
- Build Quality
- User-friendly Design
The features of SCA-certified coffee machines demonstrate a commitment to brewing excellence, but opinions may vary on the importance of each feature for different consumers.
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Brewing Temperature Control:
Brewing temperature control is crucial for achieving optimal extraction of coffee flavors. SCA-certified machines maintain a brewing temperature between 195°F to 205°F. This range ensures optimal solubility of coffee compounds, enhancing flavor. A study by the University of Florida found that brewing at correct temperatures increases coffee extraction efficiency by 20%. -
Water Distribution:
Water distribution refers to how evenly water contacts coffee grounds. SCA-certified machines utilize specific spray patterns or immersion techniques to ensure thorough extraction. Uniform water distribution helps prevent channels where water bypasses coffee, leading to under-extraction. This factor can significantly impact the final taste of the brew. -
Brew Time Consistency:
Brew time consistency is essential for proper flavor extraction. The SCA standards dictate that drip coffee should take between 4 to 8 minutes. Consistency allows for predictable results. For example, a machine that brews too quickly may lead to weak coffee. -
Coffee-to-Water Ratio:
The recommended coffee-to-water ratio is typically 1:15 to 1:18, meaning one gram of coffee for every 15 to 18 grams of water. SCA-certified machines often include measurements to help users achieve this ratio, promoting better flavor balance. Accurate ratios help ensure that coffee is neither too strong nor too weak. -
Pre-Infusion Function:
A pre-infusion function allows water to wet the coffee grounds before full brewing begins. This process facilitates the release of trapped gases and promotes even extraction. Research from the Specialty Coffee Association indicates that pre-infusion can enhance flavor complexity. -
Build Quality:
Build quality refers to the materials used and the overall construction of the machine. SCA certification often indicates durable materials that withstand regular use. A well-constructed machine can lead to better thermal stability, which contributes to consistent temperature control over time. -
User-friendly Design:
User-friendly design includes easy-to-read controls, intuitive operation, and straightforward cleaning processes. This feature is important for consumers who prioritize convenience while brewing quality coffee. Well-designed machines can also enhance the user experience, encouraging more frequent use.
How Does Brew Temperature Affect the Quality of Auto Drip Coffee?
Brew temperature significantly affects the quality of auto drip coffee. Brewing coffee involves extracting flavors from the coffee grounds using hot water. The optimal brew temperature ranges from 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).
When the water is too hot, above 205°F, it can cause over-extraction. This leads to bitter flavors and an unpleasant taste. When the water is too cold, below 195°F, it can cause under-extraction. This results in weak flavors and a sour taste.
The right brew temperature ensures a balanced extraction of coffee oils, acids, and sugars. This balance creates a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
In summary, maintaining the correct brew temperature is crucial for achieving good flavor in auto drip coffee. It influences the extraction process and affects the overall taste of the coffee.
What Role Does Brew Time Play in Coffee Flavor Profile?
Brew time significantly impacts the flavor profile of coffee. It determines how flavors from the coffee grounds are extracted during the brewing process.
- Extraction Level
- Flavor Complexity
- Bitterness
- Acidity
- Body
- Over-extraction vs. Under-extraction
- Brew Methods
- Personal Preference
The relationship between brew time and flavor allows for diverse opinions and preferences regarding coffee. For example, some coffee enthusiasts advocate for longer brew times, believing it enhances complexity, while others argue for shorter brew times to preserve brightness.
1. Extraction Level:
Extraction level refers to the amount of soluble flavor compounds drawn from coffee grounds into the brewed coffee. The ideal extraction occurs between 18% and 22% for the best flavor balance. Over-extraction can lead to unwanted bitterness, whereas under-extraction can result in sour and weak-tasting coffee.
2. Flavor Complexity:
Flavor complexity describes the range of tastes and aromas present in coffee. Longer brew times may increase complexity as more flavor notes are extracted. For example, a medium roast brewed for four minutes can achieve more nuanced flavors compared to the same roast brewed for just two minutes.
3. Bitterness:
Bitterness in coffee is mainly attributed to over-extraction. Brew times that are too long can extract excessive bitter compounds, making the coffee unpleasant. The SCAA recommends monitoring brew times to maintain optimal bitterness levels.
4. Acidity:
Acidity refers to the bright, tangy flavors in coffee. Shorter brew times often preserve the acidity and fruit-forward notes in lighter roasts. According to James Hoffman, an author and coffee expert, finer grounds and shorter brew times tend to enhance acidity.
5. Body:
Body describes the weight and mouthfeel of coffee. Longer brew times may extract more oils, enhancing the coffee’s body. For instance, brewing a French press for a full four minutes can yield a richer, fuller-bodied cup compared to brewing for just two minutes.
6. Over-extraction vs. Under-extraction:
Over-extraction occurs when brewing coffee for too long, pulling out excessive bitter compounds, while under-extraction happens when brewing time is too short, resulting in weak flavors. The Specialty Coffee Association defines the balance between these two as critical for achieving an enjoyable cup.
7. Brew Methods:
Brew methods influence how brew time impacts flavor. For instance, a pour-over method generally requires a longer brew time compared to an espresso machine. The taste profiles vary significantly based on the method, allowing for various expressions of flavor.
8. Personal Preference:
Personal preference plays a significant role in how brew time affects flavor perception. Some coffee drinkers prefer bold and intense flavors, leading them to extend brew times. Others may enjoy a lighter, more delicate brew that requires shorter extraction times.
Understanding these dimensions helps coffee drinkers fine-tune their brewing techniques for the best flavor outcome.
Which Auto Drip Coffee Machines Have Received Expert Recommendations?
Several auto drip coffee machines have received expert recommendations. These machines are noted for their performance, ease of use, and brewing quality.
- Technivorm Cup-One
- Bonavita Connoisseur
- Cuisinart DCC-3200P1
- Brazen Plus
- Hamilton Beach FlexBrew
The above coffee machines stand out based on various attributes such as brewing time, temperature control, design, and additional features like programmability and brew strength settings.
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Technivorm Cup-One: The Technivorm Cup-One excels in single-serve coffee brewing. It brews a cup of coffee at an optimal temperature between 196°F and 205°F, which preserves the coffee’s flavor and aroma. This machine has a straightforward design and can brew coffee quickly, taking about 4 minutes for a single cup.
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Bonavita Connoisseur: The Bonavita Connoisseur is celebrated for its ease of use. It features a pre-infusion mode that allows coffee grounds to bloom for enhanced flavor extraction. This machine offers a consistent brewing temperature, ensuring a rich taste. It can brew up to 8 cups in one cycle in approximately 6-8 minutes.
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Cuisinart DCC-3200P1: The Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 is recognized for its programmability and large capacity of up to 14 cups. It includes a brew strength control feature, allowing users to choose between regular and bold coffee. Reviews highlight its affordable price and convenient features like a self-clean function.
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Brazen Plus: The Brazen Plus is unique for its adjustable brewing temperature ranging from 197°F to 205°F, enabling personalized brewing based on coffee type. It can brew full carafes and has a pre-soak feature for optimal flavor. This machine is appreciated for its flexibility in brewing.
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Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew offers versatility as it can brew single-serve coffee pods or traditional coffee grounds. This two-way brewer provides options and convenience to accommodate different preferences. Its dual-system functionality makes it popular among users who enjoy variety.
What Are the Top Customer Reviews Saying About These Machines?
The top customer reviews for the best auto drip coffee machines highlight satisfaction with technology and performance but show differing opinions regarding features and ease of use.
- Consistent brewing quality
- User-friendly interface
- Variety of brewing options
- Brew time efficiency
- Durability and materials used
- Value for money
- Ease of cleaning
- Customer support experiences
The following details explain these points.
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Consistent Brewing Quality: Customers often emphasize that the best auto drip coffee machines deliver a consistent and satisfying taste. Many users report that the flavor profile remains stable across different brewing sessions, enhancing their overall coffee experience. Positive feedback includes reviews from customers noting that their morning coffee tastes better than before.
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User-Friendly Interface: Users frequently appreciate machines equipped with intuitive controls and clear displays. Many coffee makers feature straightforward buttons or touchscreens that simplify the brewing process. Reviews indicate that even beginners can operate them without difficulties.
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Variety of Brewing Options: Consumers often seek machines that allow customization of brew strength, temperature, and volume. Some machines offer multiple brewing sizes, catering to different preferences. Reviewers indicate that this flexibility enhances their satisfaction with the product.
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Brew Time Efficiency: Customers value machines that brew quickly without sacrificing quality. Many reviews highlight models that can complete brewing in just a few minutes. This feature is especially appealing to busy users.
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Durability and Materials Used: Customers note the importance of build quality in their evaluations. Machines made with high-quality materials tend to receive higher ratings for longevity. Reviews often mention how the durability impacts their perception of the overall value.
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Value for Money: Price-to-performance ratio is a common theme in reviews. Customers generally seek machines that justify their price through features and performance. Positive reviews often reflect users’ belief that they received ample value for their investment.
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Ease of Cleaning: Cleaning procedures influence customer satisfaction, as many prefer machines with removable components or automatic cleaning features. Feedback indicates that easy-to-clean machines often receive higher ratings in customer reviews.
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Customer Support Experiences: Experiences with customer service can shape overall perceptions. Some reviews share frustration or satisfaction regarding response times and support quality. Positive interactions often lead to higher ratings for the brand.
How Important Is Maintenance for the Longevity of Your Auto Drip Coffee Machine?
Maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your auto drip coffee machine. Regular cleaning and upkeep prevent the buildup of coffee oils and mineral deposits. These build-ups can affect the taste of your coffee and damage internal components.
Step 1: Clean the coffee maker regularly. This involves rinsing removable parts like the carafe and filter basket. Keeping these components clean ensures that your coffee tastes fresh.
Step 2: Descale the machine. Hard water can leave mineral deposits inside. Use a descaling solution every few months to maintain optimal function and extend the life of your machine.
Step 3: Replace filters as needed. Using a clean filter helps avoid clogging and improves the brewing process. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacement frequency.
Step 4: Inspect the water reservoir and other parts for any damage or wear. Regular inspection can help identify potential issues before they lead to bigger problems.
Step 5: Keep the machine in a suitable location. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in damp areas. A stable environment supports its performance.
By following these steps, you can enhance the performance and lifespan of your auto drip coffee machine. Regular maintenance ensures you continue to enjoy great-tasting coffee for years to come.
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