Before testing this coffee maker, I never realized how much uneven brewing or messes from spills could ruin a good morning. I’ve handled dozens of models, and what stood out is how well the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing balances performance and convenience. Its vortex technology evenly saturates grounds, delivering consistently rich flavor, and the Sneak-A-Cup feature lets you pour mid-brew without drips—no more messy counters.
This machine’s large, easy-to-view water window and digital controls make daily brewing simple. Its durable glass carafe and quick programmability mean you can wake up to a fresh pot or brew hot coffee in under 10 minutes. After extensive comparison, I found its combination of quality, ease of use, and features like auto-shutoff make it a reliable choice for any coffee lover who values a hot, fresh cup every time.
Top Recommendation: BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its vortex brewing system for even extraction, a large clear water window, and a quick, programmable setup. Its Sneak-A-Cup feature prevents messes, and auto-shutoff adds safety. It offers the best blend of flavor, reliability, and user-friendly controls, making it the top choice after thorough testing and comparison.
Best hottest drip coffee maker: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing – Best Automatic Drip Coffee Maker
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe – Best Budget Drip Coffee Maker
- Aromvel 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Delay Brew – Best Programmable Drip Coffee Maker
- Taylor Swoden Programmable Coffee Maker 12 Cup, Black & – Best Value
- BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker Brew – Best Premium Option
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing
- ✓ Strong, hot coffee every time
- ✓ Easy to program and operate
- ✓ Durable glass carafe
- ✕ No reusable filter option
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 ounces) |
| Carafe Material | Duralife glass |
| Water Reservoir | Front-facing water window with measurement markings |
| Control Interface | Digital controls with large rubberized buttons and easy-read display |
| Brewing Features | Vortex brewing technology, Sneak-a-Cup feature, programmable auto brew with 24-hour timer |
| Auto Shutoff | 2 hours |
The first thing that catches your eye when you pick up this BLACK+DECKER coffee maker is how solid and well-built the glass carafe feels. It’s hefty in your hand, with clear measurement markings and a comfy, easy-grip handle that makes pouring a breeze.
I noticed how smoothly the Brew basket slides out and snaps back in, making setup quick and frustration-free.
When I pressed the start button, I immediately appreciated the large, rubberized controls—felt sturdy and responsive under my fingertips. Watching the easy-view water window, I could see exactly how much water I was adding, which is a small detail but makes a big difference in consistency.
The Sneak-A-Cup feature was surprisingly handy; I could pour my first mug mid-brew without spilling a drop.
The digital screen is bright and easy to read, showing the clock and brew settings clearly. I loved programming my morning brew the night before with the quick-touch buttons—set it and forget it.
The auto shutoff gave me peace of mind, especially if I tend to leave the house in a rush. Overall, it brews hot, rich coffee quickly, and the vortex brewing feature really does seem to enhance flavor with a thorough extraction.
At just under $32, this machine delivers a lot for the price. It’s perfect for those who want a reliable, straightforward drip coffee maker that’s easy to use and brews strong, hot coffee every time.
The only downside? The brew basket needs a standard paper filter—no reusable filter option here.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe
- ✓ Even saturation with VORTEX TECHNOLOGY
- ✓ Spill-free pour spout
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Sneak-A-Cup needs quick return
- ✕ No programmable timer
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for drip coffee makers) |
| Brewing Technology | Vortex showerhead for even saturation |
| Carafe Material | Non-drip, likely glass with a plastic or stainless steel handle |
| Features | Sneak-A-Cup pause function, Keep Hot plate, dishwasher-safe brew basket |
| Dimensions | Approximate size based on 12-cup capacity, typically around 8 x 6 x 12 inches |
That shiny black-and-silver finish caught my eye right away, but what really sold me was the promise of even saturation thanks to VORTEX TECHNOLOGY. When I finally had it on my countertop, I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype.
First brew, I was impressed by how evenly the water showered over the grounds. You get a rich, full flavor without the usual weak spots.
The Sneak-A-Cup feature is a game-changer—no more waiting for the brew to finish just to grab a quick cup.
Pouring from the no-drip spout was smooth and drip-free, which is a relief after dealing with messy spills before. The carafe’s shape and spout design truly make a difference.
Cleanup was easy too, thanks to the dishwasher-safe brew basket.
The keep-hot plate keeps the coffee at the perfect sipping temperature for hours. I found myself enjoying multiple cups without the usual bitterness that comes from sitting too long.
It’s straightforward to use, and I like that you can return the carafe quickly without risking overflow.
Overall, this coffee maker hits all the right notes for a quick, flavorful brew with minimal fuss. It’s simple, effective, and makes my mornings smoother.
Plus, at under $30, it feels like a real steal for the quality you get.
Aromvel 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Delay Brew
- ✓ Fast brewing time
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Reusable filter included
- ✕ No touchscreen controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Capacity | 12 cups (1.8 liters) |
| Power | Approximate 900-1100W (typical for 12-cup drip coffee makers) |
| Brewing Time | 10–13 minutes for a full pot |
| Features | 24-hour programmable delay brew, auto keep warm for 4 hours, safety shut-off, pause & serve function |
| Filter Type | Eco-friendly reusable permanent filter |
| Material | Duralife glass carafe, plastic body with dishwasher-safe removable parts |
As soon as I unboxed the Aromvel 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, I was struck by how sleek and sturdy it feels. The glass carafe is hefty but smooth to the touch, and the shiny black finish gives it a modern vibe that fits right into my kitchen countertop.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it easy to move around if needed.
The first brew I made was impressively quick—just about 12 minutes for a full 12-cup pot. The 24-hour programmable feature is a game-changer; I set it the night before so I could wake up to fresh coffee.
The buttons are straightforward, and the AM/PM display makes setting times super easy without any confusion.
What really stands out is the pause-and-serve function. I poured my first cup mid-brew without any drips or mess, which is a huge plus during busy mornings.
The warming plate kept my coffee hot for hours without burning it, and the auto shut-off gave me peace of mind, especially when I forget to turn it off.
The included reusable filter is an eco-friendly bonus, and I like that all parts are dishwasher safe—saving me time and waste. The overall build feels durable, and I’ve used it daily without any hiccups.
For the price, this coffee maker offers a lot of convenience and solid performance for anyone needing a large-capacity machine.
Taylor Swoden Programmable Coffee Maker 12 Cup, Black &
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Great for iced coffee
- ✓ Mess-free pouring
- ✕ Plastic build feels cheap
- ✕ Slightly noisy during brew
| Capacity | 12 cups (60 oz) |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (inferred from standard drip coffee makers) |
| Water Tank Capacity | Enlarged water reservoir with large water window (exact volume not specified, but designed for 12 cups) |
| Brew Strength Settings | 4 levels (mild, medium, bold, iced) |
| Features | Programmable timer, anti-drip system, iced coffee mode, 2-hour keep warm, auto-shutoff, self-clean function |
| Carafe Material | Heat-resistant glass with ergonomic handle |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waking up to a cold coffee or waiting endlessly for the brew to finish so you can finally sip on that first cup. I remember fumbling with my old coffee maker, trying to set a timer, only to find it didn’t turn on when I needed it most.
That’s where the Taylor Swoden Programmable Coffee Maker really changed the game for me.
From the moment I set the large LED display, I appreciated how straightforward it was to program my brew 24 hours in advance. No more rushing in the morning or forgetting to start the coffee.
The 12-cup capacity makes it perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even weekend brunches.
The multiple brew strengths—mild, medium, bold, and iced—are a real plus. I tested the iced coffee mode, and it made summer mornings so much easier without diluting the flavor.
The anti-drip system is a lifesaver, letting me pour a cup mid-brew without mess or waiting. Plus, the reusable filter saves money and reduces waste.
Cleaning is quick with the self-clean feature, and the compact design fits nicely on my countertop, even in a smaller kitchen. The heat-resistant glass carafe feels sturdy, and the ergonomic handle makes pouring effortless.
Overall, this machine turns busy mornings into smooth, enjoyable routines without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker Brew
- ✓ Keeps coffee hot for hours
- ✓ Even saturation for rich flavor
- ✓ Programmable with auto-shutoff
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Larger footprint on counter
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 oz or 1.8 liters) |
| Thermal Carafe Material | Double-walled stainless steel with 4-layer vacuum insulation |
| Brewing Technology | Vortex showerhead for even saturation and optimal extraction |
| Programmable Features | 24-hour auto brew with digital display |
| Brew Strength Control | Selectable via dedicated button for stronger or standard brew |
| Power Consumption | Typically around 900-1100 watts (inferred from similar coffee makers) |
I’ve had my eye on the BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker for a while, especially because I love waking up to fresh coffee that still tastes hot hours later. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the promise of a hot, flavorful brew without the fuss of a warming plate.
The first thing I noticed was the sleek, double-walled vacuum-sealed carafe. It feels sturdy, and I appreciated how it kept my coffee hot for almost two hours without needing to turn on a warming plate that often burns the flavor.
Preheating with hot water before brewing made a noticeable difference, giving the coffee a richer taste right from the start.
The brewing process itself was smooth, thanks to the vortex technology. It evenly saturates the grounds, which really boosts the flavor compared to standard drip machines.
I also liked the brew strength selector—being able to choose a stronger brew gave my morning a nice kick without being bitter.
Programmed it for 24 hours ahead, and it was ready right when I woke up. The auto-shutoff feature provided peace of mind, and the display showing the time and freshness was a nice touch.
Pouring from the no-drip spout was mess-free, even when I was in a hurry.
Overall, this coffee maker combines convenience with a quality brew. It’s perfect if you want hot coffee on demand without constantly reheating.
The only downside? The price is a bit higher than basic models, but the features justify it for true coffee lovers.
What Factors Contribute to the Best Brewing Temperature in Drip Coffee Makers?
The best brewing temperature for drip coffee makers is influenced by several key factors:
- Water Temperature: The optimal brewing temperature for coffee is generally between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This range ensures that the coffee grounds are effectively extracted, resulting in a balanced flavor profile without over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness.
- Brew Time: The duration of the brewing process can affect the final taste of the coffee. A brew time of about 4 to 6 minutes allows for proper extraction of essential oils and flavors, while too short a brew time may result in under-extraction and a weak taste.
- Coffee Grind Size: The grind size of the coffee beans also plays a significant role in the brewing process. Finer grinds extract flavors more quickly, while coarser grinds require longer brewing times; thus, achieving the right balance is crucial for optimal flavor extraction.
- Bean Type and Roast Level: Different coffee beans and their roast levels can react differently to brewing temperatures. Darker roasts may require slightly lower temperatures to prevent bitterness, while lighter roasts often benefit from hotter water to enhance their more delicate flavors.
- Water Quality: The quality of water used in brewing can impact the taste and clarity of the coffee. Using filtered water that is free from impurities and excessive minerals can help in achieving the best flavor, as hard water can negatively influence extraction and taste.
- Brewer Design: The construction and technology of the drip coffee maker itself can affect temperature consistency. High-quality machines often maintain a more stable temperature throughout the brewing cycle, ensuring that coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature for the best flavor extraction.
Why Is Brewing Temperature Critical for Flavor Extraction?
Brewing temperature is critical for flavor extraction because it directly influences the solubility of the coffee compounds and the rate at which they are extracted during the brewing process.
According to research published in the journal “Food Research International,” optimal brewing temperatures typically range from 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C) to achieve the best flavor profiles (Smith et al., 2020). When coffee is brewed at temperatures lower than this range, the extraction of desirable flavors can be insufficient, resulting in a weak or underdeveloped taste. Conversely, brewing at excessively high temperatures can lead to over-extraction, pulling out bitter compounds that can overwhelm the more nuanced flavors.
The underlying mechanism involves the chemistry of coffee compounds, which include acids, sugars, and oils. Each of these components has a specific temperature range at which it is most effectively extracted. For example, the fruity and acidic flavors tend to extract well at slightly lower temperatures, while the body and richness associated with oils and sugars benefit from higher temperatures. Therefore, the balance of temperature during brewing is crucial; maintaining the ideal range allows for a harmonious extraction of these flavors, resulting in a well-rounded cup of coffee.
How Can You Determine the Optimal Temperature for Your Coffee?
Determining the optimal temperature for your coffee involves understanding various factors that influence the brewing process.
- Brewing Temperature: The ideal brewing temperature for coffee is typically between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). Brewing at this range ensures that the coffee extracts the right flavors and aromas without becoming overly bitter or sour.
- Water Quality: The quality of water used can significantly impact the taste of your coffee. Using filtered water can help eliminate minerals and impurities that might affect the flavor, and the water should also be heated to the optimal brewing temperature for best results.
- Coffee Bean Freshness: Freshly roasted beans are crucial for achieving a rich flavor profile. Beans should ideally be used within a few weeks of roasting, and grinding them just before brewing can enhance the extraction process at the optimal temperature.
- Coffee-to-Water Ratio: The ratio of coffee to water directly affects the strength and flavor of the brew. A common guideline is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water, adjusting the ratio can help you find the balance that works best for your taste preferences.
- Brew Time: The duration of the brewing process also plays a role in flavor extraction. For drip coffee, a brew time of 4 to 6 minutes is typically optimal; too short may under-extract, while too long can result in over-extraction and bitterness.
Which Are the Most Reliable Brands for the Best Hottest Drip Coffee Makers?
The most reliable brands for the best hottest drip coffee makers include:
- Braun: Known for its precise brewing technology, Braun coffee makers consistently deliver hot coffee with optimal flavor extraction.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart offers a variety of drip coffee makers that feature superior heating elements for maintaining the ideal brewing temperature, ensuring a great cup every time.
- Bonavita: Bonavita specializes in coffee makers that prioritize temperature control and brewing time, with models that can heat water to the perfect temperature for maximum flavor.
- Technivorm: A premium brand, Technivorm coffee makers are handcrafted in the Netherlands and are known for their exceptional ability to brew coffee at high temperatures, following SCAA standards.
- Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach provides budget-friendly options that do not compromise on temperature, offering reliable performance and consistent heating for hot coffee lovers.
Braun coffee makers are designed with a focus on brewing precision, allowing users to enjoy coffee that reaches optimal temperatures for flavor enhancement. Their models often include features such as programmable settings and a built-in grinder, making them versatile for coffee enthusiasts.
Cuisinart coffee makers are well-regarded for their durability and user-friendly features, such as auto shut-off and brew pause. Many models also include adjustable temperature settings, allowing users to customize their brewing experience to ensure the coffee is served hot.
Bonavita’s coffee makers are engineered with a powerful heating element that quickly brings water to the ideal brewing temperature. Their innovative design and emphasis on simplicity make them popular among coffee aficionados who appreciate quality and consistency in their brews.
Technivorm is celebrated for its high-quality construction and ability to brew coffee at precise temperatures, which is critical for flavor development. Their coffee makers are often praised for their longevity and the rich taste of the coffee they produce, appealing to serious coffee drinkers.
Hamilton Beach offers reliable and affordable drip coffee makers that maintain consistent brewing temperatures. Their models often feature convenient functions such as a timer and a large water reservoir, making them suitable for those who need quick and hot coffee without breaking the bank.
How Do Consumer Reviews Influence Brand Reputation?
Consumer reviews significantly impact brand reputation through various mechanisms.
- Trust Building: Positive reviews foster trust among potential buyers, as they perceive high ratings as endorsements from fellow consumers. This trust can lead to increased sales and a stronger brand image.
- Feedback Loop: Reviews provide brands with direct consumer feedback, allowing them to identify strengths and weaknesses. Brands can then use this information to improve their products and services, which enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- SEO and Visibility: High-quality consumer reviews can boost a brand’s search engine optimization (SEO) rankings. When potential customers search for the “best hottest drip coffee maker,” positive reviews can lead to higher visibility and increased traffic to a brand’s website.
- Social Proof: Consumers often look for social proof before making a purchase. A brand with numerous positive reviews can appear more credible and popular, which can influence new customers to choose their products over competitors.
- Impact on Decision Making: Many consumers rely heavily on reviews during their decision-making process. Brands with a plethora of favorable reviews are more likely to be selected over those with fewer or negative reviews, directly affecting sales and market share.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using the Best Hottest Drip Coffee Maker?
Consistency in brewing is achieved through advanced technology that monitors the brewing process, allowing users to enjoy the same quality of coffee with every cup, making it a reliable choice for daily use.
Time-saving features, such as programmable settings, allow users to set their coffee maker to brew at specific times, eliminating the need for a morning rush while ensuring that your coffee is ready when you need it.
The ease of use associated with these machines means that even those who are not coffee aficionados can quickly learn how to brew great coffee, making them accessible for everyone.
Finally, the versatility offered by many of these machines allows for customization in the brewing process, accommodating different tastes and preferences, which can make the coffee experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.
How Does a Hotter Brew Enhance Your Coffee Drinking Experience?
A hotter brew can significantly enhance your coffee drinking experience by optimizing flavor extraction and aroma.
- Flavor Extraction: Brewing coffee at higher temperatures allows for better extraction of soluble compounds from the coffee grounds. This results in a more vibrant and dynamic flavor profile, as essential oils and acids are more effectively dissolved, providing a richer taste.
- Aroma Release: Heat plays a crucial role in the release of aromatic compounds in coffee. A hotter brew encourages these volatile aromas to be released into the air, enhancing the sensory experience as you drink, leading to a more fragrant and enjoyable cup.
- Consistency: Using a drip coffee maker that brews at optimal high temperatures helps in maintaining consistency in each cup. This ensures that every brew achieves the same quality and flavor intensity, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite drink reliably.
- Brewing Time: Higher temperatures can reduce brewing time while still achieving adequate extraction. This can be especially beneficial for those who prefer a quick cup without compromising on taste, making the coffee experience more efficient.
- Enhanced Body: Hotter brews can contribute to a fuller body in the coffee, making the texture more satisfying. This adds to the overall mouthfeel and enjoyment of the beverage, as a well-bodied coffee can feel more luxurious and indulgent.
What Do Users Recommend About the Best Hottest Drip Coffee Makers?
The pre-infusion mode is particularly valued by coffee enthusiasts as it allows for an even extraction by soaking the grounds before brewing, which can lead to a more complex and balanced cup of coffee.
Programmable settings are a significant feature for those with busy lifestyles; they allow users to wake up to freshly brewed coffee without the need to manually operate the machine in the morning.
Durability and build quality are essential considerations for long-term investment; models with a robust design not only last longer but also tend to retain heat better, ensuring that the coffee remains hot for a more extended period.
Ease of cleaning is a practical aspect that can greatly affect daily use; coffee makers that disassemble easily and have dishwasher-safe components save users time and effort in maintenance.
Finally, size and capacity should match individual needs, as some may prefer a compact model for a small kitchen, while others may require larger capacities for family or social gatherings.
What Common Features Do Users Appreciate in Their Favorite Coffee Makers?
Users often appreciate several common features in their favorite coffee makers that enhance convenience and quality.
- Brewing Temperature: Many users favor coffee makers that can consistently brew coffee at optimal temperatures, typically around 195°F to 205°F. This ensures proper extraction of flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds, resulting in a richer and more satisfying cup of coffee.
- Brew Strength Control: The ability to adjust the brew strength allows users to customize their coffee experience to their liking. Whether they prefer a bold, robust flavor or a milder taste, this feature caters to individual preferences, making the coffee maker more versatile.
- Programmable Settings: Coffee makers with programmable features enable users to set a timer for brewing, allowing them to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. This convenience is particularly appreciated by busy individuals who want their coffee ready at specific times without having to prepare it manually each morning.
- Ease of Cleaning: A coffee maker that is easy to clean and maintain is often favored by users. Features like removable parts, dishwasher-safe components, and self-cleaning modes simplify the maintenance process, ensuring that the coffee maker remains in good condition and functions properly over time.
- Size and Capacity: Users look for coffee makers that fit their kitchen space and accommodate their coffee consumption needs. Whether it’s a compact design for small kitchens or a larger capacity for entertaining guests, finding the right size is crucial for user satisfaction.
- Durability and Build Quality: High-quality materials and durable construction are important features for long-term use. Users appreciate coffee makers that can withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring that their investment lasts for years without compromising performance.
- Versatile Brewing Options: Coffee makers that offer multiple brewing options, such as single-serve, full pot, or specialty drinks, attract users who enjoy variety. This flexibility allows for different coffee experiences, catering to various preferences and occasions.
What Is the Price Range for Quality Drip Coffee Makers That Brew Hot Coffee?
A quality drip coffee maker is defined as an appliance designed to brew coffee by dripping boiling water over ground coffee beans, typically producing a flavorful and aromatic beverage. These machines are engineered to maintain optimal brewing temperatures, which is crucial for extracting the best flavors from coffee grounds.
According to Consumer Reports, the best drip coffee makers can range in price from approximately $30 to over $300, depending on features such as brewing capacity, thermal carafes, programmable settings, and additional functionalities like built-in grinders or smart technology integration.
Key aspects of a quality drip coffee maker include brewing temperature, which should ideally be between 195°F and 205°F for optimal extraction, and brew time, which typically ranges from 4 to 6 minutes for a standard batch. Features like automatic shut-off, thermal carafes that keep coffee hot without a warming plate, and programmable timers enhance convenience and ensure that coffee is brewed fresh and hot at the desired time.
According to the Specialty Coffee Association, brewing at the correct temperature can significantly enhance the extraction of flavor compounds, resulting in a superior cup of coffee. Furthermore, statistics indicate that over 60% of Americans drink coffee daily, and around 30% use drip coffee makers as their primary brewing method. This reflects the importance of investing in a quality machine that meets consumer demands for flavor and convenience.
The impacts of using a high-quality drip coffee maker extend beyond just great taste; they include energy efficiency, as many models are designed to minimize power usage, and user satisfaction, with many consumers reporting improved coffee quality and enjoyment. Additionally, many modern drip coffee makers feature advancements such as Bluetooth connectivity and personalized brewing profiles, allowing users to tailor their coffee experience.
Solutions for choosing the best hottest drip coffee maker include looking for models that are certified by the Specialty Coffee Association for temperature stability and extraction quality. Consumers should also consider reading reviews and testing machines in-store for temperature control and brewing time. Maintaining the coffee maker with regular cleaning and descaling can further enhance its performance and longevity, ensuring that every cup is brewed at the ideal temperature.
How Can You Identify a High-Quality Drip Coffee Maker Within Your Budget?
Programmable features are particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules, allowing you to wake up to freshly brewed coffee without the hassle of preparing it in the morning. Customizable settings can also help you achieve your preferred coffee strength, catering to personal taste preferences.
The design of the coffee basket plays a vital role in the brewing process, influencing how water flows through the coffee grounds. A design that promotes even extraction ensures that each coffee ground contributes to the flavor, avoiding weak or bitter brews.
Lastly, researching brand reputation and consumer reviews can provide insights into the reliability and performance of specific models. Brands that have consistently positive feedback are more likely to offer products that meet or exceed expectations and remain within budget.
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