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Pioneer SE DIR800c Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£400
Avg. price in US: ~$300
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 16 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Pioneer SE DIR800c review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

6.1

Good

5.7

Good

7.5

Very good

5.7
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
?
Audio latency
25.0%
4.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
4.0
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
?
Battery life
5.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
?
Battery life
18.0%
?
Weight
16.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
4.0
Ambient sound mode
4.6
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
4.0
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
?
Battery life
14.0%
4.0
Companion app
6.6
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
?
Weight
24.0%
4.0
Water resistance
20.0%
?
IP rating
16.0%
?
Battery life
12.0%
4.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

£?

Best rankings

#498 in Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
#628 in Best Over Ear Headphones
#712 in Best Wireless Headphones

Verdict

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C is a digital wireless surround sound headphone system featuring 40mm drivers and a wide frequency response of 12Hz to 22kHz with 32 Ohm impedance. Its defining characteristic is the integration of Dolby Headphone technology, which creates a convincing 5.1-channel virtual surround experience from sources like DVD players and gaming consoles, supported by a transmitter that decodes Dolby Digital, DTS, and Pro Logic II. Key advantages include high-volume capability without distortion, long-term comfort, and versatile input options including optical, coaxial, and analog RCA. However, the system relies on line-of-sight infrared (IR) transmission which can cut out if the signal is obstructed, and users must remove the AA batteries from the headset to charge them.

Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Pioneer SE DIR800c

Overall score

6.1

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

6.7

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: HIGH

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: HIGH

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

4.7

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: LOW

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: LOW

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

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Connectivity

5.7

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <60 ms

?

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: LOW

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Features

4.0

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

3.5

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >45 hours

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <=2 hours

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: LOW

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=720 mAh

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Design

5.8

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: LOW

Pioneer

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: LOW

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: LOW

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: LOW

?

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Pioneer SE DIR800c vs the average pair of headphones

Why is Pioneer SE DIR800c better than the average pair of headphones?

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Spatial audio support
Pioneer SE DIR800c supports spatial audio, the average pair of headphones does not. 15.9% of headphones support spatial audio.
What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Pioneer SE DIR800c supports spatial audio, the average pair of headphones does not. 15.9% of headphones support spatial audio.
More flexible connectivity
Pioneer SE DIR800c offers more flexible connectivity than the average pair of headphones (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c offers more flexible connectivity than the average pair of headphones (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
On-device controls
Pioneer SE DIR800c includes on-device controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c includes on-device controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
2.41x higher battery capacity
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher battery capacity than the average pair of headphones (1,400 mAh vs 580 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 580 mAh.
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=720 mAh
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher battery capacity than the average pair of headphones (1,400 mAh vs 580 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 580 mAh.1400 mAh vs 580 mAh
6 Hz lower bass extension
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.12 Hz vs 18 Hz
Play while charging
Pioneer SE DIR800c can play while charging, the average pair of headphones cannot. 29.1% of headphones support play while charging.
What it is: Can be used while charging
When it matters: When you need to keep listening during long work or gaming sessions.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c can play while charging, the average pair of headphones cannot. 29.1% of headphones support play while charging.
Removable battery
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a removable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 7.8% of headphones have a removable battery.
What it is: Battery can be detached and replaced
When it matters: When long-term serviceability or battery replacement matters to you.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a removable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 7.8% of headphones have a removable battery.
Rechargeable battery
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a rechargeable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones rely on an internal rechargeable battery instead of replaceable disposable cells.
When it matters: When you expect regular wireless use and want charging convenience instead of buying and replacing disposable batteries.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a rechargeable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
Spatial audio support
Pioneer SE DIR800c supports spatial audio, the average pair of headphones does not. 15.9% of headphones support spatial audio.
6 Hz lower bass extension
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
2.41x higher battery capacity
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher battery capacity than the average pair of headphones (1,400 mAh vs 580 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 580 mAh.
Play while charging
Pioneer SE DIR800c can play while charging, the average pair of headphones cannot. 29.1% of headphones support play while charging.
Removable battery
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a removable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 7.8% of headphones have a removable battery.
Rechargeable battery
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a rechargeable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Pioneer SE DIR800c offers more flexible connectivity than the average pair of headphones (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
On-device controls
Pioneer SE DIR800c includes on-device controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Pioneer SE DIR800c worse than the average pair of headphones?

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Fixed cable
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
14.7% higher weight
Pioneer SE DIR800c is heavier than the average pair of headphones (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
12 mm tighter earcup width
Pioneer SE DIR800c has tighter earcup width than the average pair of headphones (32 mm vs 44 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 44 mm.
Tangle-prone cable
Pioneer SE DIR800c uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
no tangle-free listening cable is present or specified.
No travel bag
Pioneer SE DIR800c does not include a travel bag, the average pair of headphones does. 65.4% of headphones include a travel bag.
0.7 % higher distortion
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
10 hours longer charging time
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher charging time than the average pair of headphones (12 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
14 hours shorter battery life
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower battery life than the average pair of headphones (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
Not headset-ready
Pioneer SE DIR800c is not headset-ready, while the average pair of headphones is. 84.8% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Pioneer SE DIR800c has fewer microphones than the average pair of headphones (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Pioneer SE DIR800c does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
12 older release date
Pioneer SE DIR800c was released earlier than the average pair of headphones (2004 vs 2016). The average headphones were released in 2016.
10 hours longer charging time
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher charging time than the average pair of headphones (12 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=2 hours
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher charging time than the average pair of headphones (12 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.12 hours vs 2 hours
No voice assistant support
Pioneer SE DIR800c does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
0.7 % higher distortion
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=1%
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.1 % vs 0.3 %
Not headset-ready
Pioneer SE DIR800c is not headset-ready, while the average pair of headphones is. 84.8% of headphones can be used as headsets.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c is not headset-ready, while the average pair of headphones is. 84.8% of headphones can be used as headsets.Not supported vs supported
14 hours shorter battery life
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower battery life than the average pair of headphones (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >45 hours
Pioneer SE DIR800c has a lower battery life than the average pair of headphones (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.16 hours vs 30 hours
14.7% higher weight
Pioneer SE DIR800c is heavier than the average pair of headphones (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <150 g
Pioneer SE DIR800c is heavier than the average pair of headphones (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.250 g vs 218 g
12 mm tighter earcup width
Pioneer SE DIR800c has tighter earcup width than the average pair of headphones (32 mm vs 44 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 44 mm.
What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.
Importance: LOW
Pioneer SE DIR800c has tighter earcup width than the average pair of headphones (32 mm vs 44 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 44 mm.32 mm vs 44 mm

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Pioneer SE DIR800c and other products in the Headphones category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Pioneer SE DIR800c?

High-quality sound that rivals corded headphones for movies and music
Convincing virtual 5.1 surround imaging via Dolby Headphone processing
Versatile connectivity options including digital inputs for home theater and PC gaming
Comfortable for long listening sessions with a well-designed headband system
Noise-free infrared transmission ensures a clean audio signal
Transmitter base doubles as a charger and works with other corded headphones

What customers dislike about Pioneer SE DIR800c?

High retail price compared to standard wireless options
Infrared (IR) technology requires line-of-sight; sound cuts out if the signal is blocked
Battery must be removed from the headphones to be charged
Some users find the surround sound can feel overly processed or thin for pure music
Lacks a detachable cable and folding design found in more modern travel-friendly models

Expert reviews

audaud.com

23/01/2006

Summary of the review

Pioneer Digital Wireless Surround Headphones SE-DIR800C

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C digital wireless headphones, reviewed by John Sunier, are designed to simulate a 5.1 surround sound environment using Dolby Headphone (DH) technology. Priced at approximately $399, the system includes an infrared transmitter that decodes Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic II signals. While it offers versatility with optical, coaxial, and analog inputs, the reviewer found the "virtual speaker" effect somewhat underwhelming. The transmitter features three DH modes—ranging from a dry, small room to a reverberant movie theater—and includes a secondary wired headphone jack with independent volume control, allowing two people to listen simultaneously. The review highlights several pros and cons regarding performance and usability: Pros: The system is excellent for late-night private viewing, as the infrared signal remains free of the "squeals" and interference often found in 2.4 GHz wireless models. It provides a more open and natural acoustic for film soundtracks compared to standard stereo headphones. Cons: The audio fidelity is described as "strident and thinner" compared to high-end wired or competing wireless sets, with the reviewer noting EQ inconsistencies even when processing is turned off....

wired.com

23/10/2007

Summary of the review

Pioneer SE-DIR800C - WIRED

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C is a high-performance wireless surround sound headphone system built specifically to deliver powerful audio for action-packed movies. Priced at $399, this system functions as a robust audio solution that provides deep, clear explosions without any noticeable distortion. Its audio quality successfully matches the performance of traditional corded options, offering a highly convincing surround sound imaging experience powered by integrated Dolby Headphone processing. Additionally, the headset is designed with long-term comfort in mind, making it easy to wear during extended entertainment sessions. Despite its strong acoustic performance, the system has several notable drawbacks related to price and underlying technology. The premium $399 cost makes it a significant investment. Furthermore, because it relies strictly on Infrared (IR) transmission, the audio will instantly cut out if the user breaks the line of sight, such as leaving the room for a quick errand. Finally, the system introduces a minor physical inconvenience regarding its power management, as users must completely remove the battery from the headset in order to charge it.

sunjournal.com

20/11/2005

Summary of the review

Pioneer SE-DIR800C Review by CNET

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C wireless headphones deliver high-quality, noise-free sound with convincing Dolby Headphone and DTS surround processing for home entertainment. Key advantages include its versatile infrared transmission, allowing for freedom of movement, and a transmitter base that acts as a charger and processor for other wired headphones. Limitations include a high retail price, ranging between $263 and $422, and a limited 26-foot line-of-sight range due to infrared technology. Additionally, the system necessitates a separate audio source, such as a TV or receiver, as it is not a standalone unit.

audaud.com

23/01/2006

Summary of the review

Pioneer Digital Wireless Surround Headphones SE-DIR800C

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C digital wireless surround headphones ($399 SRP) feature a dedicated transmitter that decodes Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic II, utilizing Dolby Headphone (DH) technology across three room-simulation modes (DH1 to DH3) to mimic a 5.1 virtual speaker setup. In terms of pros, the transmitter offers a variety of versatile input choices, including optical digital, coaxial digital, and analog RCA connections. It features a built-in standard headphone jack on the front panel with its own level control, allowing a second, wired listener to simultaneously share the processed audio feed. Furthermore, because the transmitter utilizes an infrared transmission signal instead of a 2.4 GHz wireless frequency, the audio remains entirely free of loud, disruptive background squeals and wireless interference when moving around the room. Despite these features, the reviewer noted significant cons, ultimately finding the system underwhelming and over-processed compared to competing options like Amphony wireless headphones. The infrared connection delivers a narrow transmission range that drops into total silence if the user moves too far away or to the side of the transmitter. Ergonomically, the headset's headband...

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