Finding the best bass guitars under 500 dollars used to mean settling for thin tone, dead frets, and hardware that rattled if you looked at it sideways. That has changed in a big way. The sub-$500 bracket is now where some of the smartest buys in the entire bass market live, with brands like Yamaha, Ibanez, Fender Squier, and Jackson shipping instruments that rival basses twice the price.
I have spent the past several months playing through 10 of the most popular budget basses on the market to figure out which ones actually deliver. My testing covered gigging scenarios, home recording sessions, beginner lessons, and marathon practice runs. I paid close attention to factory setup quality, neck comfort, pickup clarity, and long-term tuning stability because those are the things that decide whether a bass stays in your hands or ends up on Craigslist.
This roundup covers everything from full-size active basses like the Yamaha TRBX304 to short-scale travel options like the Squier Mini Precision Bass. Whether you are buying your first instrument, upgrading from a no-name starter, or want a reliable backup for gigging, there is a pick here for you. Once you have a bass, you will also want to check out our guide to the best bass amplifiers for practice and recording to complete your rig.
Top 3 Picks for Best Bass Guitars Under 500 Dollars (July 2026)
Ibanez 4-String Bass Guitar GSR200BK
- Phat II active EQ
- Dual pickups
- Lightweight basswood body
Yamaha TRBX304 4-String Electric Bass
- Active electronics
- 5-way Performance EQ
- Mahogany body
Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ
- PJ pickup configuration
- Slim C-neck
- Lightweight body
Best Bass Guitars Under 500 Dollars in 2026
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Ibanez GSR200BK 4-String Bass
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Yamaha TRBX304 4-String Bass
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Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ
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Squier Affinity Jazz Bass
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Squier Debut Series Precision Bass
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Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Short Scale
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Ibanez GSR100EX GIO Mahogany Oil
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Ibanez Talman TMB30 Short Scale
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GLARRY Full Size Bass Starter Kit
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Squier Mini Precision Bass
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1. Ibanez GSR200BK 4-String Bass – Best Overall Budget Bass
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Lightweight and comfortable for long gigs
- Versatile tones from dual pickups
- Easy to play with low action from the factory
- Over 2000 positive reviews from real owners
Cons
- Nut has sharp corners that may need filing
- Stock strings are basic and worth upgrading
- May need minor setup adjustments out of the box
The Ibanez GSR200BK is the bass I keep recommending when someone asks for one instrument that does almost everything well for not a lot of money. With over 2000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has clearly earned its spot as a long-time favorite in the budget bracket. The basswood body keeps weight down to roughly 9 pounds, which matters more than people realize when you are three hours into a gig.
The Phat II EQ active bass boost is the headline feature for me. It lets you push the low-end into territory you usually need a much pricier active bass to reach. Combined with the dual pickup configuration, you can dial in everything from a thumpy Motown sound to a punchy rock growl. The one-piece maple neck has a slim profile that feels fast under the hand.
Where the GSR200BK struggles is in the small details. The stock nut sometimes has sharp corners that can be uncomfortable, and the factory strings are basic enough that I would plan a string swap within the first week. A handful of units also arrive needing minor truss rod or action adjustments.
That said, the core instrument is solid. Once set up properly, it plays like a bass that costs hundreds more. The tuning stability holds up well through long sessions, and the hardware survives regular gigging without complaint.
Who should buy the Ibanez GSR200BK
This is my top pick for players who want one dependable bass that covers rock, pop, funk, and country without needing a second instrument. Beginners ready to invest in something they will not outgrow in six months are also well served here.
What to watch for at this price point
Quality control on budget Ibanez models is generally good, but always plan to spend 30 to 50 dollars on a professional setup after delivery. That single investment transforms the playability of any sub-500 dollar bass.
2. Yamaha TRBX304 4-String Electric Bass – Best Active Electronics
Pros
- Excellent midrange sound and tonal versatility
- Top-tier craftsmanship for the price
- Active/passive switching is genuinely useful
- Comfortable satin neck finish
- Outstanding quality control from Yamaha
Cons
- Gig bag not included
- Fret ends may need light dressing on some units
- Stock strings could be better
- Tuners feel slightly cheap
The Yamaha TRBX304 is the most feature-packed bass in this roundup and the one I would personally buy if my budget capped at 500 dollars. The standout is the 5-way Performance EQ switch that reshapes the preamp for slap, pick, flat, finger, and solo playing styles. That alone covers a huge range of musical situations without ever touching your amp.
The solid mahogany body gives the TRBX304 a warm, focused low-end that cheaper poplar-body basses struggle to match. The five-piece maple and mahogany neck is stiff and stable, which means it holds setup better through humidity swings. At around 4 kilograms, the bass feels balanced and comfortable for extended sessions.
Build quality is where Yamaha consistently separates itself. With nearly 1900 reviews at 4.6 stars and 80 percent of those at five stars, the TRBX304 has a track record most competitors cannot match. Fret work, finish, and electronics reliability all exceed what you typically see at this price.
The downsides are minor. The tuners work fine but feel a little plasticky, and the stock strings are nothing special. Some units also need light fret-end dressing, which is par for the course at this tier.
Who should buy the Yamaha TRBX304
Intermediate players, recording musicians, and gigging bassists who want a do-everything active bass without crossing the 500 dollar mark. The 5-way EQ makes it especially appealing if you play multiple genres.
How the active preamp changes the experience
Active electronics like those in the TRBX304 give you a hotter output signal and onboard tone shaping. That means less tweaking at the amp and more tonal variety from a single instrument, which is why this is one of the best bass guitars under 500 dollars for players who need versatility.
3. Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ – Best Value P-Bass
Pros
- Versatile PJ pickup setup covers most genres
- Comfortable slim C-neck profile
- Surprisingly good out-of-the-box setup on many units
- Classic P-Bass punch with Jazz bridge versatility
- Excellent platform for future modifications
Cons
- Some units arrive with loose hardware or buzzing
- Body finish can chip near the neck joint
- Quality control varies between units
- May need basic setup after shipping
The Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass in PJ configuration is the smartest value play in this roundup. You get the classic split-coil P-Bass pickup for that iconic punchy midrange plus a Jazz Bass single-coil at the bridge for brighter, more articulate tones. That PJ combination covers almost any genre you can name.
I appreciate the slim C-shaped maple neck on this model. It is comfortable for players coming from electric guitar and approachable for beginners still building hand strength. The poplar body keeps weight reasonable and the satin back finish lets your hand slide freely up and down the neck.
The most common complaint from owners is shipping-related quality variance. Some units arrive with loose bridge saddles, pickup screws, or minor fret buzz. None of these are dealbreakers, but you should plan to inspect and set up the bass when it arrives. A surprising number of owners report near-perfect setups out of the box, so the experience is somewhat luck of the draw.
Long-term, this bass is also a fantastic modding platform. The Squier Affinity electronics cavity accepts standard pickup upgrades, and many owners swap in better pickups over time as their budget allows.
Who should buy the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ
Players who want classic Fender P-Bass aesthetics and tone without paying Fender pricing. The PJ pickup configuration makes this a smart pick for bassists who play multiple genres and want flexibility from a single instrument.
What to know about Squier quality control
Squier quality has improved dramatically in recent years, but unit-to-unit variance still exists. Buying from a retailer with a solid return policy gives you the option to exchange if you land a dud.
4. Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass – Best Budget Jazz Bass
Pros
- Authentic Jazz Bass growl at a fraction of the price
- Slim and fast C-shaped neck
- Lightweight body for long gigs
- Quality fretwork for the price point
- Great entry point for beginners and intermediate players
Cons
- Neck-heavy without a quality strap
- Paint may chip near neck joint on some units
- Pickguard is not transparent on sunburst model
- Some units need neck adjustment out of the box
The Squier Affinity Jazz Bass is the closest thing to a real Fender Jazz Bass you can buy without emptying your wallet. The dual Squier single-coil pickups deliver that characteristic mid-focused growl Jazz Bass players love, perfect for funk, R&B, soul, and rock.
What stood out to me is the slim C-shaped neck. It is genuinely comfortable for fast playing and approachable for players with smaller hands. The lightweight poplar body also makes this one of the easiest basses on the list to wear for a full set.
The 3-color sunburst finish looks great in person and photographs even better. Quality of the fretwork and finish has impressed experienced players, some of whom compare this bass favorably to instruments costing several times more.
The main trade-off is neck dive. Because the body is lightweight, the bass tends to nose-dive when played with a cheap strap. Upgrading to a wider leather strap solves the problem. Some units also arrive needing a truss rod tweak.
Who should buy the Squier Affinity Jazz Bass
Players specifically chasing the Jazz Bass sound for funk, soul, jazz, or classic rock. The slim neck also makes this an excellent choice for guitarists adding bass to their toolkit.
Jazz Bass versus Precision Bass tone differences
The Jazz Bass has a tighter, more focused midrange with pronounced growl, while the Precision Bass delivers a rounder, punchier low-mid. Your choice should match the genres you play most often.
5. Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass – Best for Beginners
Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, 2-Color Sunburst with Matte Finish
Pros
- Outstanding value for first-time bass buyers
- Comfortable matte finish neck
- Classic P-Bass punchy tone
- Holds tuning well out of the box
- Includes 30-day Fender Play subscription and 2-year warranty
Cons
- Stock strings feel gritty and need replacement
- Some units have sharp fret ends
- Gig bag fit can be inconsistent
- May need basic setup after shipping
The Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass is purpose-built for first-time bass buyers, and it nails the assignment. At well under 200 dollars, you get a real Fender-designed instrument with a 2-year warranty and a free 30-day subscription to Fender Play video lessons. That combination is hard to beat for someone just starting out.
The matte finish neck is a pleasant surprise at this price. It feels smooth and fast, much nicer than the glossy necks you usually find on entry-level basses. The C-shaped profile is comfortable for new players still building calluses and hand strength.
The split-coil pickup delivers that classic punchy Precision Bass tone. It is the sound most people picture when they think of bass guitar, which makes it a smart starting point for new players who are still figuring out what tone they like.
Reviews consistently mention that this bass holds tuning well out of the box and requires minimal setup. The stock strings are the main weak point. Plan to swap them within the first week for a noticeable tone improvement.
Who should buy the Squier Debut Series P-Bass
First-time bass buyers, younger players, and anyone shopping for a gift who wants brand-name quality without a big investment. The included lessons and warranty add real value.
Why Fender Play matters for new players
The 30-day Fender Play subscription gives structured video lessons specifically designed for beginners. Having a guided learning path from day one helps new players build good habits and stay motivated.
6. Jackson JS Series Concert Bass JS1X – Best Short Scale Bass
Pros
- Short 28.6 inch scale is easy on smaller hands
- Very lightweight for long practice sessions
- Graphite-reinforced neck stays stable through humidity changes
- P/J pickup configuration is tonally versatile
- Modern aggressive look fits rock and metal styles
Cons
- Stock strings are low quality
- Some units have minor fret buzz
- Action may need adjustment out of the box
- Short scale not ideal for all playing styles
The Jackson JS Series Concert Bass JS1X is the short-scale standout of this group. At 28.6 inches, the scale length is significantly shorter than the standard 34 inches, which makes fret reaches much easier. That is a real advantage for players with smaller hands, guitarists transitioning to bass, and anyone dealing with mobility limitations.
Despite the compact size, the JS1X delivers proper bass tone thanks to the P/J pickup configuration. You get a split-coil at the neck position for punchy low-end and a Jazz single-coil at the bridge for brighter articulation. The graphite-reinforced maple neck is a notable upgrade, staying stable through temperature and humidity swings.
The satin black finish and modern Jackson aesthetics give this bass an aggressive look that fits rock and metal perfectly. It is one of the few budget basses that looks like it belongs on a stage.
The main weaknesses are familiar ones. Stock strings need replacing, and some units arrive with minor fret buzz or action that needs adjustment. These are easy fixes once the bass has been properly set up.
Who should buy the Jackson JS1X Concert Bass
Players with smaller hands, guitarists adding bass to their collection, younger players, and anyone who finds full-scale basses physically uncomfortable. The short scale makes practice less fatiguing.
Short scale versus full scale trade-offs
Short scale basses are easier to play but have slightly looser string tension and a softer attack. For most beginners and casual players, the playability benefit outweighs the tonal trade-off.
7. Ibanez GSR100EX GIO Mahogany Oil – Best Humbucker Bass
Pros
- Single humbucker delivers fat and powerful tone
- Beautiful natural wood grain with oil finish
- Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Smooth-playing neck right out of the box
- Quality construction for the price point
Cons
- May need truss rod adjustment on arrival
- Nut may need filing for clean string seating
- Higher notes can sound quieter than lower register
- Less tonal variety than multi-pickup basses
The Ibanez GSR100EX GIO with Mahogany Oil finish is the bass to pick if you want thick, powerful tone without fiddling with multiple pickups and switches. The single humbucking pickup delivers a full, fat sound that sits perfectly in rock, metal, and heavier styles.
The natural oil finish is genuinely beautiful and shows off the wood grain in a way gloss finishes cannot. It also feels more comfortable under the picking arm during long sessions. The Jatoba fretboard is smooth and durable, and the maple neck has the fast slim profile Ibanez is known for.
At this price, the build quality is impressive. Reviewers consistently call out how easy the bass is to play right out of the box, with smooth action and comfortable ergonomics. Most units need only a truss rod tweak to play their best.
The trade-off for the simplicity of a single pickup is less tonal variety. You will not get the range of sounds that a PJ configuration offers. Some players also notice that the upper register sounds slightly quieter than the low end, which is common with humbucker-equipped basses.
Who should buy the Ibanez GSR100EX GIO
Players who want a no-nonsense bass with a fat, focused tone. The single humbucker is perfect for rock and metal players who know what sound they want and do not need extra switching options.
Why a humbucker is great for heavier genres
Humbucking pickups cancel the 60-cycle hum that single-coils produce and deliver a hotter, thicker output. That makes them ideal for driving distortion pedals and cutting through dense band mixes in rock and metal.
8. Ibanez Talman TMB30 Short Scale Bass – Best P/J Tone Shaping
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Short scale comfortable for beginners and travelers
- Quality fretwork out of the box
- Classic P/J pickup combination for tonal variety
- Lightweight body reduces fatigue
Cons
- Neck dive issues with stock strap
- Action may need adjustment after shipping
- Single-coil J pickup can hum at high gain
- Tone pot functions more like an on/off switch
The Ibanez Talman TMB30 brings the popular Talman body shape to a short-scale platform, and the result is a bass that punches above its weight class. The 30-inch scale makes it approachable for beginners and comfortable for long practice sessions.
The P/J pickup configuration is the big selling point here. You get the punch of a Precision split-coil and the bite of a Jazz single-coil, with independent volume controls for each. That gives you real tone-shaping flexibility at a price where many basses offer only one pickup.
Reviewers consistently call out the quality of the fretwork, which is often the weak point on budget basses. The Talman arrives with smooth, well-leveled frets that make playing comfortable from day one.
The downsides are familiar. Neck dive is a real issue with the stock strap, so plan to upgrade. The tone control behaves more like a switch than a smooth roll-off, and the J pickup can hum at higher gain settings.
Who should buy the Ibanez Talman TMB30
Beginners, players with smaller hands, and anyone who wants P/J tonal variety in a compact short-scale package. The comfortable playability makes it a strong first bass.
Understanding the P/J pickup advantage
The P/J configuration combines the warmth and punch of a Precision split-coil with the clarity and growl of a Jazz single-coil. This setup has become popular because it covers such a wide tonal range from a single instrument.
9. GLARRY Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit – Best Budget Starter Kit
Pros
- Everything a beginner needs in one box
- 20W amplifier included at an unbeatable price
- All accessories included so you can start playing immediately
- Lightweight and comfortable to hold
- Solid packaging for safe shipping
Cons
- Not Prime eligible so shipping takes longer
- Amplifier quality is basic
- Strap and accessories could be better
- Strings need replacement for best sound
The GLARRY Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit is the lowest-priced option in this roundup and the only one that ships as a complete package. You get the bass, a 20W amplifier, cable, strap, gig bag, and accessories in a single purchase. For an absolute beginner on a tight budget, that is hard to argue with.
The bass itself uses a basswood body and rosewood fingerboard, with a split single-coil pickup delivering a basic but usable P-Bass tone. It is lightweight and comfortable, which is what new players need while building hand strength and finger calluses.
Reviews are surprisingly strong, with over 900 ratings averaging 4.6 stars and 75 percent at five stars. The bass is currently ranked as the best seller in its category, which speaks to how many beginners choose this as their first instrument.
The trade-offs are real, however. The included amplifier is basic and best suited for bedroom practice. The strap and cable are functional but not built to last. The strings need replacement for the best tone. Think of this kit as a starter platform you can upgrade over time.
Who should buy the GLARRY bass kit
Absolute beginners who need everything in one affordable package. This is also a smart choice for parents buying a first instrument for a child when you are not sure if they will stick with it.
What to upgrade first on a starter kit
The single biggest improvement you can make is replacing the stock strings with a quality set from a brand like DAddario or Ernie Ball. After that, a better cable and strap are the next worthwhile upgrades.
10. Squier Mini Precision Bass – Best Travel and Youth Bass
Pros
- Compact 3/4 size perfect for travel and younger players
- Authentic Fender Squier quality in a small package
- Comfortable slim neck for smaller hands
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Neck dive due to small light body
- Frets may have sharp edges on some units
- Requires setup for optimal playability
- Stock strings are basic
The Squier Mini Precision Bass is the smallest full-feature bass in this roundup, and it fills a niche none of the others can. At 3/4 size, it is the right pick for younger players, travelers, and anyone who finds full-size basses uncomfortable to handle.
Despite the small size, this is a real Squier bass built by Fender. The split single-coil Precision pickup delivers the same punchy tone as the full-size version. The slim C-shaped neck feels comfortable under small hands, and the laurel fingerboard is smooth and durable.
With 371 reviews at 4.5 stars, the Mini P-Bass has built a loyal following among parents, traveling musicians, and players who want a couch-practice bass that is easy to pick up and play.
The downsides come from physics. The light body causes noticeable neck dive, which is the trade-off for the compact size. A wide strap helps. The frets may also need light dressing on some units, and the bass benefits from a proper setup.
Who should buy the Squier Mini Precision Bass
Younger players, travelers, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants a second bass for casual practice. The 3/4 size makes it the most portable option in this roundup.
Is a 3/4 size bass a real instrument or a toy
The Squier Mini is a fully functional bass guitar with proper hardware, electronics, and build quality. It is not a toy. Many experienced players keep one as a travel or couch-practice instrument.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bass Guitar Under 500 Dollars
Choosing from the best bass guitars under 500 dollars comes down to matching the instrument to your playing style, body type, and musical goals. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping in this price range.
Pickup type and configuration
Pickups have the biggest impact on tone. Split-coil Precision pickups deliver punchy, focused low-mid tone ideal for rock and country. Jazz single-coils offer brighter, more articulated sound for funk and R&B. Humbuckers give you thick, powerful output for metal. The P/J combination, found on the Squier Affinity P-Bass and Ibanez Talman TMB30, covers the widest tonal ground.
Scale length and playability
Standard bass scale length is 34 inches, which delivers proper string tension and full low-end. Short-scale basses like the Jackson JS1X at 28.6 inches and the Ibanez Talman TMB30 at 30 inches are easier to play and more comfortable for smaller hands, with only a minor tonal trade-off.
Body wood and weight
Poplar and basswood are the most common body woods at this price. Both are lightweight and produce balanced tone. Mahogany, used on the Yamaha TRBX304, adds warmth and sustain. Pay attention to total weight if you plan to gig, because anything over 10 pounds gets uncomfortable after a long set.
Active versus passive electronics
Passive basses are simpler and deliver classic vintage tone. Active basses like the Yamaha TRBX304 have an onboard preamp that gives you a hotter output and built-in tone shaping. Active electronics are great for recording and gigging players who want maximum tonal variety from a single instrument.
4-string versus 5-string
All 10 basses in this roundup are 4-string models, which is the right choice for most players. A 5-string adds a low B string for extended range but requires a wider neck and heavier playing technique. If you are just starting out, a 4-string is the better choice.
Factory setup expectations
This is the most important thing to understand about budget basses. Almost every instrument under 500 dollars will benefit from a professional setup, which typically costs 30 to 60 dollars. A setup adjusts neck relief, string action, intonation, and pickup height. Budget for it.
Plan for essential accessories
A new bass is only as good as the signal chain you plug it into. Budget for quality instrument cables for guitar and bass and a reliable clip-on tuner. These small investments protect your tone and keep your bass sounding its best.
FAQs
What is the best affordable bass guitar?
The Ibanez GSR200BK is the best affordable bass guitar for most players. It offers dual pickups, active Phat II EQ, lightweight basswood body, and a fast-playing neck, all backed by over 2000 positive reviews. The Yamaha TRBX304 is the best premium option under 500 dollars if you want active electronics and 5-way tone switching.
What is the best bass guitar under $500?
The Yamaha TRBX304 is the best bass guitar under 500 dollars overall thanks to its solid mahogany body, active electronics, 5-way Performance EQ switch, and excellent Yamaha quality control. The Ibanez GSR200BK and Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ are also top picks in this price range.
What is the 3 fret rule on bass?
The 3 fret rule on bass refers to a hand-position guideline where you keep your fretting hand positioned to cover three consecutive frets at a time. Your index, middle, and pinky (or ring) fingers handle one fret each. This minimizes hand movement and improves speed and intonation, especially for beginners learning proper technique.
What is the holy grail of bass guitars?
The holy grail of bass guitars is generally considered to be a vintage 1950s or 1960s Fender Precision Bass or Jazz Bass in excellent original condition. These instruments set the standard for electric bass tone and playability. Modern equivalents from the Fender Custom Shop can cost well into five figures.
Should a beginner buy a 4-string or 5-string bass?
A beginner should almost always start with a 4-string bass. The narrower neck is easier to handle, the string spacing is more forgiving, and the standard EADG tuning covers the vast majority of songs you will learn. A 5-string adds a low B for extended range but has a wider neck that can frustrate new players.
Do budget bass guitars need a professional setup?
Yes. Almost every bass guitar under 500 dollars benefits from a professional setup after purchase. A setup adjusts neck relief, string action, intonation, and pickup height to match your playing style. The 30 to 60 dollar cost transforms how a budget bass plays and is the single best investment you can make.
Conclusion
Any of the 10 basses in this roundup will serve you well, but a few stand out for specific needs. The Yamaha TRBX304 is my overall pick for the best bass guitar under 500 dollars thanks to its active electronics, 5-way EQ, and Yamaha quality control. The Ibanez GSR200BK is the value champion with over 2000 positive reviews, and the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ wins for tonal versatility.
Beginners are best served by the Squier Debut Series Precision Bass with its included lessons, while short-scale players should look at the Jackson JS1X or Ibanez Talman TMB30. Whatever you choose, budget for a professional setup and quality accessories, and your new bass will reward you for years. If you are shopping for a fellow musician, our gifts for guitar players guide has plenty of ideas.
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