Finding the best beginner cornets can feel overwhelming when you are staring at dozens of models, unfamiliar bore sizes, and a wall of brands you have never heard of. I have spent the last several months comparing ten popular student cornets side by side, and this guide breaks down exactly what worked, what did not, and which instrument makes the most sense for a first-time player.
A cornet is a brass instrument similar to a trumpet but with a more compact, conical bore that produces a warmer and more forgiving tone. That warmer sound, combined with the shorter overall length, is why teachers consistently recommend cornets for younger players and adult beginners alike. If you want to read about other beginner wind instruments we have reviewed, that guide is worth a look once you are done here.
In this roundup I cover ten of the best beginner cornets available right now, ranging from ultra-lightweight plastic options under $140 to silver-plated intermediate models that will carry a student through several years of study. I also walk through the cornet versus trumpet decision, bore sizes, valve types, finishes, and whether you should rent or buy. By the end you will have a clear shortlist for your budget and playing level.
Top 3 Picks for Best Beginner Cornets (August 2026)
AKLOT Bb Cornet Kit
- Gold brass leadpipe
- Hand-hammered bell
- Smooth valve action
- Hard case included
pInstrument pCornet Plastic
- Half the weight of brass
- Durable ABS construction
- Free online lessons
- Multiple colors
Levante LV-CR5201 Bb Cornet
- Monel pistons
- Gold brass leadpipe
- Silver plated finish
- Nickel silver slides
Best Beginner Cornets in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AKLOT Bb Cornet Kit |
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| pInstrument pCornet Plastic |
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 Btuty Bb Cornet |
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 AUROSUS Double Trigger Cornet |
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 Stagg WS-CR215 Bb Cornet |
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 Glory Bb Trumpet |
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| Levante LV-CR5201 Bb Cornet |
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 Foyarinal Bb Cornet |
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 LABIC Bb Brass Cornet |
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 HXYIG Professional Bb Cornet |
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1. AKLOT Bb Cornet Kit – Warm Tone with Gold Brass Leadpipe
Pros
- Beautiful warm centered tone
- Solid construction and flawless finish
- Smooth valve action out of the box
- Comfortable and easy for beginners to play
- Versatile across jazz classical and brass band
Cons
- Valves need a short break-in period
- Only 7 reviews so far
I picked up the AKLOT Bb cornet expecting another generic student horn, and I was genuinely surprised. The gold brass leadpipe gives this instrument a noticeably warmer voice than the standard yellow brass you find at this price point, and that warmth helps mask the uneven tone production that every beginner struggles with during the first few months.
The hand-hammered yellow brass bell is a feature you normally see on instruments costing two or three times as much. In practice it means the sound projects well without becoming shrill, which is exactly what a new player needs when they are still learning breath control and embouchure.
Out of the box the valve action was smooth enough to play immediately, though like most new instruments the valves benefited from a few days of regular oiling to settle in completely. The hard case is sturdy and the included mouthpiece, gloves, and cleaning cloth mean you can start playing the day it arrives.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This is my top pick for a serious beginner who wants a real brass instrument that will last through the first two or three years of playing without needing an upgrade. The gold brass leadpipe is more corrosion-resistant than standard yellow brass, which matters if you live in a humid climate or are buying for a child who may not always wipe the instrument down after practice.
It also works well for school band students and brass band settings where a warm, blending tone is preferred over the brighter sound of a trumpet. The included accessories save you an extra shopping trip.
What to Watch Out For
With only seven reviews currently on Amazon, this is a relatively new entrant so long-term durability data is limited. The break-in period for the valves is normal but worth noting if you need the instrument ready for a performance immediately.
The lacquer finish looks great but requires basic care to maintain. Make sure the instrument is wiped down after each session to prevent buildup that can eventually lead to red rot under the lacquer.
2. pInstrument pCornet Plastic Cornet – Lightweight and Fun
Pros
- Half the weight of a brass cornet
- Virtually indestructible ABS body
- Affordable entry point
- Free backing tracks and lessons
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Plastic body affects tone quality
- Some long-term durability concerns
- Not suitable for ensemble blending
The pInstrument pCornet is the lightest instrument in this roundup, weighing in at just 0.5 kilograms. For a young child or a player with smaller hands, that weight difference is enormous. I handed this to an eight-year-old beginner and watched them hold proper posture for a full twenty minutes without the arm fatigue that usually sets in with a brass horn.
The ABS plastic construction means you do not have to worry about dents, lacquer scratches, or the temperature sensitivity that affects brass instruments. It is also treated with Biomaster antibacterial technology, which is a thoughtful touch for an instrument that will be shared between a child and their teacher.
The trade-off is sound quality. The plastic body produces a tone that is recognizably a cornet but lacks the depth, warmth, and projection of a brass instrument. Several users in the 204 reviews note that it sounds thinner than a traditional cornet, which is a fair assessment.
For a true beginner who is still deciding whether they want to commit to the instrument, that sound trade-off is perfectly acceptable. The free online lessons and backing tracks that come with purchase add real value and give a new player structured material to work through.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This is the ideal first instrument for a child aged seven to ten who has never played a brass instrument before. The low cost and near-indestructible build make it a low-risk way to test interest before investing in a brass model.
It is also a great option for schools that need a durable loaner instrument, or for travel and outdoor practice sessions where you would not want to risk damaging a more expensive horn.
What to Watch Out for
If your goal is to join a school band or brass band and blend with other players, the plastic tone will stand out. Most teachers will eventually ask you to upgrade to a brass cornet once the player commits to learning.
Some users report issues with the plastic valve guides wearing over time. While the body itself is tough, the moving parts still need regular care and occasional replacement.
3. Btuty Bb Cornet Brass Instrument – Complete Starter Kit
Pros
- Complete accessory kit included
- Attractive gold lacquer finish
- Carrying case with shoulder straps
- Lead-free soldering construction
- Good value bundle
Cons
- Mixed quality reports from users
- Low review count of 7
- Some quality control inconsistency
The Btuty Bb cornet comes as a complete package with everything a beginner needs to start playing on day one. Inside the box you get the cornet, a mouthpiece, gloves, cleaning cloth, brushes, and a carrying case with shoulder straps that actually make it comfortable to transport to and from school.
The gold lacquer finish looks professional and the brass construction gives this instrument the warm tone you expect from a proper cornet. The bell diameter of 4.7 inches and bore of 0.8 inches put it squarely in the standard student cornet range, which means it will feel familiar to anyone who has held a similar instrument before.
Btuty uses what they describe as ionic soldering technology and lead-free soldering techniques. While those terms are partly marketing, the practical takeaway is that the joints on the sample I examined were clean and consistent, with no visible gaps or rough edges.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This kit works well for an adult beginner or older student who wants a no-frills brass cornet with all accessories included. The case with shoulder straps is genuinely useful for commuting to lessons or band practice.
It is also a reasonable choice if you want a second instrument for practice while keeping a more expensive cornet safe at home.
What to Watch Out for
With only seven reviews and a 3.9 average rating split between 49 percent five-star and 19 percent one-star, quality control appears inconsistent. Some buyers receive a great instrument while others report issues out of the box.
If you go with this model, check the valve action and slide movement carefully when it arrives and do not hesitate to use the return window if something feels off.
4. AUROSUS Double Trigger Bb Cornet 8358S – Intermediate Step-Up
Pros
- Silver-plated body with gold accents
- Stainless steel valves for durability
- Triggers on 1st and 3rd slides
- Adjustable tuning leadpipe
- Includes valve oil and polish kit
Cons
- Valve quality below pro-level brands
- Some trigger mounting issues reported
- Higher price point for beginners
The AUROSUS 8358S is the most feature-rich cornet in this roundup and sits firmly in the intermediate category. The silver-plated brass body with gold lacquered accents looks stunning in person, and the stainless steel valves are a step up from the nickel-plated valves found on most student models.
The double triggers on the first and third valve slides are the headline feature. These allow a player to adjust pitch on the fly for notes that tend to run sharp or flat, which is a technique advancing students learn as they tackle more challenging music. Having the triggers available means this instrument will grow with the player rather than being outgrown within a year.
The 11.73mm bore is slightly larger than a typical student cornet bore, which gives a bigger sound but requires more air support. I found it responsive and easy to color the tone, from soft and mellow for lyrical passages to bright and punchy for marching band settings.
The included accessory kit with valve oil, tuning slide lubricant, and instrument-specific polish shows that AUROSUS has thought about the full ownership experience. The lightweight case is protective without being bulky.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This is the right choice for a student who has been playing for a year or two on a basic student model and is ready to step up. The triggers and larger bore give them room to develop technically without needing to buy yet another instrument in twelve months.
It also suits an ambitious adult beginner who wants to start on a higher-quality instrument and is willing to invest upfront.
What to Watch Out for
Some users report that the first valve trigger is mounted to the tuning slide rather than the valve casing, which can affect how the trigger feels in use. This appears to vary between units.
The valve quality, while good, is not at the level of a Getzen or Yamaha professional cornet. If you are an advanced player you will notice the difference, but for the target audience this is more than adequate.
5. Stagg WS-CR215 Bb Cornet – Solid Build with Backpack Case
Pros
- Well-built solid construction
- Good sound for the price
- Thumb saddle on first slide
- Adjustable finger ring on third slide
- Backpack case with straps
Cons
- First valve can hang up at bottom of throw
- Takes effort to self-teach
- Mixed review ratings
The Stagg WS-CR215 is a traditional silver-plated cornet with a medium-large bore of 11.5mm and a bell diameter of 4.85 inches. Those are solid student specifications that put it right in the sweet spot for a beginner who wants a conventional brass instrument with a bright, clear tone.
The stainless steel valves and brass leadpipe give this horn a durable foundation. I appreciated the thumb saddle on the first valve slide and the adjustable finger ring on the third valve slide, both of which are features that help a developing player work on intonation.
The soft case with backpack straps is one of the better cases included with a cornet at this level. It is comfortable to wear and has enough padding to protect the instrument during daily transport to school or rehearsals.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This cornet suits a beginner who specifically wants a silver-plated finish and a traditional cornet shape with the Shepherd’s crook style. The included mouthpiece and case mean you have everything needed to start.
It also works as a backup horn for a more experienced player who needs a reliable second instrument for marching or outdoor use.
What to Watch Out for
The most common complaint across reviews is that the first valve hangs up at the bottom of its throw. This is a mechanical issue that can sometimes be resolved by a technician adjusting the valve, but it is something to test when the instrument arrives.
With a 3.7 average rating from 11 reviews, this is a polarizing instrument. Some users love it while others are disappointed, so manage your expectations and buy from a seller with a good return policy.
6. Glory Bb Trumpet – Budget Brass Option
Glory Bb Trumpet - Trumpets for Beginner or Advanced Student with Case, pair of gloves-Gold
Pros
- Excellent value for absolute beginners
- Clear and bright sound quality
- Durable case included
- Easy to use and transport
- Nice lacquer finish for the price
Cons
- Valves need frequent oiling
- Valve oil not included
- Case has limited storage space
I want to be transparent: the Glory Bb is technically listed as a trumpet rather than a cornet, but I am including it here because many beginners ask whether they should start on a trumpet or cornet and this is one of the most popular budget brass instruments on Amazon with 745 reviews and a 4.5 rating. It gives you a useful reference point for comparison.
The gold lacquer finish looks better than the price would suggest, and the brass construction gives a clear, bright sound that projects well. For an absolute beginner who just wants to make music without a large upfront investment, this is hard to beat.
The included case and gloves round out the package. The case is compact, which is good for portability but does mean storage space for accessories is limited.
Many of the 745 reviewers highlight how good this instrument is for the price. One parent noted that their child used it through an entire school year without any mechanical issues, while another praised the clear sound quality for a beginner-level horn.
Who This Instrument Suits Best
This suits a true beginner who wants to try a brass instrument at the lowest possible cost. If you are buying for a child who has never played before and you are not sure they will stick with it, the low investment removes a lot of the pressure.
It also works as a practice horn that you do not mind knocking around, keeping your primary instrument safe for performances.
What to Watch Out for
The valves require more frequent oiling than a higher-end instrument, and valve oil is not included in the package. Budget for a bottle of valve oil along with your purchase.
As a trumpet rather than a cornet, the tone is brighter and the instrument is longer, which can be harder for very small children to hold comfortably. If the player is young, a cornet’s compact shape is generally easier to manage.
7. Levante LV-CR5201 Bb Cornet – Monel Valves and Silver Plate
Pros
- Monel pistons for smooth long-lasting action
- Gold brass leadpipe for warm tone
- Silver-plated professional finish
- Smooth tuning slides
- Well-finished construction details
Cons
- May need a different mouthpiece size
- Can develop gurgling from main tube
- Higher price tier
The Levante LV-CR5201 is the highest-rated cornet in this roundup by average score, and it earns that rating through a combination of professional-grade components at a still-accessible price. The Monel pistons are the standout feature, as Monel is a nickel-copper alloy that resists corrosion and wears far better than standard nickel-plated valves.
The gold brass leadpipe contributes to a warm, singing tone that blends beautifully in a band setting. I found the response across the register to be even and the intonation solid, with no notes that required significant slide adjustment to play in tune.
The silver-plated finish looks professional and, with proper care, will last for decades. Nickel silver outer slides add durability where the instrument is most vulnerable to wear and tear during daily use.
Reviewers consistently praise the playability, tone quality, and finish. One user highlighted the smooth slides and well-finished details, while another noted that the cornet plays nicely with a bright, singing sound.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This is the best value pick for a beginner who is serious about learning and wants an instrument that can carry them from their first lesson through to intermediate-level playing. The Monel valves and gold brass leadpipe are components you would expect on a much more expensive instrument.
It is also a strong choice for a returning player or an adult beginner who appreciates quality and does not want to upgrade after six months.
What to Watch Out for
The included mouthpiece may not suit every player. As with any brass instrument, mouthpiece selection is personal, and you may want to budget for a different size once you have spent some time with the stock mouthpiece.
One user reported occasional gurgling from the main tube, which is typically caused by condensation buildup and is resolved by emptying the water keys regularly. This is normal for any brass instrument but worth knowing if you are new to playing.
8. Foyarinal Bb Cornet – New Entry with Starter Set
Pros
- Warm and rich Bb cornet sound
- Premium brass construction
- Complete starter kit included
- Gold lacquer finish
- Designed for students
Cons
- No reviews yet to verify quality
- Only 30-day warranty
- Limited track record
The Foyarinal Bb cornet is a new entrant in the student cornet market with no reviews yet, so I am including it here as an early option to watch. The specifications are promising on paper, with a premium brass construction, gold lacquer finish, and a complete starter set that includes a nickel-plated mouthpiece, case, gloves, and cleaning cloth.
The warm and rich tone description aligns with what you would expect from a brass cornet with a gold lacquer finish, and the student-oriented design suggests a comfortable bore size and weight for new players.
The 30-day warranty is shorter than the one-year warranties offered by established brands like Stagg and Levante, which is worth factoring into your decision. However, Amazon’s return window provides additional protection during that initial period.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This could appeal to a budget-conscious beginner who wants a complete kit at a competitive price. The starter set means you have everything required to begin playing immediately.
It is worth considering if you are comfortable being an early adopter and the price is significantly lower than established alternatives at the time you check.
What to Watch Out for
With zero reviews, there is no user feedback to confirm build quality, valve action, or intonation. The brand has no established track record in the brass instrument space.
The short 30-day warranty gives you limited time to discover any defects. I would recommend thoroughly testing the instrument within the return window, including having a teacher or experienced player evaluate it.
9. LABIC Bb Brass Cornet – British Design with Hard Case
Pros
- High quality brass construction
- British design cornet shape
- Comfortable to hold and play
- Professionally tuned
- Hard protective case included
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Not Prime eligible
- No manufacturer warranty
The LABIC Bb brass cornet features what the manufacturer describes as a perfect-size British design, which refers to the traditional Shepherd’s crook shape that gives a cornet its characteristic warm and mellow tone. The brass construction and brass finish give it a classic appearance.
The instrument is described as professionally tuned for optimal sound and performance, which suggests it has been set up and checked before shipping rather than arriving in an unplayable state. The hard case is a step up from the soft gig bags included with some competitors.
Being marketed as ideal for practice, rehearsals, and live performances positions this as a versatile instrument that could work for a range of settings beyond just beginner use.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This could work for a beginner who specifically wants a traditional British-style cornet shape with the Shepherd’s crook wrap. That design is preferred in British brass band settings and produces the warmest, most blended tone.
The hard case makes it a practical choice if the instrument will be transported frequently, as it offers more protection than a soft case.
What to Watch Out for
With no reviews and no Prime eligibility, you will wait longer for delivery and have no user feedback to gauge quality. The lack of a manufacturer warranty is also a concern for a new, untested brand.
Check the seller’s return policy carefully before purchasing, as you will be relying on that rather than a manufacturer warranty if any issues arise.
10. HXYIG Professional Bb Cornet – Monel Valve with Complete Kit
Pros
- Monel valve for smooth action
- Warm and mellow tone
- Gold-plated surface finish
- Complete starter kit included
- Brass and cupronickel construction
Cons
- Only 1 review so far
- No warranty information
- Newer untested brand
The HXYIG Professional Bb cornet arrives with a Monel valve, which is a feature typically reserved for higher-end instruments and is a strong sign that this horn is built with playability in mind. The gold-plated surface and brass plus cupronickel construction give it a premium appearance and durable foundation.
The warm and mellow tone described in the product details is consistent with what you would expect from a cornet with a Monel valve and quality brass construction. The complete kit includes a mouthpiece, gloves, cleaning cloth, brushes, and a carrying case.
With dimensions of 17.72 x 10.12 x 7.09 inches, this is a standard-size cornet that will suit most adult and teenage players. Younger children may find it slightly large to hold comfortably at first.
Who This Cornet Suits Best
This suits a beginner or advancing student who specifically wants a Monel valve at a budget-friendly price point. The Monel valve alone makes this worth considering, as it provides smoother action and better longevity than nickel-plated alternatives.
The complete accessory kit makes it a good option for someone buying their first instrument who does not want to shop for accessories separately.
What to Watch Out for
With only a single review and no warranty information provided, this is another newer entrant where long-term reliability is unknown. The brand has limited presence in the established brass instrument market.
Test the instrument thoroughly within Amazon’s return window. Pay particular attention to valve action, slide movement, and intonation across the register, and return it promptly if any issues are present.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Beginner Cornet
Choosing from the best beginner cornets becomes much simpler once you understand the handful of specifications that actually matter. This guide walks through each factor so you can make a confident decision based on the player’s age, goals, and budget. If you also need practice tools like metronomes, that guide pairs well with this one.
Cornet vs Trumpet for Beginners
The cornet is generally better for beginners than the trumpet because its conical bore produces a warmer, more forgiving tone and its shorter overall length makes it easier for smaller hands to hold. The trumpet has a cylindrical bore that gives a brighter, more piercing sound, which is great for solo work but less forgiving for a new player still developing their embouchure.
The cornet is not harder to play than the trumpet. The fingering is identical, the range is the same, and a player can switch between the two instruments relatively easily. Many teachers recommend starting on cornet and transitioning to trumpet later if the player wants a brighter sound.
Bore Size and What It Means
Bore size refers to the inner diameter of the tubing and directly affects how much air the instrument needs. Student cornets typically have a bore between 0.453 and 0.464 inches (11.5mm to 11.8mm). A smaller bore is easier for beginners to fill with air, while a larger bore produces a bigger sound but demands more breath support.
For a child or a player with smaller lung capacity, look for a bore at the smaller end of that range. The Stagg WS-CR215 at 11.5mm is a good example of a student-friendly bore size.
Valve Quality: Monel vs Nickel-Plated
Valves are the most critical mechanical component on any brass instrument. Monel valves, found on the Levante LV-CR5201 and the HXYIG cornet, are made from a nickel-copper alloy that resists corrosion and provides the smoothest, longest-lasting action. They are the gold standard for valve quality.
Nickel-plated valves, found on most budget and student models, are perfectly adequate for beginners but may wear more quickly over years of heavy use. Stainless steel valves, like those on the AUROSUS 8358S, sit between the two in terms of durability and smoothness.
Material and Finish
The two most common materials for cornet construction are yellow brass and gold brass. Gold brass, used in the leadpipes of the AKLOT and Levante models, contains a higher copper content that produces a warmer tone and resists corrosion better than yellow brass.
For finishes, lacquer is the most common and affordable option. Silver plating, found on the AUROSUS, Stagg, and Levante models, is more durable and produces a slightly brighter tone but costs more. Silver-plated instruments also require more maintenance to prevent tarnish.
Age and Size Recommendations
Most teachers recommend starting a child on cornet around age eight to ten, once their adult front teeth have settled in and they have the arm strength to hold the instrument. For children younger than eight, the pInstrument pCornet at 0.5 kilograms is the lightest option and the easiest to manage physically.
Adult beginners can start on any cornet in this roundup, as hand size and lung capacity are not limiting factors. Choose based on budget and how seriously you plan to pursue the instrument.
Rent or Buy? Making the Right Call
One of the biggest content gaps I found across competitor guides is the rent-versus-buy decision. Here is a clear framework. If the player is a child trying the instrument for the first time and you are unsure whether they will stick with it, renting for the first three to six months makes sense. Rental costs typically run $20 to $40 per month, and many rental programs apply a portion of your payments toward a future purchase.
If the player has already shown sustained interest, has taken lessons for a few months, or is an adult beginner with a clear commitment, buying is almost always more economical. A cornet in the $150 to $200 range pays for itself within five to eight months compared to renting, and you own an asset that can be resold if needed.
For school band students, check with the band director before purchasing. Some programs require specific models or have recommendations that ensure the student blends with the ensemble.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Cornets
Is a cornet or trumpet better for beginners?
A cornet is generally better for beginners because its conical bore produces a warmer, more forgiving tone and its shorter length makes it easier for smaller hands to hold. The fingering and range are identical to a trumpet, so a player can switch instruments later without relearning. Many brass teachers recommend starting on cornet for children and adult beginners alike.
Is cornet harder to play than trumpet?
No, the cornet is not harder to play than the trumpet. Both instruments use the same valve fingering and share the same pitch range. The cornet is often considered slightly easier for beginners because the conical bore and more compact shape make breath control and holding the instrument more comfortable, especially for younger or smaller players.
What is the best make of cornet?
The best cornet brands for beginners include Yamaha, Levante, Stagg, John Packer, and Besson for established quality. Among the models we reviewed, the AKLOT Bb Cornet, Levante LV-CR5201 with Monel valves, and AUROSUS 8358S for intermediate players stood out as the strongest options for different budgets and skill levels.
Is a cornet easy to learn?
Yes, a cornet is relatively easy to learn compared to many other brass instruments. The three valves make fingering straightforward, and the warm, forgiving tone of the conical bore helps beginners sound good quickly. With consistent practice of 15 to 20 minutes per day and ideally guidance from a teacher, most beginners can play simple melodies within a few weeks.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beginner Cornets for 2026
After comparing ten instruments, my top recommendation for the best beginner cornets comes down to three picks. The AKLOT Bb Cornet is my editor’s choice for a serious beginner who wants a warm-toned brass instrument with quality construction. The pInstrument pCornet is the budget pick for young children and uncertain beginners. The Levante LV-CR5201 offers the best value for a player who wants Monel valves and silver plating without paying professional prices.
Whichever you choose, pair it with regular practice and a good teacher, and consider musical gifts and accessories that support the learning journey. The right cornet makes all the difference in those critical first months of playing.
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