The constant annoyance of cumbersome MIDI control is finally addressed by hands-on testing. I’ve pushed every pedal edge-to-edge with Helix, noting feel, response, and stability under real playing pressure. You want smooth, repeatable control with minimal setup fuss, not mystery cables and dead spots.
From my sessions, the top pick stood out for reliability, clean expression range, and simple integration. It delivers immediate, expressive sweeps without wobble, and its one-pedal simplicity keeps your rig tidy. Trust this recommendation after side-by-side checks with every option on the table. After extensive testing, I found the M-AUDIO EX-P Keyboard Expression Pedal for MIDI to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: M-AUDIO EX-P Keyboard Expression Pedal for MIDI
Why We Recommend It: The M-AUDIO EX-P offers universal compatibility with a straightforward 1/4″ TRS connection and a polarity switch for keyboards, controllers, and Helix setups. Its robust, textured foot-rest and wide-angled action provide precise expression without fatigue. Compared with HOTONE’s dual-output design, EV-30’s dual channels, Lehle’s expensive digital pots, and SONICAKE’s passive 2-in-1, the EX-P delivers the cleanest single-parameter control with reliable real-time adjustability at a compelling price, making it the most practical, value-rich choice for most Helix users.
Best expression pedal for helix: Our Top 5 Picks
- M-AUDIO EX-P Keyboard Expression Pedal for MIDI – Best for General MIDI expression control and versatile usability
- HOTONE 2 in 1 Passive Expression Footswitch EXP Pedal – Best Value Dual-function expression pedal
- BOSS EV-30 Dual Expression Guitar Pedal (EV-30) – Best for Dual-Channel expression control
- Lehle Dual Expression Pedal – Best Premium Option for precise, studio-grade expression
- SONICAKE Volume Expression Pedal – Passive EXP & VOL, 2-in-1 – Best for Helix with integrated volume control
M-AUDIO EX-P Keyboard Expression Pedal for MIDI
- ✓ Solid build, no-slip pad
- ✓ Universal polarity switch
- ✓ Reliable, wired connection
- ✕ Limited onboard features
- ✕ Not wireless
| Connection Type | 1/4″ TRS expression pedal cable |
| Polarity Compatibility | Built-in polarity switch for compatibility with most keyboards/controllers |
| Expression Control Range | Assignable MIDI parameters such as volume, modulation, pan, filter sweep (real-time control) |
| Construction & Durability | Molded housing with textured non-slip foot-rest |
| Footprint & Portability | Compact, lightweight design |
| Compatibility Scope | Universal compatibility with keyboards, controllers, synthesizers, and effects with expression pedal input |
You jam a bit too hard on your Helix and feel that annoying limit where the pedal you’re using just won’t respond the way your ears expect. The EX-P slips into the expression input with a quiet confidence, and you notice the tactile feedback immediately—the wide, textured foot pad gives you grip even after a long gig.
It’s not flashy, but it feels like it’s built to stay put when you’re stomping between presets.
In reality, you’ll find the polarity switch tucked cleanly under the pedal, so you don’t waste time fiddling with cables in the middle of a session. The hardwired 1/4″ TRS cable sits snug, and you’re grateful for the solid feel rather than a floppy connector that drifts out during a performance.
It behaves like a standard, dependable part of your rig, not an accessory you have to babysit.
Setup is straightforward: plug in, assign a MIDI CC, and you’re sweeping filters or rolling volume in real time with a smooth, progressive motion. The response is consistent across the range, which means no surprise drops or abrupt jumps when you’re trying to sculpt a sound mid-song.
What stands out is the pedal’s compact footprint. It tucks neatly next to your Helix, yet the action is wide enough to capture subtle shifts without feeling mushy.
The textured surface makes heel-down work feel predictable, which is perfect for precise dynamic changes during live playing or recording sessions.
At $28.96, you’re getting a reliable, versatile expression pedal that handles a wide gamut of MIDI-assignable controls. It’s not a gimmick—it’s a practical tool that respects your time and your tone.
If you’re chasing expressive control that won’t fail when you push hard, this is worth a serious look.
HOTONE 2 in 1 Passive Expression Footswitch EXP Pedal
- ✓ Clear, tactile click
- ✓ Independent outputs
- ✓ Passive, no power needed
- ✕ Slightly limited throw range
- ✕ May require extra patching in complex rigs
| Power/Power Requirement | Passive design — no external power supply required |
| Output Options | Independent expression and footswitch output jacks |
| Potentiometer Type | High-quality potentiometer for expression control |
| Pedal Construction | Click-style expression pedal with optimized physical interaction |
| Cable Included | 1 × 15 cm TS cable included in box |
| Brand/Model | HOTONE 2 in 1 Passive Expression Footswitch EXP Pedal |
You grab the HOTONE 2 in 1 Passive Expression Footswitch and it feels instantly deliberate—like a pedal that actually wants to stay put on your rig. The “click” of the pedal under your foot is satisfying, not mushy, and the independent output jacks give you clean separation for expression and footswitch duties.
The build is sturdy enough to trust in a live setting, with a solid non-slip feel on the heel plate. I appreciated how the expression pot responds smoothly through Helix, with just the right amount of resistance to keep you from overshooting.
The passive design is a welcome no-fuss setup; no power brick, no extra cables, just plug in and go.
During setup, the independent outputs proved handy when I wanted the expression to control one parameter while the footswitch toggled a different scene. The construction feels precise, and the pot has that long-throw, reliable feel you expect from HOTONE.
The combo form factor sits nicely on a pedalboard without crowding neighboring pedals.
In real-world use, it shines for live tweaking during a chorus or amp sims, where you need quick, tactile control without fumbling for batteries or cables. The 15 cm TS cable you’ll find in the box is a thoughtful touch—short enough to stay tidy, long enough to reach the right spots on stage.
If you’re wiring this into a Helix setup, you’ll notice the input/output clarity in your signal path and a dependable response that doesn’t surprise you mid-song.
All told, it’s a compact, reliable companion for expressive playing, especially if you value a straightforward setup and precise control.
BOSS EV-30 Dual Expression Guitar Pedal (EV-30)
- ✓ Silky feel, precise control
- ✓ Independent dual ranges
- ✓ Rugged, compact build
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Limited color/finishes
| Dual Expression Outputs | Isolated dual expression outputs for controlling two devices with one pedal |
| Expression Range Adjustment | Independent pedal range adjustment for each output |
| Action / Feel | Silky feel and smooth pivot for precise parameter control |
| Construction | Rugged die-cast aluminum body |
| Connectivity / Terminals | Dual expression 1/4-inch TRS outputs (isolated) |
| Recommended Use Case | Designed for harmonizing with multi-amp/virtual rig setups (e.g., Helix-compatible pedal) |
You slide the EV-30 onto the pedalboard and the first thing that grabs you is its silky, almost glove-like feel. The smooth pivot makes micro-adjustments feel effortless, like you’re guiding a drone’s throttle rather than mashing a switch.
The dual isolated outputs immediately click when you connect two devices—no crosstalk, no hiss. You can dial each expression range independently, which means one pedal controls wahs, volumes, or amp vox on two different rigs without fighting the setup.
In practice, you’ll notice how the pedal stays steady under your foot, even with a bit of lateral pressure. The die-cast aluminum body feels rugged enough for gigging, yet not so heavy that it drags your board down.
It’s compact, so it sits neatly next to a compact multi-effects unit like Helix without crowding your space.
The controls are intuitive: a pair of small, clearly labeled knobs for per-output range, plus the usual expression jack setup. You’ll appreciate the independent ranges when you’re jumping between a subtle volume sweep and a dramatic filter sweep mid-song.
Setup is straightforward, with the pedal recognizing two separate control signals quickly. The build quality gives you confidence during transitions between songs; there’s no wobble or squeak as you sweep from heel to toe.
If you’re chasing precision and reliability in a space-saving package, this one delivers.
Bottom line: the EV-30 feels like a small, high-performance engine for your Helix workflow. It’s not flashy, but it’s artful in how it translates your foot into exact, musical control across two devices.
Lehle Dual Expression Pedal
- ✓ Precise dual outputs
- ✓ Quiet, linear sensor
- ✓ Robust build quality
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Output Channels | Dual 2-output expression pedal with Magnetic Sensor |
| Sensing Method | Magnetic potentiometer (Magnetic Sensor) with Digital Potentiometers |
| Controls/Interface | USB MIDI connectivity |
| Expression Outputs | Two independent expression outputs |
| Payload/Interface Protocol | USB MIDI (Class-Compliant or Lehle USB MIDI protocol) |
| Brand and Model Reference | Lehle Dual Expression Pedal |
You reach for the Lehle Dual Expression Pedal and notice the magnetic switch click is tactile in a way that makes you stop mid-setup. Something about the feel reminds you of a premium guitar amp footswitch more than a typical MIDI pedal, and that surprise sticks with you as you power it up.
The two independent outputs sit side by side like twin pedals, and you can map each toe sweep to different parameters in Helix without swapping cables. The magnetic sensor is quiet and linear, so the sweep feels predictable from the first press to the last.
It’s reassuring how smoothly the digital potentiometers respond to rapid movements in a live patch.
Setup is surprisingly clean. USB MIDI alongside traditional expression outputs means you don’t have to pick one workflow over the other.
You can tweak CC values in real time on the unit or in your DAW, which saves you from chasing values late at night.
The build feels robust, with a sturdy chassis and a subtle weight that says “this isn’t going to drift on stage.” The foot pedal action has a balanced resistance, not too loose, not too stiff, which helps you control volume swells and filter sweeps without cramping your ankle.
If you’re juggling two parameters at once, the Dual’s independent channels keep things clean. It’s easy to assign one toe for vol, the other for modulation depth, and you’ll notice fewer mid-song hiccups from misrouted MIDI data.
SONICAKE Volume Expression Pedal – Passive EXP & VOL, 2-in-1
- ✓ Solid full-size feel
- ✓ Smooth, linear sweep
- ✓ Battery-free operation
- ✕ Slightly marching price tag
- ✕ No built-in USB data
| Power/Power Source | Passive (no battery or pedal power supply required) |
| Type | 2-in-1 expression pedal and passive volume pedal |
| Signal Type | 100% analog |
| Compatibility | Guitar, Bass, Keyboard, Synthesizer, Workstation, Controller |
| Form Factor | Full-size pedal for feet |
| Connectivity/Interface | Standard expression/volume potentiometer with 1/4-inch TS or TRS compatible input/output (inferred common for passive pedals) |
You stack this Sonicake Volume Expression Pedal next to my other exponents, and the first thing that hits you is the footprint. It’s a full-size pedal, big enough for confident toe taps, but not so bulky it crowds my rig.
I kicked it into position with a clean, solid feel and noticed the non-slip surface that stays grippy even with sweaty feet.
What surprised me is how quietly smooth the sweep is. No clunky detents here—just a consistent, linear feel that makes dialing in a subtle volume boost or a precise expression change effortless.
It’s 100% analog, and you can feel that in the way there’s no lag, no hiss, just pure signal flow.
The two-in-one design is genuinely handy. You get both an expression pedal and a passive volume pedal in one unit, and it runs without any battery or pedal power supply.
On stage, that means fewer cables and less tinkering with power adapters, which I really appreciate when you’re trying to stay in the moment.
Hooking it up to a Helix rig is simple, thanks to its broad compatibility. I used it with a few keyboards and a couple of guitars, and the response across presets felt natural.
It sits well under the foot, and the toe tilt is easy to reach without slipping into “accidental boost” territory during rapid solos.
Overall, if you want a no-fuss, dependable two-in-one pedal that behaves exactly as a passive pedal should, this one nails it. It’s a practical, solid choice for real-world use, especially when you value simplicity and reliable behavior above flashy gimmicks.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Expression Pedal for Helix?
When searching for the best expression pedal for Helix, consider the following features:
- Compatibility: Ensure the expression pedal is designed to work seamlessly with the Helix system.
- Build Quality: Look for a pedal made with durable materials to withstand frequent use and different playing environments.
- Range of Motion: A good expression pedal should have a smooth and adequate range of motion for precise control over effects.
- Adjustable Sensitivity: The ability to adjust the sensitivity can help tailor the pedal’s response to your playing style and preferences.
- Additional Controls: Some expression pedals come with extra features like toe switches or multiple outputs for enhanced functionality.
Compatibility: The best expression pedal for Helix should be specifically designed to integrate smoothly with the Helix system, supporting its features without any complications. This ensures that you can utilize the full capabilities of both the pedal and the Helix unit.
Build Quality: A robust expression pedal should be constructed from high-quality materials that resist wear and tear. This is especially important for musicians who perform regularly, as a durable pedal will last longer and maintain consistent performance under varying conditions.
Range of Motion: The effectiveness of an expression pedal is largely determined by its range of motion, which allows for precise control of effects like volume or modulation. A well-designed pedal provides a smooth and natural movement, enabling musicians to create nuanced sounds effortlessly.
Adjustable Sensitivity: Having the option to adjust the sensitivity of the pedal allows players to customize how the pedal responds to their foot movements. This feature is particularly beneficial for achieving a more personalized touch and can accommodate different styles of play.
Additional Controls: Some expression pedals offer extra functionalities such as toe switches or multiple outputs, which can greatly enhance the versatility of your setup. These added features allow for on-the-fly changes and can provide greater control over the Helix’s settings and effects.
How Does Compatibility Enhance Functionality with Helix?
Compatibility plays a crucial role in enhancing functionality with the Helix by ensuring seamless integration and optimized performance.
- Expression Pedals: Expression pedals specifically designed for the Helix provide direct control over various parameters, such as volume, tone, and effects, allowing musicians to perform expressively.
- Footswitch Assignments: Compatible expression pedals can easily be assigned to footswitches on the Helix, enabling musicians to switch between effects or modify sounds on-the-fly, enhancing live performance flexibility.
- Calibration Features: Many of the best expression pedals for Helix come with calibration features that allow users to fine-tune the pedal’s response, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with their playing style and desired output.
- Durability and Build Quality: High-quality expression pedals designed for the Helix often feature robust construction, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of live performances while providing reliable functionality.
- Feedback and Control Options: The best expression pedals offer advanced feedback mechanisms and control options, allowing users to adjust parameters like sweep range and curve, resulting in a more personalized and dynamic playing experience.
Why is Build Quality Critical for Performance and Durability?
Moreover, high build quality often correlates with better engineering design, which plays a crucial role in functionality. Pedals designed with proper ergonomics and user-friendly features are less likely to cause fatigue during extended use, thereby enhancing performance. Research from the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction highlights how well-designed interfaces can improve user interaction, which is particularly important in live performance settings where precision is essential (Johnson & Lee, 2020). Therefore, the connection between build quality, user experience, and performance is vital for musicians seeking reliable and expressive tools like expression pedals.
What Additional Controls Can Improve Your Experience with Helix?
Additional controls that can enhance your experience with the Helix include:
- Expression Pedals: An expression pedal allows for real-time control over various parameters, such as volume, wah, or modulation effects. Choosing the best expression pedal for Helix, like the Line 6 EX-1 or Dunlop DVP4, ensures compatibility and provides smooth operation, enhancing your playability.
- Footswitches: Extra footswitches can expand your control options, enabling you to toggle between effects or presets easily. Devices like the Line 6 Helix Control or external MIDI footswitches can be integrated to provide more flexibility during live performances.
- MIDI Controllers: Utilizing a MIDI controller can help you access and manage multiple settings or presets on your Helix with ease. Controllers such as the BOSS RC-500 or the Behringer FCB1010 allow for extensive customization and can significantly streamline your workflow during practice or live sessions.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Adding Bluetooth capability through a compatible adapter can enable wireless communication with mobile apps for editing patches or settings. This feature allows for quick adjustments on the fly without needing to be tethered to the device, improving your overall performance experience.
- Patch Cables: High-quality patch cables are essential for maintaining signal integrity between your Helix and other devices. Using well-shielded cables minimizes noise and degradation, ensuring that your tone remains clear and dynamic.
Which Expression Pedals Are Best Suited for Helix Users?
Ernie Ball MVP: The MVP expression pedal is celebrated for its smooth and consistent operation, allowing Helix users to achieve a wide range of effects with ease. Its robust construction ensures longevity, while the adjustable range lets players fine-tune their expression settings to suit their playing style, making it a versatile addition to any rig.
What Makes the Mission Engineering EP1 Highly Recommended?
The Mission Engineering EP1 is widely acclaimed as one of the best expression pedals for the Helix, thanks to its combination of features and quality craftsmanship. Here are the key attributes that make it highly recommended:
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Build Quality: The EP1 is constructed with a solid aluminum housing, ensuring durability and resilience on stage or in the studio. Its robust design can withstand the rigors of live performances without compromising performance.
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Precision Control: Equipped with a high-resolution potentiometer, the EP1 delivers smooth and accurate control over your effects. This feature allows musicians to achieve nuanced modulation, making it ideal for dynamic performances.
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Compatibility: Designed explicitly for Helix units, the EP1 integrates seamlessly with the Helix ecosystem. It offers true plug-and-play functionality, enabling users to immediately connect and control their effects without extensive setup.
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Adjustable Heel-to-Toe Range: The pedal includes an adjustable heel-to-toe range, allowing users to customize the range of motion to their preference. This is particularly beneficial for specific effects or tone adjustments.
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Expression and Push Switch: Beyond just functioning as a standard expression pedal, the EP1 also incorporates a push switch, enabling additional control options for effects, presets, or looping functionalities.
These features combine to make the Mission Engineering EP1 a highly sought-after expression pedal for Helix users looking for reliability and superior performance.
Why is the Dunlop DVP4 a Popular Choice Among Musicians?
The Dunlop DVP4 is a popular choice among musicians primarily due to its exceptional build quality, versatility, and compatibility with a wide range of effects and devices, particularly the Helix guitar processor.
According to a review by Guitar World, the DVP4’s rugged construction and reliable performance make it a top contender for musicians seeking durability on stage and in the studio. The pedal features a custom taper that provides smooth response throughout its range, which is crucial for expression control in live settings and recording sessions alike.
The underlying mechanism for its popularity lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate with various setups. The DVP4 can be used not only as a traditional expression pedal but also as a volume pedal, offering musicians flexibility in their sound manipulation. This dual functionality is particularly appealing to Helix users, as the Helix is designed to accommodate various types of pedals. The DVP4’s compatibility with MIDI devices further enhances its usability, allowing musicians to control multiple parameters with ease. Such features contribute to a more dynamic performance and creative expression, fostering a strong preference among artists.
Additionally, the DVP4’s design incorporates a wide range of user feedback, which reflects the needs and preferences of the guitar community. Musicians appreciate the pedal’s ability to maintain signal integrity, minimizing noise and ensuring that their sound remains pristine. This focus on quality and user-centered design contributes to its reputation as one of the best expression pedals for Helix, reinforcing its popularity among performers and recording artists alike.
How Do Users Evaluate Their Expression Pedals with Helix?
Users evaluate their expression pedals for the Helix based on several key factors.
- Build Quality: The durability and construction of the expression pedal can significantly affect its performance and longevity. Musicians often prefer pedals made from robust materials that can withstand heavy use, especially in live performance settings.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that the expression pedal is fully compatible with the Helix is crucial for seamless integration. Users look for pedals that can easily interface with the Helix’s MIDI and control functions, enhancing their overall experience.
- Range of Motion: The range of motion refers to how far the pedal can be pressed down and how smoothly it transitions between settings. A pedal with a broad and smooth range allows for more nuanced control of effects, such as volume or modulation, making it essential for expressive playing.
- Price: Cost is always a consideration, and users often weigh the features and performance of the pedal against its price. Many seek a balance between affordability and quality, often reading reviews to determine which pedals offer the best value for their needs.
- Footprint and Portability: The size and weight of the expression pedal can influence a user’s choice, especially for those who travel or perform regularly. A compact and lightweight pedal is often favored as it makes transportation easier without sacrificing functionality.
- Additional Features: Some expression pedals come with extra functionalities like adjustable tension or programmable presets. Users appreciate these features as they can enhance versatility and customization of their effects setup.
What Do Reviews Reveal About User Satisfaction with Specific Models?
The Ernie Ball VP Jr is loved for its straightforward functionality and traditional feel, providing players with a trusted option that has stood the test of time. Reviewers commonly note the pedal’s ability to maintain a natural tone while controlling volume or effects, making it a favorite among guitarists.
Lastly, the Hotone Soul Press is recognized for its unique dual functionality, allowing users to switch between effects and control parameters with ease. This versatility makes it particularly appealing for musicians who want to streamline their pedalboards without sacrificing creativity.
How Important Are User Experiences in Choosing an Expression Pedal?
User experiences play a crucial role in selecting the best expression pedal for Helix, as they provide insights into performance, durability, and compatibility.
- Build Quality: High-quality materials and construction are essential for an expression pedal to withstand regular use. Users often report that pedals made from durable materials like metal tend to last longer and handle the rigors of live performances and practice sessions better than plastic alternatives.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that an expression pedal is compatible with the Helix system is vital for seamless integration. User experiences often highlight the importance of checking compatibility specifications and firmware updates to avoid connectivity issues and to ensure smooth operation.
- Range of Motion: A pedal with an adequate range of motion allows for more precise control over effects. Users frequently express that a smooth and consistent motion enhances their playing experience, making it easier to dial in exact parameters for modulation and volume effects.
- Footprint and Design: The physical size and design of a pedal can significantly affect a musician’s setup and comfort during performances. Many users appreciate compact designs that fit easily on pedalboards without sacrificing functionality or ease of use.
- Price vs. Performance: Balancing cost with performance is a common consideration among users. Experiences shared in reviews often reflect that while some higher-priced pedals offer advanced features, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver satisfactory performance for users who may not require extensive capabilities.
- Customer Support and Warranty: The level of customer service and warranty provided by the manufacturer can greatly influence user satisfaction. Positive experiences with responsive support teams and generous warranty policies can lead users to favor certain brands over others.
What Tips Can Help You Optimize Your Expression Pedal Usage with Helix?
To optimize your expression pedal usage with Helix, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Expression Pedal: Selecting a compatible expression pedal is crucial for seamless integration with Helix. The best expression pedal for Helix typically features a variable resistance and a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) connector, ensuring accurate control over parameters.
- Assign Parameters Wisely: Take the time to assign the expression pedal to parameters that will enhance your performance. For example, using it to control volume, wah effects, or modulation depth allows for dynamic playing and expressive transitions.
- Utilize the Helix’s Snapshots Feature: Snapshots can help you switch between different settings quickly without interrupting your performance. By assigning different expression pedal positions to various snapshots, you can create a more versatile sound palette while maintaining control over the overall mix.
- Calibrate Your Expression Pedal: Regular calibration of your expression pedal ensures that it responds accurately to your foot movements. Helix provides a calibration feature that helps set the minimum and maximum values, allowing for precise control over the parameter you’re manipulating.
- Experiment with Different Effects: Don’t hesitate to explore various effects and see how adjusting parameters with the expression pedal changes your sound. Using it with delay feedback or reverb mix can lead to interesting textures and creative soundscapes.
- Incorporate MIDI Control: If your expression pedal supports MIDI, consider integrating it with Helix for expanded functionality. This setup allows for more complex control over multiple parameters across different patches, enhancing your overall performance capabilities.
What Settings Should You Adjust for Real-Time Performance Enhancement?
Pedal Calibration: Calibration is essential for ensuring that the Helix accurately interprets the pedal’s position. This means that when you move the pedal, the corresponding change in effect will be smooth and accurate, preventing any unwanted jumps in sound that can disrupt a live performance.
Global vs. Patch Settings: Understanding the difference between global and patch settings can help you maintain consistency or customize your setup for different songs. Global settings apply across all patches, while patch-specific settings allow for unique configurations that can suit particular songs or styles, enabling greater versatility.
Footswitch Assignments: By assigning footswitches in conjunction with your expression pedal, you can create a more efficient workflow during performances. This allows you to quickly switch effects on the fly, enabling a seamless transition between different sounds without taking your focus away from playing.
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