Based on checking the website c64psu.com, it appears to be a legitimate e-commerce platform specializing in new, high-quality power supplies for vintage computers such as Commodore, Amiga, Atari, and ZX Spectrum models.
The site clearly lists various power supply units PSUs and related accessories with prices and descriptions, indicating a focused niche market.
However, a comprehensive review requires examining several key aspects often found on trusted e-commerce sites to ensure full transparency and customer confidence.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Focus: Dedicated to power supplies for vintage computers Commodore, Amiga, Atari, ZX Spectrum.
- Product Offering: Appears comprehensive for its niche, with various PSUs and accessories listed.
- Pricing: Clearly displayed for each product.
- Transparency: Lacks immediately visible standard e-commerce features like a clear “About Us” section, detailed shipping/returns policies, or customer support contact information beyond what might be in a hidden footer.
- User Reviews: Mentions “thousands of users worldwide” but no on-site review system is apparent from the homepage text.
- Security & Trust Signals: Not explicitly highlighted on the homepage e.g., trust badges, security certificates.
- Ethical Standing: The products themselves are hardware components for vintage electronics, which are inherently permissible. The concern lies more with the operational transparency and trustworthiness of the website as an online vendor.
While the site offers a unique product line for retro computing enthusiasts, the lack of immediate access to standard e-commerce elements like detailed contact info, shipping/return policies, and a visible “About Us” section could be a red flag for potential buyers.
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Many trustworthy online vendors make this information readily available to build consumer confidence.
Without these foundational elements prominently displayed, a user might hesitate before making a purchase.
Best Alternatives for Ethical Online Shopping General Electronics & Components:
- Amazon: A global giant with a vast selection of electronic components, clear return policies, and extensive customer reviews. Offers robust buyer protection.
- Digi-Key: A leading global distributor of electronic components, known for its extensive inventory, detailed datasheets, and reliable shipping. Excellent for hobbyists and professionals.
- Mouser Electronics: Another highly respected distributor of electronic components. Offers a wide range of products, technical resources, and global shipping.
- Adafruit: Specializes in open-source hardware and electronics, popular among makers and hobbyists. Known for quality products, excellent documentation, and strong community support.
- SparkFun Electronics: Provides electronics parts, tutorials, and resources for hobbyists and educators. Focuses on making electronics accessible and fun.
- B&H Photo Video: While known for cameras, they also carry a significant range of computer hardware, components, and accessories. Excellent customer service and return policies.
- Newegg: A major online retailer for computer hardware and software, offering a wide array of components, competitive pricing, and user reviews.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Understanding C64psu.com: A Review of its Digital Presence
Based on looking at the website c64psu.com, it positions itself as a dedicated online store for power supplies tailored to vintage computers like the Commodore C64, Amiga, Atari, and ZX Spectrum.
This niche focus is commendable, catering to a specific, passionate community of retro computing enthusiasts who often struggle to find reliable replacement parts for their classic machines.
The site’s homepage immediately lists various PSUs for different models, with prices displayed, providing a clear overview of their product range.
For instance, you can find a “Commodore C64 PSU” for $49.23 or an “Amiga PSU Duo+” for $166.03. The site emphasizes “new, TOP quality, reliable power supplies” and boasts “Superior quality and unique features confirmed by thousands of Commodore C64, C128 & Amiga users worldwide!” However, a deeper dive into what makes an e-commerce site truly trustworthy reveals some areas where c64psu.com could enhance its transparency and user experience.
C64psu.com Review & First Look
A first impression of c64psu.com highlights its directness. Freelancers-hub.com Review
The homepage immediately presents the core product—power supplies for vintage computers—with a clear listing of models and prices.
This is beneficial for users who know exactly what they’re looking for.
The use of terms like “new, TOP quality, reliable” aims to build confidence, and the mention of “thousands of users worldwide” attempts to establish a sense of community trust.
- Product Clarity: Products are clearly named and priced, making it easy for users to identify what they need. Examples include “Commodore C64 PSU” and “ZX Spectrum PSU +2A +2B +3.”
- Niche Focus: The website is highly specialized, which can be a strong point for a specific audience. It serves a market that generic electronics retailers might overlook.
- Lack of Immediate Trust Signals: While products are listed, the homepage doesn’t prominently feature standard e-commerce trust signals such as an easily accessible “About Us” page detailing the company’s history or mission, clear contact information like a phone number or physical address, or explicit security badges e.g., SSL certificate validation, payment processor logos.
- User Testimonials Visibility: Although the site claims “thousands of users,” there are no readily visible customer reviews or testimonials on the product pages or homepage that a new visitor could quickly verify. This absence of visible social proof can hinder trust.
- Navigation: The “Quick view” links and product categories seem functional, allowing users to browse specific PSU types for Commodore, ZX Spectrum, and Atari.
The initial look suggests a functional e-commerce site, but one that could benefit from greater transparency and the inclusion of elements that modern consumers have come to expect for security and reliability.
C64psu.com Pros & Cons
When evaluating an online store, it’s crucial to weigh its strengths against areas needing improvement. Mistyleastore.com Review
For c64psu.com, its primary advantage lies in its specialized offerings, yet some operational aspects could be refined.
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Pros:
- Niche Market Expertise: The site focuses exclusively on power supplies for vintage computers, suggesting a deep understanding of these specific hardware requirements. This specialized knowledge can be reassuring to buyers of classic systems.
- Clear Product Listings: Each product has a name, price, and a quick view option. This straightforward presentation aids in efficient browsing and selection.
- Availability of Specific Items: Many of these vintage power supplies are hard to come by from mainstream retailers, making c64psu.com a potentially valuable resource for retro computing enthusiasts.
- “New” and “TOP quality” Emphasis: The homepage stresses that products are new and of high quality, which is crucial for sensitive electronics like power supplies that directly impact the longevity of vintage hardware.
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Cons:
- Limited Transparency on Company Information: A clear “About Us” section, which outlines the company’s background, team, or mission, is not immediately visible on the homepage. This can make it difficult for new customers to gauge the legitimacy and expertise behind the business.
- Absence of Detailed Contact Information: While there might be contact details in a footer, a readily apparent customer service phone number, email address, or support chat option is crucial for building trust and providing reassurance to potential buyers.
- Lack of Visible Shipping & Returns Policies: Without clearly stated policies on shipping costs, delivery times, return procedures, and warranty information, customers may hesitate to commit to a purchase, especially for international orders.
- No Customer Review System: Despite claiming “thousands of users worldwide,” there’s no visible system for customer reviews or ratings on product pages. Social proof from verified buyers is a powerful trust-builder.
- Unclear Security Indicators: While the site likely uses SSL, prominent security badges or clear statements about payment processing security are not immediately evident on the homepage.
- General Lack of Comprehensive FAQ/Support Sections: A dedicated FAQ section that addresses common customer queries about products, compatibility, troubleshooting, or ordering processes is not apparent from the initial view.
Overall, while c64psu.com provides a valuable service to a specific community, its user confidence could be significantly boosted by incorporating more robust transparency and customer support features typically found on established e-commerce platforms.
C64psu.com Pricing and Value Proposition
The pricing on c64psu.com varies, with individual power supply units PSUs ranging from approximately $16.02 for an adapter to $171.75 for internal PSUs. Howardcundeylive.com Review
For instance, a “Commodore C64 PSU” is listed at $49.23, while a “Commodore C128 PSU PRO” goes for $90.45. Considering the specialized nature of these products—which cater to vintage computer hardware that is no longer mass-produced—the prices generally reflect a premium for rarity, specialized manufacturing, and the promise of reliability for sensitive retro electronics.
- Specialized Pricing: The costs are aligned with niche markets where supply is limited and demand comes from a dedicated enthusiast base. These aren’t commodity items. they are precision-engineered replacements for aging, potentially faulty original components.
- Value for Longevity: The site emphasizes “TOP quality” and “reliable power supplies.” For retro computer owners, investing in a high-quality PSU can mean the difference between a functional, long-lasting vintage system and one susceptible to damage from an unreliable power source. The value proposition here is the preservation and continued usability of valuable vintage hardware.
- Compared to Original Parts: Finding original, working PSUs for these vintage machines can be incredibly difficult and often involves buying used units with unknown histories, which can be risky. New, purpose-built PSUs like those offered by c64psu.com provide a safer, more reliable alternative.
- Added Features: Some products, like the “Commodore C64 / C128 PSU PRO” at $90.45, likely come with enhanced features or higher specifications justifying their higher price point, although detailed feature comparisons are not immediately apparent on the homepage.
- Cost vs. Risk: The cost of these PSUs is relatively low compared to the potential damage an incorrect or faulty power supply could inflict on a rare vintage computer, which could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. From this perspective, the investment in a new, reliable PSU offers significant value in mitigating risk.
In summary, the pricing strategy on c64psu.com appears to balance the niche demand with the specialized nature and promised quality of the products.
For dedicated collectors and users of vintage computers, the value proposition lies in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of their cherished hardware, which justifies the specialized pricing.
Ensuring Compatibility: Why it Matters for Vintage Hardware
Compatibility is paramount when dealing with vintage computer hardware, especially power supplies.
Unlike modern electronics with standardized USB-C or universal adapters, retro computers often have unique power requirements, pinouts, and voltage specifications. Hot-line.fun Review
Using an incompatible or improperly designed power supply can lead to irreparable damage to these classic machines.
- Voltage and Current Specifications: Vintage computers like the Commodore C64 require precise voltage and current outputs e.g., +5V DC, +9V AC. Any deviation can fry internal components.
- Connector Pinouts: Even if voltages are correct, incorrect pin assignments on the power connector can cause short circuits or apply power to unintended components, leading to catastrophic failure.
- AC vs. DC Requirements: Some vintage systems might require both AC and DC outputs simultaneously, as is the case with the C64. A modern DC-only adapter simply won’t work and could damage the machine.
- Ripple and Noise: High-quality PSUs provide clean, stable power. Cheap or poorly designed units can introduce ripple and noise, leading to erratic behavior or long-term degradation of sensitive internal circuitry.
- Over-Voltage/Current Protection: Reliable modern PSUs for vintage hardware often incorporate protection circuits to safeguard against over-voltage or over-current conditions, which were sometimes lacking in original, older power bricks.
- C64psu.com’s Approach: The website clearly lists products by the specific vintage computer model they are designed for e.g., “Commodore C64 PSU,” “Amiga PSU,” “ZX Spectrum PSU +2A +2B +3”. This direct labeling is crucial for ensuring customers select the correct and compatible power supply. However, deep technical specifications for each product like output voltages, current ratings, and safety certifications are not immediately visible on the homepage, which would further instill confidence regarding compatibility and safety.
- Impact of Incompatibility: Stories abound in the retro computing community of beloved vintage machines being destroyed by incorrect power supplies, often due to using generic adapters or units not specifically designed for the delicate requirements of these old systems. For example, applying a simple 9V DC adapter to a C64 expecting 9V AC can cause immediate and permanent damage.
Therefore, for any buyer considering a PSU from c64psu.com or any other vendor, verifying precise compatibility for their specific vintage computer model is the most critical step.
The site’s model-specific labeling is a good starting point, but a more detailed technical specification sheet for each product would be highly beneficial for informed purchasing decisions.
User Experience and Website Navigation
The user experience UX on c64psu.com, based on the provided text, appears to be straightforward and functional for a niche e-commerce site.
The primary goal of a retro computing enthusiast visiting this site is likely to find a specific power supply for their vintage machine, and the site’s layout facilitates this task directly. Usprodesign.com Review
- Direct Product Listing: The homepage immediately presents a list of “Popular Products” with clear names, prices, and “Quick view” links. This direct approach reduces clutter and quickly guides users to the core offerings.
- Categorization: Products are organized into main categories such as “Commodore PSU,” “ZX Spectrum PSU,” and “Atari PSU,” allowing users to filter by their specific vintage computer brand. This logical grouping is essential for a focused inventory.
- “All Products” Link: A prominent “All products” link provides access to the entire catalog, ensuring users can explore the full range beyond just the popular items displayed on the front page.
- Quick View Functionality: The presence of “Quick view” buttons suggests a feature that allows users to see basic product details without navigating to a separate product page, streamlining the browsing process.
- Simplicity: The design seems relatively simple, focusing on product presentation rather than complex interactive elements. While this can be efficient, it also means a potential lack of modern e-commerce UX features like advanced filtering, comparison tools, or detailed product galleries.
- Lack of Prominent Search Bar: Based on the provided text, a highly visible search bar isn’t explicitly mentioned or implied as a dominant feature on the homepage. For a site with a growing product list, an easily accessible and effective search function is vital for users looking for very specific items.
Overall, the navigation seems intuitive for its specific audience, prioritizing direct access to products.
However, integrating standard e-commerce UX enhancements, such as more prominent search capabilities, comprehensive product detail pages, and ensuring robust mobile responsiveness, would elevate the overall user experience and potentially appeal to a broader demographic within the retro computing community.
C64psu.com Alternatives
For those seeking reliable power supplies for vintage computers or general electronic components with greater transparency and customer support, several alternatives exist, ranging from specialized retro shops to large-scale electronic distributors.
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For Vintage Computer PSUs Specialized:
- Retro Supply Stores Various online shops: Many small businesses and individual enthusiasts run dedicated online stores for retro computer parts. While none are universally dominant like Amazon, a quick search for “Commodore PSU UK” or “Amiga power supply US” will yield several results. Examples often include sites like The Future Was 8 Bit, AmigaKit, or individual sellers on Etsy/eBay who specialize in new vintage-compatible PSUs.
- Community Forums/Marketplaces: Websites like Lemon64 for Commodore, Amiga.org, and various retro computing forums often have active marketplaces or recommended vendors for new and used vintage hardware, including power supplies. These can offer a more personalized experience but often come with varied buyer protection.
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For General Electronic Components New Manufacturing:
- Digi-Key: As mentioned earlier, Digi-Key is a powerhouse for electronic components. If you’re looking to build your own PSU or source high-quality components for repair, Digi-Key offers unparalleled selection and technical data.
- Mouser Electronics: Similar to Digi-Key, Mouser provides a vast inventory of electronic components, making it a go-to for engineers, hobbyists, and repair professionals.
- Adafruit: Excellent for hobbyists and makers, Adafruit sells various microcontrollers, sensors, and power management ICs. While they don’t sell finished vintage PSUs, their components can be used in DIY repair or custom power solutions.
- SparkFun Electronics: Another great option for educational and hobbyist electronics, offering parts and kits for those interested in building or modifying their own power solutions.
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General E-commerce Platforms with Vetted Sellers:
- Amazon: While not a specialist, Amazon hosts many third-party sellers who might offer new or refurbished vintage computer power supplies. The advantage here is Amazon’s buyer protection policies and customer review system.
- eBay: A vast marketplace where both individual sellers and small businesses offer vintage computer parts. Exercise caution and check seller ratings/reviews rigorously, as quality can vary widely.
- Etsy: Increasingly, small-scale creators and retro modders sell custom-made or refurbished power supplies for vintage systems on Etsy. This can be a source for unique, high-quality items, but always check shop reviews.
When considering alternatives, prioritize vendors with clear return policies, transparent company information, and verifiable customer reviews to ensure a safe and satisfactory purchase, particularly for sensitive electronics like power supplies.
Security and Data Privacy on E-commerce Platforms
For any e-commerce platform, including c64psu.com, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding customer information is paramount.
Based on the provided text, specific details about c64psu.com’s security measures are not immediately visible on its homepage, which can be a point of concern for potential buyers. Dentalhygienistrocks.com Review
- SSL/TLS Encryption Crucial for all e-commerce: All legitimate e-commerce sites must employ SSL/TLS encryption indicated by “https://” in the URL and a padlock icon. This encrypts data exchanged between the user’s browser and the server, protecting sensitive information like login credentials, payment details, and personal addresses from interception. While c64psu.com likely uses this, its explicit mention on the homepage or the display of a prominent security badge would enhance confidence.
- Payment Gateway Security: Reputable e-commerce sites integrate with well-known and secure payment gateways e.g., PayPal, Stripe, Shopify Payments. These gateways handle the actual processing of credit card information, ensuring that the merchant itself doesn’t directly store sensitive financial data. The homepage text doesn’t explicitly state which payment processors are used, which is a common feature on many trusted sites.
- Privacy Policy: A comprehensive privacy policy detailing how user data is collected, stored, used, and shared is a legal and ethical requirement for any website. It should be easily accessible from the homepage or footer. Without direct interaction, it’s unclear how prominently c64psu.com displays such a policy.
- Cookie Policy: Websites often use cookies for functionality, analytics, and marketing. A clear cookie policy, often presented as a pop-up or banner on first visit, informs users about cookie usage and allows them to manage their preferences.
- Data Breach Protocols: While not typically displayed on a homepage, a trustworthy company has internal protocols for handling potential data breaches, complying with regulations like GDPR or CCPA where applicable.
- Lack of Trust Badges: Many e-commerce sites display trust badges from security providers e.g., McAfee Secure, Norton Secured or business accreditation bodies e.g., Better Business Bureau. The absence of such prominent visual cues on c64psu.com’s homepage might lead some users to question its security posture.
For c64psu.com to fully establish itself as a trustworthy e-commerce destination, it would be beneficial to prominently display its security measures, link clearly to comprehensive privacy and cookie policies, and potentially showcase trust badges that affirm its commitment to data protection.
This transparency is key to building and maintaining customer trust in an increasingly security-conscious online environment.
Customer Support and Engagement
Customer support and engagement are vital components of any successful online business, influencing customer satisfaction and repeat purchases.
For a niche e-commerce site like c64psu.com, clear and accessible support channels are even more crucial, as buyers may have specific technical questions about product compatibility or troubleshooting for vintage hardware.
- Contact Information Visibility: A primary concern for many potential customers is the ease with which they can contact the vendor. On many trusted e-commerce sites, a “Contact Us” link, email address, or phone number is prominently displayed in the header or footer. Based on the provided text, direct contact information like a phone number or email address isn’t immediately apparent on the c64psu.com homepage. This can be a barrier for customers seeking quick answers or needing assistance before or after a purchase.
- Absence of Live Chat/Dedicated Support Portal: Modern e-commerce platforms often offer live chat services or a dedicated support portal with a ticketing system. These features provide immediate assistance or structured ways to resolve issues. There is no indication from the homepage text that such options are available on c64psu.com.
- FAQ Section: A comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions FAQ section can significantly reduce the load on customer support by addressing common queries about products, shipping, returns, and technical specifications. The absence of a readily visible FAQ link on the homepage is a missed opportunity for proactive customer engagement.
- Community Engagement: While the site mentions “thousands of users worldwide,” there’s no visible link to community forums, social media channels, or a blog where users can engage with the brand or other enthusiasts. For a niche market like retro computing, fostering a community can build brand loyalty and provide peer-to-peer support.
- Customer Reviews & Testimonials: As noted previously, the claim of “thousands of users” is strong, but the lack of visible on-site customer reviews or testimonials diminishes its impact. Integrating a review system would allow prospective buyers to see feedback from existing customers, which is a powerful form of social proof and customer engagement.
- Returns and Warranty Policy: Clear, easily accessible policies on returns, refunds, and product warranties are fundamental to customer trust. These policies should outline the procedures and conditions for returning products, ensuring buyers feel secure in their purchase. The absence of a prominent link to these policies on the homepage might deter some customers.
In essence, while c64psu.com seems to cater to a specific need, strengthening its customer support and engagement infrastructure by making contact information more visible, adding an FAQ, and potentially integrating a customer review system would greatly enhance its trustworthiness and appeal to a broader base of retro computing enthusiasts. Tresellers.com Review
FAQ
What is C64psu.com?
C64psu.com is an online store that sells new, high-quality power supplies for vintage computers, including models from Commodore C64, C128, Amiga, Atari, and ZX Spectrum.
Is C64psu.com a legitimate website?
Based on its product listings and clear pricing for specific, niche products, c64psu.com appears to be a legitimate e-commerce platform specializing in vintage computer power supplies.
However, it lacks some standard transparency features found on major e-commerce sites.
What types of products does C64psu.com sell?
C64psu.com primarily sells power supply units PSUs for various vintage computers such as Commodore C64, C128, VIC-20, Amiga 500/600/1200, Atari 520ST, 260ST, and ZX Spectrum +2/+3. They also offer adapters and voltmeters.
How much does a Commodore C64 PSU cost on C64psu.com?
A “Commodore C64 PSU” is listed for $49.23 on c64psu.com, while a “Commodore C64 / C128 PSU PRO” is available for $90.45. Marshfarmer.com Review
Does C64psu.com offer international shipping?
The provided homepage text does not explicitly state details about international shipping.
Customers would need to check their shipping policy or contact customer support for this information.
Are the power supplies on C64psu.com new or used?
The website states that it offers “New, TOP quality, reliable power supplies,” indicating that their products are new rather than used or refurbished.
Does C64psu.com have customer reviews or testimonials?
While the website mentions “thousands of Commodore C64, C128 & Amiga users worldwide!” confirming their products, there are no visible customer review sections or testimonials directly on the product pages or homepage from the provided text.
Is there an “About Us” section on C64psu.com?
Based on the homepage text, an “About Us” section is not immediately visible or prominently linked, which is a common feature on many e-commerce sites for transparency. Laperlamx.com Review
How can I contact customer support for C64psu.com?
The provided text does not show easily accessible contact information like a phone number or email address on the homepage.
Customers would likely need to search for a “Contact Us” page or link, usually found in the website’s footer.
What are the return policies for C64psu.com?
The homepage text does not provide immediate access to information regarding return policies.
Customers would need to locate this information on the website, typically found in the footer or a dedicated help section.
Does C64psu.com offer warranties on its products?
Details about product warranties are not explicitly mentioned on the homepage text. Horsynshop.com Review
This information would usually be found in a terms and conditions, warranty, or FAQ section of the website.
What alternatives are there to C64psu.com for vintage computer PSUs?
Alternatives include other specialized retro computing online stores, individual sellers on platforms like eBay or Etsy, and community forums for specific vintage computer models.
For general electronic components, Digi-Key and Mouser Electronics are excellent choices.
How important is compatibility when buying a vintage computer PSU?
Compatibility is extremely important.
Vintage computers require precise voltage, current, and pinout configurations. Obriensicecream.com Review
Using an incompatible or improperly designed PSU can cause irreparable damage to the vintage machine.
Does C64psu.com provide detailed technical specifications for its PSUs?
While products are listed by model, comprehensive technical specifications like output voltages, current ratings, and safety certifications are not immediately visible on the homepage text.
This information would ideally be present on individual product pages.
What payment methods are accepted on C64psu.com?
The homepage text does not specify the accepted payment methods.
Most e-commerce sites accept major credit cards and sometimes PayPal. Tappeto.online Review
This information is typically displayed during the checkout process or in a dedicated payment section.
Is C64psu.com secure for online transactions?
Like all legitimate e-commerce sites, C64psu.com is expected to use SSL/TLS encryption for secure transactions indicated by HTTPS. However, the homepage text doesn’t explicitly display trust badges or detailed security information.
Can I find accessories like adapters on C64psu.com?
Yes, c64psu.com lists accessories such as the “C64 to C128 PSU adapter” and “Voltmeter C64/C128/VIC-II,” alongside their main PSU offerings.
How does C64psu.com ensure the quality of its power supplies?
The website states that its power supplies are “TOP quality” and “reliable,” claiming “Superior quality and unique features confirmed by thousands of Commodore C64, C128 & Amiga users worldwide!” However, specific quality assurance processes or certifications are not detailed on the homepage.
Does C64psu.com have a physical store location?
The provided text does not indicate any physical store location. Bp3underwear.com Review
C64psu.com appears to be solely an online e-commerce business.
Why is investing in a new PSU important for vintage computers?
Investing in a new, reliable PSU is crucial for vintage computers because original power supplies are old and prone to failure, which can damage sensitive retro hardware.
New PSUs offer stable power, often with modern protection circuits, ensuring the longevity and safe operation of these classic machines.
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