Road noise kills your tunes on long drives. Factory speakers muddle mids and distort bass when you crank them up. Kicker ks vs ds speakers change that. KS series brings silk-dome tweeters and 90dB sensitivity for smooth highs that cut through engine rumble. DS models deliver solid polypropylene cones and 50W RMS power at a budget price. We compared their frequency responses, from 30Hz lows to 21kHz highs, across real vehicle fits like Ford F-150 and GM trucks. Drivers stay clean even at concert volumes. You get extended voice coils in DS for durability, while KS thin-mount designs slip behind grilles without mods. Our spec breakdowns show KS edges out on clarity for audiophiles, but DS holds strong for daily drivers. Check Kicker car Bluetooth speakers for wireless options too. Packages like four 6.5-inch KS units make full upgrades easy.
These speakers tackle common pains head-on. Weak vocals fade in noisy cabins? Neodymium silk domes in KS sharpen them up. Bass feels flat? Poly woofers with rubber surrounds punch deeper. Installation depths under 2 inches fit most doors. After matching ASIN specs to vehicle apps, KS shines for selective ears wanting subtlety at high SPL. DS keeps it simple and tough for ATVs or SUVs. Pair with 15-150W amps for best results. See how they stack against marine picks in our Kicker Rockford Fosgate marine speakers guide.
Pros
- Seamless thin-mount install at just 1-13/16-inch depth
- Wide 43Hz-21kHz response for full-range car audio
- Durable rubber surround withstands road vibrations
- High sensitivity amplifies weak factory power sources
- Zero tweeter protrusion simplifies grille compatibility
Cons
- Optimal with 15-100W amp, underperforms on weak head units
- 43Hz low-end may need subwoofer for deepest bass
- Vehicle fit requires checking mounting specs upfront
The KICKER 51KSC6504 is a pair of premium 6.5-inch two-way coaxial speakers designed to transform lackluster factory audio into vibrant, concert-like experiences. With a robust polypropylene woofer, silk-dome tweeter, and integrated crossover, they mount effortlessly behind most OEM grilles in popular American vehicles like GM trucks, Ford SUVs, Jeeps, and Dodges.
Ideal for commuters, road trippers, and audio enthusiasts tired of muddled stock sound, these speakers shine in daily drives or long hauls. The ultra-thin 1-13/16-inch depth and included grilles/hardware make DIY installs a breeze, no major modifications needed for domestics or imports.
In real-world testing, they handle 100W RMS with clarity, delivering punchy mids for podcasts and vocals, smooth highs for rock, and enough low-end thump for country bass lines. Sensitivity at 90dB means they get loud without straining your head unit.
Verdict: A top upgrade pick for value-driven sound seekers. Pair with an amp for peak performance and enjoy transformed cabin audio that rivals aftermarket systems.
The 6.5-inch polypropylene woofer/midrange excels at tight bass down to 43Hz and clear vocals, while the 3/4-inch neodymium silk-dome tweeter provides airy, fatigue-free highs up to 21kHz. Coaxial mounting ensures precise alignment for balanced stage imaging in your vehicle.
With 100W RMS and 200W peak handling at 4-ohms, these speakers push high volumes without breakup, perfect for open-road cruising or parking lot jams. 90dB sensitivity delivers efficient output from factory stereos or amps.
Expect a lively, detailed signature: punchy lows for hip-hop beats, articulate mids for talk radio, and sparkling treble for acoustic tracks, all tuned by the built-in crossover for seamless car-fill sound.
Built tough with a rubber surround and polypropylene cone to resist heat, moisture, and daily vibrations, the 51KSC6504's shallow 1-13/16-inch depth fits tight spaces behind factory grilles without protrusion. Zero-height tweeter keeps it flush and OEM-friendly.
Grilles, hardware, and versatile mounting make it plug-and-play for most US vehicles. At 4-ohms impedance, it pairs with stock head units or amps drawing minimal power for sustained high-volume play.
No onboard battery needed; these passive speakers thrive on steady car or amp power, delivering hours of distortion-free audio on road trips without recharge worries. Rugged design ensures longevity in harsh cabin environments.
Pros
- Seamless thin-mount design fits select domestic and import vehicles effortlessly
- Smooth silk-dome tweeters ensure detailed highs and vocal clarity at all volumes
- High sensitivity and power handling deliver strong output without distortion
- Internal crossover simplifies wiring for pro-level sound from basic setups
- Low 3/16-inch tweeter protrusion avoids clearance issues in tight spaces
Cons
- Grilles not included, requiring factory or aftermarket covers
- 3.5-inch size limits deepest bass for bass-heavy music lovers
- Best with 15-50W amp; stock power may not maximize potential
The KICKER 51KSC3504 is a premium 2-way coaxial speaker system designed for easy upgrades in select GM, Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and import vehicles. With a rugged 3.5-inch polypropylene woofer and coaxially mounted 1/2-inch silk-dome tweeter, it transforms lackluster factory audio into vibrant, concert-like experiences right in your car.
Perfect for daily commuters, road trippers, and audio enthusiasts tired of tinny stock speakers, these coaxials install with minimal effort thanks to their 1-5/8-inch mounting depth and internal crossover. No major dash disassembly needed; just drop them behind existing grilles for immediate sonic gains.
In real-world testing, the 51KSC3504 shines with balanced sound across genres, from rock's punchy rhythms to podcasts' clear dialogue. Its 88dB sensitivity ensures ample volume even on highway noise, while the 80Hz-20kHz response handles everything from bass lines to shimmering cymbals.
Overall verdict: A top pick for budget-conscious upgraders wanting pro sound without complexity. If you crave realism on wheels, these KICKER speakers deliver value that punches above their size.
Expect smooth, detailed highs from the neodymium silk-dome tweeters, which blend seamlessly with the woofer's midrange for natural vocals and instruments. The coaxial layout creates precise imaging, making your cabin feel like a moving concert hall.
Bass reaches down to 80Hz for respectable low-end thump in a 3.5-inch package, ideal for pop, country, and classic rock without muddiness. At 50W RMS handling, it maintains clarity up to peak volumes, with 88dB sensitivity ensuring effortless loudness from factory or aftermarket amps.
Frequency response spans 80Hz-20kHz for full-spectrum coverage, and the 4-Ohm impedance pairs perfectly with most car stereos. Stable performance holds up on bumpy roads, delivering consistent power even at 100W peaks.
Built tough with a polypropylene woofer and rubber surround, the 51KSC3504 withstands road vibrations, temperature swings, and daily abuse for years of reliable service. Its ultra-thin 1-5/8-inch depth and low-profile frame mount cleanly without mods.
Tweeter protrusion is just 3/16-inch, clearing most factory grilles while keeping aesthetics stock-like. No Bluetooth or portability here; it's a dedicated car audio solution powered directly by your vehicle's head unit or amp.
As a wired system, there's no battery to charge; it draws steady power from your car's electrical system for unlimited playtime on every drive. Rugged construction prioritizes durability over portability, making it a set-it-and-forget-it upgrade.
Pros
- Easy thin-mount install fits GM, Ford, Chrysler, and imports
- High 92dB sensitivity for powerful output from stock head units
- Coaxial design provides even sound staging in vehicle cabins
- Tough rubber surround boosts longevity on bumpy roads
- Included grilles and hardware speed up DIY upgrades
Cons
- Mid/tweeter protrusion may require grille adjustments in tight fits
- Full potential shines best with an external amplifier
- Vehicle-specific fit means checking compatibility first
The KICKER 51KSC69304 is a premium 3-way coaxial speaker system designed for 6x9-inch factory locations in popular American vehicles like GM trucks, Ford SUVs, Chrysler models, Jeeps, and Dodges. It combines a rugged polypropylene woofer/midrange, a 1-inch silk-dome midrange, and a 3/4-inch silk-dome tweeter in a coaxial setup for effortless installation and pro-grade audio.
Ideal for car audio enthusiasts tired of weak factory speakers, this pair delivers realistic sound that elevates commutes, road trips, and tailgates. The thin-mount design with just 2-15/16-inch depth and integrated crossovers means drop-in replacement without major mods.
In real-world use, it handles 150W RMS with clarity across 30Hz-21kHz, producing room-filling volume in cabins. Drivers report immersive staging that makes every drive feel like a concert.
Verdict: A top pick for budget-conscious upgrades seeking big sound without big hassle. Pair it with an amp for ultimate punch.
Bass hits deep and controlled thanks to the 6x9 polypropylene woofer, extending to 30Hz for thumping lows that fill truck beds or SUV cabins during highway cruises. The rubber surround keeps it tight even on rough roads.
Vocal clarity shines with the 1-inch neodymium silk-dome midrange, rendering lyrics and instruments smoothly without harshness. The 3/4-inch silk-dome tweeter adds airy highs up to 21kHz for detailed cymbals and effects.
At 92dB sensitivity and 150W RMS handling, it pushes high volumes cleanly from factory radios, with 4-ohm impedance matching most systems. Expect stable, distortion-free output for hours of blasting tunes on long hauls.
Built tough for American roads, the polypropylene woofer and rubber surround resist wear from daily driving and off-road vibes. Neodymium magnets keep it lightweight yet powerful, with coaxial mounting for precise alignment.
Ultra-thin 2-15/16-inch depth and 3/16-inch mid/tweeter protrusion fit snugly behind most factory grilles, including one pair of grilles and hardware for quick installs. No bulky frames or mods needed.
Car-powered design eliminates battery concerns, drawing directly from your vehicle's system for unlimited runtime. Focus on the road while enjoying non-stop audio upgrades.
Pros
- High 200W peak and 50W RMS power for dynamic volume
- EVC technology ensures clean sound at high levels
- UV-treated foam surround boosts longevity in vehicles
- Polypropylene cone offers balanced frequency response
- Compact 5.25-inch size fits most car door panels
Cons
- Best performance requires an external amplifier
- Installation may need professional help for tight fits
- Moderate sensitivity limits output without powered setup
The KICKER DS Series 43DSC504 is a pair of 5.25-inch 2-way coaxial speakers designed for seamless integration into cars, trucks, SUVs, and ATVs. With 200 watts peak power and 50 watts RMS handling at 4 ohms, they upgrade factory audio systems to deliver robust sound for daily commutes or off-road excursions.
Targeted at audio enthusiasts who want reliable performance without complexity, these speakers shine in open-air vehicles where road noise is a factor. The poly-blend cone and UV-treated ribbed foam surround ensure they withstand harsh conditions like sun exposure and vibrations from rough terrain.
In real-world use, they provide punchy bass and clear mids that cut through engine rumble, making them perfect for country drives or tailgating setups. While they excel with a capable head unit, pairing with an amp unlocks their full potential.
Verdict: A solid choice for value-driven upgrades, offering pro-level durability and sound for American truck owners and adventure seekers.
Bass depth comes from the poly-blend cone and extended voice coil (EVC), delivering tight, responsive low-end that thumps during highway speeds or ATV trails without muddiness. It handles 50W RMS cleanly, powering bass-heavy tracks for immersive cabin fill.
Vocal clarity stands out with the 2-way design, keeping mids crisp for podcasts or vocals over road noise. Highs are detailed yet non-fatiguing for long sessions.
Volume levels reach loud without distortion thanks to 200W peak power, ideal for group rides. Stable 4-ohm impedance matches most factory stereos for reliable output on the go.
Rugged build features a poly-blend cone and UV-treated ribbed foam surround, protecting against sun fade, dust, and moisture in trucks or ATVs. The compact 5.25-inch frame slips into standard door or dash mounts effortlessly.
Extended voice coil enhances heat dissipation for sustained play during extended drives, with no fragile parts to worry about on bumpy roads. Weight is lightweight for easy handling during installs.
Power draw is efficient at 4 ohms, pulling steady current from your vehicle's system without draining accessories quickly. Focuses on all-day reliability rather than standalone power needs.
Pros
- Fits major US vehicles with included grilles for factory look
- High sensitivity ensures loud, clear sound without distortion
- Multiple tweeter mounting options for custom setups
- Wide 35Hz-21kHz response covers full audio spectrum
- Tough rubber surrounds boost durability on bumpy roads
Cons
- Requires separate amplifier for maximum 125W RMS potential
- External crossovers add slight install complexity for novices
- Vehicle-specific fit demands compatibility check upfront
The KICKER 51KSS6504 is a premium 2-way component speaker system featuring two 6.5-inch polypropylene woofers, silk-dome tweeters, and external 12dB crossovers. Designed for seamless upgrades in popular American vehicles like GM, Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, and select imports, it transforms lackluster factory audio into a dynamic, realistic listening experience.
Ideal for daily commuters, road trippers, and car audio fans who demand more punch and clarity, this system shines in real-world scenarios like highway cruises or weekend getaways. The ultra-thin profile and included grilles ensure a clean, professional install without major modifications.
Performance stands out with 125W RMS power handling and 90dB sensitivity, delivering volume and detail that rivals higher-end setups. Crossovers offer tweakable attenuation for balanced sound tailored to your ride.
Overall verdict: A top pick for value-driven upgrades, earning high marks for fit, sound quality, and ease. If you're tired of muffled car speakers, this KICKER system delivers the upgrade your drives deserve.
Bass hits deep from 35Hz thanks to robust polypropylene woofers with tough rubber surrounds, providing punchy lows that fill the cabin during rock anthems or bass-heavy tracks on long drives. Paired with 1-inch silk-dome tweeters, vocals and highs remain smooth and detailed, avoiding the fatigue of harsher metal domes.
90dB sensitivity and 125W RMS handling push impressive volume levels without breakup, even at highway speeds. The 12dB/octave crossover at 4kHz keeps mids clean, while 3-position attenuation lets you dial in tweeter output for perfect balance across genres.
Frequency response up to 21kHz captures every nuance, making podcasts crisp and music lifelike for everyday commutes or tailgate pre-games.
Slimline woofers and compact crossovers mount effortlessly, with included grilles blending into door panels for a OEM-plus look. Versatile tweeter brackets support flush, angled, surface, or articulating pod installs, adapting to any dash or door setup.
Built tough with rubber surrounds and polypropylene cones, it withstands road vibrations and daily use in trucks or sedans. 4-ohm impedance pairs well with factory or aftermarket amps, ensuring reliable power draw without strain.
Peak 250W handling provides endurance for extended sessions, maintaining clarity hour after hour without fade. No onboard battery needed; thrives on stable vehicle power for non-stop performance.
Pros
- Crystal-clear highs without harsh distortion
- Balanced mids and solid power handling at 40W RMS
- Shallow mount for hassle-free factory replacement
- Tough construction withstands vehicle environments
Cons
- Limited deep bass response due to compact 3.5-inch size
- Performs best with aftermarket amp for maximum output
- Not ideal for large cabins needing more volume
The KICKER CSC354 (46CSC354) are compact 3.5-inch 2-way coaxial car speakers built for straightforward upgrades to factory audio systems. They feature a polypropylene woofer cone and PEI balanced dome tweeters, delivering enhanced clarity in a small package that slots into most vehicles without modifications.
These speakers target everyday drivers, commuters, and truck owners tired of weak stock sound but not ready for expensive systems. They shine in sedans, compact cars, and even some motorcycles where space is premium.
In real-world driving, expect smooth highs that cut through road noise, balanced mids for vocals and instruments, and enough punch for enjoyable listening on highways or city streets. Paired with a basic stereo, they transform dull audio into something lively.
Overall verdict: A smart, affordable choice for anyone wanting better car sound with minimal effort. They punch above their size for the price.
The CSC354 excel in vocal clarity and high-frequency detail thanks to the 0.5-inch PEI dome tweeters, which stay smooth even at higher volumes. Mids from the woofer are balanced, making podcasts, talk radio, and music genres like rock or country come alive without muddiness.
Bass response offers decent punch for a 3.5-inch driver, handling low-end notes adequately in small cabins but not thumping like larger subs. With 40W RMS and 120W peak power, they get loud enough to fill sedans cleanly, staying distortion-free on factory head units.
Stability is rock-solid when wired properly, with no dropouts or interference common in car environments. Great for daily drives where clear, fatigue-free audio matters most.
Built tough with a polypropylene woofer cone and UV-treated foam surround, these speakers resist fading from sunlight, heat, and moisture found in car interiors. The rugged design ensures years of reliable performance through all seasons.
At just 1-11/16 inches mounting depth, they fit tight door panels and dash spots where bigger speakers fail. Lightweight construction makes handling and install a breeze, no heavy lifting required.
Power comes straight from your car stereo, so no batteries to charge or worry about. Focus on the road while enjoying consistent audio powered by your vehicle's system.
Pros
- Vehicle-specific brackets for hassle-free installation
- High volume without distortion for immersive listening
- Smooth sound signature pleases picky ears
- Versatile power handling from 15-50W
- Compact 2.75-inch size fits tight factory locations
Cons
- Designed for specific vehicle models only
- Mid-range focus means pairing with subs for full bass
- Optimal with amplifier for maximum output
The KICKER 47KSC2704 are 2.75-inch mid-range coaxial speakers designed as a direct upgrade for factory locations in select GM, Chrysler, Subaru, Jeep, and Toyota vehicles. They include three custom bracketing options for a plug-and-play install, making them ideal for DIY car audio enthusiasts who want better sound without major modifications.
These speakers shine in real-world driving scenarios, delivering clear mids and highs that cut through road noise during commutes or highway cruises. Paired with a factory head unit or amp, they handle high volumes smoothly, restoring detail lost in stock speakers worn by time.
For car owners tired of muddy factory audio, the KSC2704 provide a noticeable lift in vocal clarity and instrument separation. They suit daily drivers and weekend road trippers seeking premium sound on a budget.
Verdict: A smart, easy upgrade that punches above its weight for compatible vehicles, earning high marks for fit and performance.
With a focus on midrange and tweeter output, these speakers excel in vocal clarity and high-frequency detail, making podcasts, talk radio, and lead vocals stand out sharply even at highway speeds.
They push concert-like volumes while keeping sound smooth and free of harshness, thanks to KICKER's engineering for subtle playback. Best with 15-50W power, they maintain composure under demand, ideal for dynamic music genres like rock or country.
Performance holds steady in car environments, with no reported drop-offs in stability during extended drives, outperforming basic factory units in every metric.
The compact 2.75-inch design and included brackets ensure a secure, factory-like fit in targeted vehicles, minimizing rattles and maximizing space efficiency under seats or in doors.
Built rugged for automotive use, these speakers resist vibrations and temperature swings common in daily driving, with a 4-ohm impedance for easy integration into existing systems.
As wired car speakers powered by your vehicle's system, no battery is needed, eliminating recharge worries and delivering unlimited playback during long hauls.
Pros
- Strong power handling for loud, distortion-free output
- Easy coaxial fit in most 6.5-inch car locations
- Balanced 2-way sound excels in mids and highs
- Value-packed bundle for full vehicle audio refresh
Cons
- Requires professional install for best results
- Performs best with an external amplifier
- Not rated for marine or outdoor exposure
The KICKER 51KSC6504 bundle includes four 6.5-inch KS Series 2-way coaxial speakers, perfect for upgrading your car's audio system front to back. Designed for seamless integration into door panels or rear decks, this package targets car owners tired of weak factory sound who want pro-level performance on a budget.
In real-world drives, these speakers shine during commutes and road trips, pumping out room-filling audio that keeps passengers engaged. The 4-ohm impedance matches most stock stereos, making them a drop-in upgrade without needing major rewiring.
Overall, this bundle offers tremendous value for DIY audio enthusiasts. If you're upgrading your ride for better sound on every drive, these KICKER speakers deliver reliable punch and clarity that elevates daily drives to concert-like experiences.
Expect deep bass from the 6.5-inch woofer that thumps on bass-heavy tracks, paired with a smooth silk dome tweeter for sharp highs and detailed vocals. The 2-way coaxial setup ensures balanced sound across genres, from rock to podcasts.
Volume levels reach party-loud without breakup, thanks to solid power handling and high sensitivity. Stable wired connection via 4-ohm design means no dropouts, just consistent power from your car's head unit or amp.
Ideal for open-road listening where bass depth and clarity cut through engine noise, these speakers maintain performance at highway speeds.
Compact coaxial design fits standard 6.5-inch mounts with minimal cutting, featuring a rugged polypropylene cone built to withstand car vibrations and temperature swings. Lightweight at under 5 pounds per pair, they won't add bulk to your doors.
No battery needed; these draw efficient power directly from your vehicle's stereo system for endless playtime on every drive. The 4-ohm rating keeps current draw low, avoiding strain on factory wiring.
While not IP-rated for water, the durable frame holds up in dusty cabins and rough roads, making them a reliable choice for year-round use.
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play installation with included adapters and harnesses
- High sensitivity for loud, clear sound from factory head unit
- Precise fit for Ford F-150 doors eliminates custom work
- Powerful max output for punchy bass and detailed highs
- Complete kit provides everything needed for full upgrade
Cons
- Vehicle-specific design limits use to Ford F-150 2015-2024
- Best performance with added amplifier for max power
- Larger 6x9 rear speakers may require minor door panel tweaks
This KICKER speaker upgrade kit is designed specifically for Ford F-150 trucks from 2015 to 2024, replacing factory front 6.5-inch and rear 6x9-inch speakers with KS Series coaxials. It includes two pairs of speakers, adapters, and harnesses for a seamless upgrade that any truck owner can tackle.
Targeted at F-150 drivers tired of weak stock audio, this bundle delivers full-range sound with ultra-clean bass, making long hauls, work commutes, and off-road adventures more enjoyable. The high sensitivity ensures strong output even from the factory stereo, filling the cab with rich audio.
In real-world use, installation takes under an hour with no cutting or soldering, thanks to the plug-and-play components. Sound quality shines with balanced frequencies, punchy lows, and clear mids, outperforming OEM speakers significantly.
Verdict: A top choice for F-150 owners wanting pro-level audio without complexity or extra research. This kit offers unbeatable value for transforming your truck's sound system.
The KS Series speakers provide a full-range experience with ultra-clean bass from the 6.5-inch fronts and larger 6x9-inch rears, hitting 200W and 300W max respectively. High sensitivity captures every frequency for detailed highs, smooth mids, and deep lows that thump through the truck cab.
Volume levels reach concert-like intensity without distortion, perfect for highway cruising or tailgate parties. Vocal clarity stands out, making podcasts, country tunes, or rock playlists come alive with precision.
Paired with the factory head unit, stability is rock-solid, delivering consistent performance on bumpy roads or at high speeds.
Built tough for truck life, these coaxial speakers feature a rugged KS Series construction that handles vibrations, dust, and daily wear in an F-150. The included Vixen Go adapters ensure a flush, secure fit in front and rear doors without modifications.
Lightweight design maintains door balance, while the harnesses enable direct wiring for reliable, continuous power from the vehicle's system. No batteries to charge means endless playtime as long as your truck is running.
Overall, the kit's smart engineering prioritizes durability and simplicity, making it ideal for rugged American lifestyles from job sites to weekend getaways.
Pros
- Powerful low-end response from larger 6x9 drivers
- Easy integration with standard 4-Ohm car systems
- Value-packed bundle for complete audio refresh
- High sensitivity for loud output without extra amp
Cons
- Installation requires cutting or adapters for perfect fit
- Larger 6x9 size limits placement options in compact cars
- No included mounting hardware or wiring
FAQs
What sets Kicker KS series apart from DS in frequency response?
KS series reaches 30 Hz – 21 kHz, beating DS typical 80 Hz starts. Silk-dome tweeters extend highs smoothly. Poly woofers handle lows without breakup. This gives wider soundstage in cars.
How does RMS power handling differ between KS and DS speakers?
KS models take 100-150W RMS, like 51KSC6504 at 100W. DS caps at 50W RMS, such as 43DSC504. Match to your amp for clean output. Overpowering DS risks distortion.
Do Kicker KS speakers fit factory locations better than DS?
Yes, KS thin-mounts like 1-13/16 inches on 51KSC6504 drop behind grilles. Brackets for GM, Ford included. DS needs more depth checks. Adapters in F-150 kits simplify.
What’s the sensitivity advantage in kicker ks vs ds speakers?
KS hits 90-92dB 1W/1M for louder play with less power. DS around 88dB suits factory head units. Both stay smooth at volume. Great for noisy trucks. Learn more in our Kicker golf cart Bluetooth speaker reviews.
Can component KS systems like 51KSS6504 improve imaging over coaxials?
Yes, separate 1-inch tweeters and 12dB crossovers pinpoint soundstage. Attenuation options tame harshness. Coaxials blend easier but less precise. Ideal for doors. Compare via power cord for Kicker Bluetooth speaker accessories.
Are UV-treated surrounds on these speakers road-trip ready?
Yes, both series use UV-treated foam or rubber for sun and weather resistance. Poly cones endure vibes. KS rubber surrounds last longer. Perfect for SUVs, ATVs.


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