Hey guys!
So I've been super interested in classic looking marked cards for an effect (specifically readers, or really easy to read marked cards) and run into a predicament: Cards are expensive! Now I know that I can make my own system (which I have done) blah blah blah, but I was really interested in the cards already out there on the market that we can buy. I'm looking at 2 major things: Function and Economy - In other words How good they are + how cost effective they are. One more thing, this debate is only on cards that look similar enough to pass as Rider Backs (or other classic decks, though I didn't see one), so while decks like, for example, the Madison Dealers look like standard enough decks, they are still uniquely different, and thus are not taken into account.
So I've gone through and found some of the major easy to read marked decks or readers which have a classic enough look to them that they look like your standard Rider backs. Which of these do you guys think is the best for both function and cost? Am I missing any? Just want to know your thoughts on these cards (because I haven't ever bought one, and am looking into which one I should go for)
Btw, this is not the order I have ranked them, I just gave them numbers to make it easy.
1. Penguin Magic Marked Cards - These cards are said to be, and I quote, "The most clearly marked deck in the world". I'm not sure, but I believe they are just marked - not readers. They are marked in 6 different spots on the cards. They only cost $10 per individual deck and only $5 per deck in a brick. Clearly the most cost effective if you buy a brick. http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/8525
2. Ellusionist Marked Vintage 1800s deck - A reader deck with relatively easy to read markings. Essentially your rider backs, with an old look to them, but only $7.49 per deck - Most cost effective for one deck.
http://www.ellusionist.com/marked-vintage-1800-playing-cards-red.html
3. GT Speedreader - These are Readers (from what I understand) printed on the classic Mandolin Back. Super easy to read. They also have their markings in better positions then the standard places. Cost $19 - $25 - starting to hit the pricey side.
http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/8184
4. TXI's The Code by Andy Nyman - From what I have been told, this is a stunningly simple reader deck that has its markings well hidden. It costs $29.95, but comes with a full DVD set with many tricks.
https://store.theory11.com/products/the-code-by-andy-nyman
5. The Ultimate Marked Deck - A reader on the exact Rider Back design we're all used to. Markings are easy to read and well hidden. Costs $29.95 as well.
http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/1470
Have you guys used any or all of these, and if so, how do you like them? Which one "wins" and why? I am especially curious in #1, I've just never seen it before.
So I've been super interested in classic looking marked cards for an effect (specifically readers, or really easy to read marked cards) and run into a predicament: Cards are expensive! Now I know that I can make my own system (which I have done) blah blah blah, but I was really interested in the cards already out there on the market that we can buy. I'm looking at 2 major things: Function and Economy - In other words How good they are + how cost effective they are. One more thing, this debate is only on cards that look similar enough to pass as Rider Backs (or other classic decks, though I didn't see one), so while decks like, for example, the Madison Dealers look like standard enough decks, they are still uniquely different, and thus are not taken into account.
So I've gone through and found some of the major easy to read marked decks or readers which have a classic enough look to them that they look like your standard Rider backs. Which of these do you guys think is the best for both function and cost? Am I missing any? Just want to know your thoughts on these cards (because I haven't ever bought one, and am looking into which one I should go for)
Btw, this is not the order I have ranked them, I just gave them numbers to make it easy.
1. Penguin Magic Marked Cards - These cards are said to be, and I quote, "The most clearly marked deck in the world". I'm not sure, but I believe they are just marked - not readers. They are marked in 6 different spots on the cards. They only cost $10 per individual deck and only $5 per deck in a brick. Clearly the most cost effective if you buy a brick. http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/8525
2. Ellusionist Marked Vintage 1800s deck - A reader deck with relatively easy to read markings. Essentially your rider backs, with an old look to them, but only $7.49 per deck - Most cost effective for one deck.
http://www.ellusionist.com/marked-vintage-1800-playing-cards-red.html
3. GT Speedreader - These are Readers (from what I understand) printed on the classic Mandolin Back. Super easy to read. They also have their markings in better positions then the standard places. Cost $19 - $25 - starting to hit the pricey side.
http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/8184
4. TXI's The Code by Andy Nyman - From what I have been told, this is a stunningly simple reader deck that has its markings well hidden. It costs $29.95, but comes with a full DVD set with many tricks.
https://store.theory11.com/products/the-code-by-andy-nyman
5. The Ultimate Marked Deck - A reader on the exact Rider Back design we're all used to. Markings are easy to read and well hidden. Costs $29.95 as well.
http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/1470
Have you guys used any or all of these, and if so, how do you like them? Which one "wins" and why? I am especially curious in #1, I've just never seen it before.
