SFX by Penguin Magic (£32.99)
SFX by Penguin Magic is a fun little gadget that lets you pretend to have an incredible musical talent. Imagine lining up a few wine glasses or bottles, running your finger around the rims like a glass harp, and playing “Happy Birthday” perfectly. Well that’s what this device makes possible.
If you’re familiar with Wonder Orchestra 2.0, you’ll notice SFX is nearly identical. The packaging is different and apparently it boasts a larger speaker but the design and look is exactly the same down to the Ziploc bags.
The device itself is a small, sleek sound emitter about 4 cm long and 1 cm wide so it is compact, easy to palm, and simple to operate. It comes pre-programmed with two sound options: the glass harp tune and a coin sound. You can’t upload your own sounds, but for what it does, it’s impressively realistic.
The device is rechargeable via a small pin-style charger, and a handy indicator light shows when it’s charging or full. The teaching video by Eric Tate runs about 25 minutes and walks through everything from handling to performance nuances. The real secret to selling the illusion lies in your miming and timing, getting the rhythm of “Happy Birthday” down while pretending to play the glasses naturally. With a bit of practice, even those without musical ability can make this look convincing.
You can also attach the device to a pull or elastic for a clean vanish after use. The sound quality is crisp and surprisingly loud for such a tiny gadget. While it leans more toward a clever party gag than a serious magic effect, it’s undeniably fun and makes for a great icebreaker at gatherings. If you already own Wonder Orchestra, there’s little reason to buy SFX, they’re virtually the same. But if you’re after a lighthearted prop to break up your usual card magic, SFX is great.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/sfx-by-penguin-magic
Karate Key by Craig Petty & Seth Race (18.99)
Karate Key, the latest addition to Craig Petty’s “Key Master” series, which includes Gatekeeper, Key Cutter, and Key Master itself all of which share a consistent gimmicked key design.
In this effect, you hand out an ordinary door key for inspection, take it back, and then melt your finger cleanly through the metal before removing it and showing the key again. It’s a striking visual moment that gets strong reactions.
The tutorial, taught by Craig himself, runs about an hour and forty minutes and is packed with detailed instruction. Craig covers the basic phase and then expands into multi-phase routines involving switches, false takes, and handlings drawn from coin magic. Think shuttle passes, thumb clips, and spellbound changes.
The routine builds beautifully, culminating with the penetration happening on a spectator’s finger. That final phase requires good audience management, but when handled well, it’s a stunning finale. Craig also explores variations, mentalism tie-ins, and how to integrate Karate Key with his other key-based effects for a cohesive EDC magic set.
The gimmick is durable, the illusion is clean, and while the effect is simple to perform, it benefits from Craig’s layered teaching. It’s a powerful, pocket-sized illusion that feels organic and impossible.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/karate-key-by-craig-petty-and-seth-race
Easy Lopes by Patrick Kun and Mustafa (£66.00)
Easy Lopes offers a clever, modern update on the classic “object to sealed envelope” plot. The effect is straightforward: a signed card vanishes and reappears folded inside a sealed drawstring envelope. Unlike traditional glued envelopes, these are reusable, magnetically sealed durable envelopes make them practical and durable.
You receive three envelopes (each a different colour), two silk squares for additional routines, and a sturdy injection-moulded loading gimmick. The loader can attach in a variety of places your jacket pocket, belt, or even waistband and holds the envelopes securely. The envelopes can be used for cards, billets, rings, or coins, making them extremely versatile.
Patrick Kun’s 45-minute tutorial covers setup, handling, and presentation, emphasising natural, hands-off reveals. The simple act of untying the string and tipping out the folded card adds a layer of theatrical suspense. Patrick even includes a clever method for secretly stealing items from the envelope. A useful bonus for advanced performers.
This system eliminates the need for glue, refills, or resets and offers a practical, dramatic way to perform a classic effect with modern reliability. They work with most of the 'card to envelope wallets' on the market. For performers seeking something elegant, practical, and reusable, Easy Lopes is an outstanding choice.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/easylopes-including-loader-by-patrick-kun-moustapha-berjaoui
Card Sharps by Penguin Magic (£18.99)
Card Sharps is a subtle but clever utility tool for card workers. Essentially, it replicates the benefits of a breather crimp (a small physical bend that allows a magician to locate or control a specific card) without actually bending the card.
Eric Tait’s tutorial starts by explaining what a breather crimp is, how it’s used, and then he introduces Card Sharps, which are small adhesive pieces that mimic the feel and function of a crimp. They add a slight tactile bump, letting you identify or control a card purely by touch even blindfolded.
The set includes 125 pieces, enough for dozens of gimmicked cards. While the material isn’t an exact match for Bicycle stock, it’s close enough to blend in during performance. The method is a bit arts-and-crafty, requiring precise placement, but once applied, it lasts far longer than a traditional crimp.
Eric demonstrates multiple applications: ace cutting routines, card-at-any-number effects, and even a fun transformation where the three of diamonds visually becomes the two of diamonds. It’s a versatile utility that can serve both beginners learning about crimps and pros looking for durable alternatives.
While I still prefer my trusty hand-crimped nine of diamonds, Card Sharps offer a fresh take with long-term practicality.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/card-sharps-by-penguin-magic