TLDR - I have bought several of these and will buy more just to have on the shelf for the future.
I use these regularly for a variety of effects. I think, short of buying a particular
effect by Andy Nyman, this is the best marked deck available. One thing I would like to see
incorporated into marked decks in the future is an easy system for doing "color sense" type effects,
but one could easily create this marking system by modifying one of these decks in a clever way.
I'm a big fan of marked decks and this one is one of my favorites. It's VERY easy to read and the
marks are not exactly in the usual place.
The best...well done & easy to read. But no documentation or WEB page references for additional
suggestions on how to effectively use a marked deck. You are on your own.
I recently got this and also have the Ultimate Marked Deck. I also got two books on marked decks
filled with routines. I'm very pleased with the response I'm getting. People are blown away.
The GT Speedreader and the Ultimate Marked Deck have virtually identical markings. The only
differences are 1) the location of the markings and 2) the Ultimate Marked Deck uses Bicycle Rider
backs while the GT Speedreader uses Mandolin backs. To the average spectator, there's no difference.
Between the Ultimate Marked Deck and GT Speedreader, I can't say I like one over the other.
However, there are three advantages of the GT Speedreader. First, it is less expensive for the same
functionality. Second, the GT Speedreader is my only Mandolin backed deck so I instantly know I'm
using a marked deck. I lose track of my two Ultimate Marked Decks because looking at the case, I
can't tell them from my unmarked, non-tricked decks! I have subtle marks on my many gaffed decks for
quick identification. However, I will not do this with my marked decks to avoid any suspicion. Thus,
my Ultimate Marked Decks and regular decks look the same--Not a problem with the GT Speedreader!
Third, as the product description indicates, the placement of the markings is in a less suspicious
spot.
However, these last two advantages could be disadvantages for some. Some performers
prefer (or insist on) Bicycle backs, and some may prefer the placement of the markings in the
Ultimate Marked Deck.
The bottom line is that you can't go wrong with either of these
decks.
After trying several other versions, I like this set the best. Easy to read yet not screaming
obvious. The placement of the information is practical. They handle well and I can use them for non
marked deck tricks as well. Whats not to like?
I'd be able to read the markings even If I was sightless... great ruse!!
Love the positioning of the marks. Easy to read, I would think they're also nearly impossible to
read incorrectly. I prefer blue-backed cards, so when these came out with blue backs, I had to get
me a deck. I just wish they were a little more economical. Living in the Floroda humidity, and
with frequent use, I could easily go through these decks pretty fast, (just like any other Bicycle
deck of cards - it's the nature of the business and my locale). Overall, a good product and the
best marked deck I've seen.
I've always used a marked deck in my shows as well as everyday demonstrations. My eyesight is not as
good as it use to be and this deck makes a for a very easy read. It is easier to read than the
Phoenix deck, although I do use the Phoenix decks as well.
For a deck I have to be able to
read at a glance, for me this deck is it!
Very good quality deck with EASY to read markings. You can not go wrong here folks!
This is the best marked deck I've ever used. I love it! Easy to see, easy to read. I like the
Mandolin backs and I like them even more in blue!