(Close Window) Topic: Tarantula by Yigal Mesika - Review
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 16, 2009 10:50pm)
REVIEW:

After playing with the tarantula, I was very pleased. I have concluded that this gimmick is as versatile as TT! Great product that Yigal released. I've been using the spider pen for three years now and have been having difficulties with it. There are endless possibilities with tarantula.

Quality of the gimmick- I would give it 8.5/10 due to the durability, could be better. Had issues with the motor spooler falling off while taking the spool out. BUT do not let that deter you from purchasing this. Nothing is perfect. Therefore you can easily fix this with a little superglue or I prefer some rubber cement glue. I forgot to mention one more thing, the gimmick, when you stretch it out to fit, BE CAREFUL! I stretched mine a little too far and ripped the gimmick a little. Make sure you don't over stretch it. 8/10

TRICKS:

floating ring/Hovering- Great effect that requires audience management and takes LOTS of practice to perfect it. I'm currently still working on it and trying to find the perfect ring for this. I would suggest using a light wedding band for this. Wow yigal came up with the break system which is truly a great innovation to thread work that combines with Steve Fearsons' hookup. This is a truly captivating effect. It is almost like REAL MAGIC. The psychology behind this plus the new applications can be used with different objects besides a ring. The trick speaks for itself, you can see this trick in the demo video. 9/10

Money Magnetism- This trick is hard hitting and simple. Great trick to apply to your act if your a strolling magician/ close up. Basically borrows a bill from the audience and having the bill fly upwards to your other hand. This trick truly defies gravity with a borrowed bill! Like yigal said, "focus on your magic" the tarantula pretty much does the magic for you. All you have to focus on here is the patter. I going to go off topic but if you have read "strong magic" by Darwin Ortiz you can come up with a stellar presentation for this piece. Even if your not a thread worker, I still highly recommend this. 8.5/10 due to the amount of time you need to put into this to be able to perform smoothly.

Haunted Pack- My favorite trick in the whole DVD. I have been doing spooked for about four years now and came across Yigals' haunted pack with the application of the tarantula. Whole new concept due to the new function that the tarantula provides. The trick starts out with the audience member shuffling the deck of cards and selects/signs a card.

The magician cuts the deck in half and asks the audience place back the card. The magician then tells the audience member to focus on their card and then places the deck on the ground. Slow the deck starts to cut in half, then a card shoots out of the deck and it is their selected card.

In my opinion, it is the best trick on this dvd along with the hovering. The handling to this trick could be better, in a sense that I do not like the way he handled the thread with the deck in this trick as much as Spooked. Great for strolling/close up magic. 9.5/10 due to the handling or else I would give it a 10 haha

Magic pen-Great trick for the bars/ strolling magic. Borrowed pen placed it on the table, with no physical contact you make the pen roll all the way off the table and on to your hand. When I do this trick, people go crazy over this. End clean. 9/10

If you are willing to put in the time and effort to master these effects, then you should go out and invest $70 into the tarantula, I guarantee that you will not only be fooling layman but magicians as well. Do not be discouraged with the looks of the gimmick or how it works. Give it a try, practice at least two weeks with it before making a judgement. The tarantula is worthwhile.


This is my first review. I'm still getting a hang of writing them. Please let me know if I left anything out. Thanks for your time!

-Alex
Message: Posted by: Douglas Lippert (Mar 17, 2009 12:30am)
Nice review Alex. Hopefully this will help people that are on the fence still.

Best,

D.L.
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 17, 2009 12:33am)
HAHA well sorry for the bad grammer. Didn't have time to proofread it.
Message: Posted by: homegrown (Mar 17, 2009 1:04am)
Nice review! Thanks for being very clear!
Message: Posted by: raphaelwj (Mar 17, 2009 6:06am)
Good review dude. Keep it up. Mine will be with me in 2 days. Can't wait.
Message: Posted by: Kipp Sherry (Mar 17, 2009 9:38am)
REVIEW:
I just received my Tarantula in the mail and immediately opened it up with great anticipation. I will start off by saying that Yigal Mesika has another hit on his hands, or should I say on your hand. Yigal's engineering has developed yet another great utility device for I.T. workers. Even if you suffer from Arachnophobia (the fear of spiders) you will find great joy in having this Tarantula in your hand. However, it will not relieve your fear of I.T.

Be forewarned, if you are buying the Tarantula because of the promotional video only, you may be disappointed. The finger ring floating through the air and ending up on a spectators finger looks very impressive, but even Yigal admits in the instructional video that this is the riskiest move that he teaches. I think that particular effect is best left to be used with a confidant and not a random person from the crowd. Yigal does teach many other effects that are much more practical in every day performances and these are the real redeeming values of the Tarantula.

I.T. is an advanced art so I would not recommend this for the beginner, but if you are a fan of I.T. then you will find this a nice addition to your arsenal of utility devices. I say an "addition" since the Tarantula will not allow you to pull off all of your favorite effects, but it does have some unique features that "add" to the effects you can pull off.

One of the things I really liked about Tarantula was the switching system, it is totally well designed, totally undetectable by the audience and totally under your control to be activated at your will. Another thing that really impressed me is that the parts are interchangeable with the Spider Pen. Great job on that Yigal.

The DVD came with great instructions and several effects that can be accomplished with the Tarantula. There were no new I.T. effects introduced that could not be accomplished with other I.T. methods and devices, and to Yigal's credit, he gave credit to all of the people who had inspired the development of the Tarantula and the effects accomplished with it.

So, do you really need to spend $75 to accomplish these amazing effects? The answer is NO. Other sites are already selling at discounted prices. But do you even have to spend that much to accomplish these amazing effects? Again the answer is NO. Okay, so do you "want" to spend that much money? If you have never worked with I.T. before, then I would say "probably not", but if you are already comfortable and accomplished with I.T. then the answer would be a big resounding YES!

In my opinion, Yigal Mesika did a fantastic job creating the Tarantula and I will be using it in some of my routines. I think it compliments the Spider Pen very well. Therefore I will keep a Spider Pen in my shirt pocket and a Tarantula in my pants pocket at all times.

Until we appear again,
Kipp Sherry
Message: Posted by: Darren James (Mar 17, 2009 10:21am)
Great review guys thanks.I own the spider pen as well but useually end up useing loops all the time..This is something I'll prbably invest in the future.
Thanks again for the reviews,
Daren
Message: Posted by: ovationkc (Mar 17, 2009 10:40am)
Kip,

Based on your review I assume you are an expert with IT. What type of ITR would you recommend for somebody just starting out or wishing to explore the realm of IT.
Message: Posted by: kissdadookie (Mar 17, 2009 11:02am)
Close up or stage/parlour? If you were to use it in close up environments, nothing beats a Thread Boss for overall versatility (I've only had to replace mines ONCE after years of use, I replaced it not because the initial one was faulty or anything but because Spooked came with one and I decided it was time to replace my beat up looking original). If you're performing in a stage/parlour environment you would be perfectly fine with a standard Sorcery ITR. They are both about $20 cheaper than the Spider Pen and the Tarantula. The BIGGER issue that you should deal with first instead of worrying about which reel to get is how to USE the reel. For that I recommend picking up BOTH the LeClaire video (Who's Afraid of IT) and the Ammarr IT video Volume (2). Volumes (1) and (3) are not all that useful.
Message: Posted by: Kipp Sherry (Mar 17, 2009 12:35pm)
Ovationkc,

I think kissdadookie has answered your question about as well as I could. The only thing I would add is that you don't even start with an ITR. Just start with IT. Get yourself a "Hover Card", learn it and you will get a feel for IT (both it's strengths and weaknesses). If you decide you like IT, then invest more.

Until we appear again,
Kipp Sherry
Message: Posted by: kissdadookie (Mar 17, 2009 12:38pm)
Great point Kipp. Hover Card/UFO Card is quite inexpensive as well so you really can't go wrong. You get years worth of **x and IT as well.
Message: Posted by: ovationkc (Mar 17, 2009 12:50pm)
Thanks Kipp and kissdadookie, my local magic shop has both the UFO card and the Hover Card. The hover card looks like they only have it in the jumbo size, so I'll go with the UFO card.
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 17, 2009 12:53pm)
Hmm. I started out learning the hard way. I learned to use a ITR before learning how to use a regular IT. Regardless of starting out with ITR or IT, they both require a fair amount of practice and dedication. You will be frustrated with the Tarantula if you have no experience with an itr of some sort. Just because you'll experience the IT breaking on you if you aren't used to handling IT's in general. I still believe that anyone can learn to use Tarantula, no matter what level your at with IT'S. Just remember one thing, commit yourself to learning the tarantula if you are going to purchase it. Please do not practice only a couple of hours and then go out expecting to perform like a pro. Like I said before, it is definitely worthwhile to take time and learn it.

I still agree with Kipp Sherry. Start out with something basic like the "hover card". Personally I'm not a big fan of just regular IT. I'm more a reel person.

-Alex
Message: Posted by: Mind Melter (Mar 20, 2009 9:57pm)
Just got out of hospital. Have been playing around with the tarantula.

It's a great gimmick. Very versatile and easy to conceal. My only negative on this is the consistancy of the motor.

I couldn't always get it to operate 100% of the time (which is a big annoyance) I think it has something to do with the manufacturing aspect and probably the reason why ellusionist have decided to stop selling them, at this stage.


All in all, a worthy purchase and my favourite amongst the reels I own. Great to play around with and the thread is really strong IMO.


6/10 Construction of actual gimmick
8/10 Ease of use
9/10 Portability and versatility
Message: Posted by: Douglas Lippert (Mar 20, 2009 11:11pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-20 21:57, Mind Melter wrote:
I couldn't always get it to operate 100% of the time (which is a big annoyance) I think it has something to do with the manufacturing aspect and probably the reason why ellusionist have decided to stop selling them, at this stage.


I might be able to help you. PM me for details.

Best,

D.L.
Message: Posted by: edh (Mar 20, 2009 11:11pm)
If doesn't operate 100% of the time, aren't you taking a risk performing with the Tarantula?

Kipp, thanks for your review.
Message: Posted by: Douglas Lippert (Mar 20, 2009 11:22pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-20 23:11, edh wrote:
If doesn't operate 100% of the time, aren't you taking a risk performing with the Tarantula?

Kipp, thanks for your review.



Nothing is 100%. But, the Tarantula works 99% of the time for me.

Best,

D.L.
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 21, 2009 12:30am)
Ya, I would suggest checking your gimmick before you use it everytime you perform. Just incase it fails. But like Doug said, it does work 99% of the time.

-Alex
Message: Posted by: milez (Mar 21, 2009 9:29pm)
My tarantula doesn't seem to be as powerful as Yigal's in the video. It couldn't even lift a dollar bill... anyone else having the same issue? perhaps the stock battery is depleted?
Message: Posted by: bmagic (Mar 21, 2009 10:35pm)
Just getting started in the Café. I appreciate all of the great reviews for the Tarantula...but...they all seem to have a common thread (pardon the pun). It appears there are several "kinks" that are yet to be worked out with the Tarantula. I owned the Spider Pen and finally gave up due to thread breakage, motor issues, and spool problems. It sounds like the Tarantula is simply a more sophisticated Spider Pen. I guess that is my biggest fear...dropping $75.00 for a utility item tht isn't quite ready for prime time.

Thanks,

Brian B.
Message: Posted by: Douglas Lippert (Mar 21, 2009 11:01pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-21 22:35, bmagic wrote:
Just getting started in the Café. I appreciate all of the great reviews for the Tarantula...but...they all seem to have a common thread (pardon the pun). It appears there are several "kinks" that are yet to be worked out with the Tarantula. I owned the Spider Pen and finally gave up due to thread breakage, motor issues, and spool problems. It sounds like the Tarantula is simply a more sophisticated Spider Pen. I guess that is my biggest fear...dropping $75.00 for a utility item tht isn't quite ready for prime time.

Thanks,

Brian B.



Thread will break often if you are new to IT work.

This is not the Tarantula's fault, it's the buyer's fault.

Take care,

Doug L.
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 22, 2009 2:43am)
Thread work does take a lot of practice. You will get frustrated, but I am sure that if you put in some sweat into it, you will get the results that you desire.

Best wishes,

-Alex
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 12:37pm)
A few of them have already been resold here on the Café'. Tarantula has it's problems just like the spider pen. We've seen many of those for sale here on the Café as well.

Be careful when reading reviews because several members here received their tarantula for free in exchange for giving it a review. Most test pilots always give a positive review so they can continue being a test pilot for the inventor. Not all beta testers work this way, but most do. Just keep your eyes on the tricks for sale section and watch to see how many people are getting rid of them.
Message: Posted by: PatrickGregoire (Mar 22, 2009 6:19pm)
Yeah, but make sure you know WHY they are selling them. It's not always because the product is no good... Tarantula is great and I am not a beta tester.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 7:41pm)
Aah, let me guess? It didn't suit their performance style.(lol) I predict that more will be for resale pretty soon.
Message: Posted by: PatrickGregoire (Mar 22, 2009 7:49pm)
I wasn't suggesting reasons, I was simply saying that there are more reasons than one to resell a product.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 8:12pm)
True, but neither did I. No matter what the reasons are, the fact that people are already selling their Tarantula's is a clear sign that they don't want it. I still predict more resales to come. Keep an eye on the for sale section if you want to buy it cheap.
Message: Posted by: voe (Mar 22, 2009 8:54pm)
When I sell some stuff I have sitting around, I will be purchasing the tarantula. I do have a question though. I had a spider pen so I'm familiar with r**l work and am 99.99% certain I know what the tarantula is that makes it unique.

Now my question... do you guys think that these returns are people who were not familiar with r**ls and IT in general or workers like myself who were still disappointed with reliability or other unforeseen issues with the device?
Message: Posted by: jackstevens (Mar 22, 2009 9:04pm)
Tarantula is the superior device in this genre.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 9:25pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-22 21:04, jackstevens wrote:
Tarantula is the superior device in this genre.


Isn't that what they said about the Spider Pen? :)
Message: Posted by: voe (Mar 22, 2009 9:33pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-22 21:25, Todd Bernard wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-03-22 21:04, jackstevens wrote:
Tarantula is the superior device in this genre.


Isn't that what they said about the Spider Pen? :)


To be honest, it was true about the Spider Pen (in my opinion) so I do not find it unbelievable to be true of the tarantula.
So, is the general consensus that the reason for so many being resold is just buyers remorse from people not knowing what they were getting in to as opposed to a product that has a serious issue?
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 10:07pm)
There is no general consensus! The only thing safely to conclude is that the buyer didn't want it. You can read about the problems some are having with Tarantula right here in this thread.
Message: Posted by: PatrickGregoire (Mar 22, 2009 10:11pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-22 19:41, Todd Bernard wrote:
Aah, let me guess? It didn't suit their performance style.(lol)


Isn't that suggesting a reason why they'd sell? People knew what the Tarantula could do when they bought it, so it wouldn't be an issue of performance style. It might be an issue of liking it or not. I don't think it has anything to do with it being a bad product, because it isn't.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 22, 2009 10:53pm)
Ummm, sounds like I was guessing. Actually, I even said, "let me guess". Doesn't sound like a suggestion to me. If I was suggesting I might have said, "I suggest..." It sounds like you are suggesting.(lol) You suggest that it's not a bad product, and suggest that it doesn't have anything to do with the issue of performance style.
Message: Posted by: puffinmonkey (Mar 23, 2009 12:13am)
For those who are skeptical, I am not a beta tester. In fact I am a real CONSUMER of this product. Why the heck would I waste my time writing this review if I were a beta user? Every single review here is bias, the real opinion is on you. This review here that I wrote is based on my experience with the tarantula and want to inform fellow magicians about this product, not to convince you to purchase it. Thank you

-Alex
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 23, 2009 2:20am)
Why would you waste your time with a review if you were a beta tester? I guess that's why you're not a beta tester. :)
Message: Posted by: PatrickGregoire (Mar 23, 2009 1:52pm)
You were suggesting, doesn`t matter how you word it. I wasn`t suggesting anything in my last post, I was straight out SAYING that it`s not a bad product and that it`s not an issue with performance style.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 23, 2009 8:38pm)
"Guessing" and "suggesting" two different words with different definitions.I'm not going to get into a debate about words with you, I know what I said, no matter how you choose to misinterpretate it.I would like to know what makes you think you know me and my performance style so much that you suggest that it's not an issue with my performance style. However, I honestly don't care what makes you think that. I know my performance style and it doesn't fit into it. Before you think about continueing to argue this point, allow me to suggest that you don't because unless you've seen me perform at a convention, wedding, or trade show, you'll be wasting your time trying to convince me. :)
Message: Posted by: Tim Jahn (Mar 23, 2009 10:36pm)
Did you sell yours Todd?
Message: Posted by: PatrickGregoire (Mar 23, 2009 10:56pm)
I never said I knew your performance style... All I said was that since people knew what the Tarantula could do before they bought it, they wouldn't buy it if they didn't think what it did would fit their performance style.

I know that guessing and suggesting are two different words with two different meanings, but guesses can be suggestions in certain cases, and such was the case. I said that there are more reasons to sell Tarantula other than it just being junk. Then you said:

"Aah, let me guess? It didn't suit their performance style."

And so you were suggesting, by guessing, that I was inferring that they were selling them because it didn't suit their performance style. If that's not what you were suggesting, then I apologize. Period.
Message: Posted by: Todd Bernard (Mar 24, 2009 12:21am)
Hi Tim,

Yes, I did sell mine, but not here on the Café.

PatrickGregoire, don't be offended but I choose to ignore you. You fail to understand what, "I'm not going to get into a debate about words with you, I know what I said, no matter how you choose to misinterpretate it" means. Apology excepted though.
Message: Posted by: bhayankaran (Mar 24, 2009 1:37am)
What kind of batteries does this use??
Message: Posted by: Tim Jahn (Mar 24, 2009 1:58am)
Quote:

On 2009-03-24 00:21, Todd Bernard wrote:
Hi Tim,

Yes, I did sell mine, but not here on the Café.



DANG!! I was going to ask if you still had it and wanted to sell it. Oh well...
Message: Posted by: Magicguy40 (Mar 24, 2009 9:00pm)
James @ sorcery

Has the best deal going on these and is even throwing in a Free ITR with
the purchase, great as a back up if you break the thread during a performance.

ITRMagicTricks.com is his site, hope this helps.

Ken
Message: Posted by: Salah AAZEDINE (Mar 25, 2009 8:15am)
I received my tarantula last week, I was disapointed when I saw the gimmick but once I watched the dvd and start playing with it I really fall in luv with it. it's always on me, it's not easy but it's not hard either it need some practice like all the good magic.
Message: Posted by: ScHeRzO (Apr 2, 2009 12:37am)
I think that the Tatantula is a great idea. I am not a fan of the IT but I really feel comfortable with this utility. I would pay more for it, it is definetly worth its price.
Message: Posted by: Miraclemakers (Apr 2, 2009 4:28am)
Thanks for the review....
Message: Posted by: Horus (Apr 2, 2009 4:46am)
If you're having trouble with your tarantula not being able to pick up a bill etc you might want to check you're not inadvertently doing the same thing I was. It takes some time to get the right positioning of the device, and in my experience I had to regularly adjust it to make sure.

If it's not in the right position, or you're pressing down too hard on the top of the device, you'll actually find the thread stops moving - what you're doing is pressing the material of the device's cap against the spool and impeding it's progress. Take some extra care not to press down so hard or over too far and you'll find this problem alleviates.
Message: Posted by: Zachary (Apr 2, 2009 10:32am)
Does anyone know what the 'issues with the manufacturer were that were noted on the ellusionist webite?
Message: Posted by: wthierry (Apr 2, 2009 11:03am)
Quote:

On 2009-04-02 10:32, Alakazak wrote:
Does anyone know what the 'issues with the manufacturer were that were noted on the ellusionist webite?


I think it was just availabilty. there was a similar post on penguin magic.
Message: Posted by: pwolverine (Apr 2, 2009 4:17pm)
Quote:

On 2009-04-02 10:32, Alakazak wrote:
Does anyone know what the 'issues with the manufacturer were that were noted on the ellusionist webite?


They seem to be selling it again, so I doubt there was any real issue.
Message: Posted by: Antares (Jun 7, 2009 4:25pm)
I own the spider and the tarantula and I have to say I prefer the spider.
I have found that when it comes to levitations, most people assume that there is a thread hanging from above the levitating object. With the spider and many of the traditional ITR's, the hook up generally throws people off the scent. Tarantula, I feel does not promote this, as effectively.

One other thing - The ring effect shown in the ad and on the dvd is awesome but does anyone else find that the spinning creates a serious twist in the t....d - to the point that if it snaps, it coils and gets caught up in the reel.

I think when it comes to a general levitation (a bill, card, sponge ball, gaffed coin), the spider is better. The ring levitation and haunted pack routine are more suited to the tarantula.
Message: Posted by: NexusMagicShop (Jun 7, 2009 7:41pm)
Quote:

On 2009-06-07 16:25, Antares wrote:
I own the spider and the tarantula and I have to say I prefer the spider.
I have found that when it comes to levitations, most people assume that there is a thread hanging from above the levitating object. With the spider and many of the traditional ITR's, the hook up generally throws people off the scent. Tarantula, I feel does not promote this, as effectively.

One other thing - The ring effect shown in the ad and on the dvd is awesome but does anyone else find that the spinning creates a serious twist in the t....d - to the point that if it snaps, it coils and gets caught up in the reel.

I think when it comes to a general levitation (a bill, card, sponge ball, gaffed coin), the spider is better. The ring levitation and haunted pack routine are more suited to the tarantula.


Antares:
I think you bring up some great points. The spinning ring effect is hard on the IT. And I believe you are correct it does tend to twist up. For the newbies to avoid constant breakage I would suggest getting comfortable with the very light objects Like a bill or playing card, before moving to the more advanced techniques.

Also, when performing the Haunted pack make sure the subject card is not too deep in the pack. The extra weight can be hard on the IT.
Message: Posted by: Magic Arty (Jun 8, 2009 9:30pm)
Love it, I have two in my case, incase it breaks. However that has not happened in a show yet. This is a fantastic tool. I am completely sold on this thing! It does eat batteries, and takes work, so what! work with it, get a few extra spools, by the time you have gone through a few of them you will be ready to perform with it1 (I hope)!
Message: Posted by: influenze (Jun 8, 2009 11:50pm)
Mine arrived not working so I sent it back and daytona magic said it arrived in pieces! filling insurance claim through usps and hopefully get refunded
Message: Posted by: JIMclubber64 (Jun 9, 2009 12:21am)
A quick improv review:

I bought the Tarantula with no prior experience OR knowledge of IT or ITR work, and due to this, I had literally every problem possible with the tarantula. In fact, I went through 2 and a quarter or half spools before I was able to even start using the tarantula. It was very frustrating to a newbie to IT, but now that I've got it figured out, my third spool is still alive and well with me. I do think that there was something wrong with my first spool (not the tarantula), but either way, I am now very happy with my Tarantula. As has already been mentioned, the landing the ring on a spector's finger is difficult, but I've only had trouble with it with 1 person who happened to have more than a laymen's knowledge (and was also my 26 year-old brother)and so naturally was trying to be difficult. However, you will need a rather large ring to be able to land it on anyone's finger (I use the brass ring in Nickles to Dimes, it works very well). Also, only land it on someone else's finger if you have ALOT of practice (as was also mentioned previously), but I don't think the levitation itself is all that difficult. A great bonus on the DVD is that Yigal teaches you how to get the IT of of the Spool if the IT breaks, so that's very helpful. All in all, I am very happy with this purchase, and I don't think you can go wrong with this product, no matter what your IT skill level.

On a side note, I'm not sure why some people here say that most laymen assume that IT comes vertically, because I've always assumed that it was horizontal, across the hands. But maybe that's just me?

On a side-side note, when using the hovering effect, make sure you spin the ring the opposite way each time, it helps the IT alot.
Message: Posted by: MikeOB (Jun 19, 2009 11:26am)
I received mine yesterday and it was broken, the wires were severed and a piece was broken off. I contacted Yigal. Does anyone know if he responds quickly? Has anyone dealt with Yigal in regards to customer service and fixing or replacing broken items?

Thanks.

Mike
Message: Posted by: rutt (Jun 22, 2009 2:46am)
I have just buy it,and play with it all the day.But my battery run out easily.Anyway this is very good gimmick.My problem is the wax that come with it was cut through easily.
Message: Posted by: Michael Peterson (Jun 23, 2009 3:26pm)
Quote:

On 2009-03-21 21:29, milez wrote:
My tarantula doesn't seem to be as powerful as Yigal's in the video. It couldn't even lift a dollar bill... anyone else having the same issue? perhaps the stock battery is depleted?


The one thing I would suggest is to make sure you are using the proper hand position taught on the DVD. I thought mine was hit & miss at first, but then realized it was my hand position that was causing the problem.

This thing has been great, reliable & tons of fun.

Mike
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Jun 23, 2009 5:45pm)
My quick review -

It is a fantastic idea & easy to use with a small amount of practice. As mentioned before, the tangling thread from spinning the ring is the greatest set back, but you'll see astonished faces when you do it so I guess it evens out. All the tricks on the DVD are well expained & reasonably easy to perform. I would say that if you've got massive shovel hands like me then the tarantula is tricky to hold naturally. Infact, I now just use Fearson's hook up which I think leaves me cleaner but that's just personal choice. For all you out there with regular sized hands I'd recommend it.

8 out of ten because IT is always such a pain! Not the Tarantula's fault but still the same score.
Message: Posted by: thumbtip (Jun 23, 2009 6:54pm)
I have both products. My only negative statement was, on the pen the string broke and I could not find the lead. The reel was very small and somewhat frustrating to work with. Other than that I think the main write up on this board covered it all. All in all I like both, but I am still more of an I.T.R. user. Always have been. I also enjoy loops.
Message: Posted by: Xtreme Manipulator (Jun 24, 2009 3:08am)
Definitely worth the money in my opinion.
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Jun 26, 2009 6:00am)
Just as an afterthought on hand size. My problem stems from having long fingers. Unfortunately, despite being impossible to hold naturally with large hands, the end of my finger curls over the end of the Tarantula & often stops the thread from retracting. Sure you can slightly adjust it for width but I'm afraid the length is no good for long fingers. Anyone else have this issue? Sadly this problem & the fact it happens so often to me means I seldom use it. I now prefer the Fearson hook up without the gimmick which is a much cleaner way to perform the hovering ring anyway.
Message: Posted by: MMysteries5 (Jun 27, 2009 5:33pm)
Hello everyone,
I'm new to MagicCafe, this is my first post. I'm going to review the Tarantula, which have advantage and inconvenients of the method/gimmick.

I've just received my Tarantula 1 week ago, and I must say that the gimmick is not what I expected. It's very clever, really nice design and camouflaged, but one part may unglue of the rest of the gimmick. So, here's my review.

The Dvd : 9/10
O.k, for everyone that want to buy the Tarantula, WATCH THE DVD FIRST! If you play around with the gimmick, without watching the DVD, there's lot of chances that you break it. Yigal teaches in details all you want to know, and goes thru every tricks so you can perform them perfectly.

The gimmick : 7.5/10
Well I'll give it 7.5/10 because :
1. I uses some IT which is sometime annoying...
2.Well the HoverRing Twists the T****d and sometimes, "IT" breaks.
3.The audiance can't see the gimmick but you are not "Free endend".
4.You'll need to buy refils if you want to make it land on a spectator finger.

The tricks/Effects: 10/10
The effect is purely amazing, but it will require some practice to get it perfect.

Best luck with your magic,

William
Message: Posted by: MikeOB (Jun 29, 2009 9:54pm)
Just an update on my earlier post. Mesika Magic replaced my broken Tarantula. I really do love this thing. I cannot wait to try it out (after practicing of course). Also wanted to comment on the customer service. Spencer (who I was in contact with at Mesika Magic) really did a great job. I was able to get in contact with Spencer after a few hours from an email. I really thought I would have to wait a few weeks but he was able to get it back to me the same day he received it. Just wanted to say I appreciate the great customer service from Mesika Magic.

Thanks again,

Mike
Message: Posted by: Review King (Jul 6, 2009 9:27am)
I love using the Tarantula. It's a very impressive device. Having the ability to let out slack and retract it when you want to is fantastic. It opens up so many possibilities.
Message: Posted by: rizyanrizy (Jul 6, 2009 10:28am)
I love the magnetic money trick

its like a muscle pass, but you do it with paper:P
Message: Posted by: cartamundi (Jul 6, 2009 11:40pm)
I have really enjoyed using the Tarantula. However I did manage to break the switch once due to poor pocket management.

I find that it is easier to set up for the performance of the ring levitation by calling attention to it by saying that you are going to use the front of the brain and the back of the brain to generate the "energy" required. By gesturing at the same time, one effectively gets into the setup. Once the performance is over, one can reverse the process by saying "all I did was use the back of the brain and the front of the brain" and you are effectively reset for a new performance without having to break the t$%&@d.

good luck
Message: Posted by: ralphs007 (Jul 8, 2009 12:53pm)
Quote:

On 2009-06-29 21:54, MikeOB wrote:
Just an update on my earlier post. Mesika Magic replaced my broken Tarantula. I really do love this thing. I cannot wait to try it out (after practicing of course). Also wanted to comment on the customer service. Spencer (who I was in contact with at Mesika Magic) really did a great job. I was able to get in contact with Spencer after a few hours from an email. I really thought I would have to wait a few weeks but he was able to get it back to me the same day he received it. Just wanted to say I appreciate the great customer service from Mesika Magic.

Thanks again,

Mike

I second what you said about their customer service !
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 8, 2009 3:53pm)
Hi there!

I'm thinking about buying the tarantula, but I want to know some details before I'm convinced. Personally I don't like gimmicks that need to be refilled. I understand that the batteries should be refilled (how long do they live?), but is it true that if you want to make an object float to someone else you'll always have to break it? Because that means that you have to refill your IT all the time :(

I live in the Netherlands and the nearest (but great) magic shop is far away. And the shipping prices are very high. So I don't want to buy often new IT.
About the batteries, can you buy them in an ordinary supermarket as well?
Thank you!
Message: Posted by: rizyanrizy (Jul 8, 2009 9:50pm)
The battery depends on your performance, if you use it often, it wont be long,
if you want it to land on people's hand, yes, you have to break it, its just 1-3cm that you break, then reel it back to the gimmick

I think you should buy the battery too on the suppliers, the spider pen's battery
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 9, 2009 7:17am)
Ok, but switching batteries is easy and fast to do?
And can you also buy those batteries in other non-magic shops?
Because 7,50 euro shipping for 2 batteries of 3 euros is too much if I have to switch the battery after a day of using.

I hear everyone saying you can break the gimmick easily. But can you easily repair it too?
Thanks for your reaction!
Message: Posted by: tpax (Jul 9, 2009 7:44am)
Batteries are easy to replace and are available from ebay, lr1130, check there. If you are new to IT work don't get this, invest in the Ammar, LeClair (SP?)or Fearsons DVD's instead. Tarantula is a great utility device for someone who has some IT experience.
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 9, 2009 8:28am)
Thankyou.
Yes, I understand: that is why I am still thinking about it. I already have a simple IT reel with elastics, so I'm not completely new to it.

About the gimmick, can you repair it easily? And does the ring really have to spin, or is it just a (very) cool look :P
Message: Posted by: tpax (Jul 9, 2009 12:44pm)
I don't use mine for the ring effect but I do believe it needs to spin.
I have never repaired mine so can't offer help there either.
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 9, 2009 1:22pm)
I hope you mean you never broke it :P Ok. It is quite useless to ask what kind of effects you can do which are not on the DVD, because that depends your own creativity. What do you think, if it is about floating things (like a dollar bill) which needs to keep floating, is the spiderpen a better solution?
Message: Posted by: tpax (Jul 9, 2009 2:50pm)
It's been a while since I used my spider pen. It worked well for basic floaing, if my memory serves me well. I had to repair the cap, which was common in the spider pen and a real pain. Can't recommend it because of the poor construction.
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 9, 2009 3:35pm)
Yeh, I heard very much disadvantages about the spiderpen when it comes to construction. And the pro-version isn't released yet :l

I am really doubting whether I should buy the tarantula or not. I hear and read great stories about it, but also some nightmare-stories about broken gimmicks and defect parts.

Is it really that scary?
Message: Posted by: MikeOB (Jul 9, 2009 6:18pm)
I have the tarantula and mine was broken but Yigal replaced it within a week. I remember I was pretty nervous about it when it broke but I am really happy with it after I got it back. You can pick up replacement batteries pretty easily as well. It really depends on what breaks that you would need to send back. Something may need to be reglued which is easy. Overall I was very happy with Mesikas Magic customer service and the tarantula.

Mike
Message: Posted by: SomethingReal (Jul 17, 2009 7:38pm)
Hey Guys

Yigal Mesika here.

I just wanted to update the magic community in regards to a pirated Tarantula that is being manufactured in China. It's extremely unfortunate but someone has infringed with my patent, trademarks and unethically copied my Tarantula devise, DVD and packaging. It's people like this that are destroying the magic community. My fellow magicians and I spend a tremendous amount of time creating and developing unique items and it's disturbing to think someone can come along and steel it away from us. Below is a message I received from a customer who bought a fake Tarantula.

Hi all,

This post is about my story of purchasing a fake Tarantula and its purpose is to serve as a warning to those who are about to purchase, as well as a helpline for those who have purchased malfunctional Tarantulas.

I purchased Tarantula from a local magic retailer on 4th July and have since experienced many problems with it, including getting the basic function of the gimmick to even work properly. Many specifications were not met and the DVD casing had no manual in it. I tried testing the other Tarantula that the shop sold but both had the exact same faults.

I was growing worried so I asked a few friends both local and overseas who got their Tarantula from various other sources to compare and see if they had the same problems and I discovered that it is only mine that has those problems. Also, there is a stark difference in the packaging that is used and the construction of the gimmick. I have since confirmed with Yigal Mesika that the Tarantula I have is a fake.

Without revealing too much, I provide 2 images and the rest will be descriptions.

Firstly, see link (http://www.yigalmesika.com/images/compare.jpeg ) for the outer packaging. The one on the left is the one I bought from the shop and the one on the right is an original purchased directly from Ellusionist. In the one that I had, the box was significantly smaller in terms of height and the Tarantula on it was smaller as well. There was tape on the one I bought but not on the original.

See link 2 (http://www.yigalmesika.com/images/compare2.jpeg ) - the paper used to wrap the Tarantula and the paper. In the one I bought, the paper was folded with text facing outside while in the rest of the 5 Tarantulas my friends have shown me, the paper was folded with text facing inside. The paper used to wrap the Tarantula is also different from all the others which I have seen. According to a friend of mine, it's of cheaper, worse quality and is usually used to wrap fireworks in China.

As for the construction of the gimmick itself - you should notice these features (or rather, deficiencies) if your Tarantula is fake -

1. Motherboard color (PCB where the battery is sitting)- Real Tarantula's should be black, fake's green.
2. Motor's right wire color - Real Tarantula's should be black, fake's blue.
3 Switch colour - Real Tarantula's should be silver with a yellow cover for the switch's protection. The fake's silver with no protection for the switch.
4. The stick switch - Real Tarantula's can be removed, fake's cannot be removed and so you won't be able to make your Tarantula shorter easily.
5. Invisible thread - Real Tarantula's invisible thread is 25ft long, much thinner and stronger. The fake's invisible thread is much shorter, slightly thicker but breaks very easily.

If you are a victim of purchasing a fake Tarantula, Yigal Mesika would be most appreciative if you would contact him at support@mesikamagic.com. As far as I know in many cases he will replace it for you with an authentic one.

Lee
Message: Posted by: Bill Palmer (Jul 17, 2009 7:56pm)
Soimon:

All I can say about Yigal's Tarantula is that he stands behind everything he makes. If it is defective, send it to him and he will take care of it.

His NAME is on it.
Message: Posted by: magicpatoche (Jul 18, 2009 3:35am)
Quote:

On 2009-07-17 19:56, Bill Palmer wrote:
Soimon:

All I can say about Yigal's Tarantula is that he stands behind everything he makes. If it is defective, send it to him and he will take care of it.

His NAME is on it.


Hello, I have the Tarantula and I am very happy with it. Now glad to see that I have the real one too. Sorry for those who got conned.

Thank you

Patrick
Message: Posted by: smittymagic (Jul 18, 2009 10:48pm)
Just another egg on the face of China..... Shame Shame Shame
Message: Posted by: edh (Jul 19, 2009 8:38pm)
...and FISM is being held there???? :shrug:
Message: Posted by: lisheng (Jul 20, 2009 3:14pm)
Hi everyone!

I'm the one who wrote the little comparison between the real and fake Tarantulas I managed to get my hands on, which Yigal posted previously. Just an extra note - the shop which sold me the fake Tarantula also sells a whole bunch of other pirated DVDs and fake magic wares. I don't want to publicly defame a magic retailer here, so if you're from Singapore and you read this message, please contact me (or just Google) to find out which shop it is, and avoid it in the future.

I'd also like to take this chance to thank Yigal for the customer support he's given. I really appreciate it!
Message: Posted by: magicmind (Jul 20, 2009 5:09pm)
Quote:

On 2009-06-26 06:00, UncleBunkle wrote:
Just as an afterthought on hand size. My problem stems from having long fingers. Unfortunately, despite being impossible to hold naturally with large hands, the end of my finger curls over the end of the Tarantula & often stops the thread from retracting. Sure you can slightly adjust it for width but I'm afraid the length is no good for long fingers. Anyone else have this issue? Sadly this problem & the fact it happens so often to me means I seldom use it. I now prefer the Fearson hook up without the gimmick which is a much cleaner way to perform the hovering ring anyway.


Use the gimmick backwards...that helped me


Also, store this in a prescription bottle...GREAT carrying case
Message: Posted by: Airave (Jul 22, 2009 10:03am)
I've had mine for few months now and use it a lot.
The switch snapped in half after a few days practice
(and I don't have clumsy fingers) but my dealer
replaced it right away. This one is doing just fine.
I've had no other problems since.

It takes some time getting used to holding it right.
But not too long. I tried the backwards method
but am back to comfortably using the original position.

The thread is excellent. Strong and very hard to see.
Of course I have broken the IT a few times (it is IT)
and can easily retrieve the end in a few moments
(not quite as easily as Yigal in the DVD).

I don't do the spinning ring... not really my style,
but like the magnetic money (or a paper butterfly)
and PK effects.

I keep mine in a med bottle too! :)

So that was just my 2 cents after much use
and many chances. I loves it.
Message: Posted by: Maloney (Jul 22, 2009 12:07pm)
One month until I finally get the Tarantula. I'm stoked. Seems like it's a great device.
Message: Posted by: magicnorm (Jul 23, 2009 11:58pm)
I 've had good success with my trantula, the only hassel has been getting the thread out if it breaks. Does any one have methods that are perhaps easier than the explanation on the video
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 24, 2009 9:26am)
Finally I decided to buy the tarantula, now wait for the postman :D
Btw: does anyone know what type of batteries the tarantula uses?
Message: Posted by: tpax (Jul 24, 2009 9:29am)
If I can't get a end free with the blowing method I use the edge of a business card to "massage" the thread and break a end free. Make sure it's a soft, uncoated card. This works for me.
Message: Posted by: soimon (Jul 25, 2009 5:39am)
And 20 hours after purchasing they send me the Tarantula. I'm in love with it :D
But I have a question about cutting. What is the perfect size of the device when you compare it to the size of your finger?
Message: Posted by: Voldemort (Jul 31, 2009 10:09pm)
I just got my Tarantula in the mail today from MJM magic. Fast shipping as always from those guys and great customer service.

The problem is that the Tarantula is broken. More accuratly, the switch is broken. I didn't even get a chance to try the thing out! LOL It came to me that way.

I contacted Meskia support and he got back to me in less than an hour. I have to ship it back to CA, But that's no problem I guess. I'm sure that they will make it right.

I'm just mad that I didn't even get to try it!! :)

Oh well.. I waited this long to get one. I guess another week won't kill me.


V.
Message: Posted by: Sammy J. (Jul 31, 2009 11:25pm)
Quote:

On 2009-07-31 22:09, Voldemort wrote:

The problem is that the Tarantula is broken. More accuratly, the switch is broken. I didn't even get a chance to try the thing out! LOL It came to me that way.

I contacted Meskia support and he got back to me in less than an hour. I have to ship it back to CA, But that's no problem I guess. I'm sure that they will make it right.

I'm just mad that I didn't even get to try it!! :)

Oh well.. I waited this long to get one. I guess another week won't kill me.


V.


That's a bummer, Voldemort. I bought a used one on the "tricks for sale" thread, and it works great. I hope you get it soon. The DVD is really good, and the tarantula is fun to play with. Good luck!
Sammy
Message: Posted by: Voldemort (Jul 31, 2009 11:31pm)
Very nice of you Sammy. I'm glad that yours is working well.

I have had a lot of fun watching the DVD. At least I'll be ready when I get it back! ;)

On the upside, I've read here that a few others have had small problems with thier's as well and each time it seems that Meskia magic has been beyond helpful. So that at least makes me feel good about the whole thing.

V.
Message: Posted by: MikeOB (Aug 1, 2009 9:34am)
Hey Voldemort,

Mesika Magic really did a great job of taking care of my broken Tarantula. Spencer was in constant contact on when he received it and when he shipped it back. It was really fast.

Mike
Message: Posted by: Voldemort (Aug 1, 2009 12:25pm)
Yeah.. After all the great stuff I've read from the people who had to deal with it (like you) I'm not even worried about it.

How are you doing with the new one Mike? Any more problems?


V.
Message: Posted by: MikeOB (Aug 1, 2009 11:30pm)
Hey Voldemort,

Everything is working great so far. I am having a blast with it. I got it back a week from when I sent it. Took 3 days to get there and 3 days to get back. West Coast to East Coast. I sent out the same message you sent when mine was broken. I got a lot of reassurances about Mesika Magic.

Let me know how it goes.

Mike
Message: Posted by: thumbtip (Aug 2, 2009 12:58am)
Finally got off my duff and replaced the battery for my unit. Indeed the battery that was received was weak. Tonight I tested the unit out and was able to move objects that I normally could not while using it with the weak battery. Not complaining, just simply making a point. Lesson learned here...Keep a fresh battery on hand in case this happens to you, or if you happen to be a new user.
Message: Posted by: Voldemort (Aug 2, 2009 1:06pm)
Man I already bought 20 batteries. I'll have plenty after I get it back.

Will do Mike.

V.
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Aug 4, 2009 9:29am)
[quote]
On 2009-07-20 17:09, magicmind wrote:
Use the gimmick backwards...that helped me

Mmmm, an interesting idea. I'll certainly give that a whirl. Can't help thinking that it will cause probs with the IT though, like snagging or breaking more than we are used to. However, I shan't judge until I've tried it & thanks for the suggestion.
It's a shame because it's only the unnatural handling that relegates this to the back of my cupboard. I have the same give away hand curl when I flirted with the sananda gimmick. Very large hands & long fingers aren't as advantageous as you might think!
Message: Posted by: tpax (Aug 4, 2009 10:22am)
[quote]
On 2009-08-04 09:29, UncleBunkle wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-07-20 17:09, magicmind wrote:
Use the gimmick backwards...that helped me

Mmmm, an interesting idea. I'll certainly give that a whirl. Can't help thinking that it will cause probs with the IT though, like snagging or breaking more than we are used to. However, I shan't judge until I've tried it & thanks for the suggestion.
It's a shame because it's only the unnatural handling that relegates this to the back of my cupboard. I have the same give away hand curl when I flirted with the sananda gimmick. Very large hands & long fingers aren't as advantageous as you might think!

Hey Bunkie,
I have big but not extra large hands and I now use blue tac in the inside lower half, over the battery and up the walls to hold the gimmick on. I have used glue dots with success as well. The gimmick sticks to your finger and your hand action is pretty clean. I also use one of my smaller fingers to compenstae for the size.
Try it a see if it works!
Tom P
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Aug 5, 2009 6:47am)
Thanks Tom, that sounds like an excellent idea. I tried the upside down thang last night & it didn't make too much difference but this sounds very logical.

Will post some feedback once I've tried it.
Message: Posted by: Voldemort (Aug 8, 2009 10:23pm)
Just a quick update.

I got my Tarantula back in less than a week. I think it was six days in all. Not bad. Meskia Magic gets high praise from me!

The new one works fine and I don't think I've put it down at all in the last few days. I love this little thing!

I am finding it better to wear it backwards as well. The blue tack idea is also something I'm going to try out. (Thanks Tpax) I've got some pretty long fingers too.


V.
Message: Posted by: Magic Arty (Aug 10, 2009 2:38pm)
I have huge hands! The tarantalla works fine for me!
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Aug 12, 2009 10:09am)
Don't get me wrong, it works ok & I have amazed some people with it. But for me it just feels unnatural, no matter how well it's held on. Just a personal opinion. Not a waste of money by any means as it did teach me the Fearson hook up which I use quite regularly now without the Tarantula. It's more natural for me, cleaner & your hand movements are completely unrestricted. It's horses for courses at the end of the day.
I've only been at this magic lark for 7 months but Dai Vernon's advice 'be natural' is the best I've heard & I apply it to everything I attempt. Anyway, I'm preaching to the converted here I don't doubt!
Message: Posted by: WayneL (Aug 13, 2009 3:39pm)
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.
Message: Posted by: think (Aug 13, 2009 7:12pm)
I think it's perfectly natural and almost has a ramsey subtlety feel to it.
Message: Posted by: Nicholas Spade (Aug 18, 2009 10:37am)
Quote:

On 2009-08-12 10:09, UncleBunkle wrote:
Don't get me wrong, it works ok & I have amazed some people with it. But for me it just feels unnatural, no matter how well it's held on. Just a personal opinion. Not a waste of money by any means as it did teach me the Fearson hook up which I use quite regularly now without the Tarantula. It's more natural for me, cleaner & your hand movements are completely unrestricted. It's horses for courses at the end of the day.
I've only been at this magic lark for 7 months but Dai Vernon's advice 'be natural' is the best I've heard & I apply it to everything I attempt. Anyway, I'm preaching to the converted here I don't doubt!


I got one of these just so I could use the Fearson hook with out the pain of the set and clean. I normally just use leclairs method for most of my I.T work. I get requests on the time to do the floating cig. If I didn't have one preset, it was a no go. Now I can pretty much do it on the fly. Also made a clip the thread is hooked on to attach the smoke on the fly. Setting up is so easy with this to bad I always get an itchy scalp before I do the routine. This utility rocks I just don't like using batteries. I am tight don't like to speed money.
Message: Posted by: tomacker (Aug 19, 2009 8:10am)
I think I'll wait for the spider pen pro. I have seen the tarantula gimmick, and I'm not sure if I would use it. But the SP Pro sounds very promissing!
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Aug 19, 2009 10:34am)
[quote]
On 2009-08-18 10:37, Nicholas Spade wrote:
Quote:


I got one of these just so I could use the Fearson hook with out the pain of the set and clean. I normally just use leclairs method for most of my I.T work. I get requests on the time to do the floating cig. If I didn't have one preset, it was a no go. Now I can pretty much do it on the fly. Also made a clip the thread is hooked on to attach the smoke on the fly. Setting up is so easy with this to bad I always get an itchy scalp before I do the routine. This utility rocks I just don't like using batteries. I am tight don't like to speed money.


I'm curious. How can you set up for the floating cig on the fly? Can't the clip be seen?
Message: Posted by: NexusMagicShop (Aug 20, 2009 11:51am)
[quote]
On 2009-08-19 10:34, UncleBunkle wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-18 10:37, Nicholas Spade wrote:
Quote:


I got one of these just so I could use the Fearson hook with out the pain of the set and clean. I normally just use leclairs method for most of my I.T work. I get requests on the time to do the floating cig. If I didn't have one preset, it was a no go. Now I can pretty much do it on the fly. Also made a clip the thread is hooked on to attach the smoke on the fly. Setting up is so easy with this to bad I always get an itchy scalp before I do the routine. This utility rocks I just don't like using batteries. I am tight don't like to speed money.


I'm curious. How can you set up for the floating cig on the fly? Can't the clip be seen?


Stephane Jardonnet developed his own method for on the fly cig levitation with the Fearson hook-up. It is very, very clean if you PM him I am sure he will share...

Jason - NMS
Message: Posted by: Jaxon (Aug 21, 2009 1:59pm)
That post about the fakes being sold is unreal. I mean when it comes to some magic props (Such as ITR's, D-lites) it's common ground that you have to watch out for knock offs. But I can't believe someone would actually pawn it off as the original (Packaging and all).

Usually knocks off basically admit they are a knock off by giving it a different name. For example after James Georges ITR came out we started to see others like, "Indian ITR" (Don't buy it. LOL).

So this is more then just a knock off. It's fraud.

Ron Jaxon
Message: Posted by: Nicholas Spade (Aug 22, 2009 12:07pm)
[quote]
On 2009-08-19 10:34, UncleBunkle wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-18 10:37, Nicholas Spade wrote:
Quote:


I got one of these just so I could use the Fearson hook with out the pain of the set and clean. I normally just use leclairs method for most of my I.T work. I get requests on the time to do the floating cig. If I didn't have one preset, it was a no go. Now I can pretty much do it on the fly. Also made a clip the thread is hooked on to attach the smoke on the fly. Setting up is so easy with this to bad I always get an itchy scalp before I do the routine. This utility rocks I just don't like using batteries. I am tight don't like to speed money.


I'm curious. How can you set up for the floating cig on the fly? Can't the clip be seen?



clips was a bad choice of words, its more of a cig but gaff that slips over the cig.
Message: Posted by: Jaxon (Aug 22, 2009 1:38pm)
[quote]
On 2009-08-19 10:34, UncleBunkle wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-18 10:37, Nicholas Spade wrote:

I'm curious. How can you set up for the floating cig on the fly? Can't the clip be seen?


You should check out Stave Fearson's Master thread system. There are some methods for what you asked about on the DVD that comes with it.

By the way. Some magicians ask questions like, "What's better Fearson's Master thread system or Tarantula"?

One of these is a method (Fearson's) and the other is a prop (Tarantula).

I know that's obvious to most of us but for some reason some seem to think it's one or the other. These two items aren't in competition with the other and they aren't even similar. You can just do some of the things taught in Fearson's with the Tarantula.

But for the cigarette questions. Fearson's Master thread system is something I think you'd get a lot out of.

Ron Jaxon
Message: Posted by: edh (Aug 22, 2009 4:53pm)
Ron, your impromptu hook-up to the floating cig on the DVD is great.
Message: Posted by: Jaxon (Aug 24, 2009 8:25pm)
Thanks edh.

Since that DVD was made I came up with a couple of pretty cool ways to use that. Shoot me an Email and I can share them with you.

Ron Jaxon
Message: Posted by: Nicholas Spade (Sep 2, 2009 9:26pm)
You can do a really cool rising card in cup with this. You hand the spec the deck of cards and have them select any card they like. While they do that, pick up a cup and hold the cup out for them to place the deck in the cup, Then have them place there selection anywhere in the deck. Sit the cup on the ground and watch that card rise. You can also have one spec handle the deck and have them offer the cards to another spec to have them select the card. This way you don't handle the deck the specs do. Hits much harder. That should be enough info to figure out how to do this.
Message: Posted by: Xiqual (Sep 3, 2009 12:53am)
I have to say that I think Ron Jaxon is one of, if not THE BEST thread worker in the world.

I bought a Deck-TR [still waiting] and those demos Ron does are just fantastic magic!! Ron also PM'ed me numerous times giving me info to help my decision.

Ron is an excellent resource and we are lucky to have him.
James
ps
uh oh, if silverking sees what I wrote he'll call me a "Fanboy" again


Quote:

On 2009-08-22 16:53, edh wrote:
Ron, your impromptu hook-up to the floating cig on the DVD is great.
Message: Posted by: Nicholas Spade (Sep 9, 2009 10:32am)
I am very sorry to say my Tarantula bought the farm.
I got about 3 1/2 weeks out of it. I loved it, but oh well. I won't be getting another or be sending it in to have it fixed. So far it seems that electronic threads reels are just to buggy. I am going to save up and get a deck-tr. If this goes south on me, I am going to be sticky with tried and true body hook-ups these are at least reliable.

Nicholas Spade.
Message: Posted by: john5d (Sep 10, 2009 1:50am)
Quote:

On 2009-08-13 15:39, WayneL wrote:
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.


I agree. I am just doing magic for fun but people always want to see my hands after to make sure I am not holding anything.
I am also waiting for spider pen pro or spider watch.
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Oct 6, 2009 7:41am)
[quote]
On 2009-08-22 13:38, Jaxon wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-19 10:34, UncleBunkle wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-18 10:37, Nicholas Spade wrote:

I'm curious. How can you set up for the floating cig on the fly? Can't the clip be seen?


You should check out Stave Fearson's Master thread system. There are some methods for what you asked about on the DVD that comes with it.

By the way. Some magicians ask questions like, "What's better Fearson's Master thread system or Tarantula"?

One of these is a method (Fearson's) and the other is a prop (Tarantula).

I know that's obvious to most of us but for some reason some seem to think it's one or the other. These two items aren't in competition with the other and they aren't even similar. You can just do some of the things taught in Fearson's with the Tarantula.

But for the cigarette questions. Fearson's Master thread system is something I think you'd get a lot out of.

Ron Jaxon


Thanks Ron. I'm about to order Fearson's MLS as the Tarantula still doesn't sit right with me. Magnetic Money is about the only thing I'm happy doing with it. It doesn't fit my hands sweetly whichever way I hold or stretch it, it doesn't match my skin colour & therefore this leaves me dirty. It's a good idea, but I think there's better to come in the future from someone.
Message: Posted by: tpax (Oct 6, 2009 9:15am)
Quote:

On 2009-09-10 01:50, john5d wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-13 15:39, WayneL wrote:
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.


I agree. I am just doing magic for fun but people always want to see my hands after to make sure I am not holding anything.
I am also waiting for spider pen pro or spider watch.

If they are asking to see your hands they are TELLING you to practice your misdirection and presentation! You should ask yourself "What am I doing to cause them to look at the hands?" Read "Strong Magic" to find the answer.
Are you using it for the correct effect? I'm not a fan of floating anything to your gimmick hand as it points to the method.
Message: Posted by: Daniel Normandeau (Oct 19, 2009 2:31am)
I think IT work is a really fine touch. I always have a backup plan!
Message: Posted by: Tracy (Nov 13, 2009 1:49am)
I just got my Tarantula today I was excited about it till I started working with and watching the video. mine seemed diffrent than the one on the video. I found this post about the Tarantula it seems like mine one of the knock offs :(
Message: Posted by: takeachance (Nov 13, 2009 1:57am)
I found it to be a backward step in thread work, for me at least, and threw it in the back of the draw, going back to the tried and tested methods. A pen or watch would be nice though.
Message: Posted by: jazzy snazzy (Nov 22, 2009 9:18am)
A few questions;

In the demo, the ring is very large, looks like a size 13. Does it need to be titanium for light weight or should it be heavier? Even better, I would like to use an antique 100 Mon Japanese coin, a nearly 2 inch oval, really heavy.

Do we know who is selling the knock-offs of this item? Obviously I would avoid the auction site. Those are all direct from the orient.

Do you think think the Youtuber hacks are already ruining the effect?

Thanks
Message: Posted by: bigfoot007 (Nov 23, 2009 8:58am)
Hi all! New to Magic Café....I had my tarantula for quite some time now and found it great with the haunted deck...as for the floating ring I was a bit afraid that the gimmink might be a bit exposed to the audiance if using it on the streets....unlucky...or should I say LUCKY!! my switch broke!! why should I say LUCKY??? well while trying to fix the switch I came up with an idea...I re made and altered the switch in a way that I can conseal the gimmick somewhere else much less noticable and you can say invisible) and can still retract the I.T. when ready...some owners of the tarantula didn't beleive I was using the gimmick when I posted my performance of the hovering ring on youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4PRchFFcYA). you can still use the gimmick for the other effects although you need to change the switch again which will only take a few seconds... as for the I.T., I only had one spool to work with and untill I got the hang of it, it broke for a couple of times endind up with much less then 25ft of I.T., I striped nylon stockings (my wife wasn't) very happy about using her stockings) and although it is a bit time consuming and not always getting enough lenght ( the max I got was about 20ft) it works just as good.

Well I hoped you like that review about the Tarantula.

Should you like to ask some question please leave a message on YOUTUBE!

Thanks

MIKE
Message: Posted by: ryanalewis (Dec 28, 2009 1:56am)
Does anyone use Tarantula turned 180 degrees as far as how Yigal uses it on the DVD? I find this must more comfortable and easier to operate; especially switch operation.
Message: Posted by: Magic Arty (Dec 28, 2009 6:45am)
I love the thing! I went through about five spools of thread and as many batteries before I got it sailed in. Now it is very rare for me to have breakage, even when rehearsing. I have never had anyone look at my hands or ask for a search, and the gimick does not match my skin very well.
I carry two with me everywhere I go, harmonica cases make a
great carrying case for two, extra batteries,and spools. I think this is the greatest system for levitating small objects ever created and is well worth the tremendous amount of time and resources it took me to get it right.
Message: Posted by: jazzy snazzy (Dec 28, 2009 7:50am)
Quote:

On 2009-12-28 01:56, ryanalewis wrote:
Does anyone use Tarantula turned 180 degrees as far as how Yigal uses it on the DVD? I find this must more comfortable and easier to operate; especially switch operation.


Yes. It definitely works better that way for me.
I store it in a large TT in the pocket and it's always ready to go.
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Dec 28, 2009 2:21pm)
Very awkward gadget. I sold mine rightaway.

The ring levi you can do with a basic Fearson hook-up. Don't need Tarantula for that. It's only good for pulling...or a very basic floating bill.

I exclusively use iThread or Spider Pen.
Message: Posted by: ryanalewis (Dec 28, 2009 9:05pm)
I just finished getting the tone right with acrylics. My pale english complexion was tough to match, actually ended up using more red than I would have thought!

I also found that finding clear putty is very hard. Anyone have some ideas? hardware stores and craft stores did not have it. I painted some white stuff, but that's not ideal.
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Dec 28, 2009 9:15pm)
Quote:

On 2009-12-28 21:05, ryanalewis wrote:
I just finished getting the tone right with acrylics. My pale english complexion was tough to match, actually ended up using more red than I would have thought!

I also found that finding clear putty is very hard. Anyone have some ideas? hardware stores and craft stores did not have it. I painted some white stuff, but that's not ideal.


Sell it and invest in an iThread- now iDeck system from Sean Bogunia. You can attach the spool inside a sleeve or wherever you like. You will not regret it.
Plus Sean has professional customer support.
Message: Posted by: ryanalewis (Dec 29, 2009 5:58pm)
Quote:
Sell it and invest in an iThread


For $350 its an investment just a bit too far for my budget. $79 was a lot as is, and has got me into the ITR world. My upper limit for any effect is usually $99.
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Dec 29, 2009 8:19pm)
Quote:

On 2009-12-29 17:58, ryanalewis wrote:
Quote:
Sell it and invest in an iThread


For $350 its an investment just a bit too far for my budget. $79 was a lot as is, and has got me into the ITR world. My upper limit for any effect is usually $99.


You are missing out... ;)
Message: Posted by: Frank Russell (Dec 29, 2009 11:29pm)
Unless you are making a living with it, it's not worth $350. It's good but it will disappoint a hobbyist at that price. Now if money is no object and you are a collector, spend away. Tarantula does just fine for one fifth of the price.

Frank
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Dec 30, 2009 1:24am)
Where do you get that $350.00 from?

Sean sells the new, improved Deck TR for $199.00
Do a better research before posting false prices.
Message: Posted by: Frank Russell (Dec 30, 2009 9:02am)
Quote:

On 2009-12-30 01:24, Silvio Solaris wrote:
Where do you get that $350.00 from?

Sean sells the new, improved Deck TR for $199.00
Do a better research before posting false prices.


Woah woah woah...down boy. I don't need to research anything. I am replying to the price that is being posted on this thread. So, I repeat what I said in the previous post except I change the price to $199 (presuming you are telling the correct price because I am relying on your research)...it's not worth it unless you are a collector or you are making money with it. I have Tarantula too and I use it everyday. All these other devices are resting in their boxes on the shelf.

Frank
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Dec 30, 2009 2:25pm)
Quote:

On 2009-12-30 09:02, Frank Russell wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-12-30 01:24, Silvio Solaris wrote:
Where do you get that $350.00 from?

Sean sells the new, improved Deck TR for $199.00
Do a better research before posting false prices.


Woah woah woah...down boy. I don't need to research anything. I am replying to the price that is being posted on this thread. So, I repeat what I said in the previous post except I change the price to $199 (presuming you are telling the correct price because I am relying on your research)...it's not worth it unless you are a collector or you are making money with it. I have Tarantula too and I use it everyday. All these other devices are resting in their boxes on the shelf.

Frank


That comment was for ryanalewis not you bro. A quick check at Seans site will tell you the current and valid price.

The Deck TR is for sure not a collectors item but rather for someone who appreciates a very good ITR and loves thread work
So stick to your Tarantula bro. ;)
Message: Posted by: Frank Russell (Jan 2, 2010 10:47pm)
Silvio,

Sorry about that. I was at the airport when I read that thread and my flight was late so I was getting irritated at everything. It didn't change anything though. haha...I'll eventually figure out that getting mad only changes me...for the worst.

Anyway, Happy New Year!

Frank
Message: Posted by: ryanalewis (Jan 7, 2010 1:33pm)
[quote=Silvo Solaris]
research
[/quote]

I did..

http://www.mjmmagic.com/store/ithread-by-sean-bogunia-p-6802.html

If you had said Deck TR, I would of researched that instead. I understand its a new version, but its obviously been re-branded as well.

As Frank says, its still 3 times as much either way. And its another $50 for a USB setup.

And this a tarantula thread, and I am a hobbyist. Perhaps if I enjoy thread work more, I will upgrade.

I do see the pitfalls of a cell battery versus two AA's among other things.

Thanks for the heads up.
Message: Posted by: bnburns (Jan 7, 2010 10:50pm)
Do not repeat my mistake of ordering from the 24.95 ebay auctions before I found this thread about Chinese knock-offs. Mine lasted 3 days. the idea was there, but it was very poorly and cheaply constructed. first piece came undone immediately after trying to "size". I realize now after seeing the post about MB color,wire color, etc. that it is a knock off. I thought I was getting a deal, but I definitely did not.
The "real" Tarantula has to be more sturdy, doesn't it?
Message: Posted by: Silvio Solaris (Jan 8, 2010 12:31am)
Quote:

On 2010-01-07 22:50, bnburns wrote:
Do not repeat my mistake of ordering from the 24.95 ebay auctions before I found this thread about Chinese knock-offs. Mine lasted 3 days. the idea was there, but it was very poorly and cheaply constructed. first piece came undone immediately after trying to "size". I realize now after seeing the post about MB color,wire color, etc. that it is a knock off. I thought I was getting a deal, but I definitely did not.
The "real" Tarantula has to be more sturdy, doesn't it?


It's a toy
Message: Posted by: ryanalewis (Jan 11, 2010 6:19pm)
Mine is quite sturdy, bnburns. I have sanded and modified without issue.

The one frustrating thing I have emailed Yigal about, is that the batteries are 5.99 a peice at the local electronics store, and they are loosing juice in about 5 shows, not 100.

I'm hoping he can get bulk, or a better brand, or something. At this rate it will loose its price competitive edge to a deck of cards!
Message: Posted by: tommeepickles (Jan 20, 2010 6:27pm)
I carry my tarantula all the time as well as my regular ITR. The Tarantula can do much more than the stuff shown on the DVD and is very easy to repair when things go wrong. My favorite act is the haunted pack but I have been known to re-engineer some of my regular acts to work with the Tarantula when I am wearing a t-shirt and shorts. I have broken a tarantula but it's been because of careless carrying around.
Message: Posted by: msmaster (Jan 20, 2010 6:31pm)
Thanks for your candor Tommee, you sound like an anytime anywhere magician or do you do a lot of formal shows wearing a t-shirt and shorts?
Message: Posted by: tommeepickles (Jan 20, 2010 9:30pm)
During the days in Summer, I am usually in the bars in shorts and tshirt. At night I am in the suit or just lazy in the hoodie. If it's too hot for the hoodie, there is no convenient way of hooking up the ITR, so it's easy to cook up a loop system with the Tarantula. It's sometimes easier than going into the pocket to load a loop on my wrist.

I don't perform the rover-ring or pulling a bill up to my hand. I think it's too close to the method but I do sometimes do a Fearson floating cigarette when appropriate.
Message: Posted by: Matze (Feb 7, 2010 6:57am)
Hey everyone

I just wanted to let everyone who is interested in buying the tarantula know to stay away from chinese/hong kong shops,especially on ebay.also,there are shops in spain that you should avoid.
they sell the tarantula for what is apparently a really nice,cheap deal..but what you get is the fake/knock off tarantula.
so be careful guys!
thanks

If you do fall victim to one of these shops,contact mesika magic!And give them all the information you have about the shops that sell the knock offs. they are extremly helpful..just a great,great customer service!
They even sent me a brand-new tarantula!
Message: Posted by: Simon Mandal (Feb 9, 2010 3:05pm)
I just wanted mention my experience with Mesika Magic, specifically the GREAT customer support they provided.

After hearing great things about the Tarantula, I ordered two last month.
(I like to have backups of things.) One of them arrived no problems, and one of them arrived with a minor problem.

I contacted Mesika magic about the problem. They responded to my email almost instantly.

They not only rectified the problem - they even sent me a few extra batteries and an extra Spider Thread.

A very nice touch.

I've had vendors quickly fix problems for me before, but Mesika Magic really went above and beyond by throwing in the extras.

Thanks again!
Message: Posted by: Douglas Lippert (Feb 11, 2010 4:20pm)
Quote:

On 2010-01-11 18:19, ryanalewis wrote:
The one frustrating thing I have emailed Yigal about, is that the batteries are 5.99 a peice at the local electronics store, and they are loosing juice in about 5 shows, not 100.


Well, you are shopping at the wrong store for batteries. Don't get them there as they are going to be marked up. I found the best deal on these batteries at a chain of stores called "Dollar Stores". You get 6 batteries for $2.
Message: Posted by: SomethingReal (Feb 16, 2010 1:47pm)
Hello,

Yigal Mesika here.

Just wanted to let you know I'm going to the convention in Blackpool to give a lecture and perform some shows. Last time I was there was 10 years ago and I had a blast, needless to say I'm exited to be apart of the convention this year. If you see me there do not hesitate to come up and say hello.

Looking forward to seeing you all there,

Yigal Mesika
Message: Posted by: TheGreatRaymondo (Apr 14, 2010 9:34am)
The Tarantula batteries can be bought VERY cheaply off ebay. Just type the battery number into the search and you will find dozens of sellers at very low prices.
I have been using the Tarantula for around 5 months now and have put in some serious practice hours to be come proficient (not excellent!).
Some advice for brand new users of the device if I may...
Use a small elastic band to hold the Tarantula to your finger when practicing. This way you really can forget about it and 'focus on the magic'. Also, if you are still a little worried about performing 'live' with it then simply use some clear Sellotape / Scotch tape around your finger to hold it firmly in place. Or as I did a simple flesh coloured Band Aid sticking plaster! This way you are totally relaxed and fully focused on the performance you are about to give.
No matter how tempted... don't dive straight into the Hovering trick! Start off moving paper money and very light objects and when comfy with the device, it parts and how it all works - then progress slowly and easily at your own pace.
Also watch the DVD repeatedly. Yigal's advice and information is truly superb! Its very detailed and explains everything you need to know. To finish:
The device is far more robust than some people give if credit for. I have cut mine down, stretched it out, dropped it on the floor etc etc and it still works fine.
Good luck, and remember... Levitiate responsibly!
TGR
Message: Posted by: acer (Apr 14, 2010 7:39pm)
I think that gimmick is too fragile.
Message: Posted by: Magic Arty (Apr 18, 2010 12:00am)
I have had mine for some time now, use it all the time. I think it rocks. I do not think it to fragile at all, and I am fairly hard on props. It takes a bit of finesse and attention, but treat it right and it will last!
I find it an amazing tool.
Message: Posted by: Magic Alaskan (Apr 27, 2010 4:10am)
While the idea behind the Trantula is sound, the product itself is of poor quality and breaks easily. Having to repair it all the time, makes it more trouble than it is worth.

After his totally unfounded law suit against Sean Bogunia in which the Judge ruled against him, I will no longer purchase any of his products.
Message: Posted by: Nick Sand (May 20, 2010 1:55pm)
Quote:

On 2010-04-27 04:10, Magic Alaskan wrote:
While the idea behind the Trantula is sound, the product itself is of poor quality and breaks easily. Having to repair it all the time, makes it more trouble than it is worth.

After his totally unfounded law suit against Sean Bogunia in which the Judge ruled against him, I will no longer purchase any of his products.


Electronic devices do tend to have a lot of problems. These days I stick with standard leclair and Fearson hook ups. I really don't care for I.T.Rs to much either. I use the poor mans thread reel and that's about it.
Message: Posted by: bond (Jun 8, 2010 4:45pm)
I have been using it for 1 wk and really like it!!!!!!!
Message: Posted by: Mike Davenport (Jul 10, 2010 4:00pm)
I finally broke down and ordered it, with refills and extra wax. I have been doing so much research and decided I will try it. I have some minor experience with just basic itr, but I hated fixing and reloading them so I never stuck to it. I'm not really interested in the ring levitation like everyone else. I was to use the haunted deck and the pen or paper glide across the table. I can't wait!

Any tips other than what is already in this thread? I am looking on ebay for bulk batteries. About how long will each one last?
Message: Posted by: Bobbert (Jul 10, 2010 6:52pm)
I don't know if anyone has posted this yet, but I hear www.batterybob.com is pretty good.
Message: Posted by: alextsui (Jul 13, 2010 11:02pm)
Hello everyone,

Beware of the fake Tarantula! Yes, there are quite a number of them on the market and I had the misfortune to buy one, thinking it was the real thing.

I visited this new magic shop that just opened in my city in Sabah, Malaysia. I knew the owner so my guard was down. I bought the Tarantula, having seen all the good reviews and video performances of it on YouTube.

When I practised with it for the first time, the reel jammed up and the thread broke. I was surprised that it was so fragile so I searched the internet for instructions on how to reload new thread on to the reel. That's when I came across many sites showing pictures of original and fake Tarantula gimmicks. I was shocked to find out that mine was a fake. No wonder it didn't work properly.

To all potential buyers, please be careful and make sure you buy an original Tarantula from a reputable dealer. This way you can avoid wasting time and money like what I've experienced.

Alex
Message: Posted by: Neal Alexander (Nov 12, 2010 8:24am)
Quote:

On 2009-09-10 01:50, john5d wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-13 15:39, WayneL wrote:
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.


I agree. I am just doing magic for fun but people always want to see my hands after to make sure I am not holding anything.
I am also waiting for spider pen pro or spider watch.


When I was younger (in years and in magic) people often asked to see in my hands. Now I am older and more experienced they never do.
I can't remember the last time anyone asked to look in my hand.
I wonder why? ;)
Message: Posted by: RNK (Nov 12, 2010 9:14am)
Quote:



When I was younger (in years and in magic) people often asked to see in my hands. Now I am older and more experienced they never do.
I can't remember the last time anyone asked to look in my hand.
I wonder why? ;)
[/quote]

Could it be that a little older and more experienced means you exude the confidence that makes spectators not question you as much if not any? When I watch performing magicians that REALLY speak with a strong sense of confidence it makes me very apprehensive to want to ask a question.

RNK
Message: Posted by: Cyberqat (Nov 12, 2010 9:34am)
Quote:

On 2010-11-12 08:24, Neal Alexander wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-09-10 01:50, john5d wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-13 15:39, WayneL wrote:
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.


I agree. I am just doing magic for fun but people always want to see my hands after to make sure I am not holding anything.
I am also waiting for spider pen pro or spider watch.


When I was younger (in years and in magic) people often asked to see in my hands. Now I am older and more experienced they never do.
I can't remember the last time anyone asked to look in my hand.
I wonder why? ;)


I see the sly wink so I assume you know or suspect why.

Its all about audience management skill ofcourse. If they are stopping you and asking to examine your hands you still don't have much :) You should be done with that routine and on to your next before they have time to do such things.

Additionally if they are even thinking about that you are probably putting too much heat on the mechanics and not yet really engaging their imaginations.
Message: Posted by: whall212 (Nov 16, 2010 8:27pm)
I agree with what you are saying here, but the other issue is that children will speak out what they are thinking, and adults do not always. So...depending on the level of familiarity with you, they may not ask to see your hands like a child would demand since it is rude and they know it is a trick. But they may be thinking it...With the Tarantula, I really do not see any heat on your hands, so in this case, I would agree it probably lies in the presentation or management of the audience. But I never assume because no one asks to see something, that they aren't thinking it or that they do not already know. Often, they wouldn't tell you if they did. Hopefully, I do not do anything where they would know...!
Message: Posted by: deejaylolo (Nov 23, 2010 9:30am)
Anyone has experienced losing the cap of the spider thread in Tarantula ? This is the part used as the cover for the spider cartridge. Without this, I wont be able to use Tarantula properly because when trying to pull back the thread with pressing the button, the thread will stuck between the thread cartridge and my finger.

Any idea on the replacement without having to buy a new tarantula ?
Message: Posted by: jazzy snazzy (Nov 23, 2010 2:22pm)
This has happened before deejaylolo.
We have dispached scouting expeditions to the four corners of the earth.
So far, no one has reported back with a suitable replacement.
Message: Posted by: deejaylolo (Nov 23, 2010 4:25pm)
Lol ! thx jazzy, too bad huh.. I guess I just gotta spend another $50 to get another new one then (with the dvd that I don't need).
Message: Posted by: Neal Alexander (Nov 26, 2010 6:56am)
Quote:

On 2010-11-12 09:34, Cyberqat wrote:
Quote:

On 2010-11-12 08:24, Neal Alexander wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-09-10 01:50, john5d wrote:
Quote:

On 2009-08-13 15:39, WayneL wrote:
I feel much more confortable using my spider pen instead of tarantula. I place the spider pen in my pocket so I can freely show my hands clean... Nothing to find out.


I agree. I am just doing magic for fun but people always want to see my hands after to make sure I am not holding anything.
I am also waiting for spider pen pro or spider watch.


When I was younger (in years and in magic) people often asked to see in my hands. Now I am older and more experienced they never do.
I can't remember the last time anyone asked to look in my hand.
I wonder why? ;)


I see the sly wink so I assume you know or suspect why.

Its all about audience management skill ofcourse. If they are stopping you and asking to examine your hands you still don't have much :) You should be done with that routine and on to your next before they have time to do such things.

Additionally if they are even thinking about that you are probably putting too much heat on the mechanics and not yet really engaging their imaginations.


Spot on.
Message: Posted by: tpearman (Nov 26, 2010 3:50pm)
I just got mine today. Guess I will find out if it is fragile or not. The effect's that I have seen with this device have been very fun to watch, so I hope I find it is something I can work with to add some variety to my repertoire.
Message: Posted by: Russell Davidson (Feb 17, 2011 10:59am)
I've threaded a sponge ball to my Tarantula. It makes for a very nice rising sponge ball to the hand.
Message: Posted by: darrenjames (Jul 25, 2011 8:00am)
Used mine a few times in practise, went back after few months, left it as just could not get used to it. New battery and still not working, pricy bit of plastic sat in my junk draw.
Message: Posted by: Zombie Magic (May 4, 2012 12:11am)
The Spider Pen from a few years ago never worked for me, so I was wary of getting the Tarantula. I took a chance and mine worked right out of the box and I used it up until I started using Peter Eggink's HAUNTED ( I only used the Tarantula for the Haunted Pack on the floor ).

I found it reliable, VERY easy to use as as much fun as using my TT.

Now I'm looking forward to The Spider Pen Pro!

Clarke
Message: Posted by: MR Effecto (May 4, 2012 6:25am)
Quote:

On 2012-05-04 00:11, Zombie Magic wrote:
The Spider Pen from a few years ago never worked for me, so I was wary of getting the Tarantula. I took a chance and mine worked right out of the box and I used it up until I started using Peter Eggink's HAUNTED ( I only used the Tarantula for the Haunted Pack on the floor ).

I found it reliable, VERY easy to use as as much fun as using my TT.

Now I'm looking forward to The Spider Pen Pro!

Clarke


Yes I still use mine and love it. It works great.
Message: Posted by: I AM THE WALRUS (May 15, 2012 5:39pm)
The Tarantula was one of my first magic purchases. I am very fond of levitations. I have never had an issue with the Tarantula being too fragile. I had one for over a year. It finally broke when I dropped it on a driveway at work. I found it the next day and it had been run over. That did prove to be too much for device. I think the Tarantula is great for thread management. As others have stated, any levitations done with a Tarantula can be done with Fearsons hook up but the retraction with the Tarantula is great. I see Yigal posting on here. Sir, if you read this, I have heard from reputable sources that a new version of Tarantula is in the works. Has anybody else heard about this. I see a few people lost caps and had other issues. I can tell you when that car ran over my Tarantula, even with it being in pieces, the magic store I bought it from replaced it at no charge. I have been doing business with that store for years, I do not know if they do that for everyone. Anyway, I am anticipating a Tarantula 2 in that not to distant future.
Message: Posted by: ralphs007 (May 15, 2012 7:39pm)
Quote:

On 2012-05-15 17:39, I AM THE WALRUS wrote:
The Tarantula was one of my first magic purchases. I am very fond of levitations. I have never had an issue with the Tarantula being too fragile. I had one for over a year. It finally broke when I dropped it on a driveway at work. I found it the next day and it had been run over. That did prove to be too much for device. I think the Tarantula is great for thread management. As others have stated, any levitations done with a Tarantula can be done with Fearsons hook up but the retraction with the Tarantula is great. I see Yigal posting on here. Sir, if you read this, I have heard from reputable sources that a new version of Tarantula is in the works. Has anybody else heard about this. I see a few people lost caps and had other issues. I can tell you when that car ran over my Tarantula, even with it being in pieces, the magic store I bought it from replaced it at no charge. I have been doing business with that store for years, I do not know if they do that for everyone. Anyway, I am anticipating a Tarantula 2 in that not to distant future.

Hi
This might be what your thinking of . Its a new version of the spider pen. Its an improvement but I still wouldn't drive a car over it. ;0)http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewtopic.php?topic=463946&forum=218&251
hth
Ralph
Message: Posted by: bertietonks (May 17, 2012 6:16pm)
I'm a big fan of IT and have purchased both spider pen and Tarantuala. The issue for me is more to do with the quality of thread. I am a hairy fella (manly not beastly) which never seems to help and that is why I thought this new device would be great. Unfortunately the IT seems to snap quickly and I find much better results from hooking a more manual set up which is achieved at a fraction of the price.

Bertie
Message: Posted by: Xiqual (Jun 3, 2013 8:31pm)
Kind of late to the party but I had so much success with my Spider pen pro I took the plunge and bought a Tarantula. I love this thing!
I bought some cheap light stainless steel rings from ebay and I do the floating ring now all the time. I also use a coin shell nickel or a plastic
coin to make it fly up into my hands.

So different from the Spider pen pro. I might carry BOTH!! Actually I am going to buy another Tarantula so if the line breaks, I will be ready with a backup. I also just change the spool now in seconds. The reactions are just crazy.
Really great little tool.
James
Message: Posted by: MR Effecto (Jun 4, 2013 6:13am)
Yes. I love mine. I also have both. What kind of stainless steel rings did you get?
Message: Posted by: Xiqual (Jun 4, 2013 7:09pm)
Just some nice looking plain bands. I also bought one that had a chain that revolved, then I just took the chain off and it has agroove in the center. Really cheap, like $5 each.
James

Quote:

On 2013-06-04 06:13, MR Effecto wrote:
Yes. I love mine. I also have both. What kind of stainless steel rings did you get?
Message: Posted by: MR Effecto (Jun 4, 2013 8:13pm)
Thanks for the info.