If that's true (and I'm not saying it's not) then there is no difference between Tally-Ho, Bicycle, Hoyle, etc. But, I think there are definitely differences between them, and I think there are a lotof people that would agree. Maybe it's got to do with the pressure for the linen structure. That's as good of an explanation as any that I've heard. I have to agree with the finishes all being the same, I've never been able to tell the difference anyways! But thickness and pliability does seem to differ greatly between their brands, and again, maybe it's due to the pressure.

FWIW, the Ellusionist UV 500 cards all seem very similar to Tally-Ho's to me.

I'm looking forward to the release of the Phoenix decks, Christian.

I don't know what you are so upset about. First, there are differences in quality in different cards. And, as I'm sure you'll agree, your cards are something you wish to be considered normal decks as to fancy decks. Therefore, no comparison. You jump in here with a chip on your shoulder for no reason. The phoenix deck will have it's place I'm sure, but the art work on most of the fancy decks out there are what most find attractive. They are a little more detailed and artistically valued than a phoenix. I'm not knocking your deck of cards. I thought I was giving my opinion as to the differences. I will also say that most who buy fancy decks buy two. One to collect and one to play around with.

Your post confuses me because as you are an expert in cards and I would think that you would be first to acknowledge that there are a variarty of different qualities of card stocks and finishes rather than trying to make it look like it's all a marketing ploy. I have over 30 different types of cards, and I know for a fact that there are differences.

Arcanes - Got a few decks at bob little's from a friend there. One deck was cut very poorly, the other deck was spot on. The kids there, were taking black sharpie markers and coloring the sides of the black Arcane decks to match the rest of the deck. Looked pretty cool to me. But I will never use any black decks ever. Nor will I ever use the white Arcanes for my gigs. I perform at bars/clubs and the lighting is so dim, that black cards make it harder to see. But that is just my personal opinion.

Bee Stingers - So I got a couple of these decks and I would have to say by FAR, the best deck of cards I have had the opportunity to play with. Giving the BEE cards borders was smart. The stock is thick, they fan nicely but overall, in an atmosphere where drinks spill, cards fall to the floor, the Stingers have really held their own. I had a drink spill on the bar, completely covering one of the cards. I picked it up, wiped it off as I would any normal Bike and set it aside to dry as I usually do. When I came back to the Stinger, it was as if nothing liquidy came in contact with it. With a Bike, that isn't the case. So for me...for now...I will use Stingers.

Phoenix - So I had the opportunity to shuffle these bad boys and play with them for a bit. They handle just like regular bikes, but I personally do not like the design on them. I will still order some for my collection. But I won't ever use them for performing. One joker I think was a bad idea, but it seems as if the message has been heard loud and clear, and I hope that is resolved for the magicians who plan on using them in their act. These just do not do it for me.