AmazeBox
Trick and download by Mark Shortland
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Once in a while we come across a trick with a method that is as inspiring and whimsical as the effect it creates. "AmazeBox" is the best example of this that we've ever encountered (think of the wow factor of the best Tenyo items...but this one you can use onstage for hundreds of people). It is simply, elegantly this: a box that switches and forces without you ever touching it. No electronics. In fact, the method is most closely related to origami.
Imagine this: you ask everyone in the audience to write down their favorite song (or first kiss, or three-digit number, or whatever you want) on a slip of paper and drop it into the cardboard box at the foot of the stage. The box never goes out of sight and (truly) nobody touches it. During your show, you invite a spectator to approach the box and open it, then reach inside and remove any slip at random. In the act of opening the box, the spectator unknowingly switches all the audience's papers for an entirely different batch of slips you prepared in advance. Use this to force a favorite song or number or celebrity name. THEN, you can use the information written by the spectators later on in the show.
Mentalists will immediately identify the many, many opportunities this little box affords. It's as light as air, can be decorated or repurposed in any way you like, and is quite possibly the only effect we've produced that is easier than easy. The spectator switches the papers. You don't even touch the box.
We're absolutely thrilled with the ingenuity of this incredible little box, and the way the box is designed and folded makes the switch automatic. It's impossible to fail and, we think, impossible to figure out. The fun, toy factor is undeniable, but true professionals will find this piece invaluable. We are grateful to the creative Mark Shortland for working with Vanishing Inc. Magic on this exciting new release.
"Mark Shortland has created an ingenious and devious solution to an age old problem. Natural looking, hands off in operation and simple to use; this might well be exactly what you are looking for." Luke Jermay
"Amazebox is enormously practical, and is as ingenious as the best Tenyo effects, but built into a stage prop that looks entirely normal" Joshua Jay
"I've never been so excited for a magic utility device in my career! Kyle Marlett
"I’m using AmazeBox in my show. As soon as I saw it I knew that every mentalist and magician could find a use for it in their show too!" Andi Gladwin
"I've performed a Q & A act for over a decade. I've tried so many methods to appear natural and hands free. Bags, boxes, envelopes. This is the most innocent looking method I have ever seen! And completely hands free. I'll take two. When you see something this good, always buy a spare!" Paul Draper
"This is something I would put in my show. Very clever design and practical for working performers. Deceptive and hands-off, what more could you ask for?" Eric Dittelman
"The best gimmicks in magic are the ones who fool you even when you know how they work. When I first saw this I knew what it was and what it did, yet I didn't see it happen! Seemless, elegant and beyond deceptive! Best mentalism gimmick I've seen this year!" Spidey
"This prop is beautifully invisible to the audience. Organic and powerful. I can’t wait to try new magic with AmazeBox!" Justin Flom
"This is one of the most exciting new tools I have seen. It not only is super cool and clever, it's extremely versatile and completely practical. This is something I will use." Dan White
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Customer reviews for AmazeBox
Benjy
I just received this and OMG! This is so CLEVER! This may have been he best purchase I've mad all year!
Timothy
I bought this the day it came out and boy am I happy! The Amazebox is truly amazing! There's endless routines you can perform with this! I'm putting this in the show this week!
Patrick
100% hands down the best billet switching utility I've ever seen! I love this thing!
Aiden
No review needed! This is perfect!
Nigel
A true winner! Amazing job! This is going into my show tonight!
Hugh
The best thing that has came out all year! Amazebox is perfect!
James
A rating of Excellent is not enough for this clever little box. What little work you have to do to put it together is simple and the video explains all. What can you do with this box I think simpler to say what can't you do. Be you mentalist or magician you owe it to your self to get this.
Bart
Love Love Love! So good! Incredibly happy with it!
Scott
This is one of the first products in a long time that I have HAD to buy. The trailer made it look amazing, and having received it today, I am even more impressed than i expected to be. I expect this will become one of the classic props in magic, and it should be included in every performers repertoire. Stop reading reviews, and click buy!
R. Lee
The AmazeBox is one of the best devices I have had the chance to work with in the last decade! Fun to play with, easy to assemble, and it allows for a wonderful effect that cannot really be appreciated fully until you have one, I wholeheartedly recommend this on everyone's "Must Have One!" list. If you are a good performer, this will make you look great!
R. Lee Davis, Mind2Mind.ca
R. Lee Davis, Mind2Mind.ca
Genii
From the January 2016 Genii magazine. Reviewed by Danny Orleans
I recommend “AmazeBox” to anyone who does a parlor or stage act. Serious mentalists and performers of mental magic will find this equally useful. It packs flat, can be set up in less than two minutes, and is quite sturdy. Furthermore, its plain white surface is naturallooking, but is open to customization if you wish. I predict if you buy this and actually take the time to work out a routine and perform it, you’ll agree that the “AmazeBox” makes you look truly amazing.
I recommend “AmazeBox” to anyone who does a parlor or stage act. Serious mentalists and performers of mental magic will find this equally useful. It packs flat, can be set up in less than two minutes, and is quite sturdy. Furthermore, its plain white surface is naturallooking, but is open to customization if you wish. I predict if you buy this and actually take the time to work out a routine and perform it, you’ll agree that the “AmazeBox” makes you look truly amazing.
Jose
Amazing, clever, ingenious, perfect.
Will
Concept is great; however, I felt the quality is not worth the price. I made a homemade alternative for less than half. The thinking is wonderful and I'll be happy to use this for smaller gigs!
Lexie L
Amaze box is very good so innocent but simply amazing I really like it so much I’m
Happy I got it and will always use it
Happy I got it and will always use it
John
I always found billet boxes to be entirely unconvincing and suspicious, the Amazebox clears all of those problems with its thin, organic design. Its reliable and allows dozens of billets to be switched out in an instant, allowing hundreds of mentalism effects to be performed, particularly Q&A which can be a 10-20 minute part of your act. If you are a serious stage mentalist, the Amazebox will have a place in your show.
Miguel
I am so happy with this product. Your imagination is the limit. I love those tricks that let you be more creative. Amazebox is one of the best magic products in the market. So simple to use, so powerful! It is a simple box, no one will ever think the secret is such clever. I just love it!
Jim
This unassuming cardboard box lets the mentalist/magician predict an outcome of a selected billet. The amazing part is that the performer never touches the billet-box while spectators write and deposit their responses and never touches the white cardboard box while a spectator opens it, selects and reads one of the billets and the performer does not touch the prediction while a spectator opens and reads it (or shows it in an entertaining fashion of the performer's choosing). Read this review carefully while envisioning yourself as the performer.
If you buy this box, I suggest that you glue the Velcro fasteners on the box with any clear glue that penetrates the cardboard (Gorilla glue for example). The sticky back on the Velcro is just not strong enough and can damage the box as it breaks free.
If you buy this box, I suggest that you glue the Velcro fasteners on the box with any clear glue that penetrates the cardboard (Gorilla glue for example). The sticky back on the Velcro is just not strong enough and can damage the box as it breaks free.
Dante
This review is about QUALITY, not cleverness of method.
I have the craft version and bought this one because is smaller.
The quality is not the same, the craft version is much more sturdier. This one is a joke. I take care of my props (even more when it costs 45$) and even so after 2 performances it has bends all over.
The craft version even has some improvements with magnets for locking.
Get the craft version. Take this one out of the market.
I have the craft version and bought this one because is smaller.
The quality is not the same, the craft version is much more sturdier. This one is a joke. I take care of my props (even more when it costs 45$) and even so after 2 performances it has bends all over.
The craft version even has some improvements with magnets for locking.
Get the craft version. Take this one out of the market.
Ryan
With out a doubt an ingenious effect with great explanations. You are buying a new principal and everything is totally up to your imagination!
Michael
A very solid gimmick and very versatile with that you can do with it. I gave it 4 starts instead of 5 because the box quickly got worn out after only a couple months of use. By worn out, I mean in the worst possible way - the bottom hatch open ups by itself revealing the gimmick! I can easily prevent this by holding the box from the bottom, but it would be nice not to have to do that. So overall, a very nice trick, but the worn out issue knocks it down one peg for me.
Duane
A bit complex and awkward at times, even for the inventor
who is demonstrating assembling the box. I question how long the box will hold up if you are opening and closing on a regular basis.
who is demonstrating assembling the box. I question how long the box will hold up if you are opening and closing on a regular basis.
Vic
This prop vanishes into the background as it creates the view that a choice was random with audience participation. Being in control of some of the effect helps the performance move smoothly. This makes a well thought out act more impressive as the illusion should be. The construction is professionally done. This can be used with an audience of about 20 or more.
Masterclassmember
Daniel
Incredible utility device that allows you to focus on presentation over sleight of hand. Appropriate for beginners but a strong enough effect to be used by experienced magicians.
Video instructions are very clear. Able to get up and running immediately.
Video instructions are very clear. Able to get up and running immediately.
James
The AmazeBox is an absolutely fabulous device for switching small pieces of paper, bills and things of that sort. I use it in a mind reading routine. During the course of my patter, I make a joke that I spare no expense on my props as I hand it to a volunteer to go around the theater and collect billets previously distributed by another volunteer and upon which I had asked audience members to write something. I then have a few more volunteers join me on stage, remove papers from the box and I then discern what they are reading from the papers.
Because various audience volunteers handle the box - I never touch it - and because I've already alluded to it in a joking fashion, there is absolutely no heat on it. The AmazeBox doesn't look like a magic "prop". It appears innocent. People don't give it a second thought.
It's so versatile, it truly is an amazing little box. I highly recommend it.
Because various audience volunteers handle the box - I never touch it - and because I've already alluded to it in a joking fashion, there is absolutely no heat on it. The AmazeBox doesn't look like a magic "prop". It appears innocent. People don't give it a second thought.
It's so versatile, it truly is an amazing little box. I highly recommend it.
Richard
I am disappointed as the size of the box is much smaller than previous versions. Can I ship it back and get the lafrger size
Richard Kaplan
Richard Kaplan
Steven
I love it!
Barry
What a great utility device and I like the fact it appears rather unassuming and simple, almost organic. Can't wait to use it in my show.
Jeffrey
An innocent & great switch box!
Jeffrey
Well priced and well designed. Be sure to take your time assembling it.
This is easy to use and looks innocent enough, especially in the right venue.
Highly recommended for forcing simple slips or billets. I would use this as part of a routine and not as a main effect.
This is easy to use and looks innocent enough, especially in the right venue.
Highly recommended for forcing simple slips or billets. I would use this as part of a routine and not as a main effect.
Chris
What a brilliant device this is! I needed a way to force one of several mythological creatures for a routine I worked up for a children's birthday party. The AmazeBox helped me achieve this in the cleanest, simplest way I can imagine.
Though I've only performed with it in one routine so far, the possibilities for using this device really are limited only by your imagination!
Though I've only performed with it in one routine so far, the possibilities for using this device really are limited only by your imagination!
Bob
The Amaze Box is a mind-blowing marvel that revolutionizes the world of mentalism magic. With its exceptional craftsmanship, versatile secret, and seamless performance, this sleek and elegant box is a must-have for any performer. It unlocks the unimaginable potential of the human mind, leaving audiences astounded and creating unforgettable moments of wonder. Compact, lightweight, and easy to use, the Amaze Box is an indispensable tool that elevates your magic to extraordinary heights. Prepare to captivate your audience and unleash the limitless possibilities with the Amaze Box
Craig
Totally brilliant!!!
Simple, non-prop looking box that does an amazing switch!
Also, an excellent video (with humor).
Simple, non-prop looking box that does an amazing switch!
Also, an excellent video (with humor).
Francesco
Absolutely amazing love this for my parlour shows!
So clean and easy to build and use! 5 stars!
Lots of ways to use this and create your own routines. Box looks innocent and not like a prop. I use it for a bunch of Luke Jermay routines and it kills.
Perfect for parlour shoes and definitely recommend this, very highly too!
I’ll most likely be purchasing another one too , don’t waste any time, act now and get this!
Well done Mark Shortland for creating an absolute killer of a prop!
The price is reasonable for what you get, and it packs flat too. This box is great for mentalism shows and you can also retrieve the real written information later too for some extra mentalist pieces!
I wish I got this a lot sooner!
Francesco Mattiello
So clean and easy to build and use! 5 stars!
Lots of ways to use this and create your own routines. Box looks innocent and not like a prop. I use it for a bunch of Luke Jermay routines and it kills.
Perfect for parlour shoes and definitely recommend this, very highly too!
I’ll most likely be purchasing another one too , don’t waste any time, act now and get this!
Well done Mark Shortland for creating an absolute killer of a prop!
The price is reasonable for what you get, and it packs flat too. This box is great for mentalism shows and you can also retrieve the real written information later too for some extra mentalist pieces!
I wish I got this a lot sooner!
Francesco Mattiello
Kris
This is brilliant! I really like this product but the downside is the limitation of how many slips can be put inside(like maybe 20-25) so this more the parlor version. The Black and Kraft versions are more for stage. They can hold pretty much as many slips as you want. The construction could be better but there's nothing that can't be reinforced with a little DIY. I still give it five out of five. It's a wonderful tool.
Jeffrey
This is a fantastic utility switching device. Highly recommended for smaller audiences.
Kris
I love this thing. The only issue I have is the size. The standard "Amazebox" can hold something like 25 billets. That's fine for a small show. This also comes in a kraft version and a black option and these two options can hold at least a hundred billets. If I wanted to do a larger show I'll get one of the other models. I saw Alexander Marsh use the black version live for his Q&A. If it's good enough for Alexander Marsh onstage, that's enough of a sell all on it's own. But I'm only deducting one point. For two reasons. This version can't hold as many billets as the other two versions and the construction could be a lot better. Overall I like it. Just wish I'd gotten the larger size.
Skye
Such a devious utility with unlimited possibilities for both magic and mentalism. This is something every working performer should have in their arsenal for venued performances. I can't wait to explore the myriad uses for AmazeBox!
Eddie
easy to assemble - perfectly self working
Paul
Alright first of this is great. Unfortunately this came damaged. the package looked like it had been through a garbage disposal.
I will say this was a carrier issue. Vanishing inc has always provided the really the best service. I still wanted to leave a review because I liked the idea and the box. I really wanted to using this in my Adult stand up comedy show as away to force insane improve suggestions. I thought this would be perfect but maybe another time. I still have the download and it is well taught and one day I will get another amazes box.
I will say this was a carrier issue. Vanishing inc has always provided the really the best service. I still wanted to leave a review because I liked the idea and the box. I really wanted to using this in my Adult stand up comedy show as away to force insane improve suggestions. I thought this would be perfect but maybe another time. I still have the download and it is well taught and one day I will get another amazes box.
James
When the package with the AmazeBox arrived, I had questions in my mind if I was really getting my money’s worth. However, I found the card that said before doing anything else to watch the video and to follow the instructions that were available before doing anything else. I did, watching the video first reading the instructions. After doing so and now working with the AmazeBox, I am amazed. It is amazingly simple and simply amazing. Well done.
Sandra
This was a very clear explanation and and I can't wait to start using it. I did order it with a free e-book, and now I'm trying to figure out how to access that, as no information was sent about it. I do see that there could be many uses for this kind of forced mentalism!
Juan Carlos
Muy buena herramienta para forzaje. Sencilla de montar y muy fácil de usar. Te permite alternar el forzaje con otros si necesitas hacer varios en un show evitando así que resulten repetitivos. Estaba un poco cansado de hacer todos los forzajes con una bolsa porque al final terminaban generando bastantes dudas. Este me permite terminar mi show con uno diferente para una rutina bastante espectacular con la que suelo hacer el cierre y no genera ninguna duda porque el propio espectador abre la caja. La única pega es el adhesivo de los velcros, que al final son más fuertes que el propio pegamento y, a veces, terminan rompiendo por ahí y tienes que echarle pegamento. Muy recomendable para interactuar con tu público.
Community questions about AmazeBox
Have a question about this product? It's possible others do too. Ask here and other Vanishing Inc. Magic customers will be able to respond with assistance! Alternatively, email us and we can help too.
William asks: Forgive me if I'm missing something, but if the slips written by your audience are replaced by things you've already written, how do you deal with the fact that what is chosen doesn't match what anyone actually wrote? Like if you pull out a slip saying someone's favorite song is "Stairway to Heaven" and you already have that cued up, there's no amazement unless someone can say, "How did you know in advance that I was gonna write that"? But of course there's no one to say that if you're the one who wrote it. So I'm not seeing the amazement. If you can't match the billet to a person, where's the mentalism payoff? It just becomes apparent that you've switched the billets somehow. Help me if I'm misunderstanding something.
- 1. Vanishing Inc. Magic responds:First, if there is a prediction that matches the slip that is picked, that can be an amazing effect. Also, the number of people in your audience will determine if the Amazebox will be a good tool. If there are 5-10 people, it might not fly since everyone might know each other. But if you have an audience of more people, the better it gets because it will feel random. You'll have to come up with a routine that can make the slip feel random.
Wayne asks: 2 questions. 1- is it possible to remove the original spectator written slips in real time during a show and access them for a q&a routine? 2- one reviewer recommends the “craft version” of this product. Where is this available? Thanks
- 1. Jim responds:Not unless you modify it with some DIY work. The kraft version is here: https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/stage-and-parlor-magic/amazebox-kraft/
Dan asks: Do you get some sample routines to do when you purchase this box?
- 1. Vanishing Inc. Magic responds:It comes with a 35-minute download of instructions and ideas. But there is also Amazebook full of amazing routines you might want to consider.
Douglas asks: Concerning the Amaze Box... is a replacement box available or do I need to rebuy the whole kit? I love this prop and have been using it quite a bit, but it got water damaged and I need a replacement box.
- 1. Vanishing Inc. Magic responds:Please contact our customer support team for this request.
Troy asks: Im a childrens magician always looking for new ideas. Would anyone recommend this for a kids magic show?
- 1. Jim responds:The prop is easy to handle and it looks innocent. If you have a great kids presentation to use it with, then I would highly recommend it.
Gary asks: anyone got routines?
- 1. Vanishing Inc. Magic responds:https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/ebooks/amazebook/
Torsten asks: Is this the same as amaze box black and amaze box Kraft and if not what are the differences?
- 1. Marco responds:Black and Kraft are bigger than the original. Kraft looks more natural because of its cardboard color. I own Kraft and would recommend that one.
7 questions
