Let's Talk About Dex By Lloyd Barnes and Javier Fuenmayor

This is my review of Dex by Javier Fuenmayor and Lloyd Barnes. I attempt to give my most honest review so that it may be helpful for those considering purchasing Dex. I hope this is helpful.
If you are interested in purchasing Dex you can find it at any Murphy's Magic retailer.
Fiddle Tune: Mary had a little lamb.
If you like these reviews then please take a moment to hit that like button and subscribe if you have not yet done so. Thank You.
If you are a magic product creator or distributor and would like me to review one of your products then please reach out to me at [e-mail]

[@stanleygomez679]

Look no further. This is the best DEX video in the net. Top no-nonsense advice

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks so much Stanley, I really appreciate that. There was so much hype around this release and I just wanted to stick to the facts. Make sure to go watch my latest review of 52 Cheetah. It is another card index and I am confident a lot of people will like it. Take care and thanks so much for watching.

[@RDGTEX]

Thank you for your respectful, fair, and honest approach to highlighting the drawbacks and offering constructive criticism regarding Dex. I can't see how anyone could challenge or dispute your viewpoints, as they are equitable and just in every aspect. You are indeed a valuable asset to the magic community.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks so much Rudy, I really appreciate that and I think you capture best what I am trying to do here. I want to be respectful and fair and provide my point of view. Thanks so much for being here and leaving the comment.

[@RDGTEX]

Your heartfelt comment is truly commendable and beautifully echoes the sentiments you've put forth. It reminds us of the importance of love and respect for one another, not only within our magical community but in all aspects of life. Even in distant historical accounts, there have been instances where anger and disappointment arose when simple decency was overshadowed by pride. We must emphasize that this principle extends beyond our immediate magical fellowship. It is a universal truth that when love and respect for one another are overshadowed by pride, we run the risk of succumbing to our darker impulses. Your commentary serves as an example to which we can all aspire. It demonstrates that the path to preserving fellowship and dignity within our magical community lies in embracing each other for the love of our craft. Thank you, for leading us toward a more harmonious and empathetic approach within our magical circles.

[@LJTaylor94]

I'm a bit late to the game regards this product and to knowing what a card index actually is, but your review has explained it all very clearly. A thoughtful, thorough, respectful, honest review. Thank you Jonny 👏👏👏

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi Lee, thanks so much for watching the review, I hope it was helpful. I don't think you are alone when it comes to discovering index's. It is my perception that Index's started to fade in use sometime over the last 15 yeas and have started to resurface again and people see the great utility of them. As I think I may have said in the review I think we are in a new era of Index's for magic and suspect we will see more released in the next several years. If you are considering index's I would recomend also taking a look at Eddie Raymond's Rough and Smooth Index and the 52 Cheetah. The both of those in my opinion are a little easier to use than DEX. I also have posted reviews of the both of those so feel free to go take a look at them. Thanks so much for being here and leaving the comment.

[@Magic_Max_childrens_performer]

I bought into the hype. I have a hard time flicking the cards in the pocket.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Larry, Damn can I relate. I find I can flick from one side of the index but more difficult on the other side. I have been playing around with different ways to have my hands in my pocket to try and make it easier. It gets a little easier with time but not as easy as it is made to sound. Thanks so much for being subscribed to the channel and watching. I hope you know I appreciate it.

[@yendorthetrickster]

I agree! If I'm not mistaken the tutorial also says that the cards should be kinda tight, not so much. While searching in my pocket, a lot of the cards slide out and get out of place as I remove my hand. I only had it a week, and I know practice is important but the cards shouldn't come out so easily.

[@bradklaus5954]

I loved your thoughtful, well-considered review of DEX. I’d enjoy a point-by-point comparison to Daniel Madison’s Advocate index, a product of staggering effectiveness and design. No plastic gimmick, self-created from any deck in minutes, arguably just as fast, smaller in the pocket, at a fraction of the price. Daniel’s Advocate Masterclass has FIVE HOURS tutorials

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Brad, I hope you are doing well. I like your idea and will see if I can fit that in. I do not have Madison's Advocate but I think it may be time to try it out. I will keep you posted and we need to hang one of these days soon.

[@didiernotable4647]

Daniël Madison is so good and i love Advocate index❤

[@khc2384]

Great honest review Jon and loved that you purchased this with your own hard earned money. I'm like you, in terms of tutorials provided. I would rather have long winded tutorials over one's that are lacking...and unfortunately, there are a lot out there. Keep up the great work.

[@fiddlinjonny]

KC, thanks for the comment. Look if we are dropping this much money at least provide me with a decent tutorial and I think on this they delivered on a good tutorial. Thanks for watching and hope you are doing well.

[@mikesmithsm]

Great review. I agree with your assessment on Dex. I like it, but I love the tutorial. Ironically Lloyd gave out the tutorial for free with that recent video, which might really hurt their sales.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Mike, Hope you are doing well and that your weekend is a good one. We agree on this tutorial being really good and I would love to pick Lloyd and Javier's brain on how releasing the tutorial affects sales. Obviously you have to have Dex or an Index for the value of the tutorial but there is a lot of gold in that tutorial that people will use if they have an index. Thanks for watching as I hope you know I appreciate it and hope it is of value.

[@RollTonight]

Overall this is a good review, but you made a misleading comment I would recommend you correct. You implied that David over at Unbiased did not purchase a copy of Dex before reviewing it, which is untrue. You've muddled together his comments on Enigma with his review of Dex. I would recommend updating the video or otherwise annotating it for clarity.

[@AndyCooper761]

A fair comment. Maybe David will update or delete his own videos, since they contain multiple misleading comments. I doubt it though 🙄

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Roll Tonight. First I apologize for taking so long to reply. Life just is busy and I don't get back to comments as fast as I would like sometimes. Ok so I have been seriously thinking about your comment and wanting to make sure that I have it right. While I agree that it may appear to be implied that I am speaking about David at Unbiased Magic Reviews and Dex it was not my intent. But at the end of the day if that is the way it appears then I own that however I do stand by my statement that if you are going to review a product you should own it. I know that David at UbMR made it clear that he was sharing his reason for not purchasing Enigma and that is not a review. I can honestly say I will likely not update the video because of the pain in the ass it is to update a video that has already been uploaded. I appreciate the thoughtful comment and the point is well taken. Thanks for watching, I do appreciate it.

[@martinscircusskillsworkshops]

Hi Jonny I tip my hat to you for providing a very thorough review in a non polarising way, over a very polarising product release. Do agree that if you splash out $75 for a product and you have to do some DIY within a short space of time of using it that's not something I would be very satisfied with, personally. Pithy review.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Martin, I hope you are doing well my friend. I couldn't agree more about the $75 and then in short order it begining to fall apart. That is not good value in my opinion. Also let me add for those reading the comments and encourage them to go check out your channel. I always enjoy your content and hope those interested go check it out. Have a great day.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Let me just say I love ITR and when in the right settings use it. Your point is well taken regarding some releases just require a lot of practice and you have to expect that there may be issues at times. Having this point of view will help set some context. Appreciate the comment.

[@fiddlinjonny]

@@etyplt I am glad to see retailers that are willing to refund the purchase if the customer is not satisfied. I think that is just a good sound practice.

[@martinscircusskillsworkshops]

@@fiddlinjonny Hope you are good. Cheers for the shout out!

[@cecillewis968]

Love the review, thank you. You may have been asked already where did you get the shirt! Love it!

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Cecil, thanks for noticing the T-Shirt. It has become one of my favorites. I purchased this one at Magic Live from the United States Playing Card Company booth at the conference. The last couple of years they have a shirt they are selling and I like to pick them up. Thanks for being here.

[@youpwned9015]

You're my favorite reviewer for this product. You're absolutely right that people should make their own index. Madison's Advocate is a great starting point to get the juices flowing. I can confirm that you can make a better index than Dex.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks so much @youpwned9015. I appreciate this real world perspective. A lot of magicians will create their own gaffs or do their own rough and smooth cards and I think it is not unreasonable for us to each take a stab at out own index's. Thanks so much for watching the review and leaving the comment. Have a great day.

[@funjuror]

This is the best review I have seen for this product; thank you.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks so much Bill I really appreciate that. I want to be fair and honest to the release and hope I achieved that. Have a great day and thanks so much for watching the review.

[@justgreatmagic]

They could have provided a built in Rubber Band function. On them

[@fiddlinjonny]

I want a little asterisk in the add copy that says "Rubber band not included." 🤣

[@justgreatmagic]

@@fiddlinjonny lol

[@seanfaherty]

Nice even handed review. We have to consider they guys in the trailer have been working on this for three years. They're also very talented. It's gonna take effort. That's what makes it cool

[@fiddlinjonny]

Sean you are so right about the time they have put in and so it is only natural they make it look so easy. We can all get there but just must take the time to practice and put in the performance time to get there. Thanks for leaving the comment and I appreciate your viewership. Take Care.

[@johngreen4068]

Hi John, loved watching you review Dex, which has turned into a controversial debate within the magic community. I would love to see you do a follow up review after a month or so. From what I am hearing it will be totally trashed and unusable. I don’t have this index, but Lloyd was very generous to let me see the full tutorials😉 What do you think of that has a purchaser? Only asking because like you I think that’s were the real “value” of this product is. I do think that they have been selfish and designed their own index to suit their needs and not necessarily yours or anyone else’s that is thinking of buying it. I personally use the cheetah. Again it all comes down to one pocket or two if using a full deck. I also don’t like the fact that it is only a 48 card index. Yes I’ve watched the tutorial and explanation but be honest the aces should have had their own pocket. I do agree that you will struggle to get access and accuracy with some cards in them tight pockets. Keep up the good work. Regards John ❤ .

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi John, I loved reading your comment as it is rich with good information. Let me start with a follow up review. I am giving consideration to doing a follow up review in a number of months after having even more hours of performing with it under my belt and seeing how well the index holds up. So stay tuned. I appreciate the generosity of Lloyd releasing the tutorial to the community. I think that is awesome and for me that is where the gold is in this release. Hearing your perspective on the aces is important to me. This is one of those areas where I totaly understand where we have different perspectives and don't always have to agree and wish on the front end they would just advertise it as a 48 card index, then we know up front what we are dealing with. Thanks John for a thoughtful comment. Take care and thanks for being here.

[@johndamenillusionist4342]

Great and honest review Jonny, thanks. For me, the 4 aces thing....a petty thing at best, who cares. I often in other card effects tell my specs to not pick/name aces. Never been an issue, not once. However my issue is in regards to quality reports of it falling apart. For $75 I totally do not expect to have a product fall apart in a couple weeks and need to be held together by a rubber band..lol!! That to me is simply unacceptable at a $75 price point regardless of how well it may or may not function. Just my two cents.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey John, I am in complete agreement. It is a little weird to me that people are complaining about the aces as you mention there are many effects that ask our spectators to pick something other than the aces. As for the $75 for this and then being defective is a real issue and something I think they should have resolved prior to release or drop the price point a little. I always enjoy seeing your comments. Take Care.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks@@etyplt You are right. It is not fair for me to say falling apart as that is not an accurate description of what really is an issue with the glue, and one that is solvable and does not ultimately effect the use of the index. Thanks for your comment as it holds me accountable to how I word things and keeps the review on exactly the facts.

[@MexieMex]

The problem with DEX is the hype not the item, it's an OK index, just OK, nothing amazing though, we were told it was revolutionary, it's not. We were told it's the the thinnest index ever (by quite a margin), it's not. We were told it's by far the fastest index ever, it's not. They also cover the fact it's likely to break in the dealer only video, something I don't recall seeing for any other magic release ever (many cover it in the actual tutorial, but this is the only time I've seen repairs mentioned in the dealer video), so they not only know it may break, but they expect it to. When you take all that into account, then also factor in how much they are asking for it, DEX doesn't seem like a good deal at all.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Mexie, I think this is one of those times where you and I agree 100%. Or almost a 100%. I think we can say it is an average index and then it comes down to is the price tag right for this index and I think each individual will need to answer that for themselves. It also raises the question for creators and dealers to reconsider the hype of a product and it's ability to deliver. It certainly does not breed credibility for creators and distributors for their products and something they need to give some stronger consideration to. Ultimately people should be checking out sites likes yours and for those reading this that is the Peoples Palace of Presdidigitation (discord) and reviewers to get a more honest take on a release. Thanks for being here and leaving such a great comment, it is appreciated and I believe helpful for others.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Etyplt, I couldn't agree more. Best advice is to not pre-buy and wait for reviews. Thanks for being here and leaving the comment. Wishing you an awesome day.

[@MexieMex]

@@fiddlinjonny I'm no longer running PPP, but will restart reviewing magic in a few months on a new website, I have a few other projects that take precedence at the moment though (oddly enough, not a million miles away from your 'other' job).

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi @@MexieMex I did not realize you were no longer running PPP. I look forward to your future reviews. Stay in touch.

[@MexieMex]

@@fiddlinjonny I'll still be about, don't worry LOL

[@randycape8706]

Love your logic...you're a stand-up guy! At the moment not very interested in an indexes,however wanted to stop by and say hi and give you a like👍👊

[@fiddlinjonny]

Randy you ROCK!!!!!! I appreciate the fact that you dropped by to watch and leave a comment even if an index is not for you. I hope I can continue to deliver quality content. Thank You!

[@randycape8706]

Jonny, I just ordered POW from Penguin early in the morning and by the afternoon I got notification that it's already in the shipping process. If you haven't seen Jeki Yoo's performance of POW yet..you should check it out.

[@MadPaperPeople]

paid £70 for the bulk of it being the tutorial then it is given away free... i did not like DEX way too fiddly and i found it hard to pull out a card with it in my hands .. no chance if it is in my pocket... if i had seen the video Lloyd did... I would not have got it.. without the tutorial what would you pay??

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Git I really appreciate your comment as I think it will be helpful for people reading these. It highlights for me that it is advertised as being relatively easy and for everyone and I just don't think that is the case. Your point regarding the tutorial being released to the community is an interesting one. I am a little torn on it. Part of me is really happy that people can see that before purchase of the product but in my opinion it is the tutorial where the value was in this release. I know that may sound harsh to some but is how I experienced it and I think you likely do as well. Thanks so much for leaving your comment and experience as I think it will be helpful for others. Have a great day and thanks for wathcing.

[@johnnydeeman3076]

Yes, the instructions were the best part of the relief and Lloyd Barnes gave it free to everybody after we paid $75 for it. What do you think about that? I think he sucks.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Johnny, This is a good question and I feel somewhat torn on it. I would normally say this is fine because what people are really paying for is the physical product and the cost of the tutorial is relatively a small part of the cost. But in this case the tutorial is where a lot of the value is in this release and therefore it feels a little off putting. I feel like I sound a little wishy washy on this but the truth is I am torn on it. I do have a strong opinion about now that it is released is that people should go watch it, then create their own index and make it better than what is out there. I suspect we will see a number of new index's released to the market in the upcoming years in response to this release.

[@Ineverywhisper]

Everyone who purchased this got hung out to dry.

[@calvintong9575]

Yet another great review, keep them coming. most magicians (at least that I know ) have already attempted to make their own index including myself. At least one of the early blueprints can be found in the book “13 steps to Mentalism.” Actually, I would encourage magicians to attempt making their own first, before buying an index. That way they personally identify what works and does not work well for them when relying on finger riffling blindly with one hand in the pants pocket.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Calvin, I hope you are dong well. Great to see you here in the comments. The 13 Steps to Mentalism is one of my all time favorite books that I keep returning to with frequency and your suggestion to make your own index in my opinion is spot on. I know a lot of people will not want to take the time to make their own index but if they do they will gain a lot and like you say will aid in understanding what works best for them if they go to purchase one. Thanks so much for being here and leaving a really helpful comment. I hope you have a great day.

[@pinballwizard666]

Hi Jonny, brilliant review mate. You got to the crux of the important issues and gave such a good assessment of them. For my part ... i wont be spending my money on it. Other than from the creators (or their friends) I've not heard glowing reports about it. As for the hype. . I do expect a certain amount but, if it's over done then ultimately you will get the deserved response. And it won't be a good one. As regards the 'soap opera' going on about? I'm loving it. But then I'm not as compassionate as you and like a scrap. All the very best my friend.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello my friend, I tried to be as even handed as possible and hoped I achieved that. Ok let's chat about the soap opera. For me it seems like it has turned into a train wreck and I can not avert my glance. I am searching KZbin for every video I can on it to see the drama and perspective. So on some level I guess I too like a bit of the drama. I do wish it hadn't got to the name calling level but that is where we are at. I honestly would love to get the two of them into a room or zoom chat and work through it, but I will not hold my breath that, that will occur. Take care and sit back, grab a tub of popcorn and wait to see what is in the next chapter of this drama.

[@karstentop4276]

Hey Jonny this review is why I’m a big big fan of you and your reviews, you expressed your opinion both the good and bad of dex, but unlike another reviewer who while claiming to be unbiased can’t seem to actually be objective and unbiased about this product and it’s creators, you’re able to express the flaws of this product without bashing or being biased and unfair. You come at things with good faith and an open mind whether you like the product or not and are probably my favourite reviewer, you’re a positive influence on this community and I think this review exemplifies that. Thanks for another fair, unbiased and thoughtful review.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Karstentop thank you so much for such kind words and I hope you know that I do not take your viewership for granted and will continue to work and provide high quality honest reviews. To be honest this whole Dex thing has got out of control. When reviewing products I just want to focus on the product and effect and not bring in stuff about the creator. Thanks for being here and again thanks, it is genuinely appreciated.

[@ScottLuvsRenFaires]

This seems like a fair review. I have been out of the magic world for a very long time, and only came back in a couple of months ago so I was not involved in the 'hype'. I do agree with your comments re sellers and hype, and frankly, I think that if someone feels they are being 'played' by a magic purveyor then they must be just brutalized by every other retail business in the world. There are billions of dollars and millions of marketers trying to get you to buy their brand of car, toothpaste, mac n' cheese, and cell phone. If you can't keep a level head buying from the teeny tiny world of magic trick sellers, you stand no chance at all against Apple, Unilever, and Disney.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Scott, I am so glad you have returned to the magic world. I am glad you are here. I think you have said it so well. We all must step back and admit that anyone selling anything in the world is going to shine the most positive light they can on their product and not dwell on their short comings. If we can't recognize that fact also exists for magic creators and distributors then we will be forever disappointed. At the end of the day it is a business for them. I know I too get caught up in the hype and will purchase just about any mac and cheese dish advertised. But that may be due to my cheese addiction. Anyway glad you are here and really appreicate the comment. Have a great day.

[@kapilagarwal9244]

Unless you are a professional (in which case you should buy a professional index or custom make your own) for most amateur use cases a simple self made index using the cards themselves will work. I’ll give some hints how mine works using information I found all publicly: Think about how you want to organize the cards and use them as indexes. Think about ways to divide up the problem. Here some some key things to think about: -Pockets -Riffing -Long and Short (trick deck) cards -Change the angle cards are pointing - How to maintain integrity of index to pull several cards before needing a reset. It’s all about reducing the problem size with some heuristics while keeping the complexity down. Frankly there is just no real need for a consumer grade index.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Kapilangarawl this is such a great comment and some really great ideas enclosed. I think it would be fun to put a challenge out there for folks to design their own index and see what people come up with. I think there is still room for innovation when it comes to index's. Thanks so much for the awesome comment.

[@csmtree]

Another great and honest review my brother.....Bill

[@fiddlinjonny]

Yo Bill thanks so much and love that you are here. Take Care my friend.

[@adamaloof1334]

***how to put someone on blast in the nicest way possible***

[@fiddlinjonny]

I think that describes it well.

[@PositiveAlien]

Wonderful review! I bought into the hype, but will definitely try to get the most out of dex.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Yo Alien thanks for the comment and I would say to stick with it and don't give up. I suspect it will grow on you over time and find some great uses for it. Thanks for leaving the comment and adding to the discussion.

[@PositiveAlien]

@@fiddlinjonnyThanks ! Yeah it's not perfect, but I like it overall and will use it - which is the most important thing.

[@fiddlinjonny]

@@PositiveAlien Well said.

[@adeadlysin272]

Sorry, had to miss the second half of the premiere but catching up now :). Yeah Jonny, Indexpress is a hard one to beat for mercury folds and billets. Sturdy, fair price, etc., etc. There's another out that's great for unfolded cards, is reasonably priced, apparently more compact than Dex, and they teach how to make one on the fly from extra cards in a pinch. But.,. I forgot the name and don't have time to look it up. So, to be con't..

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks Adeadlysin for being at least at a portion of the premier. I do appreciate it. I had to leave it very close to the end myself. So no worries. I love hearing about other indexes. I am not familiar with Indexpress but may need to look into it. Take care.

[@johnowen5686]

Honest review as usual Jonny, I haven't personally seen any other reviews just the demo ,now I know its definitely not for me ,thank you for giving us the truth and nothing but the truth 😂The demo I viewed also used a mobile,I hate mobile phone effects ,probably an age thing 😊

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey John, I hope you are having a great weekend. First of all thank you. I am finding myself liking some of the phone apps that are comming out but then am not really using them a lot once I have them. Mostly I find them to fiddly to deal with in performance. Becuase of that I do not find myself gravitating towards a lot of app based magic. Thanks for watching and take care my friend.

[@jayplays568]

Thanks for the review. I was wondering if you have used the one pocket version of the Cheetah index, called "52 Cheetah" and I'd so, what are your thoughts on it?

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi Jay, Thanks so much for the question. I do not have Cheetah but feel like I need to get it soon and put it through its paces as so many people mention it to me and I do not have it. -----I just went and ordered my Cheetah. I will put it into real world performance and see what I think if it. By the way I just posted a review of the Rough and Smooth Index by Eddie Raymond and really like that index and like it better than DEX. You should go check out that review if you have not yet already watched it. Thanks so much for watching and leaving the comment. Have a great day.

[@jayplays568]

@@fiddlinjonny Thanks Jonny! Did you go for the two-pocket version or the single pocket ("52 Cheetah") version? Whichever you chose, I am looking forward to hearing your review on it!

[@hipflipped]

Jonny is way too nice/tactful here. For $75, one should get something that isn't obviously so cheaply produced.

[@fiddlinjonny]

The price point definately seems way off. I know I have another comment talking about the time and research and development of the product and trying to recoup the price but at the end of the day the consumer will reject the cost if it does not measure up and they also lose some credibility. Thanks for noticing the niceness.

[@slechtweervandaag]

2-3 years for this design?🤔

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Slechtweenvandaag, your comment makes me chuckle and yet a good question. By the way I love your vanishing violin bow video on your channel. Would love to see more magic there. Thanks for watching and have a great day.

[@robjacks2748]

What a great review! You're the guy who gives me hope about the magic community. I find the controversy rather disturbing. I generally kind of like the guy who started the whole fight. The Unbiased Review guy. In this case I found him unreasonably harsh. You explained the flaws and the strengths of Dex very clearly and reasonably. Thanks for this review. I would not have bought Dex in any case as I am not willing to put in the time to make it work perfectly.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Rob great to hear from you and thank you so much. I genuinely wanted to be as fair as possible and just go with the facts of the release. I hope I achieved that. I too am disturbed by the uproar in the community and hope that there can be a moment of humility and willingness to see the humanity in one another and work through the differences, but I won't hold my breath. Thanks so much for watching and I hope you know I appreciate it. Take Care.

[@robjacks2748]

@@fiddlinjonny Thanks, you and Real Magic Review and Magic Orthodoxy are the giants upon who others rely for reason and impartiality.

[@Ineverywhisper]

@@robjacks2748those guys have conflicts of interest.

[@Conwads]

Love your honesty. Another reason why you're my favorite review channel

[@fiddlinjonny]

Ah thanks Conner I really appreciate that. Wishing you an awesome day.

[@ezequiel_reis]

Hey Jonny, Hope you are doing well. Nice review as always. So my take on DEX (and i don't own one): What's up with the hype?? Seems slow, which is something that might be important to some people (it is for me), bulky, yes it's bulky don't say it isn't, if a deck of cards is, this also is, for a CHEAPER solution just go with ADVOCATE by Daniel Madison, but my biggest problem is quality versus the price, $75 is way too much, just that is enough to get people away, then they gave the Instructional videos for free so where is the incentive to buy it now?? Can't understand the reasoning behind that, and as you mentioned in the review, it is a TOOL, so i want to see what i'm getting, and it looks cheap, and that it unglues after 1 or 2 days that end of it for me. I don't have a problem paying premium price if i like the project and the quality is there, this one unfortunetly doesn't check any mark. Just to mention a bit about the tutorials, they actually look fine, some interesting ideas, but nothing ground breaking. Keep up the great work Best of regards

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Ezequiel, You have nailed some really saliant points here and combined make a good reason for some not to purchase this product. I think they really shot themselves in the foot with this one. The hype created unrealistic expectations and was misleading. This alone is not good for their credibility and future sales. I hope they will learn from this. I won't hold my breath. Thanks so much for being here and leaving a spot on comment. Have a great day.

[@themagicman6965]

Daniel Madison´s The Advocate index is superior to this in many ways and costs you a fourth of the price.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Magic Man, It is great to see you here and hope you are doing well. I think you have nailed an important point here. There are other indexes out there that are just going to be better for some folks. Dex may suite some people but is by far not for everyone and there are other indexes that are going to meet other performers needs better. I think everyone should go check out Daniel's index and do there own comparison as to which one is right for them. Thanks again for being here and hope you are doing well. Take Care.

[@themagicman6965]

@@fiddlinjonny Hi Jonny! Nice to hear from you!:) I am fine and it looks like you too! Your channel has grown so much and you deserve it! Youre right, at the end it comes down to an individuals preferences. But you cant go wrong with at least checking out the advocate. See you!

[@bradklaus5954]

Yes.

[@themagicman6965]

@@bradklaus5954 Nice comparisen! In all fairness to DEX since I havent tried it on myself, but from what I see in the reviews and how the gimmick and index is build, the advocate arguably allows you to get any card even faster. And as well you do not carry a gimmick with you.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi @@themagicman6965 I may do a side by side of the advocate and Dex in the future so stay tuned. Are you doing any future releases? If so let me know I would love to hear about it.

[@warriorpoet8119]

I am curious if most of the units that started splitting were used in a much Hotter and more Humid climate? I live in Houston Texas and it is always Hot and Humid which is why my Index shredded so easily and I put around 3 hours of practice per day which is quite a lot of stress. I also like the bevel Idea however I wish the bevels were mirrored on both sides so that I could use my thumb on the back stack and index on the front without going behind the card which caused a lot of movement. I think your review was more than fair and before I purchase another Index I will definitely want to see it and know what materials it was made from. I have never seen Don Wands index but I have seen him in action and it’s amazing how smooth he is. People also need to realize that Lloyd and Javier have been working with this system for 2 years so of course they are going to be much faster but all I care about is consistency and comfortably finding the card, it must hit 100% of the time for any worker.

[@fiddlinjonny]

First of all thank you for your service and a really thoughtful comment. You hit on some really good points. I have had the same thinking as you regarding the hot climates and it having an effect but I have asked others in climates that are not as hot and they seem to be having the same issue. So unfortunately it maybe an issue regardless of climate. But with that said it seems the hotter the climate the greater chance of the glue melting and not working. Regarding the bevels, I have the exact same thoughts and experience as you. I really like the idea of the bevels and wish they were a little more pronounced. At the end of day as you mentioned is accuracy. If I can hit 100% acuracy then I will be satisfied. Thanks so much for the comment I think it is helpful for the community.

[@mattpeters4700]

I'm happy with Dex. I don't think anyone could have convinced me not to get it as all the magicians in the community I hang with love it. I get the critical points but I really like it. It does what I need it to.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Matt, this is a great comment. I love to hear what others experience is. Thanks for sharing it and always nice to see your comments.

[@tommarquette9706]

Thanks. It isn't my trust in product, I don't trust my skill or confidence to pull it off. Your point about practice so important and ad copy seem to extol ease of use. That where I producter can get in trouble to deliver on the tool. Last I have spent years in stack work and find comfort there.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Tom your comment is spot on. I think this because I am 100% confident that not everyone will get the skill on this one as it does require a significant amout of practice and staying on top of that practice to ensure you really have it. If you are focusing on stack work then you know you can perform miracles and will be doing just fine without an index. Thanks so much for leaving the comment, I think it is helpful.

[@JoeKentMagic]

i am really impressed with the ingenuity of this card index ... it's just not my cup of tea. I'll tell you what I am impressed with ... the coin "Catch" ! Now that's a very cool invention !

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Joe, I love that you mentioned the coin "Catch". I am on my second one. I lost the first one at the first gig I brought it to and loved it so much I bought a second one. It has inspired me to work more on some sleaving while also using catch. On Dex for me the thing I liked the most or thought was innovative is the step system designed to flick through the cards a little easier. I like that idea. Thanks for watching and take care.

[@JoeKentMagic]

@@fiddlinjonny ... I'm actually getting pretty good at "Catch" ! I've only had it a week, but I'm determined to perfect it ! I'm utilizing it with a signed Quarter that winds up in a nest of boxes and it's going to be MINDBLOWING !

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey @@JoeKentMagic I am in your club with loving Catch as well. Such a cool little gimmick that lets you perform some miracles.

[@AndyCooper761]

No review can really be called unbiased, since a reviewer expresses a personal opinion - but thankfully we have people like Jonny and Tyler to offer us their honest opinions and balanced thoughts. The dishonest and agenda-driven reviews we’ve seen recently don’t help anyone.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks Andy, I really appreciate that. I honestly just want to provide reviews that are helpful and often think if I were the person on the other side of the camera what is it that would be helpful for me. No need for any drama or dragging others down, just a focus on the product and effect and my point of view on it. Thanks so much for being here and by the way keep playing that great music you play. I have enjoyed your videos on your channel.

[@lindseyharvey7285]

I remember you.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Lindsey, Thanks so much for remembering me and am glad you are here. I hope you are doing well and thanks so much for watching. Stay in touch.

[@adamaloof1334]

I looked up the ad for this gimmick (at least it's advertised in such a manner, which could be misleading, as you alluded to...) They don't discuss the level of difficulty or dedication required. after your video randomly popped in my algorithm, and I gotta say, thank you. That ad was really convincing and I don't know if I'm at that level as a magician yet, and I certainly would have been disappointed. I storehouse the innovation as well but I feel like the price point is almost arbitrary, because time=money and they spent years on this, so the struggling artist is left in the dust again. Quite a rant but man 75 dollars for a gimmick that I might have to rubber band shut and I can't wear jeans? Also, the fact you didn't advertise that it's 48 cards TLDR fuck capitalism I'd pay 20-40 bucks (if nothing else, it looks cheap) for this and have it there to play with over years until the use of the tool comes naturally. That's a big investment that I'm dissuaded from making, because I do not have the hours of dedication Tldrdrdr Glad I found you, can't wait to see more reviews from you😊. It's an under appreciated tool that I will certainly utilize. The trick lost on any known web site is overwhelming, to say the least. Would love to see a "most bang for your buck"

[@fiddlinjonny]

Yo Adam, I am so glad you found the channel and I hope the review was helpful. I think you have nailed what a lot of people will experience or at least ask the question as to whether they will actually dedicate the time to it or not. It is a good question. I can speak personally that there are some moves that I have been working on for years (the classic pass) and still can not perform worth a darn, but I will not give up and maybe one day I can do it. Anyway I am starting to ramble and just wanted to say thanks for watching and adding your perspective. Have an awesome day.

[@MastersofCriminology]

Put wallet in your front pocket for two reasons, (1) harder for thefts to steal & (2) those with sciatica pain in leg will understand what a wallet in back pocket can cause severe pain.

[@fiddlinjonny]

MSCrim you are complexly on point. I was experiencing back pain in my early 20's and at that time used to carry my wallet in my back pocket. I switched to carrying it in my front pocket and has helped significantly. Now I can not imagine carrying my wallet in my back pocket. Also just that much more difficult for it to be stolen out of the front pocket. Thanks so much for leaving the comment.

[@charlesgauthier2166]

The just released Demi Deck took 17 years to get to market because the creator didn’t cheap out. 17 years!

[@fiddlinjonny]

I know that is WILD!!!! I am debating on whether to pick it up or not. I really like the visual and the concept but don't know if I have space in my budget for this month to pick it up or not. Stay tuned. Thanks for watching and take care.

[@vinodfurtado]

Sir ur right during the controversy on of the points that hit back on reviewer was that they do not put in the practice and just comment on the product. Good to see u performing and reviewing and doing justice. keep up the good job. Please let know which is best index.... dex, cheetah or the one from don wand

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hello Vinod and thanks so much for the comment. I am a firm believer that if I am going to review a product I must first learn it and then go and perform it out in the world at a gig or for people I don't know so that I can get a real feel for the product, how it plays in the real world and the challenges or suprises I learn along that process. In regards to Cheetah and Don Wand's I think I can say that Don Wand's is the fastest and cleanest looking, however I have not used Don's and only watched him perform it for me in person as it is not available on the market. Perhaps one day Don will release one to the public. Thanks Vinod for watching and leaving the comment, I really appreciate it.

[@jacka8404]

Great honest review with no name calling.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks Jack, I am not intrested in being disrespectful to creators and just trying to provide a good objective review of the product. Wishing you a great day.

[@slipoch6635]

Dunno why you keep talking about $75 USD, I bought mine for $50 AUD (~$30USD) on day 1 (no sale price)

[@fiddlinjonny]

Oh Wow that is an awesome price. Where or what site were you able to get it at that price? By the way thanks for watching the review and leaving the comment.

[@slipoch6635]

piper magic? or maybe global magic shop.@@fiddlinjonny

[@mitchkothe9025]

You know in the tutorial your not supposed to expose right

[@fiddlinjonny]

Mitch you are 100% correct but in the last week Lloyd went ahead and revealed the index on his channel to the world so I am not doing any exposure as Lloyd as released that. In fact I originally recorded my review without showing the index and in the time I started to edit my review Lloyd had shared the index. So I went back and re-recorded my review with the reveal of Dex. Your point is well taken and want creators to know that my channel is not a place where their product secrets will be revealed if they do not want them shared. Thanks for being here and leaving the comment. Wishing you a great day.

[@ErnieOporto]

I mainly don’t want the glue to come apart because I don’t want to hear Dr David from Unbiased cry like a whiny vindictive baby. Thank you for being a decent human being.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Ernie you have my commitment not to become a whiny vindictive baby magic product reviewer. 😉By the way I have been performing more with Dex since posting the review and carrying it daily in my pocket and at this point still no sign of it coming apart. Thanks for your kind words.

[@veganbadass]

I own both Dex and Cheetah. If they had a baby it would be perfect.... the Blue Print of Dex with the materials of Cheetah = perfect.

[@fiddlinjonny]

See now you are talking. I love this idea and think you are on to something. I am hoping we are in the dawnd of a new era for index's and that someone releases a new index that takes some of the best elelments from each of the indexes out there. Of course I encourage people to go and attempt to make their own index's so they will have one that works perfectly for them. Thanks for the comment I really liked it.

[@tyronejoihnson7046]

The magic coffee shop green cafe says DEX comes unglued and smells like farts.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Oh I have been to that coffee shop and I can say mine does not smell like farts but it has been known to come unglued. I think a lot of people have come unglued when it comes to this release. Thanks Tyrone for being here and leaving the comment. It made me chuckle.

[@tyronejoihnson7046]

I have DEX and LOVE it. These clowns don't like the rubber band fix. I'm fine with it produces a miracle, which DEX does. LOVE your review AND fiddle playing. You have a sweet vibrato!

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi @@tyronejoihnson7046 You make a really good point and i think it is an important one. Despite the glue not working great for everyone the index still works and does the job and that should not be ignored. While at the price point I wish it didn't but it does and still works. Thanks so much. Take care and don't have too much coffee at the green cafe.

[@tyronejoihnson7046]

🤣

[@hachini23]

Best review of Dex !

[@fiddlinjonny]

Ahh thanks Axe I really appreciate it and value having you as a viewer. Have a great day.

[@adeadlysin272]

Have you tried it half loaded? (i.e. reds)

[@fiddlinjonny]

I have not but in my head have been playing around with variations of different loads into the index. That may create greater ease in accessing certain cards and can build a routine around it that works. Thanks Adeadlysin for the comment and worth those considering this product to be aware that you can load it really however you want to increase success.

[@BlakeAleongMagic]

Excited for this review!

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks Blake, I love watching your review. Hope you are doing well my friend.

[@randbaldwin]

How are you excited for this review after it was posted? You agreed with it with a passion before or after?

[@BlakeAleongMagic]

@@randbaldwin It was on premiere. It had not been posted yet.

[@randbaldwin]

Oh. Sad.

[@BlakeAleongMagic]

@@randbaldwin What makes you sad? I was anticipating this review from Jonny. I love DEX, but I wanted to see another opinion.

[@ChrisAguilar]

So it truly is just a bunch of cheap packet wallets hot glued together.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hi Chris. I would probably qualify that a little bit. Yes it does look like packet wallets glued together but it is actually a little more than that. They have created within each of these packets a step system that makes it easier to understand by feel what each card is. I also think it is a good example that should motivate people to think about designing their own index that works for them. I think it is the kind of tool that people can create for themselves and find innovation in the process. But of course not everyone wants to take the time to build their own tools and I can understand that too. Thanks so much for watching.

[@warriorpoet8119]

@@fiddlinjonny I agree, each individual should get comfortable with a system whether it be using half horizontal and half vertical or even making a wider space between the cards, an index can easily be made from Tyvek and last a long time with just about any layout. I started with the advocate which was a simple card box but Daniel Madison made that work and is most likely still using it to this day as he is so familiar with the system (it is his system he has used for years) I just think I am old enough that I should never fall for the hype but I was mad at myself when I bought Dex, I am guilty I have no one to blame and as you said we should not be so Naive. Very balanced review.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Thanks @@warriorpoet8119 I personally agree with people working on creating one with Tyvek. It is durable and thin and allows the creator to monkey around a bit to create one that will really work for them. We have all fallen for the hype at one point or another so you are in good company. Take care.

[@ChrisAguilar]

@@fiddlinjonny No excuses for cheap product slapped together with glue that is "supposed" to fail and be replace by rubberbands.

[@michaelsteel8927]

Show me a Magician that Works this in the real World and can pull a card from is pocket in seconds with this index anything more then 4 seconds you will have eyes on you no way i will buy this I would rather use a Mirage Deck force that's pretty clean and pull a card from my pocket that was forced

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Michael, I loved seeing your comment because it is packed with some real world realities. While I may disagree a little with the amount of time it takes to get a card out of this index is quicker than 4 seconds you are right that if it is taking this long or the performer is struggling to get the card out of the index then that is a problem. I have found with DEX the more I am using it the faster and faster I get. When I put it down for about two weeks and don't perform with it I find that it takes me a little practice to get back up to quick speed. There are some cards in DEX that are just a little harder to get and take longer and also depending on which pants I am wearing it influnences the amount of time it takes me to get to the named card. Okay that is long winded on my experience and you are right regarding using a mirage deck or a number of other decks out there that you can achieve in essence the same effect in a much easier way. Thanks so much for the comment I really enjoyed hearing your perspective. Take care and thanks so much for watching. Oh wait I forgot I am currently practicing with Eddie Raymond's index and am looking forward to reviewing and talking about that index in the next couple of weeks. Stay tuned.

[@randbaldwin]

Oh God, not this please. It's a card index. It is really good. We gotta bash this one now?

[@randbaldwin]

Make your own index? Oh boy, really? Nobody is doing that. Show me one you've made. Don't embarrass yourself unless you can really show it and it's good.

[@randbaldwin]

After the fact, the OG comment of making your own index was removed. I think that says volumes. You lost a lot of credibility by saying and removing that.

[@randbaldwin]

Bro, as much as I like your channel, you just destroyed all my respect by deleting your comment about suggesting that you make your own index. You can't just undo that.

[@joepollardmagic]

I don't think he bashed it at all. He explained extremely clearly what you get and its flaws but also praised it in its merits too. He didn't criticise things just for the sake of it as other reviewers have done and went through his opinions on the product. I for one found this review insightful. It was also unique to HIS point of view and experience with it.

[@mattpeters4700]

@@randbaldwin What are you on about? I love Dex but making your own index is not exactly a new idea. Infact it was one of the first utility's I made when I got into magic. I think it was Dan Madisons iirc.

[@ajitbadarinath410]

Horrible product with hype to sell

[@fiddlinjonny]

There was no shortage of hype on this and to be honest I do not think that it served them well. I will be curious to see if Murphy's does less hype on some products moving forward. Probably not but will be watching to see if there is an adjustment.

[@ajitbadarinath410]

@@fiddlinjonny now that wholesellers have become producers, they play number games n they sell bad magic with big hype. They n inventors don't care for community anymore.

[@Sektorauuu]

No one cares. Crap like this is out out to cash in by selling dreams to amateurs, not to advance the art.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Sektorauuu thanks so much for being here and adding your perspective. Lets face it, most of magic releases these days are marketed largely to amateurs and therefore why it is so important to have reviewers providing perspective to help them in this process. Take care and thanks for watching.

[@randbaldwin]

You are offering to be a mediator? If you are a therapist you understand narcissism. I challenge you to find a better case for that than the unbiased dude. He shows more signs than a freeway.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Rand you crack me up and made me laugh. I think there is a lot of work to be done here and may need more than one episode to resolve the issues that exist.

[@liberalguy513]

Thank you for your honest review, it's clear that the Cheetah is the best card index on the market. I'm just sorry that so many bought into the hype and wasted 75 bucks on this DIY abomination.

[@mattpeters4700]

I feel like you didn't watch the video.

[@fiddlinjonny]

Hey Liveralguy, I do think too many people bought into the hype and jumped the gun before watching reviews to get a more accurate perspective. I know we have probably all done that at times so I can't get too upset about it but do hope people will first watch or read reviews before making their purchase. Thanks so much for being here and leaving the comment.