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Air by Alain Simonov and Shin Lim

Created by: Alain Simonov, Shin Lim

Air by Alain Simonov, presented by Shin Lim, is a versatile close-up and stage magic trick that allows performers to make objects vanish, transform, or reappear seamlessly. Using a loop-based system, the trick is beginner-friendly and can be applied to cards, coins, and other small items. The package includes materials to create approximately 30 durable gimmicks, which are reusable and easy to assemble. The instructional video covers gimmick construction, performance techniques, and even delves into performance philosophy for those who view magic as an art form. While the trick is adaptable for close-up, parlor, and stage settings, it particularly shines for manipulators. Buyers should note that some routines may require additional props, such as magnetic coins.

Key features

  • Uses a loop-based system for vanishes and appearances

  • Beginner-friendly with quick setup

  • Includes materials for ~30 reusable gimmicks

  • Adaptable for close-up, parlor, and stage magic

  • Comes with detailed instructional video and performance theory

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Highly versatile for various magic styles

  • Durable and reusable gimmicks

  • Includes performance philosophy for artistic magicians

  • Good value for beginners

Cons

  • Tutorial lacks depth on gimmick construction for some

  • Additional props needed for certain routines

  • Included interview has poor audio quality

  • May feel overpriced for advanced magicians familiar with the method

Effect

The trick Air by Alain Simonov allows magicians to make objects vanish, change, or reappear instantly. The effect is visually striking, with items like cards or coins disappearing and reappearing in impossible ways. The method uses a loop-based system, making it adaptable for different objects and performance styles.

Full details

The product includes materials to create around 30 gimmicks, which are durable and reusable. The instructional video (about 30 minutes) covers gimmick construction, performance techniques, and multiple angles for different settings (close-up, parlor, stage). A second video features an interview between Shin Lim and Alain Simonov, discussing the trick’s history and theory.

FiddlinJonny notes that the tutorial lacks detailed guidance on gimmick assembly, though the method itself is simple. Scott Perry from EverythingMagicPro99 praises the thorough teaching but finds the interview less valuable due to audio issues.

Who should consider the trick

Air is ideal for beginners looking to learn vanishes and appearances, as the method is easy to grasp. It also suits experienced magicians who want a versatile tool for manipulation acts. Those familiar with loop-based methods may find less new material, but the included theory and performance tips add value.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is beginner-friendly. FiddlinJonny states it can be performed within 10 minutes of learning the method. The gimmick is simple to make, though some reviewers wished for clearer assembly instructions. Angles are manageable, similar to other loop-based tricks like Tobias Dostal’s Optics.

What magicians say

  • FiddlinJonny appreciates the magic theory but feels the product is overpriced at $20, suggesting $10–$15 would be fair. He also criticizes the lack of detailed teaching on gimmick construction.
  • Scott Perry calls it a "great starting point" for newcomers to the concept, praising the instructional depth and material quantity. He notes the interview adds little due to poor audio but still recommends the trick for its value.

Both reviewers agree that Air delivers on its promised effects but differs on whether the price justifies the content. Beginners will benefit most, while experienced magicians may find it less essential unless they want a refined take on the method.

What people are saying about Air

EverythingMagicPro99 says...

If you're not familiar with the concept and you like what you see, then definitely purchase it. It's a great starting point to learn about this method of making something disappear, change, or reappear.

fiddlinjonny says...

The best part of this entire product is the theory in my opinion. I personally love magic theory, and nowhere in the ad copy do I recall the same magic theory.

Review videos