The "holy grail" of card magic has long been the ability to produce any named card instantly from a pocket without the audience suspecting a hidden system. For decades, performers have sought an index that balances speed, capacity, and a slim profile. Today, we are looking at three heavyweights in the field, DEX, The Cheetah, and The Advocate, to see which tool can help you deliver miracles without a single second of "dead air".
1. DEX: The High-Performance Precision Tool
Released in 2023 by Lloyd Barnes and Javier Fuenmayor, DEX is described as the "Ferrari" of indexes. It is a "no-compromise" solution designed to be razor-thin, fitting even in skinny jeans.
The System: DEX features a unique "no counting" bevelled or "step" system. Instead of mentally counting through tabs, the performer uses muscle memory to "feel" the suit and value. While marketed as a 52-card index, the hardware technically holds 48 cards; the four Aces are intended to be managed externally or through specialised techniques.
The Tuition: This is less of a product and more of a 9-hour "Monster" Masterclass. It includes five volumes covering everything from fundamental mechanics to mentalism applications, such as the "Invisible Brain Blizzard," where a named card is the only non-blank card in a deck.
The Trade-off: The construction prioritises a low profile, using flexible vinyl and soft glue. This has led to some reports of seams separating, which professionals often fix with a simple rubber band or clip. It also requires a significant commitment: expect 10 to 20 minutes for setup and 5 to 10 hours of practice to reach 100% confidence.
2. The Cheetah: The Durable Classic
The Cheetah Card Index (and its 52-card variant) by Herman Dabat and Vernet Magic is a precision-engineered organisational tool built for speed and durability.
The System: Utilising the industry-standard CHaSeD order (Clubs, Hearts, Spades, Diamonds), the Cheetah allows a performer to locate any card in just 3 to 5 seconds. Its architecture is built on a specific division of labour, segmenting cards (e.g., Ace through 6 and 7 through King) to eliminate counting.
Construction: Built from thin plastic and Tyvek, it is designed to "last longer than the performer".
Versatility: Beyond pocket work, the Cheetah is famous for the "Paper Bag Miracle," where the index is placed inside a bag with a shuffled deck for parlor-style performances. It also includes tutorials on classic routines like "The Robbery," where a card vanishes from a spectator's hands and reappears in the magician's pocket.
3. The Advocate: The DIY Powerhouse
For those who prefer a more organic approach, The Advocate by Daniel Madison is a "life-changing" principle that relies on clever DIY techniques rather than a specialised physical gimmick.
The System: It can be made in 30 seconds or less using a standard deck of cards.
The Learning Curve: The Advocate is notoriously "knacky" and difficult to master. It requires significant practice to gain accuracy in extraction. However, because it uses standard cards, it is the ultimate "impromptu" index; if you lose it, you can simply buy a new deck and make another one.
Who it’s for: It is generally recommended for more experienced card handlers who are willing to put in the work to master the body language and intricacies Madison teaches.
Which Index Should You Choose?
Choosing the right index depends on your experience level and performance goals:
For Beginners: DEX is often the top choice because of its comprehensive tuition. The "Craig Petty school" of video instruction ensures no stone is left unturned, helping inexperienced magicians find their footing.
For the Professional Mentalist: The Cheetah offers mechanical reliability and psychological freedom. Its durability and the ability to pivot from a failed sleight into a pre-planned miracle make it an essential "safety net".
For the Purist: The Advocate offers the freedom of not needing a specific prop, though it demands the most "finger dexterity" and practice.
A Pro Tip: The "Opportunity Index"
If a full 52-card index feels daunting, consider the "EDC (Every Day Carry) Index" idea. Carry the 6 to 10 most commonly named cards in a small plastic wallet or envelope. If a spectator names one of those cards, you have a miracle ready; if they don't, you simply proceed with a different routine.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the high-tech bevelled system of DEX, the rugged reliability of the Cheetah, or the versatile principles of The Advocate, mastery requires dedication. As the creators of DEX ask: in an age of instant gratification, are you willing to put in the hours of practice for a skill that looks like a genuine miracle?