Technical Advice | Secret Art Journal

Backdrops, Part I

Posted by The Rev. David Reed-Brown on May 22nd, 2002 home title

Welcome to “Tales From the Magic Tech Road” a new column for The Secret Art Journal. Our purpose for “Magic Tech” is to focus on the practical aspects of producing a one- or two-person stand-up show for a one-night-only engagement. We will discuss backdrops, lighting, sound, staging, prop management and vehicles. We will also question the assumption that large magical...

All Linking Rings Are Not Created Equal

Posted by The Rev. David Reed-Brown on Dec 15th, 2001 home title

I have often seen magicians using any old linking rings in their performances without paying attention to their many variable qualities. I learned a great deal about rings in my research last year, so here are some “key” factors to ponder as you make your decision. WARNING: Whatever you do, try out the rings first. Make sure they are really what you want because you will probably...

Sound Advice, Part 4

Posted by The Rev. David Reed-Brown on Jul 18th, 2001 home title

SOME EXCEPTIONS Thus far we have discussed the sound system needs of solo magicians working for audiences with 50-500 people. The “portable PA” systems by Anchor and Apollo are excellent. I also shared two wireless remote music systems: one based on a simple switch and a Sony Walkman purchased through Radio Shack and another professional mini-disk system, Remote Commander IV by...

Sound Advice, Part 3

Posted by The Rev. David Reed-Brown on May 8th, 2001 home title

THE PROFESSIONAL $500 OPTION: REMOTE COMMANDER IV I am very, very impressed with Majiloon’s Remote Commander IV. In a few brief words: simple, reliable, flexible, high-quality and professional. WHAT IS IT? The Remote Commander IV is a small FM radio frequency transmitter, receiver and, in my case, a mini-disk (MD) player for performers, DJs, and audio technicians. The MD player allows you...

Sound Advice, Part 2

Posted by The Rev. David Reed-Brown on Apr 1st, 2001 home title

REMOTE MUSIC SYSTEMS THE AFFORDABLE $75 ADVANCED AMATEUR OPTION If you must be on a strict, economical budget, try this. Go to Radio Shack and get a $25 wireless on off remote to switch that plugs into a standard electrical outlet. It uses radio frequencies, not infrared signals, so you can hide the key-chain sized transmitter. It sits in your pants pocket, or you can sew it into your costume...