Arbitrium by David Jonathan

ARBITRIUM combines a Double Prediction with Any Card At Any Number (ACAAN) into a compelling and easy-to-follow plot that baffles audiences.

The performer removes a mystery, odd-backed lucky card from his wallet and isolates it. Two decks are then introduced — a number deck and a standard deck of cards. Both decks are spread for the spectator to choose ANY card from each (they really do touch any card from each deck!). Next, instead of a tedious counting procedure found in most ACAANs, the performer retrieves the isolated lucky card, which is then turned over to show that it’s not only a perfect match to the freely selected card, but it also has the chosen number permanently written on it! An exact coincidence — proving that it truly is a lucky card!

Key Points:

• The description above is how the effect plays out every time (no “best case scenario”)
• Very practical method
• Easy to do
• Resets in under 10 seconds
• Multiple versions taught, including variations with just one deck
• Can be adapted to a variety of other creative ideas aside from cards and numbers (such as names, drawings, logos, colors, etc.)

Here are a few quotes from reviews over at The Magic Cafe:

“This is a very practical-to-perform, strong, deceptive effect, and it uses a nice marriage of principles to make it all work.” 

– Matt “Mayavi” Packard

“Well structured and thought-out routine. An effect I predict that all, or at least most, will use if the ACAAN plot is your thing… It won’t end up at the bottom of a magic drawer… Recommended!”

– Rizzo

“If you have no issues with doing a one-time setup and carrying two decks specific for this effect, then this is a very interesting piece that is guaranteed to floor spectators.” 

– ash2arani

Format: 50-minute instant video download

Note: There is a one-time, easy DIY construction to setup the decks for the effect, which uses materials that most magicians likely already have.