Magic Tricks

Respectfully, your questions are valid, but you shouldn't be overly concerned.
Obviously, you've had very limited experience with Shin Lim and the products he represents.
Shin's products/tricks are top of the line professional acts. His videos are always very good. The quality of the videos are clear and focused with great audio. Those have never been a concern for any Shin Lim product.
Teaching is very thorough and shown from multiple angles for perspective differences so as to simplify the learning as much as possible. In fact, this is one of his longest videos at approx. 3.5hrs. I assure you that there won't be a lot of 'filler'. There will be more info here than in most videos that you've probably seen.
In re: SSS. What you'll get will be a great utility device that will enhance any act...this act specifically, or any other that you use it with. Smoke, as you know, adds an incredible amount of 'wow factor' to any trick when used.
Is it pricey? You bet!
The 'average joe' isn't likely to go near this. Obviously, his market is the working magician or the overly enthusiastic hobbyist.
That being said, price withstanding, there are two other subjects that you didn't ask about and those are:
1.) As with most Shin Lim 'stuff', you'll need to construct/build some of the items. He'll show you how, and most of the items required are easy to find for minimal additional cost.
However, some of us hate having to do any 'arts and crafts' at any price. As for me, I've never found it to be a big deal one way or the other.
You should be informed tho.
2.) You didn't ask about what I feel is the absolute most important question, especially here.
Simply, these are teachings for an "act". Ask yourself...are you willing to put in the diligence it will take to construct and learn these techniques?
It'll take work...and some frustration, but if you complete everything and come out with a smooth, professional presentation. You WILL impress people and that's a great thing!
When achieved, then the ~$200.00 cost isn't an issue. It should be viewed as an investment that will garner many times that in return for you.
If you want to 'step up' a level or two, this could be the place to start.
If you're looking for something to work right out of the box, think long and hard prior to acting.
Best wishes...

Hey "Seanpark"
Glad that our chat helps, at least a little ;-)
I reviewed the product page for 'SSS (2015)' again and, for the life of me, I don't see where it refers to "download only" for the gimmick.
Obviously, if there is some specialty gimmick e.g. tubing, it cannot be downloaded.
I'm pretty up to speed with technology stuff, but I don't have that transporter capability yet..."beam me up, Scotty" (old Star Trek reference from days (years) long ago).
The tubing is shipped to you.
The instructional video is available as an online instructional video.
Maybe you can 'cut and paste' the offending statements and attach the page link for reference.
Yes, you will have to construct your SSS utility. Directly from the product page, it states:

http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/S19851


"Assembly is required with S.S.S. As well as a close up Pad and 2 extra materials that are easily ascertainable at any gas station/hardware store/amazon/google"

The reviews for SSS have been "meh" at best. I agree...there are better options for smoke available here at PM, but they do cost more. Much more in some cases.
Speaking of smoke 'generators', why not just use one of the smoke products that you already own, order one of Shin Lim's performance videos and make your own 'dream act'. Maybe even save a few bucks in the process.
For example - 'Shin Lim LIVE' $29.95

http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/2876

Card flourishes galore and really challenging, in my opinion. Check out the reviews.
Arguably, Shin's performance style with his card flourishes, and now, smoke, is some of the most enchanting magic seen. I'm certainly impressed, and maybe a tiny bit envious ;-)
In closing, although you've mentioned that you've decided to purchase this product, maybe reconsider using the 'smoke stuff' that you already have to make a 'seanpark dream act'.
I'd like to see that!!!
Remember, to simplify with an analogy, we could give 5 magicians a thumb tip and a silk to vanish. Pretty simple eh? Of course it is.
However, I guarantee you that after watching each performance, we could easily rate them 1 to 5 as to who was 'better'.
All have the same tools...thus, the actual trick is of smaller importance when compared to the ability of the performer.
Make your performance top shelf from this perspective and I'll pay to see you!
Best wishes...

MagicYoda,

Thank you very much for a comprehensive answer. Appreciate your time going over my questions. I am very convinced with your opinions which made me decide to purchase this product.

One last question though, I don't think you have answered my Q #2. I absolutely agree that the smoke adds 'wow factor' to any trick. Then what is "download only" smoke? Is the smoke machine to be "built"? I already own a couple of smoke products (Smoke by Alan Rorrison, and Pure Smoke) and really don't understand how smoke device/gimmick can be "download only".

Thank you

wow good insight Magic yoda , thanks....

Hi MagicYoda,

Thank you again for your answers. Same thanks to mwolfire as well.

To answer MagicYoda on the reference to "download only" I am actually referring to the dream act product page itself where it reads "• Bonus: SSS 2015 Edition is included FREE (download only)".

I am also a subscriber of PenguinMagic Live so I do own Shin Lim Live, loved it. Just wanted to make sure "The Dream Act" was nothing less than the PenguinMagic lecture.

Thanks

Should be worth every penny 👍🏻

The package comes with the gimmick needed to make the smoke (this is manufactured and not possible to make yourself). The download part is the instructional video for SSS that is available on-line with your purchase.