DianSheng Core-Magnets Corner Turning Octahedron (CTO)

DianSheng Core-Magnets Corner Turning Octahedron (CTO)

An octahedron from DianSheng that looks like an FTO but works in a completely different way. The DianSheng Core-Magnets Corner Turning Octahedron (CTO) turns around its corners, not around its faces. Each move shifts a different set of pieces than on the FTO, so you have to learn a different solving logic. This version has magnets in the pieces and magnets in the core (Ball-Core). Outside Poland, the same model is also sold as the DianSheng Galaxy CTO.

How it turns

According to reviews, the CTO turns smoothly and fairly fast. The magnets give a clear "click" on every move and help the layer settle into place on its own. The magnet strength is rather moderate, so the puzzle shouldn't feel heavy or overly snappy. The core magnets pull the corners towards the centre. As a result, the puzzle holds together more stably and is easier to control during faster turning. Such an unusual shape mod rarely turns well, and according to early user feedback, the CTO does well in this respect.

Adjustment

Spring compression can be set to 6 levels. This lets you make the CTO looser and faster, or tighter and more controllable. An adjustment tool is included.

Magnetic or non-magnetic?

DianSheng also makes a non-magnetic CTO. The non-magnetic version is cheaper and lighter, but the moves don't settle on their own and you need to align the layers more precisely. The Core-Magnets version holds the layer positions better, so it is more comfortable if you want to solve it regularly and faster, not just keep it on a shelf.

Who is it for?

For people who already know the 3x3 cube, Skewb or FTO and are looking for a new puzzle with a different way of turning. The CTO is also a great choice for shape mod collectors. For a first puzzle, a classic 3x3 cube is a better pick, but a child who can already solve it and is looking for a new challenge will learn a lot from the CTO.

Specifications

• Type: Corner Turning Octahedron (CTO), an octahedron that turns around its corners
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Magnets: magnets in the pieces and magnets in the core (Ball-Core)
• Adjustment: 6 spring compression levels, tool included
• Finish: glossy
• Size: approx. 66 mm
• Dimensions: 63 x 61.6 x 61 mm
• Weight: 76 g
• Colour versions: Black, Primary, Transparent