# Instrument of Illusions *Wondrous item, common* ![](/Rules/Source/items/img/instrument-of-illusions.webp#right) While you are playing this [musical instrument](/Rules/Source/items/musical-instrument-xphb.md), you can take a [Magic](/Rules/Source/actions.md#Magic) action to create harmless, illusory visual effects within a 5-foot [Emanation](/Rules/Source/variant-rules/emanation-area-of-effect-xphb.md) originating from the instrument. If you are a Bard, the size of the [Emanation](/Rules/Source/variant-rules/emanation-area-of-effect-xphb.md) increases to 15 feet. Sample visual effects include luminous musical notes, a spectral dancer, butterflies, and gently falling snow. The magical effects have neither substance nor sound, and they are obviously illusory. The effects end when you stop playing. *Source: Dungeon Master's Guide (2024) p. 271*