When interpreted by the [[Regret Demon]] a full depiction of the device caused instant near-lethal damage to [[Danny]], which was only undone by threatening the [[Regret Demon]] with activation of the device. This depiction was then reinterpreted by [[Cristina Thompson]] while inebriated to create a crude sketch of a mechanical device which appears to consist of a large number of sharp serrated blades, cogs and pipes.
[[File:Soulreader.jpg|left|thumb|Cristina Thompson's sketch of the Soul Reader in its true form.]]
When activated, the device creates an interface between the user and a target soul, whether its physical form is alive or dead. Apparently considered to be a monstrous creation by an extinguished [[Sentient Flame]] which was interrogated by [[Cristina Thompson]], the device apparently can cause significant pain to the soul being interrogated, and will force the soul to divulge information whether it wants to or not. Normal human souls do not appear to experience any discomfort when interrogated by the device.