How to Create the Perfect Haze
We’ve all been there: you’re setting up for an important event or production, and no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to get the haze right. Achieving the perfect haze can be a daunting task, but thanks to the fx specialists at Master FX, your troubles are over.
Our team of experts put together this quick-start guide on the science and craft of haze by breaking it down into three essential categories:
- Machine and Fluid Selection
- Haze Machine Placement
- Haze Machine Settings
Are you ready to say goodbye to haze-related headaches?
Let’s dive in.
Machine and Fluid Selection
Selecting the right machine and fluid is the first step to achieving the perfect haze. Start by evaluating the space you are trying to fill; is it small, is it large, is it indoors or outdoors? The output capabilities of your machine will greatly impact the speed at which the room fills and the ability to maintain the haze.
Example:
- If you were trying to fill a 30x50ft stage with 30ft ceilings, 2 Mystic Minis on either side of the stage would do the trick.
- If you were trying to fill a 900,000sq ft stadium, 4x Mystic 2’s would handle the job.
Once you’ve selected your machine, it’s time to pair it with the proper fluid. Using the incorrect fluid in your hazer is like brewing coffee with orange juice; it will work, but not very well! The secret lies in the fluid’s viscosity, the ingredients, and how it reacts with your machine’s heater. Master FX engineers have worked exceptionally hard on dialing in the Mystic Series heater’s settings to optimally vaporize Nebulous and Obscure haze fluid. The all new Mystic 2 and Mystic Mini are equipped with a fluid selection setting that automatically adjusts the heater to the optimal temperature. Additionally, Master FX manufactures a haze fluid for every machine on the market. If you’re unsure of what fluid to use in your machine, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re happy to help.
Tip: If you’re experiencing moisture at the output of your haze machine, it could be the result of under-vaporization. If you’re experiencing unpleasant odors in your haze, it could be the result of over-vaporization, and the results could be hazardous to breathe. Always make sure you’re using the correct fluid for your machine!
Bonus Tip: The new Mystic 2 and Mystic Mini are equipped with a reminder to clean your machine’s heater every 100 hours, this is essential to maintaining optimal performance and machine longevity. Failure to do so may cause a lack of performance and unpleasant odors.
Haze Machine Placement
Is all of your haze on hanging one side of the stage and drifting into the abyss? The key to solving this issue is proper hazer placement. Haze rises, so placing your machine on the ground is paramount. Mounting a hazer in the rafters is helpful for supplemental coverage, but we don’t recommend it as the primary location. Additionally, you can utilize the airflow in your environment to assist in haze dispersion.
- Outdoors: Why fight the wind when you can use it to your advantage? Direct the haze with the wind to cover your stage evenly.
- Indoors: Does your venue have an HVAC system? Use it! Determine the airflow direction and position your hazer accordingly. Keep it away from return ducts but in line with the airflow.
Haze Machine Settings
Are you getting the most out of your haze machine? Understanding its capabilities and settings are crucial to creating an even canvas of haze. Below are a few steps to get started.
- 30 mins before your event begins, start “pre-hazing” your space. Crank up the hazer to its maximum haze output and fan speed. It may not look good initially, but this provides a great base layer to work with.
- Once the room is filled, maintain the haze by using a lower haze output and a higher fan speed to keep your atmosphere consistent.
Example:
- If you’re maintaining haze with the Mystic 2, we recommend a fan speed of 60-100% and a haze output of 10-40%. (check out this video on the Mystic 2 filling and maintaining the United Center in Chicago)
- If you’re maintaining haze with the Mystic Mini, we recommend a fan speed of 100% and a haze output of 10-40%.
Tip: The higher the fan speed, the smaller the haze particle size – and a more even canvas.
Now that you’ve learned the secrets to achieving the perfect haze, are you ready to take control of your atmosphere? Keep in mind, the factors discussed in this blog post may differ between machines and environments, but these tips provide a solid baseline to get you started. By selecting the right machine and fluid, placing your hazer strategically, and optimizing your haze machine settings, you can say goodbye to your haze-related frustrations for good. It’s time to take control of your atmosphere!
Questions? Contact us! We’re always happy to help.
877-578-6577
cover photo: Volt Lites / Odesza “The Last Goodbye Tour / photo courtesy of Julian Bajsel
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