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Choose the Machine and Fluid
Creating even haze begins with the right machine and fluid for the space. Evaluate the room’s dimensions, ceiling height and desired atmosphere. A small room may need only one compact hazer, while a large venue or outdoor stage may require a higher-output machine or multiple units.
For a 30' × 50' theater with 30-foot ceilings, Vince recommends placing one Mystic Mini on each side of the stage at ground level. The two machines create coverage from opposite directions and help establish a balanced atmosphere.
Fluid density determines how the finished haze will look:
• Nebulous: A thin-density, water-based haze that highlights beams and lasers while maintaining good visibility.
• Obscure: A thicker water-based haze that produces brighter beams, sharper lasers and a more textured atmosphere.
Both fluids are designed for Mystic Series haze generators. When changing fluids, select the corresponding fluid setting or preset on the machine. This adjusts its heating and pumping operation for the chosen formula.
Position Hazers Near the Floor
Water-based haze exits the machine warmer than the surrounding air, causing it to rise. Placing the hazer near the floor gives the effect more room to disperse as it travels upward and helps create more even coverage.
Elevating the machine can also allow haze to circulate back through its fan, contributing to residue buildup. Ground placement is therefore the best starting point whenever the venue allows it.
A high-mounted hazer can still provide supplementary coverage in a large room or arena. When mounting a unit overhead, use a quality fan to direct its output downward and into the desired area.
Before operating atmospheric effects, identify smoke detectors and follow the venue’s rules for testing and use.
Account for Outdoor Conditions
Outdoor haze is difficult to control because wind and weather can overpower the machine’s output. Plan on using a larger hazer, multiple machines or both.
Observe the wind before positioning the equipment. If it is moving from left to right across the stage, place the hazers on the left and allow the wind to carry the effect through the performance area. Positioning equipment downwind may cause the haze to leave the stage before it becomes useful.
Outdoor conditions can change throughout an event, so be prepared to adjust machine placement and output as the wind shifts.
Balance Haze and Fan Output
Most professional hazers provide separate controls for haze output and fan speed. The relationship between these settings determines how much haze is produced and how quickly it spreads.
Begin by pre-hazing the venue. Run the machines at 100% haze and fan output before the event to create an even base layer. The haze interacts with the room’s humidity and existing atmosphere, building the coverage needed for a consistent effect.
Once the space is filled, reduce the haze output to maintain that base layer. Continuing at full output indoors can create visibility problems and an overly cloudy appearance.
A useful starting point for maintenance is:
• Haze output: 30–40%
• Fan output: 100%
• Outdoor or windy conditions: Increase haze output as needed
Avoid turning the haze completely off whenever possible. Maintaining a lower continuous output is generally more effective than allowing the haze to disappear and repeatedly rebuilding the atmosphere from scratch.
Every venue behaves differently. Humidity, airflow, HVAC operation, ceiling height and audience movement can all affect density and hang time. Start with the recommended settings, observe the room and make small adjustments until the haze looks even without compromising visibility.
For additional machine and fluid options, explore the Master FX haze collection.
