Recommendations for a good 2K smoke machine

[dandanthelightingman]

Can anyone advise me on choosing a new smoke machine please?

 

My old ZR33 has just died; too many faults to be worth fixing, rusty and ugly, and inconveniently heavy!

 

I am looking for a professional standard machine: an easy one-man lift, separate bottle. Reliability for a good lifespan, DMX control, no stupid self-cleaning phases that kick in without being asked. Don't need a hanging yoke, not bothered about cooler units, doesn't need a flightcase (being used in a clean venue with equipment storage.

 

I am interested in the Look Solutions Viper NT and 2.6: How does the NT compare in maximum output with a ZR? Would I need the 2.4 to match it?

I am also looking at the Smoke Factory Captain D and Data II. (The additional fan output on the data may swing it!)

 

Does anyone have strong endorsements or warnings about these machines? I have found my Look Solutions Unique 2.1 to be a very reliable machine, if looked after properly.

 

I have had nothing but bad experiences with Magnums; the ZR series have been good, but are big and awkward

 

The venue is 3,000 capacity, I use a Unique 2.1 for general haze, hiring in a DF50 for rock and roll gigs; I need the smoker for boxing/cagefighting entrances, under the drum riser for music events, and occasional random theatrical effects.

 

Thanks in advance for any help!

[gareth]

You've probably already worked this out anyway, being an ex-ZR33 owner - but I'd recommend avoiding Jem for your new machine. They're reasonably good machines while they continue to work, but as soon as they start to develop faults you'll be plagued with problems forever more, and Jem's customer service in terms of spares and maintenance leaves a lot to be desired.

 

Could be worth having a look at Hazebase machines - we have a couple of their haze machines, and two of their little battery-powered hand-held smoke guns, and while we haven't had them particularly long they're doing well so far.