Question about a Spa Bubbler

[mshumack]

My owner-built IG gunite pool has a spillover spa with a center bubbler. I am trying to configure the bubbler for the best effect.

How are these things typically set up?
Mine uses a 1-1/2 inch PVC pipe with a male-threaded pool return fitting (using one inch opening) at the top. I tried setting the height of the pipe to 6 inches below the water surface but this makes the spa water splash all over. I tried setting the top of pipe even with spa water level and this shoots water about ten feet in the air. Next I tried drilling a hole at the bottom of pipe, to bypass some water, and setting top to just below water level - now I only get a small bubbler action.
Am I getting close? Perhaps a smaller hole at the bottom. I was thinking I could cut a 4 inch long piece of PVC lenght wise, slide it over the PVC ipe and then rotate it to closer/open the bypass hole.
How is every one else doing it?
Does anyone sell a fiting that would have a fountain (sprinkler) effect rather than a solid stream?
Thanks.

[cwstnsko]

I have a bubbler like you describe in the shelf/step area. I cheat by using a diverter valve in the plumbing to allow me to control how much flow heads to the bubbler. I find it works best with the nozzle an inch or so below the surface so it draws more water into the stream.

[mshumack]

Thanks for the quick reply.
So the top of your bubbler is 1 inch below the surface. Does your's use a pool return fitting (i.e Hayward eyball style) at the top? If so, what size is the opening?