Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (11)
$409.95
Guitar Center
4.5 (86)
$409.95
Amazon
4.7 (166)
$409.95 New
$368.96 Used (Like New)
Musician's Friend
5.0 (269)
$409.95
zZounds
4.5 (1)
$409.95
Thomann
4.8 (65)
$355.00
Gear4Music
£306.50

Average Price: $401

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "18in A Custom Crash". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The 18in A Custom Crash cymbal is a staple for drummers seeking both sophistication and versatility in their sound. With its radical rotary hammering techniques, this cymbal crafts a soundscape that is both crisp and sweet, layered with rich, dark overtones. Designed in collaboration with legendary drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, it guarantees a natural and full-bodied resonance that effortlessly pierces through any mix, making it an ideal companion for modern music genres.

The A Custom Crash is distinguished by its thin weight, allowing for an immediate response and a fast build-up and decay. This sensitivity empowers drummers to explore a broad spectrum of crashing effects from swift hits to prolonged splashes, all while maintaining a musical complexity that is both engaging and expressive. The cymbal's brilliant finish not only enhances its visual appeal under stage lights, making it shimmer and gleam, but also contributes to its articulate and crisp tonal output.

Perfect for a variety of musical styles ranging from rock and jazz to electronic music, the A Custom Crash offers endless possibilities for creative expression. With its balanced sound profile and ability to adapt to different playing techniques, this cymbal is more than just an instrument—it's an inspiration.

Key Features:

  • Part of Zildjian's renowned A Custom series
  • Utilizes radical rotary hammering techniques
  • Thin weight for immediate response and fast decay
  • Natural, full-bodied sound with rich dark overtones
  • Brilliant finish adds visual and tonal brilliance
  • Versatile enough for a wide range of musical genres

Product specs

Type Crash
Size 18"
Weight Thin
Material B20, Cast Bronze
Sound Medium
Pitch Low/Medium
Balance Blend
Bell Size Medium
Volume General
Sustain Long

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal offers a natural and bright sound with great overtones. It provides a modern and sophisticated tone, making it suitable for various music genres.

Is the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal is well-suited for rock music due to its medium sound and long sustain, which can cut through a mix effectively.

What material is the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal made from?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal is crafted from B20 cast bronze, known for its durability and rich tonal qualities.

How does the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal's thin weight affect its performance?

The thin weight of the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal contributes to its quick response and explosive attack, ideal for dynamic playing styles.

What is the sustain like on the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal features a long sustain, allowing for a full-bodied sound that lingers after each strike, enhancing its presence in live and studio settings.

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal (A20516-1111612B) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal (A20516-1111612B)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1339g (A20516-1051519E) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1339g (A20516-1051519E)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1385g (A20516-1060617G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1385g (A20516-1060617G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for 18" A Custom Crash - A20516 by Avedis Zildjian Company

18" A Custom Crash - A20516

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1320g (A20516-1022423E) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1320g (A20516-1022423E)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 18in A Custom Crash.

Comparisons

  • A Custom Projection Crash is heavier and provides more cut than the regular A Custom, making it suitable for louder settings.

    Source
  • The A Custom Medium Crash is the heaviest among A Custom crashes, contrasting with the Fast version, which is extra thin with a small bell.

    Source
  • The 18" A Custom pairs well with a 20" Byzance Traditional Medium for clear separation in recorded mixes.

    Source
  • The A Custom Crash, despite its brilliant finish, is slightly darker in pitch compared to Zildjian A series due to its lack of ridges and finishing material removal.

    Source
  • The 20" A Custom Crash may not be ideal for metalcore due to its lower pitch and perceived volume; thicker or brighter options like Z Custom re-issues or Paiste 2002 are recommended.

    Source

User experience

  • Regular A Custom crashes are considered thin and may flex under sticks, which can affect timing for drummers used to thicker cymbals.

    Source
  • Owners suggest a 2" size difference in pairing cymbals to achieve better audible separation in performances.

    Source
  • Multiple owners report that consistent breakage is often due to technique or stand setup rather than inherent cymbal faults, emphasizing the importance of proper playing style.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • A Custom crashes are thinner than Zildjian A series, with a wider lathing and brilliant finish that affects tonal brightness and recording quality.

    Source

Other

  • Zildjian cymbals have significant weight variations, and exact weights are often found on Reverb, as Zildjian's website lacks this information.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • An 18" K Special Dry or K Dark Thin crash can complement the A Custom if aiming for a non-metalcore sound.

    Source
  • For louder music genres, users recommend considering B8-B15 models like Meinl Pure Alloy or Paiste Rude for their inherently brighter tones.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users suggest loosening the wing nut to allow the cymbal to move freely, preventing cracks by reducing tension and promoting a glancing blow striking technique.

    Source

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