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Average Price: $510

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Description

Crafted with precision and passion, the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China cymbal embodies the essence of traditional Turkish cymbal-making, honed over decades by master craftsman Agop Tomurcuk. This cymbal is more than just an instrument; it's a legacy. Featuring a thin, flanged edge, it delivers a powerful, dark, and atmospheric tone that is both trashy and full-bodied, making it an essential addition for drummers seeking to infuse their sound with deep, rich character.

The Signature China is part of a revered series designed posthumously to reflect Agop's personal preferences noted in his cherished notebook. Its raw lathing and signature green logo pay homage to the founder's personal aesthetic and craftsmanship style. This cymbal isn't just about sound; it's a statement piece that stands out in any setup.

Whether you're playing in a studio or live on stage, the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China will enhance your musical expression with its unique sound profile. Join the ranks of esteemed artists like Scott McPherson and Christopher Bear who trust this cymbal to elevate their performances.

Key Features:

  • Thin, flanged edge for a distinct sound
  • Raw lathing for a dark, atmospheric tone
  • Green logo stamping as a tribute to Agop's legacy
  • Crafted to Agop Tomurcuk's specifications for a timeless sound
  • Used by artists such as Scott McPherson and Christopher Bear

Product specs

Brand Istanbul Agop
Model 18" Signature China
Year 2010s
Categories Splash, China, and Effects Cymbals
Diameter 18"

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China?

The Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China cymbal delivers a dark, trashy sound with a quick decay, making it ideal for adding explosive accents in various musical styles.

Is the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China is well-suited for rock music, providing powerful, cutting accents that can enhance dynamic sections and punctuate transitions in rock compositions.

How does the 18" size of the Istanbul Agop Signature China affect its sound?

The 18" size offers a balanced blend of projection and control, giving it a robust volume while maintaining a manageable sustain, making it versatile for live performances and studio recordings.

What materials are used in the construction of the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China?

The Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze, known for its durability and rich tonal qualities, contributing to its distinctive sound character.

Is the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China cymbal hand-hammered?

Yes, the Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China is hand-hammered, which enhances its unique tonal complexity and provides a more organic, natural sound compared to machine-made cymbals.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1270g (AGCH18-1030422G)

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1270g (AGCH18-1030422G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1270g (AGCH18-1030422G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1046g (AGCH18-1112617L) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1046g (AGCH18-1112617L)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal (AGCH18-1012815P) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal (AGCH18-1012815P)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1209g (AGCH18-1092315L) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul 18" Agop Signature China Cymbal - 1209g (AGCH18-1092315L)

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 Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China.

Build quality

  • Hand-hammered nature of Agop cymbals leads to inconsistencies in thickness and hammering, affecting sound and durability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that heavy hitters may crack Istanbul Agop cymbals quickly due to their thinner build.

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  • The Istanbul Agop china cymbal is praised for its crisp sound and ability to deliver a "rude interruption" in music, ideal for mosh pit cues.

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  • Istanbul Xist 16” China is described as a bright, crash-complementing choice, appealing to those who prefer a more integrated sound with their existing cymbals.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Protect cymbal edges from "flea bites" by angling crashes and keeping cymbals loose on stands to prevent cracks.

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  • Users recommend using foam pads instead of felts, such as Cympads, to reduce sustain and protect the cymbal from excessive wear.

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Comparisons

  • Agop cymbals praised for complex sounds, especially in jazz, while Mehmet is noted for its unique sound and adherence to traditional hand-hammering.

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  • The Istanbul Agop 18" Signature China is favored over the Zildjian Oriental China by some users for its superior "slap" and versatility across genres like folk to metal.

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  • The Zildjian K Custom 17” Dark China is recommended for a darker sound with less sustain, contrasting with the Istanbul Agop's quick, trashy sound.

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  • Users highlight the Zildjian FX Trash China for its trashier overtones, suggesting it as an alternative to the Istanbul Agop for those seeking varied tonal qualities.

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Use cases and applications

  • One owner highlights the Istanbul Agop's capability to excel in both jazz and heavier music styles, emphasizing its adaptability.

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  • The Sabian 19” Holy China, noted for its Chad Smith signature, is praised for its distinct sound, although it might require close miking in studio settings.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Agop is noted for producing a quick, trashy sound with minimal sustain, which is ideal for fast accents in music.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Custom hammering with a ball peen hammer is suggested for reducing excessive ring in cymbals, offering a DIY approach to tonal modification.

    Source

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