Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $549
High-end/Boutique
$200
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unveiling the Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats. With an intriguing blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, this set is designed to deliver unparalleled performance to drummers of all genres. The sandblasted surface, distinct hammering techniques, and a purposeful weight difference between the top and bottom cymbals coalesce to create a distinctively crispy and articulate sound.
Crafted to perfection, these hi-hats produce a vintage sound and look, while maintaining a modern transparent sound and clarity. They are versatile and expressive, ranging from a silent whispering sound to a full sonic statement. Their diverse tonal range and character make them an excellent choice for a wide array of musical styles. The Meinl Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-Hats are a signature set of Benny Greb, a renowned German drummer who describes them as the most musical hi-hat he has ever heard.
The unique sandblasted finish not only gives these cymbals a dark, low-pitched sound but also a warm, smooth feel. Their dark tone, coupled with the perfect warmth, seamlessly blends into any mix, making them a must-have for drummers seeking to add a unique texture to their sound.
Key Features:
- Easy-playing 14" hi-hats with a dark tone suitable for jazz, funk, fusion, and more.
- Sandblasted B20 bronze construction for a dark and shimmering tone that's dry and not overly loud.
- Short sustain and dark character enhance stick definition and attack.
- Benny Greb Signature hi-hat.
- Articulate overall sound due to sandblasted surface, various hammer techniques, and noticeable weight difference between top and bottom cymbals.
Product specs
| Type | Hi-hat Pair |
| Size | 14" |
| Finish | Sandblasted |
| Weight | Medium Thin Top/Medium Thin Bottom |
| Material | B20 |
| Sound | Dark |
| Volume | Low to Medium |
| Sustain | Short |
| Pitch | Low |
| Bell Size | Small |
FAQs
-
What kind of sound can I expect from the Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats?
-
The Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats offer a dark, low-pitched sound with a short sustain, making them ideal for genres that require a controlled, nuanced hi-hat tone.
-
Are the Meinl Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, these hi-hats are suitable for live performances, particularly in settings where a low to medium volume is desired, such as jazz or acoustic gigs.
-
What is the finish of the Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats and how does it affect the sound?
-
The sandblasted finish on these hi-hats contributes to their dark tonal characteristics and helps produce a focused, controlled sound.
-
What material are the Meinl Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats made from?
-
These hi-hats are made from B20 bronze, which is known for its rich, complex sound and durability.
-
Are the Meinl Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats suitable for studio recording?
-
Yes, the Meinl Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats are well-suited for studio recording due to their controlled, dark sound and short sustain, which helps minimize bleed in a recording environment.
Videos
MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos
Meinl Cymbals B14SAH Byzance 14" Vintage Sand Hihat
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptionally versatile, fits styles from math rock to pop-ballads
-
Distinct dry and responsive sound without sounding 'choked'
-
Warm, buttery feel with noticeable sound variation from subtle playing changes
-
Unique sandblast finish with a beautiful vintage aesthetic
-
Excellent stick definition and dynamic range
-
Perfect for recording and sitting well in live band mixes
-
Highly recommended for varied musical environments, including modern and vintage styles
-
Consistent build quality compared to other brands
-
Unique pairing of finishes: thinner dry on top, thicker traditional on bottom
-
Acclaimed by drummers and widely recommended by professionals
CONS
-
Top hat prone to developing a 'keyhole' over time
-
May require micing in loud, distorted guitar settings
-
Perceived as more delicate, not ideal for heavy bashing
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Nameless Ghoul is listed on the MEINL Cymbals website as using the Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats.
These are the hi-hats Matt used in his Madness of Matt lesson series on his YouTube channel. The descriptions of the videos state that he used the top cymbal of the Sand Hats and the top cymbal of the Byzance Traditional Hi-Hats (no mention of which particular kind), but this couldn't be confirmed from the video and it sounds like they are just Sand Hats.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Meinl 14" Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-hats, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Meinl Hi-hat Cymbals
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Hi-hat Cymbals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
mpaulmitchellGear IQ 121
-