Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats

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$94.83 to $99.99 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (4)

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1 community setup

1 wishlisted

16 saved

Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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4.0 (7)

$99.99

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4.5 (25)

$99.99

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4.7 (225)

$99.99

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5.0 (7)

$94.83 19 available New

$39.98 13 available Used

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4.0 (78)

$99.99

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$94.99

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4.4 (137)

$96.00

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£85.60

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Average Price: $91

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the Hi-hat Cymbals category, Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Discover the perfect entry point into the world of drumming with the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats. These cymbals are crafted from durable MS63 brass alloy, offering a strong mix of resilience and sound clarity. Designed with the aspiring drummer in mind, they deliver a warm, articulate tone that enhances your playing experience, whether you're jamming in your garage or performing on stage. The hi-hats' medium weight ensures a balanced response, producing a crisp "chick" sound when played closed and a smooth, sustaining shimmer when open.

Ideal for beginners, the HCS series not only meets the tonal needs of various music styles, from jazz to rock, but also withstands the rigors of practice and performance. The brilliant finish and meticulous design make these cymbals a visually striking addition to any drum kit, while their affordability ensures you won't break the bank. Get ready to explore the dynamic world of rhythm and sound with a pair of hi-hats that promise both quality and versatility.

Key Features:

Made from durable MS63 brass alloy
Medium weight for balanced performance
Crisp "chick" sound with smooth open shimmer
Versatile for various music styles
Ideal for beginners and intermediate players
Affordable entry into quality cymbal craftsmanship

Product specs

Type	Hi-hat
Size	14"
Finish	Traditional
Weight	Medium
Material	MS63 Brass Alloy
Sound	Warm, Harmonical, Mid-bright
Volume	Medium to Low
Sustain	Medium to Short
Pitch	Low-Mid

FAQs

What material are the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats made from?: The Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats are made from MS63 brass alloy, which contributes to their warm, harmonical sound with a mid-bright tone.
Are the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats are well-suited for beginners due to their affordable price point and versatile sound, making them a great choice for learning and practicing.
How would you describe the sound of the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats?: The Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats produce a warm, harmonical sound with a medium to low volume and a low-mid pitch, making them suitable for various musical styles.
What is the finish of the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats?: The Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats feature a traditional finish, which enhances their classic appearance and contributes to their overall sound characteristics.
What is the sustain like on the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats?: The sustain of the Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats is medium to short, providing a balanced response that is ideal for both rhythmic and dynamic playing styles.

Videos

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MEINL Cymbals

MEINL HCS - COMPLETE CYMBAL SET-UP

MEINL Cymbals

Meinl HCS Hihat 14" Splash 10" y Crash 14" Sonido y Reseña.

David Adrián

HCS & HCS Bronze 14" Hats Morph Demo

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Reviews

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PROS

Affordable option with good value for beginner and intermediate drummers
Bright, crisp sound with a defined "chic" and "swish"
High-quality finish with a gold shine adds visual appeal
Durable and sturdy, suitable for live performances
Defined, clear sound both open and closed; not muddy
Great for hobbyists or those returning to drumming after a long hiatus
Highly recommended for practice sets or as an entry-level option
Backed by a reliable 2-year warranty for peace of mind

CONS

Lacks the warmth and depth of higher-end B20 bronze cymbals
May not satisfy drummers seeking complex, high-end cymbal tones

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Meinl 14" HCS Hi-Hats.

Comparisons

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Meinl HCS brass cymbals are often unfavorably compared to bronze alternatives like Sabian AAX, which offer more musical overtones and better mix integration.
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HCS cymbals are specifically highlighted as superior to other budget options like Zildjian ZBTs and Sabian SBR in certain user opinions.
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Many users transitioning from Meinl HCS hi-hats to Zildjian K series (Custom Special Dry, K Sweet) report significant improvements in sound quality and versatility.
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Sabian XSR hi-hats are highlighted as a substantial upgrade from Meinl HCS, offering better definition and less "tinny" sound despite being part of a lower-end series.
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SR2 Thin hats are a budget-friendly alternative to expensive models, offering a sound similar to K Light hats if chosen carefully.
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User experience

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Some owners find the HCS hi-hats satisfactory for practice and casual playing, noting that their "chick" sound when closed is acceptable.
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Owners transitioning from electric to acoustic drums may not initially perceive the sonic limitations of HCS cymbals compared to higher-end models.
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Features and functionality

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The HCS series is noted for having a shorter sustain, which can be beneficial for accentuating crashes in certain playing contexts.
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Meinl HCS hi-hats are frequently criticized for having a sound akin to "hitting a ball of aluminum foil," indicating a lack of desired tonal quality.
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Use cases and applications

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HCS cymbals are suggested for loud, casual settings where their bright, cutting sound can be advantageous amidst noise.
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Meinl HCS hi-hats are deemed more suitable for practice or secondary kits, especially where sound quality is not a primary concern.
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Value and pricing

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Zildjian New Beats and Quick Beats are recommended as budget-friendly replacements, often found second-hand for as low as $180, providing better sound and versatility.
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Vintage thin A Zildjian hi-hats from the 50s/60s can offer exceptional value, rivaling modern cymbals at a fraction of the cost.
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