Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$579.95
Guitar Center
5.0 (48)
$579.95
Amazon
3.8 (35)
$538.80 New
$521.96 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (17)
$360.25 New
$185.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (144)
$579.95
Thomann
4.8 (16)
$515.00 $499.00 $16.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£473.00

Average Price: $475

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Zildjian 14" A Custom 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

Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats bring a harmonious blend of crispness and subtlety, delivering a tone that's as colorful as it is clean. With a delicate stick sound and a clear 'chick', these cymbals are an asset to any drum set, cutting through even the densest mix.

Crafted by Zildjian, a brand that carries a legacy spanning over 380 years, these cymbals are steeped in tradition while embracing innovation. Developed with the help of drumming legend Vinnie Colaiuta, these hi-hats are created using radical rotary hammering techniques, demonstrating Zildjian's commitment to pushing the boundaries of cymbal production.

The result is a refined version of the classic Zildjian sound, a sophisticated middle ground that's neither too dark nor too bright, perfect for modern music. With a striking brilliant finish and thin weights, they offer a sweet, sophisticated sound that's sure to enchant both performers and listeners alike.

Key Features:

  • Vibrant, crisp sound with a colorful tonal range
  • Delicate stick sound and clear 'chick'
  • Developed with the assistance of Vinnie Colaiuta
  • Utilizes radical rotary hammering techniques
  • Thin weights and a brilliant finish for a sweet, sophisticated sound
  • A Custom Series, type: Hi-hat Pair, size: 14"
  • Medium Thin top, Medium bottom weight.
  • Zildjian secret alloy comprised of 80% copper, 20% tin, and traces of silver
  • A refined version of the classic Zildjian sound, perfect for modern music.

Product specs

Type Hi-hats
Size 14"
Finish Brilliant
Top Weight Medium Thin
Bottom Weight Medium
Material B20, Cast Bronze
Sound Solid Chick
Volume General
Sustain Medium
Pitch Medium
Balance Blend
Bell Size Small

FAQs

What type of music are Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats best suited for?

The Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats are versatile and well-suited for a wide range of music genres, including rock, pop, and jazz, due to their bright, crisp sound and quick response.

What is the sound characteristic of the Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats?

These hi-hats offer a bright and crisp sound with a solid "chick" when closed, making them ideal for both live and studio settings.

What material are the Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats made from?

They are crafted from B20 cast bronze, consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin, known for producing a rich, full-bodied sound.

How does the finish of the Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats affect their sound?

The brilliant finish of these hi-hats enhances their bright, shimmering sound, adding a polished look and sonic clarity.

Are the Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats suitable for recording sessions?

Yes, these hi-hats are suitable for recording due to their balanced blend and medium sustain, providing a clear and articulate sound in studio environments.

Peter Lewis

Peter Lewis

Zildjian 14" A Custom MasterSound Hi Hats

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 14" A Custom MasterSound Hi Hats by Peter Lewis

Zildjian 14" A Custom MasterSound Hi Hats

Peter Lewis

Peter Lewis

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat Cymbals (A20510-1061711A) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat Cymbals (A20510-1061711A)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hats - 1010g/1196g by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hats - 1010g/1196g

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - 14" A Custom HiHats by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 14" A Custom HiHats

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Used Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat Cymbals - 971/1212g (UA20510-1101615A) by Memphis Drum Shop

Used Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat Cymbals - 971/1212g (UA20510-1101615A)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for 14" A Custom HiHat (Pair) - A20510 by Avedis Zildjian Company

14" A Custom HiHat (Pair) - A20510

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat by Beatit TV

Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hat

Beatit TV

Beatit TV

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats - 1071/1211g (A20510-1012022B) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats - 1071/1211g (A20510-1012022B)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Used Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hats - 1162g/1270g by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Used Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi Hats - 1162g/1270g

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Reviews

PROS

  • Bright, musical sound that cuts through the mix without being harsh

  • Versatile for multiple genres including rock, jazz, funk, and acoustic

  • Great "chick" sound, defined and responsive

  • Ages well, improving in sound quality over time

  • Reflective, glossy finish that adds visual appeal

  • Comparable to higher-priced cymbals, offering excellent value

  • Durable coating that resists wear with proper maintenance

  • Consistent sound quality across the A series

  • Excellent projection and articulation in live settings

  • Smooth and warm sound, suitable for recordings

CONS

  • Prone to visible fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent cleaning

  • Not ideal for hard rock or heavy metal due to lower volume

  • Some users found the open sound less appealing

  • Occasional issues with shipping and packaging leading to damage

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The scalloped or rippled bottom edge can lead to a louder, brighter sound that might not balance well with certain kits.

    Source
  • Mastersound hi-hats offer articulate and crisp sound due to quick air escape, though they lack versatility in flipping for different sounds.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners often compare these to Zildjian New Beats, noting that New Beats offer more versatility and a more traditional sound, while the A Custom Mastersounds are louder and brighter.

    Source
  • The quick beat top is identical to the new beat top, allowing for potential mix-and-match with other hi-hat bottoms for varied sound options.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • These hi-hats are noted to perform well in live settings, especially for heavier musical styles due to their bright, cutting sound.

    Source
  • Quick Beat hi-hats are heavier, sharing similarities with New Beats, making them suitable for heavier music styles like metal.

    Source
  • Particularly suited for hard rock/metal players transitioning from versatile cymbals like K Sweets.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the acoustic sound to be hollow or weird due to the rippled edge, preferring them for recording rather than live play.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the dark series hi-hats for heavier tones, indicating a preference shift as experience grows.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning to brighter hi-hats notice alignment with genres like hard rock, enhancing their musical style.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While $200 is a decent price, it's possible to find these hi-hats for as low as $150-$175 with some searching.

    Source
  • Testing in-store is recommended as online reviews and videos may not fully capture the nuances of each hi-hat's sound.

    Source
  • Used sets have been bought for $140-$150, providing a solid return on investment even if resold.

    Source
  • Buying at a fair price allows risk-free experimentation with sound, as resale value is stable.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 13 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
predator6912

perfect in every which way nothing beats it

they are hands down the best hi-hats on the market i would recommend them to anyone

smatt11

for real

N

hi hat

great hi hat for virtually everything super awesome

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Joe Pelletier uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Joe Pelletier

Drummer

Peeling Flesh

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Joe shows his 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

See how Ralph Rolle uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Ralph Rolle

Drummer

CHIC

...
Verified via Zildjian

Ralph Rolle is listed on Zildjian's official website as using Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats.

See how Omar Gongora uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Omar Gongora

Drummer

Kinky

...
Verified via Instagram

Omar Gongora uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats, as shown in his Instagram post during a soundcheck for the Manzanillo Live Festival 2017.

See how Cal Green uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Cal Green

Drummer

Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls

...
Verified via Photo

Callum can be seen using an a custom hi hat pair

See how Barrie James Wilson uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Barrie James Wilson

Drummer

Procol Harum

...
Verified via Procolharum

Drummer and Procol fan Keith Necessary sends us (October 2004) the following fascinating analysis and probable chronology of BJ's drum set-up, based on photographic evidence:

"Drums No. 977P – Ludwig 12” x 24” bass drum in Black Oyster Pearl (Scottish style bass drum) No. 400 – Ludwig 5” x 14” Supra-phonic snare drum in Chrome No. 944P – Ludwig 9” x 13” mounted tom tom in Black Oyster Pearl No. 948P – Ludwig 14” x 14” floor tom in Black Oyster Pearl (BJ omits this drum when stage setup is tight) No. 950P – Ludwig 16” x 16” floor tom in Black Oyster Pearl

Hardware No. 4401 - Rogers Swiv-o-matic hi-hat pedal No. 1286 – Ludwig Speed King bass drum pedal with hard felt beater No. 1402 – Ludwig Atlas Line cymbal stand (three of them) No. 1363 – Ludwig Classic Line snare drum stand No. 1026-1 – Ludwig Atlas drum and tympani stool with round seat No. 782-1 – Ludwig single tom tom holder (mounted off the left side of the bass drum)

Cymbals (from BJ’s left to right) 14” Zildjian hi-hats (thin top, medium-heavy bottom) on hi-hat stand 20” Zildjian medium crash 22” Zildjian medium heavy ride with sizzles

In all its incarnations this is one of the kits BJ had the longest, having got it kit around 1964-1965 and used it when he was in The Paramounts."

See how Peter Vriones uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Peter Vriones

Drummer

Keep Flying

...
Verified via Instagram

Peter can be seen using an a custom hi hat pair

See how Josh Fleury uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Josh Fleury

Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram

In this post josh can be seen playing drums. Josh can be seen playing a Zildjian a custom hi hat pair

See how Marc Danzeisen uses Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats

Marc Danzeisen

Drummer

Riverdogs

...
Verified via Photo

Marc has been using Zildjian for years, along with his 14" A-Custom 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 Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hats, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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jackdengls7

jackdengls7

Gear IQ 2270

leonharden

leonharden

Gear IQ 173

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