Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$449.95
Amazon
4.2 (25)
$449.95 New
$404.96 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$419.95 New
$249.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (15)
$449.95
Thomann
4.9 (11)
$418.00
Gear4Music
£368.50

Average Price: $406

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Zildjian 17" K Custom dark china". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the enigmatic essence of the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China, a masterpiece that marries the raw, gritty attributes of a traditional Chinese cymbal with cutting-edge craftsmanship. This cymbal stands out with its ultra-flanged lip and randomized hammering pattern, crafting a sound that's as uniquely unpredictable as your music. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or bringing the house down live, its explosive attack and nuanced tonal decay make it a versatile choice for musicians across a spectrum of genres, from the deep grooves of jazz to the heavy riffs of metal.

Key Features:

  • Ultra-flanged lip for a distinct, trashy sound
  • Randomized hammering pattern for a drier, more unique character
  • Thin weight through the bow ensuring an explosive attack
  • Versatile sound profile ideal for a wide range of musical genres

Product specs

Available since December 2000

FAQs

What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China?

The Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China is known for its dark, trashy sound with a quick decay, making it ideal for accents and effects in various musical genres.

Is the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China suitable for live performances?

Yes, this cymbal's cutting, dark tones and quick response make it well-suited for live performances, providing dynamic accents that stand out in a mix.

How does the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China compare to other china cymbals?

The Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China offers a unique blend of dark, complex tones and a fast decay, distinguishing it from brighter or longer-sustaining china cymbals.

What type of music is the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China best suited for?

This cymbal excels in rock, jazz, and fusion genres, where its dark, explosive sound can add dramatic accents and textures.

What is the finish of the Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China?

The Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China features a traditional finish, contributing to its warm, complex tonal characteristics.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal (K0970-1010313G)

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal (K0970-1010313G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal (K0970-1010313G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for 17" K Custom Dark China - K0970 by Avedis Zildjian Company

17" K Custom Dark China - K0970

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal - 1059g (K0970-1082621I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal - 1059g (K0970-1082621I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal - 972g (K0970-1061317GG) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal - 972g (K0970-1061317GG)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal (K0970-1073014I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China Cymbal (K0970-1073014I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for USED Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

USED Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China - 1038g by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China - 1038g

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Reviews

PROS

  • Distinctive dark and trashy tone with a quick attack and noticeable wash

  • Versatile for both light and heavy playing, with nuanced responsiveness

  • Durable construction, maintaining sound quality over time

  • Perfect pairing with other K Custom cymbals for a cohesive set

  • Capable of cutting through in a mix without overpowering other elements

  • Unique character that stands out in various musical settings

  • Consistently delivers a rich, warm sound, appreciated by metal and trash players

  • Beautiful craftsmanship with traditional hammering technique

  • Reliable for live gigs and studio recordings, maintaining tone quality

  • Offers a blend of explosive and subtle sound qualities

CONS

  • Some users report cracking over time under heavy use

  • Initial manufacturing defects, such as nicks or aesthetic imperfections

  • May be too loud or cutting for some players' preferences

  • Requires careful maintenance to preserve finish and sound quality

  • Limited compatibility with non-K Custom cymbals, affecting mix balance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 17" K Custom dark china.

User experience

  • Owners mention that the 17" K Custom Dark China is durable even for heavy hitters if struck properly, avoiding direct hits.

    Source
  • Owners note that K Custom Dark cymbals develop richer sound and complexity over time, enhancing their tonal depth with continued use.

    Source
  • Initial adjustment challenges are noted for users transitioning from cheaper, brighter cymbals to K Custom Dark, as they differ significantly in feel and sound.

    Source
  • Owners mention that K Custom Dark cymbals can sound heavier in person than in recordings, potentially influencing purchasing decisions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The K Custom Dark line is frequently compared to high-quality offerings like Byzance Dark and Sabian HHX, highlighting its premium status.

    Source
  • K Custom Dark cymbals are thinner and darker with more sustain, while standard K cymbals offer higher pitch and brighter tones with more stick definition.

    Source
  • K Custom Darks are cast B20 with thin lathing, offering a jazz-friendly tone, while Meinl Classic Custom Darks are brighter B12, heavier, and painted to appear dark.

    Source
  • Paiste Signature crashes are noted for superior craftsmanship compared to Meinl's B12, providing a potential blend with K's and Classic Dark Custom setups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 17" K Custom Dark China is noted for its versatility, suitable for various genres, but lighter music styles are recommended due to its thinner build.

    Source
  • K Custom Dark cymbals excel in jazz and quieter music, with a sustained wash and complexity that may not cut through in louder genres like rock.

    Source
  • In heavy music, inconsistent volume between K Custom Darks and Meinl Classic Custom Darks may lead to overplaying and potential cymbal damage.

    Source

Build quality

  • Despite its thinner construction, the cymbal is praised for its longevity, challenging the notion that it breaks easily under heavy use.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • To increase volume, consider flipping the K Custom Dark hi-hats and playing the bottom hat, which weighs about 1300g, as the top.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad uses Zildjian 17" K Custom dark china

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad

Drummer

Gorgoroth

...
Verified via Metalstorm

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad is listed as using a Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark China cymbal in his gear lineup, according to Metalstorm.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Zildjian 17" K Custom dark china, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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