Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$424.95
Guitar Center
5.0 (6)
$424.95
Amazon
4.2 (73)
$424.95 New
$360.99 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$388.80 New
$269.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (53)
$424.95
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$394.95
Thomann
4.6 (10)
$379.00
Gear4Music
£350.00

Average Price: $391

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash cymbal is a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, embodying the rich, expressive tones that Zildjian's K series is renowned for. This versatile crash cymbal is crafted with a randomized hammering pattern that delivers complex, dark tones with a shimmering decay, making it an ideal choice for drummers seeking depth and character in their sound. Its smaller bell ensures focused overtones and a balanced volume response, allowing for a controlled yet dynamic playability.

The cymbal's gradual taper and thin profile provide a responsive feel, offering a quick attack and a short, sweet sustain that complements a wide array of musical styles—from jazz to rock. Whether you're building tension in a dramatic piece or adding subtle nuances in a gentle ballad, this crash delivers warmth and mood with every strike.

Perfect for both studio and live settings, the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash offers a sonic palette that enhances any musical tapestry, inviting exploration and creativity. Embrace the dark, atmospheric tones that have made the K series a favorite among drummers worldwide.

Key Features:

  • Randomized hammering pattern for complex, dark tones
  • Smaller bell for focused overtones and controlled volume
  • Gradual taper and thin profile for quick attack and short sustain
  • Versatile sound suitable for a variety of musical genres
  • Ideal for both studio recordings and live performances

Product specs

Type Crash
Size 17"
Weight Thin
Material B20, Cast Bronze
Finish Traditional
Sound Dark, Warm
Pitch Low to Mid
Volume General
Sustain Short

FAQs

What is the sound characteristic of the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash?

The Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash is known for its dark, warm sound with a low to mid pitch. It offers a general volume with a short sustain, making it ideal for blending in various musical styles, particularly jazz and experimental genres.

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

Yes, the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash is suitable for live performances due to its general volume and ability to blend well with other instruments. Its dark, warm tones are particularly favored in jazz and softer rock settings.

What material is the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash made from?

The Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash is made from B20 cast bronze, known for its durability and rich tonal qualities. This material contributes to the cymbal's dark and warm sound profile.

How does the thin weight of the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash affect its sound?

The thin weight of the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash allows for a quicker response and faster decay, resulting in a short sustain. This characteristic enhances its ability to produce a dark, warm sound that blends smoothly in a mix.

What finish does the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash have?

The Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash features a traditional finish, which contributes to its classic appearance and helps produce its signature dark and warm sound.

Peter Lewis

Peter Lewis

Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal by Peter Lewis

Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal

Peter Lewis

Peter Lewis

Video thumbnail for Used Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal - 1235g (UK0903-1050219I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Used Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal - 1235g (UK0903-1050219I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal - 1244g (K0903-1021822W) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 17" K Dark Thin Crash Cymbal - 1244g (K0903-1021822W)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile across multiple music genres, perfect for jazz, rock, and more

  • Warm, musical tone with quick decay, ideal for dynamic play

  • Well-suited for both soft shimmer and aggressive crash effects

  • Hand-hammered craftsmanship ensures high-quality sound and durability

  • Complements well with other Zildjian K series cymbals

  • Explosive sound with defined articulation; great for live performances

  • Excellent projection without overpowering, even in amplified settings

  • Can double as a hi-hat in certain setups, enhancing versatility

  • Rich, full-bodied tone with deep, dark sound that cuts through mixes

  • Great combination of brightness and fullness, adaptable to different styles

CONS

  • Can appear heavy and less responsive for a "Thin" cymbal

  • Some users may find the dark tone not as "dark" as expected

  • High price point, may not be suitable for all budgets

  • Potential durability concerns with reports of cracking over time

Owner Insights

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

Use cases and applications

  • The 17" K Dark Crash is appreciated in jazz and experimental music for its ride capabilities and earthy tone.

    Source
  • Pairing the K Dark with a brighter crash, like another 16", provides a satisfying contrast in pop/rock settings.

    Source
  • Thinner cymbals like the K Dark Thin are favored for their subtlety and ease of play, especially in softer musical genres.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to a 16" Avedis thin crash, the K Dark has a longer, drier decay, while the Avedis offers a slightly brighter, shorter fall-off.

    Source
  • The K Dark Thin is lower pitched and quicker to respond than the regular K Dark, making it preferable for quieter music settings.

    Source
  • The K Dark Thin is recommended for players who prefer a more responsive and lower-pitched sound, differing from thicker K Dark models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report longevity, withstanding heavy use over years, showing minimal oxidation.

    Source
  • Some users report owning their thin K Dark cymbals for over 20 years without signs of cracking, emphasizing the importance of proper technique.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The cymbal delivers a powerful sound that doesn't overly pierce, making it suitable for various styles without being harsh.

    Source

Build quality

  • Thinner cymbals are noted for flexing more, which helps absorb energy and reduces the likelihood of cracking, contrary to some beliefs.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
picklestudios

Awesome!

A very dark, great sound perfect for that jazz crash or rock crash!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Cameron uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Matt Cameron

Drummer

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:10 into this video, Matt Cameron's drum tech Neil Hundt shows Matt's Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash.

See how Matt Sorum uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Matt Sorum

Drummer

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via Yuku

Matt Sorum uses a Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash cymbal, as detailed in the GN'R MANIA Forum on Yuku.

See how Highly Suspect uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Highly Suspect

...
Verified via YouTube

i primarly use zildjian cymbals

See how Rick Allen uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Rick Allen

Drummer

Def Leppard

...
Verified

Listed as part of Allen's setup on the March Issue of Modern Drummer 1988

See how Phil Gould uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Phil Gould

Drummer

Level 42

...
Verified

Phil Gould uses the Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash, as listed in his setup in the January 1988 issue of Modern Drummer.

See how Diarmuid Brennan uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Diarmuid Brennan

Drummer

The Murder Capital

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:08, Brennan's Zildjian K dark crash cymbal is visible

See how Brian Blakes uses Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash

Brian Blakes

Drummer

Real Friends

...
Verified via Photo

Brian Blakes uses a Zildjian 17" K Dark Crash cymbal, as shown in his Instagram post.

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 17" K Dark Crash, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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adamjaugeri

adamjaugeri

Gear IQ 81

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