Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$424.95
Guitar Center
5.0 (9)
$424.95
Amazon
3.8 (22)
$424.95 New
$382.46 Used (Like New)
Musician's Friend
4.0 (18)
$424.95
Thomann
4.6 (12)
$409.00
Gear4Music
£338.00

Average Price: $417

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Zildjian 18" A Custom China". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the power of your percussive arsenal with the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal, a true masterpiece in sound and craftsmanship. This cymbal is designed to add a distinctive, explosive burst to your drumming, offering a piercing and musical China sound that's both bold and sophisticated. Developed with the legendary Vinnie Colaiuta, the A Custom China is crafted using Zildjian's radical rotary hammering techniques and thin weights, resulting in a crisp, shimmering tone that complements modern musical styles perfectly.

Its brilliant finish not only adds a striking visual flair to your kit but also enhances its sonic clarity, ensuring each hit is as impactful as it is visually captivating. The A Custom China cymbal speaks quickly, with an immediate attack and a smooth decay, making it a versatile addition to any drummer's setup. Whether you're playing rock, jazz, or fusion, this cymbal's clean, bright sound cuts through the mix, bringing an added layer of depth and texture to your performance.

Join the ranks of esteemed drummers like Lars Ulrich and Stephen Perkins, who trust the A Custom series for their signature sound. Elevate your drumming with the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal and experience the legacy of over 380 years of cymbal-making excellence.

Key Features:

  • Size: 18"
  • A Custom Series
  • Brilliant finish for enhanced visual and sonic impact
  • Thin weight for quick response
  • Developed with drumming icon Vinnie Colaiuta
  • Explosive, musical China sound suitable for modern music styles

Product specs

Available since March 2000
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Brilliant, Glossy
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What is the sound character of the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal is known for its bright, explosive sound with a quick decay, making it ideal for accents in rock, pop, and fusion music.

Is the Zildjian 18" A Custom China suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Zildjian 18" A Custom China is well-suited for live performances due to its brilliant finish and powerful projection, which cut through the mix effectively.

What material is the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal made from?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze alloy, known for its durability and rich tonal quality.

How does the hand hammering affect the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal's sound?

Hand hammering contributes to the Zildjian 18" A Custom China's complex tonal characteristics, providing a unique blend of warmth and brightness.

Is the Zildjian 18" A Custom China cymbal versatile for different music genres?

While it excels in rock, pop, and fusion, the Zildjian 18" A Custom China can also be used in various genres requiring a bright, cutting accent.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom China Cymbal (A20529-1032415E)

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom China Cymbal (A20529-1032415E) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom China Cymbal (A20529-1032415E)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for 18" A Custom China - A20529 by Avedis Zildjian Company

18" A Custom China - A20529

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Reviews

PROS

  • Trashy sound cuts through mixes for strong accents

  • Versatile for genres like heavy metal and jazz

  • Balanced mid-range tone with good sustain

  • Can be used effectively as a ride cymbal

  • Durable and robust construction for live performances

  • Fits well with other A Custom cymbals

  • Bright and clean tone suitable for various settings

  • Compliments larger cymbals for a varied sound palette

  • Sounds comparable to demo versions, reducing buying risk

  • Offers a unique sonic character for effect-driven performances

CONS

  • May sound cheap or unpleasant to some, especially in certain genres

  • Can be overpowering and not blend well in specific drum kits

  • Not ideal for blues-rock or punk music genres

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 18" A Custom China.

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the 18” Wuhan China for its "trashy" and "airy" sound, highlighting its effectiveness under various microphones during recordings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Wuhan China is favored for its affordability and sound quality, with Neil Peart's use adding credibility to its appeal among enthusiasts.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Zildjian A Series offers an 18” China Boy High, noted for its versatility and reliability in various musical contexts.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bryan Hitt uses Zildjian 18" A Custom China

Bryan Hitt

Drummer

REO Speedwagon

...
Verified via Bryanhitt

As mentioned on Hitt's set-up on his official website.

See how Colin Young uses Zildjian 18" A Custom China

Colin Young

Singer, Guitarist

Gods Hate

...
Verified via Photo

In this post colin can be seen using a zildjian a custom china

See how Garrett Anderson uses Zildjian 18" A Custom China

Garrett Anderson

Drummer

...
Verified via Imgur

Picture of Garrett Anderson and a Zildjan A Custom China

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 18" A Custom China, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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