Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (11)
$409.95
Guitar Center
4.5 (99)
$409.95
Amazon
4.7 (165)
$409.95 New
$368.96 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$315.62 New
$175.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (269)
$409.95
zZounds
4.5 (1)
$379.95
Thomann
4.8 (65)
$359.00 $349.00 $10.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£306.50

Average Price: $357

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash". 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

Designed for the discerning drummer, the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash is an instrument that blends sophistication and versatility. Crafted with radical rotary hammering techniques and a thin weight, this cymbal produces crisp, sweet tones with complex overtones. Its large size provides ample crash power and sustain, while the brilliant finish adds an eye-catching gleam under stage lights.

The A Custom Crash utilizes a unique rotary hammering method that manipulates the bronze material to optimize tonal qualities. This process hardens the cymbal in strategic areas, promoting a wider range of overtones and a musical crash with shimmering highs and a throaty low end. The result is a rich, full-bodied sound that cuts through mixes, making it a versatile choice for any genre.

Weighing in at a thin gauge, the A Custom delivers an immediate crash response with a rapid build-up and decay. This thin bronze material is highly sensitive and reactive, allowing drummers to achieve crashing effects based on playing technique. With its balanced sound and musical complexity, the A Custom Crash shines in any genre, from rock to jazz to electronic music.

Key Features:

  • Radical rotary hammering releases musical complexity
  • Thin weight provides immediate response
  • Brilliant finish radiates under lights
  • Versatile enough for any genre
  • Natural and bright sound
  • Not too thick, not too loud
  • Fast response
  • Warm, round, soft decay

Product specs

Type Crash
Size 18"
Weight Thin
Material B20, Cast Bronze
Finish Brilliant
Sound Medium
Pitch Low/Medium
Balance Blend
Bell Size Medium
Volume General
Sustain Long

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash delivers a bright, cutting sound with a medium pitch and long sustain, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles, especially rock and pop.

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

Yes, the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash is excellent for live performances due to its brilliant finish and medium volume, which allows it to project well in a band setting.

What is the material composition of the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash is made from B20 cast bronze, a high-quality alloy known for its durability and rich tonal qualities.

How does the thin weight of the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash affect its playability?

The thin weight of the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash provides a quick response and fast attack, making it easy to play for drummers who prefer a more sensitive cymbal.

What kind of finish does the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash have?

The Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash features a brilliant finish, which not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to its bright, shimmering sound.

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" A Custom Crash

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal (A20516-1111612B) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal (A20516-1111612B)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1339g (A20516-1051519E) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1339g (A20516-1051519E)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1385g (A20516-1060617G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1385g (A20516-1060617G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for 18" A Custom Crash - A20516 by Avedis Zildjian Company

18" A Custom Crash - A20516

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal 1365g (A20516-1112318J) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal 1365g (A20516-1112318J)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1354g by Steve Maxwell Drums

Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash Cymbal - 1354g

Steve Maxwell Drums

Steve Maxwell Drums

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, washy crash sound

  • Medium-thin weight offers substantial resonance

  • Clean, bright, and warm sound profile

  • Exceptional durability with minimal rust and tarnish

  • Quick attack with a variety of overtones

  • Beautiful, brilliant finish

  • Versatile for all music styles, including metal and pop

  • Reacts well to both delicate and aggressive playing

  • Full wash with a quick exit

  • Highly compatible with other high-end cymbals

CONS

  • Some units may be counterfeit or defective

  • Can be too loud for some users

  • Difficult to play quietly

  • High price point

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Owners mention Zildjian's inconsistent thickness and weight variations across A Custom models, affecting tonal expectations.

    Source
  • Several users report frustration with the lack of weight specifications on Zildjian's website, making it challenging to choose without in-person testing.

    Source
  • Some users highlight a distinctive brash frequency in the A Custom line, which may not suit those preferring softer tones.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the A Custom’s ability to cut through in loud environments, making it suitable for metal and rock genres.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Projection Crash is medium-thin, offering a balance between volume and versatility, distinguishing it from other A Custom crashes in terms of loudness and tonal brightness.

    Source
  • Regular A Custom crashes are categorized as thin, whereas A Custom Medium Crashes are the heaviest in the A Custom line.

    Source
  • Zildjian A Custom Projection Crash is noted to be a Medium Thin Crash, heavier with more cut compared to other A Custom crashes.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The A Custom line is versatile enough for various scenarios, with the Projection Crash providing more high-end and volume than the standard A Custom Crash.

    Source
  • The Sabian AAXplosion Fast Crash was preferred by one user over the A Custom Fast Crash due to its durability and tone, lasting until they sold the kit.

    Source
  • The Zildjian 18" A Custom is often compared to the Meinl Byzance Extra Thin Hammered Crash for its versatility and tone.

    Source
  • A Custom Projections and Mediums are suggested to be potentially closer to older A Customs in terms of thickness and full-bodied sound.

    Source
  • The A Custom is noted to age well, improving its sound quality over time, which provides a different appeal compared to newer cymbals like the Constantinople K.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Good technique is key to cymbal longevity; players with poor technique, especially heavy hitters, risk damaging thinner cymbals like the Fast Crash.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The A Custom Projection Crash offers a brighter tone and more volume than the Fast Crash, making it suitable for louder music genres and heavier hitters.

    Source
  • The A Custom Fast Crash, characterized by its thinness and small bell, is deemed unsuitable for rock music due to its quick decay.

    Source
  • The A Custom Crash is recommended for use without overhead mics due to its loudness and clarity.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Users suggest checking Guitar Center's used section for deals on Zildjian A Custom cymbals, which often include free returns.

    Source
  • A used Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash is often found under $200, offering significant savings compared to buying new.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 25 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
W

Awesome main crash!

This is my main crash and I love how it sounds! I use both sabian and zildjian for now but soon ill switch to zildjian. They are both good brands but i like zildjian better!

stevenshelleydrummer

Good all-purpose crash

Zildjian A Custom 18" Crash

Suited for both live/ recording purposes

Roles:
Genres:
vilmand

Very nice crash

Can be used for every kinds of music styles

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kristina Schiano uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Kristina Schiano

Drummer, Podcasters & Streamers

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Kristina announces that she is a Zildjian artist. Also in the video she unboxes cymbals Zildjian sent her. one such cymbal is a pair of a custom crashes. One is 18 inch to accompany the 16 inch a custom crash

See how Jordan Mancino uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Jordan Mancino

Drummer

As I Lay Dying

...
Verified via Zildjian

acording to his zildjian artist page Jordan uses an 18" a custom crash

See how Colm Dowling uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Colm Dowling

...
Verified via YouTube

In all of Colm Dowlings videos, his equipment list can be found in the description. This item: Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

See how Morgan Rose uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Morgan Rose

Drummer

Sevendust

...
Verified via DRUM! Magazine

He previously used Zildjian cymbals before switching to Sabian. Setup: A. 14″ Hybrid Hats B. 17″ Hybrid China C. 12″ Oriental China D. 18″ A Custom Crash E. 19″ A Custom Crash F. 22″ A Custom Ping Ride G. 20″ Rezo Crash H. 6″ Zil Bell I. 14″ Oriental China J. 19″ Hybrid China K. 9.5″ Zil Bell L. 9″ Hybrid Splash

See how Sam Loeffler uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Sam Loeffler

Drummer, Composer

Chevelle

...
Verified via DRUM! Magazine

According to the article, Sam uses 18" A Custom crash as one of the cymbals on his drum kit.

See how Maxx Danziger uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Maxx Danziger

Drummer

Set It Off

...
Verified via Photo

Maxx can be seen using an a custom crash

See how Jami Morgan uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Jami Morgan

Singer, Drummer

Code Orange

...
Verified via YouTube

In the full live concert video of Code Orange at Rock am Ring 2017 on YouTube, Jami Morgan is seen using a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal.

See how Andrew Tkaczyk uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Andrew Tkaczyk

Drummer

The Ghost Inside

...
Verified via Photo

andrew uses two a custom crashes in his setup

See how Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad

Drummer

Gorgoroth

...
Verified via Metalstorm

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad is listed as using the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal, according to Metalstorm's comprehensive gear overview.

See how AJ Tartol uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

AJ Tartol

Singer, Drummer

SeeYouSpaceCowboy

...
Verified via Photo

AJ can be seen using a zildjian a custom crash

See how Edward Larson uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Edward Larson

Drummer

Reel Big Fish

...
Verified via Instagram

In this video ed can be seen using a zildjian a custom crash

See how Eric Harland uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Eric Harland

Singer, Drummer

Eric Harland Trio

...
Verified via Drummerworld

Specified in this Modern Drummer layout, as taken from this Drummerworld profile of Harland.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
davidjtessier

davidjtessier

Gear IQ 383

nikos_bartsokas

nikos_bartsokas

Gear IQ 119

rythmchangesgod

rythmchangesgod

Gear IQ 73

M

mark_rawls

Gear IQ 57

leonharden

leonharden

Gear IQ 173

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