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 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 Scot Coogan uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Scot Coogan

Drummer

Ratt

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Scot Coogan mentions his preference for Zildjian cymbals, but he is actually using a Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash, not the 18" model.

See how Jerod Boyd uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Jerod Boyd

Drummer

Miss May I

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "GEAR GODS RIGGED - Miss May I" by Trey Xavier, Jerod Boyd is shown using a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal in his setup.

See how ASUKA uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

ASUKA

Singer, Drummer

乃木坂46

...
Verified via Photo

A user-uploaded photo shows ASUKA with a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal.

A

Adam Savage

Drummer

While She Sleeps

...
Verified via Zildjian

Official Zildjian Website featuring him as an endorsed artist.

See how Mike Ieradi uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Mike Ieradi

Drummer

Protest the Hero

...
Verified via Photo

Mike Ieradi incorporates two Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbals into his setup, as shown in his Instagram post.

See how Mike Montgomery uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Mike Montgomery

Drummer

iwrestledabearonce

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Gear Gods Rigged video, Mike Montgomery is seen using a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash as part of his drum setup.

See how Kevin Boutot uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Kevin Boutot

Drummer

The Acacia Strain

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Kevin Boutot, he is shown using a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal during a tour with his band.

See how Derrick Frost uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Derrick Frost

Drummer

Chiodos

...
Verified via Photo

Derrick Frost is confirmed to use the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal during his time with Chiodos, as evidenced by the image available on Equipboard.

See how Josh Fleury uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Josh Fleury

Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram

In a Instagram reel titled "Hurricane Hilary Jam" posted by Josh Fleury, he can be seen playing a Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash cymbal.

See how Homer Steinweiss uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Homer Steinweiss

Drummer, Composer

Silk Sonic

...
Verified

According to the document, Homer Steinweiss uses the Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash, as mentioned on page 3.

See how Evgeny Novikov uses Zildjian 18" A Custom Crash

Evgeny Novikov

Drummer

Slaughter to Prevail

...
Verified via YouTube

Evgeny explains that he likes the 17" and 18" A Custom Medium Crashes in this video

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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