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Description

Elevate your drumming experience with the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal. Known for its distinctively smooth and controlled sound, this cymbal is a staple for jazz, fusion, and studio drummers seeking precision with minimal overtones. The flat design eliminates the bell, offering a focused and articulate ride with a soft, shimmering wash. This cymbal is perfect for those intimate performances where clarity and subtlety are key.

Crafted with Zildjian's secret alloy formula, the A Series Flat Ride is a testament to the brand's celebrated tradition of quality and craftsmanship. Its medium-thin weight ensures a quick response while maintaining a balanced stick definition. The cymbal's versatility makes it a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike, suitable for a wide range of musical styles beyond jazz.

Whether you're in the studio laying down tracks or performing live, this ride cymbal offers a unique voice that stands out without overwhelming the mix. Explore new musical dimensions with a cymbal that promises to be as expressive as your playing style.

Key Features:

  • 18-inch diameter for balanced sound
  • Flat design for reduced overtones and focused ride
  • Medium-thin weight for quick response
  • Ideal for jazz, fusion, and studio settings
  • Crafted from Zildjian's proprietary alloy formula
  • Subtle, shimmering wash with articulate stick definition

Product specs

Brand Zildjian
Model 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal
Year 1982 - 1995
Made In United States
Categories Ride Cymbals
Diameter 18"

FAQs

What sound characteristics can I expect from the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal?

The Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal offers a tight, dry sound with controlled stick definition and minimal overtones. Its lack of a bell results in a quieter cymbal, making it particularly suitable for jazz or quieter musical settings.

Is the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal suitable for live performances?

This cymbal is ideal for intimate live performances, especially in jazz settings, due to its controlled and quieter sound profile. It may not be the best choice for louder genres or large venues where more projection is necessary.

How does the absence of a bell affect the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal's sound?

The absence of a bell in the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal results in a drier sound with reduced volume and sustain, providing a more controlled and subtle performance ideal for jazz and acoustic settings.

Is the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal compatible with other music genres besides jazz?

While primarily designed for jazz, the Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal can also be used in other genres that benefit from a tight, controlled sound, such as acoustic or folk music. However, it may not provide the volume needed for rock or metal.

Steve Maxwell Drums

Steve Maxwell Drums

LONG Sustain! - 18" Zildjian A. 60's Stamp FLAT Ride Cymbal! - 1571g

Video thumbnail for LONG Sustain! - 18" Zildjian A. 60's Stamp FLAT Ride Cymbal! - 1571g by Steve Maxwell Drums

LONG Sustain! - 18" Zildjian A. 60's Stamp FLAT Ride Cymbal! - 1571g

Steve Maxwell Drums

Steve Maxwell Drums

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride Cymbal.

Comparisons

  • The 18" Paiste Formula 602 Flat Ride used by Roy Haynes on "Now He Sings, Now He Sobs" is compared to the Zildjian 18" A Series for its sound.

    Source
  • Sabian's Chick Corea Royalty Ride is designed to emulate the exact sound of the Roy Haynes ride from the iconic album, offering an alternative to Zildjian’s flat rides.

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Features and functionality

  • The Zildjian 18" A Series Flat Ride is noted for its crisp sound, making it suitable for styles requiring clarity and precision, like jazz.

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User experience

  • Vintage Zildjian A Flat Rides from the 60s are praised for their ability to cut through a band mix, especially behind piano solos.

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Use cases and applications

  • Flat rides, including the Zildjian 18" A Series, are preferred by some for their ability to maintain clarity in complex jazz compositions.

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