Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$474.95
Guitar Center
4.5 (2)
$474.95
Amazon
4.7 (10)
$459.95 New
$427.46 Used (Like New)
Musician's Friend
4.0 (2)
$474.95
Thomann
4.5 (4)
$418.00 $411.00 $7.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£397.00

Average Price: $459

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal, a rebirth of the original dry cymbal, designed to cater to the needs of today's diverse music landscape. This cymbal stands out with its raw and earthy tone, providing a dry, funky sound that's rich in character. Its quick, fast attack cuts through the mix with ease, and its ability to shut down swiftly allows for an impactful expression of your unique musical personality.

The cymbal's weight, which ranges from extra thin to thin, along with its new hole pattern, are notable features that contribute to its distinctive sound. These characteristics allow the cymbal to produce maximum trash and white noise, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity to your music. With its natural finish, the cymbal retains a classic look that matches its timeless sound.

In essence, the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal is a testament to Zildjian's commitment to innovation and quality. It's a perfect addition to any drum set, bringing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design to serve the evolving demands of contemporary music.

Key Features:

  • 18 inch size for a balanced blend of volume and control
  • Part of the K Custom Special series, known for their exceptional quality and unique sound
  • Natural finish for a classic, timeless look
  • Delivers a dark, dry sound with a short sustain, perfect for modern musical styles
  • Extra thin to thin in weight for a responsive, expressive sound
  • New hole pattern for maximum trash and white noise, adding depth and complexity to your music
  • Designed to serve today's modern musical styles with its versatile and unique sound.

Product specs

Type Crash
Size 18"
Weight Thin
Finish Natural
Material B20, Cast Bronze
Pitch Low to Mid
Sound Dark, Mids, Funky
Sustain Short
Volume General

FAQs

What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal?

The Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal is known for its dark, mid-range, and funky sound with a short sustain, making it ideal for adding a unique, explosive accent to your drumming.

Is the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal suitable for live performances?

Yes, this cymbal is suitable for live performances due to its general volume output and distinct trashy sound, which can effectively cut through a mix.

What material is the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal made from?

This cymbal is crafted from B20 cast bronze, known for its durability and complex sound quality.

How does the finish of the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal affect its sound?

The natural finish of this cymbal contributes to its darker sound and shorter sustain, enhancing its distinct trashy character.

What musical genres is the Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal best suited for?

This cymbal is well-suited for genres that benefit from unique and explosive sounds, such as funk, rock, and experimental music, due to its dark and funky tonal qualities.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1195g (K1420-1011617I)

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1195g (K1420-1011617I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1195g (K1420-1011617I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China by Dlikin Drums Production

Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China

Dlikin Drums Production

Dlikin Drums Production

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1274g (K1420-1072322M) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1274g (K1420-1072322M)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1236g (K1420-1082317PP) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal - 1236g (K1420-1082317PP)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Explosive trash attack that cuts through without excessive force

  • Quick decay that doesn't linger, perfect for fast transitions

  • Ideal for accents after initial crash cymbal hits

  • Signature sound used by renowned drummer Pete-Ray Biggin

  • Adds a bright, trashy tone to jazz setups

  • Addictive sound quality suitable for diverse music genres

CONS

  • Slightly expensive compared to other options

  • Inconsistent appearance compared to stock photos

  • Can sound hollow next to cymbals with more body

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal.

Features and functionality

  • The K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash is described as having a dark and trashy sound, suitable for cymbal swells and accents rather than light playing.

    Source
  • The Special Dry line sits well within a mix due to its unique sound characteristics, despite being quieter compared to other K series cymbals.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The K Custom Special Dry has a quieter sound with less attack compared to traditional china cymbals, which have a fast, hard, and stiff response.

    Source
  • The K Custom Special Dry cymbals are likened to Meinl's trashier sound, contrasting with the versatility of other Zildjian K options like K Sweet or K Custom Dark.

    Source
  • The Istanbul XIST Dry Dark Ride offers a similar dry sound to the K Custom Special Dry but with a more pronounced "ping," beneficial for rock settings.

    Source
  • Meinl Extra Dry Medium Rides and Vintage Pure Rides are noted for combining dryness with a decent "ping" and wash, making them alternative options to consider.

    Source

User experience

  • The 19" version of the K Custom Special Dry is noted to sound clunky if played too lightly, similar to an aluminum bin lid.

    Source
  • The 20" K Custom Special Dry is favored for its unique sound but is not recommended as a direct replacement for a china due to its different response and volume characteristics.

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  • Owners highlight their quick decay and projection, making them suitable for live gigs with proper microphone setup.

    Source
  • It's observed that Paiste cymbals, such as the Masters Dry Ride, have a unique feel with less flex compared to Turkish cymbals, potentially affecting brand mixing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • This cymbal fits well for bands that require a darker, less bright cymbal sound.

    Source
  • These cymbals are recommended for fans of bands like Animals As Leaders or VOLA, where a drier, trashier sound is favored.

    Source
  • The K Custom Special Dry line, especially the trash-crash, is well-suited for jazz and fusion but may not be ideal for more rock-centric setups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Istanbul XIST rides are highlighted as more budget-friendly options compared to the Zildjian K Custom Special Dry line while maintaining quality.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Travis Barker uses Zildjian 18 inch K Custom Special Dry Trash China Cymbal

Travis Barker

Drummer, Music Producer

Blink-182

...
Verified via Photo

During the 2023 blink reunion tour Travis used this with a 14 inch spiral stacker on top of it

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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