Pricing and availability

Average Price: $373

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

Dive into the rich tapestry of sound with the Zildjian 18" Kerope, a symbol of tradition and craftsmanship in the realm of percussion. This crash ride cymbal marries the old-world charm of Turkish cymbals with the precision and innovation of modern craftsmanship. Hand-lathed and hammered by Zildjian's master craftsmen, it boasts a unique, warm, and atmospheric tone that harks back to the golden era of jazz and beyond. Its medium-thin weight ensures a seamless transition from crisp, articulate strokes to a darker, more enveloping wash, making it a versatile choice for drummers and percussionists looking to add depth and character to their sound palette.

Key Features:

  • Hand-lathed and hammered by Zildjian's master craftsmen
  • Medium-thin weight through the bow for versatile playability
  • Unique, warm, and smoky tone with an atmospheric character
  • Each cymbal features the exact weight written under the bell, highlighting their individuality

Product specs

Brand Zildjian
Model 18" K Kerope Crash/Ride Cymbal
Finish Traditional, Traditional
Year 2014 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Crash Cymbals, Ride Cymbals
Diameter 18"

FAQs

What type of music genres is the Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal best suited for?

The Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal is known for its warm, complex tones, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage rock music. Its versatility also allows it to complement other genres that benefit from a darker, more traditional cymbal sound.

Can the Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal be used as both a crash and a ride?

Yes, the Zildjian 18" Kerope is designed as a crash/ride cymbal, offering the flexibility to function as both. It provides a smooth ride sound with a controlled crash, making it versatile for various playing styles.

How does the traditional finish of the Zildjian 18" Kerope affect its sound?

The traditional finish of the Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal contributes to its warm, dark sound profile. This finish enhances its vintage character, providing a more complex and nuanced tonal quality compared to brighter, polished finishes.

Is the Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal suitable for live performances?

The Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal is well-suited for live performances, especially in settings where a warm, complex sound is desired. Its ability to serve as both a crash and a ride makes it a versatile choice for dynamic live playing.

What is the diameter of the Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal and how does it affect its sound?

The Zildjian 18" Kerope cymbal has a diameter of 18 inches, which provides a balanced mix of crash and ride capabilities. This size offers a good blend of volume and sustain, making it versatile for various musical applications.

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" Kerope

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" Kerope by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 18" Kerope

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" Kerope Crash Cymbal - 1432g (KR18C-1091620S) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" Kerope Crash Cymbal - 1432g (KR18C-1091620S)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 18" Kerope Crash Cymbal - 1326g (KR18C-1062717II) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 18" Kerope Crash Cymbal - 1326g (KR18C-1062717II)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Kerope 18" is notable for its dark complexity and excels in crash sound, similar to a "Renaissance" ride but more open in wash.

    Source
  • A Dream “Vintage Bliss” 18” crash/ride is a value alternative to the Kerope, offering similar tone with slightly more volume and clarity.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 18" Kerope crash is praised for its versatility in quieter music genres like R&B and hip hop, though it may lack bell volume.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the 18" Kerope's superb wash and crash sounds, but bell volume is weak, making it less suitable for loud ping needs.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Stanton Moore uses Zildjian 18" Kerope

Stanton Moore

Drummer

Corrosion of Conformity

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Zildjian LIVE! - Stanton Moore," Stanton Moore uses the Zildjian 18" Kerope crash cymbal.

See how Richard Jupp uses Zildjian 18" Kerope

Richard Jupp

Drummer

Elbow

...
Verified via Zildjian

Listed under Jupp's official Zildjian artist page.

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" Kerope, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More Zildjian Crash Cymbals

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides