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Description

Elevate your drumming experience with the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal—a powerhouse for those who demand a commanding presence both on stage and in the studio. Crafted from B12 bronze, this cymbal strikes the perfect balance between affordability and professional sound quality. Its medium-heavy weight and lathed top and bottom offer a versatile blend of explosive attack and nuanced response, making it ideal for both aggressive rock anthems and more controlled, dynamic performances.

Whether you're a budding musician looking to upgrade or a seasoned drummer seeking to expand your sonic palette, this cymbal delivers a cutting tone and full wash that stands out in any mix. The brilliant finish not only enhances its visual appeal under the spotlight but also contributes to its shimmering, bright sound. Enhanced with extensive machine hammering, the S Series Rock Crash is engineered to project your music with clarity and power.

Join the community of drummers who trust Zildjian for reliability and sound excellence. This cymbal is your ticket to a dynamic range of musical expressions without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Made from B12 bronze for balanced tonal qualities
  • Medium-heavy weight for versatile playability
  • Lathed top and bottom for open sound and sustain
  • Brilliant finish for striking visual and auditory presence
  • Ideal for rock and metal genres with cutting tone and full wash
  • Extensive machine hammering for bright sound and even dynamics

Product specs

Brand Zildjian
Model 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal
Year 2016 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Crash Cymbals
Diameter 20"

FAQs

What material is the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal made from?

The Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal is made from B12 alloy, consisting of 88% copper and 12% tin, which provides a balanced range of lows, mids, and highs.

Is the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal is designed specifically for rock music, offering a powerful, cutting sound that projects well in louder settings.

How does the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal compare to other S Series cymbals?

The 20" Rock Crash is part of the S Series, known for its bright, focused sound and versatility. It is larger and heavier, providing more volume and sustain compared to smaller S Series crashes.

What is the sound characteristic of the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal?

The Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal delivers a bright, explosive sound with a long sustain, making it ideal for cutting through dense mixes.

Is the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal suitable for beginners?

While primarily designed for rock musicians seeking powerful projection, the Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash can also be suitable for beginners who desire a robust, professional sound in their setup.

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 20" S Family Rock Crash

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - 20" S Family Rock Crash by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - 20" S Family Rock Crash

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for 20" S Family Rock Crash - S20RC by Avedis Zildjian Company

20" S Family Rock Crash - S20RC

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 20" S Series Rock Crash Cymbal.

Comparisons

  • The Zildjian S Rock cymbals are compared to the discontinued Z Custom line for cutting power but don't match the expressiveness of B20 alloy cymbals.

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  • The S Rock series is noted to be better than Zildjian ZBTs but lacks the tonal depth found in higher-end lines like A or K series.

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  • The S Series crash is compared to a Byzance Dark and Sand Ride for being one-dimensional and loud, contrasting with the more balanced sound of the latter.

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  • The S Series Rock Crash is likened to Sabian XS20 for being brighter and more bell-like, but lacks the musicality of higher-end lines.

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  • An owner describes the hierarchy as ZBT < I < S < A < A Custom < K, suggesting that the S series is a step down from the A series.

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Use cases and applications

  • Some users find the S Rock cymbals too bright and clanky for rock/metal, preferring alternatives like Paiste 2oo2 or Sabian HHX/AAX for these genres.

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  • It's suggested to test the cymbal with existing gear to ensure compatibility, especially if considering a mix of different cymbal lines.

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  • The S Series is considered suitable for metal/heavy rock due to its stiff, bright, and loud characteristics, but not ideal for jazz or low-volume settings.

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Features and functionality

  • The S Rock line is made from B12 alloy, which offers a step up from entry-level B8 alloys but doesn't reach the nuances of B20.

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  • The S Series cymbals are described as explosive and bright, suitable for really loud music but potentially shrill for more nuanced styles.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite criticisms, the S Rock line is appreciated for its price point, offering a cost-effective option for those not seeking top-tier cymbals.

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  • It's suggested that for those seeking budget options, Chinese brands like Stagg and Wuhan might offer better bright, wet sounds than the S Series.

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User experience

  • A 20" S Series crash was criticized for excessively ugly ringing and overtones, making it less suitable for smaller gig venues.

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  • Owners report that the 18-inch crash is notably loud and lacks musicality, while the ride cymbal is described as "pingy" and unappealing in recordings.

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Critic Reviews

Zildjian S Family Cymbals review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Zildjian's S Series Cymbals upgrade the ZHT line with a sleek look and broader sound range, thanks to the B12 bronze alloy. While the set offers impressive diversity, covering nearly all styles, there's a trade-off. Some rides emit an uncomfortable high-pitched buzz, a common issue at this price point. The series excels in stick definition and the bell's resonance, but the projection of medium-thin crashes falls short of top-tier cymbals. The Trash Crash offers a unique percussive blast, despite the misleading "trash" label. Overall, a solid intermediate option with room for improvement in sound clarity.

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