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Tobias Derer

Tobias Derer

Zildjian Series Comparison Video

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Series Comparison Video by Tobias Derer

Zildjian Series Comparison Video

Tobias Derer

Tobias Derer

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Sound Lab - Cymbal Comparison Video - Full Version by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Sound Lab - Cymbal Comparison Video - Full Version

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Cymbal Pack Comparison by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Cymbal Pack Comparison

Avedis Zildjian Company

Avedis Zildjian Company

Video thumbnail for Zildjian Drum Set Cymbals 101 by Avedis Zildjian Company

Zildjian Drum Set Cymbals 101

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 Cymbals.

Use cases and applications

  • Some players prefer mixing A series hi-hats and splashes with K series rides and crashes for a versatile setup.

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  • The A Custom series is favored by some users for heavy metal and power metal styles due to their durability and sound quality.

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  • Zildjian A cymbals are heavily used in recording studios, often cited as present in 75% of recorded music over the last 60 years.

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  • A Zildjians are praised for their versatility in recording and live settings, especially in classic rock due to their high energy crash.

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Comparisons

  • Users often recommend trying the AAX series in a natural finish for a modern sound, as an alternative to the A Custom series.

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  • K Custom Hybrids are noted for their excellent recording sound, though some users find them less audible in live settings despite their impressive recorded presence.

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  • A Custom cymbals are described as brighter and sweeter than the standard A series, with a more modern sound suited for contemporary rock.

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  • Zildjian A series cymbals are often compared to Sabian's AAX line for their bright sound, while Sabian HHX is likened to Zildjian Ks for complexity.

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  • K series undergo additional computer hammering, adding complexity and darker tones compared to the A series.

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  • Players often contrast Zildjian A's brightness with the mellower, more complex sound of K series cymbals, noting the A's ability to cut through live mixes.

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User experience

  • The A Custom projection crash is specifically mentioned for its loudness, making it a preferred choice over standard A hats for certain users.

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  • Despite claims of fragility, some owners report A Custom crashes lasting over 20 years without losing sound quality, even in heavy playing conditions.

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  • A Custom crashes are appreciated for their ability to produce the perfect crash sound, particularly in 16 and 18-inch sizes.

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  • A players in hard rock and heavy metal genres often find A series crashes more appealing than K series crashes.

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  • A New Beat hi-hats and Sweet Ride are frequently highlighted as standout models in the Zildjian A line, favored for their consistent sound.

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Features and functionality

  • K cymbals are often lathed thinner for a darker, washier tone, but there are also heavier and drier K models available.

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Build quality

  • Owners note that A Zildjians from the 60s and 70s maintain their sound quality over decades, contributing to their strong used market presence.

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Value and pricing

  • The extensive used market for Zildjian A cymbals keeps prices competitive, making them accessible despite being professional-grade instruments.

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Critic Reviews

Zildjian ZBT And ZHT Cymbals Reviewed | DRUM! Magazine

drummagazine.com

Zildjian's ZBT and ZHT cymbals are a mixed bag aimed at students and budget-conscious drummers. The standout is the ZBT 20" crash/ride, praised for its clear ping and decent crash performance, making it excellent value for beginners. However, the ZBT 16" China falls short, lacking the expected sonic depth. The ZBT 12" splash leans more towards a small crash, while the ZHT 8" and 10" China splashes offer quirky, fun sounds, though they might not suit traditional splash needs. Overall, great for those seeking affordable, versatile cymbals without high-end expectations.

positive

REVIEW: Zildjian K Sweet Series Cymbals - DRUM! Magazine

drummagazine.com

The Zildjian K Sweet Series impresses with its blend of the A Sweet rides' versatility and the darker, warmer tones of the K line. These cymbals deliver vibrant, clear sounds, ideal for low to medium-volume settings. Rides offer a mellowed ping and controlled response, while crashes bloom with full sound and stunning bell response. The hats, though slightly less traditional, bring agility and dynamic range. Overall, these cymbals are excellent for drummers seeking rich, expressive tones without overwhelming volume, marking a strong addition to Zildjian's Sweet legacy.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 8 Ratings

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C

Really nice

I love zildjian their my favorite brand of cymbal and I use them for about everything

Artist usage

Add artist
J

James Douglas Roy Hunt

RÜFÜS DU SOL

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Verified via YouTube

At 11:33 in the video titled "James Hunt - RÜFÜS DU SOL - Tour Kit Rundown" by Modern Drummer Official on YouTube, James Douglas Roy Hunt confirms that he uses Zildjian Cymbals as part of his drum kit.

See how Fergal Lawler uses Zildjian Cymbals

Fergal Lawler

Drummer

The Cranberries

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Verified

In this article Fergal Lawler describes his use of various Zildjian splashes and Chinas

K

Kofi Baker

Drummer

Sons of Cream

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Verified via YouTube

In a video by Modern Drummer Official titled "Kofi Baker - Sons of Cream - Tour Kit Rundown," at the 11:38 mark, Kofi Baker mentions using Zildjian cymbals with his drum kit.

See how Kristen Stewart uses Zildjian Cymbals

Kristen Stewart

Guitarist, Drummer

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Verified via Photo

In this photo, you can see Kristen playing a Zildjian Cymbals (including the hi-hat).

See how Patrick Foley uses Zildjian Cymbals

Patrick Foley

Drummer

As It Is

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Verified via Twitter

In a Twitter post, Patrick Foley is pictured using a variety of Zildjian Cymbals during a performance in New York City.

J

Jonathan Donnaës

Drummer

Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!

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Verified via YouTube

Jonathan can be seen playing an assortmant of Zildjian cymbals live

R

Rudy Richman

Drummer

Lone Justice

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Verified via YouTube

In the live performance video "The Quireboys - Tramps and Thieves - Live At the Town and Country Club (1992)" on YouTube, Rudy Richman is seen playing Zildjian Cymbals. He has been an endorsee of Zildjian since the late 1980s.

Album Usage

The Zildjian Cymbals has been featured on the following albums:

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 Cymbals, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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jeffyahrmatter

jeffyahrmatter

Gear IQ 72

chad_lester

chad_lester

Gear IQ 82

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