Home
... Musical Instruments
Drums & Percussion
Cymbals
Hi-hat Cymbals
Zildjian
Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal

Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal main image

Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal

$289.95 to $579.95 Price Tier: Standard

2 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Zildjian Z Custom

0 wishlisted

0 saved

Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated June 22, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

$289.95

View Deal

5.0 (1)

$579.95

View Deal

$289.95

View Deal

Average Price: $387

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the Hi-hat Cymbals category, Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* 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

Edit description

The Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal is a drummer's dream for those looking to bring a bold, energetic presence to their set. This cymbal, a revival of Zildjian’s legendary Z Custom series, is engineered to deliver brilliant clarity and powerful projection. Crafted from a premium B20 bronze alloy, it offers a rich, full-bodied tone that effortlessly cuts through live mixes, making it ideal for the heaviest of genres like metal, rock, and punk. The cymbal's open wash and robust volume ensure that each note is heard, whether you're playing a small gig or a massive festival. With its dazzling finish and signature star pattern, this hi-hat top not only sounds phenomenal but also looks the part on any stage. Designed to withstand the rigors of hard-hitting drumming, the Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal is your ticket to commanding performances with style and substance.

Key Features:

Resurrection of Zildjian's original Z Custom series
Brilliant and clear tone with substantial volume
Full-bodied open wash sound
Perfect for heavy music genres: metal, rock, hard rock, punk
Made from premium B20 bronze alloy
Crafted in the USA

Product specs

Brand	Zildjian
Model	14" Z Custom Hi-Hat Cymbal (Top)
Finish	Brilliant, Brilliant
Year	1993 - 2001
Made In	United States
Categories	Hi-Hats
Diameter	14"

FAQs

What genres is the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal best suited for?: The Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal is ideal for metal, punk, and hard rock due to its powerfully explosive and cutting tones.
What sound characteristics can I expect from the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal?: Expect bright, clean "chick" and "tick" sounds with excellent projection, making it perfect for loud and aggressive playing styles.
What is the finish on the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal and how does it affect the sound?: The cymbal features a brilliant finish, which enhances its projection and brightness, contributing to its cutting and explosive sound.
Is the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal durable for heavy playing?: Yes, the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal is designed with enhanced durability, making it suitable for intense and heavy playing styles.
What is the diameter of the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal?: The Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal has a diameter of 14 inches, which is a standard size for hi-hat cymbals, providing a balanced feel and sound.

Videos

Add video

Lodo Drum Guy

SOLD OUT 14" Zildjian Z Custom Hi Hats

Lodo Drum Guy

Zildjian Z Custom 14" Hi Hat Cymbals 1101g 1403g

Hawthorne Drum Shop

Reviews

Add review

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal.

Comparisons

0 0

The K/Z hi-hat combo is historically popular, noted for a balance of dark, complex tones with a powerful bottom.
Source
0 0

Z Customs, no longer in production, were high-end cast cymbals, offering a brighter and heavier sound compared to entry-level ZBT/ZHT sheet cymbals.
Source
0 0

Paiste Rude cymbals are frequently recommended for their loudness and durability, making them suitable alternatives to the discontinued Z Custom line for heavy hitters.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners report that mixing an A Custom Fast Crash with an A Custom top on the bottom provides sensitive dynamics and a pleasing edge, appreciated by bands.
Source
0 0

The Zildjian S Series is appreciated for its sound, though concerns exist about its medium-thin build's ability to withstand heavy playing.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Pairing a K Light top with a Z Custom bottom is suggested for quieter, more controllable play, despite its typical jazz application.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The K/Z combo is featured in Primus records like "Pork Soda," highlighting its versatility in rock settings.
Source
0 0

Z Customs are notably loud and were primarily marketed towards heavy metal and punk genres, making them less versatile for other music styles.
Source
0 0

Despite their intended use for loud genres, some owners found Z Customs, like the 20" medium crash, to perform well as a ride with a beautiful bell tone when played softly.
Source
0 0

Zildjian A heavy crashes are noted as comparable to Z Customs, offering similar tonal qualities for those who enjoyed the latter's sound.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The thick construction of Z Customs, while contributing to their loudness, also increased the risk of cracking due to rigidity when played hard.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Second-hand Z Customs are sought after but can be costly, with prices around $100 for an 18" Rock Crash, even when used.
Source

Critic Reviews

Zildjian Z Custom Cymbals Review (2024 Edition)

drumhelper.com

The Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal delivers powerful, bright tones with impressive volume and articulation, making it an excellent choice for heavy genres like rock and metal. Its lighter, thinner design enhances playability while the updated hammering process adds durability and musicality. However, these hi-hats may prove too aggressive for softer styles, limiting their versatility. While they shine in high-energy settings, players looking for a more subdued sound might find them lacking. Overall, the Z Customs represent a solid return for Zildjian, appealing primarily to hard-hitting drummers but with a narrow range of musical applicability.

neutral

Full Review

Zildjian Z Custom Cymbals - Reviewed

drummersreview.com

Zildjian's Z Custom Hi-Hat Top Cymbal delivers a dazzling glassy tone and fast stick response, making it a standout choice for rock and metal drummers. It offers a unique sound that feels smaller than its size, allowing for precise articulation. However, its high price point may deter some, reflecting its niche appeal. Overall, this cymbal is a commendable return to a beloved series, tailored for those seeking explosive, stage-ready sounds.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

Artist usage

Add artist

Abe Cunningham

Drummer

Deftones

Verified via YouTube

Abe Cunningham is confirmed to use the Zildjian Z Custom Hi-hat Top Cymbal, as seen in a stack with a 14-inch Oriental China during a drum kit rundown. This information is verified by the "Abe Cunningham - Deftones - Tour Kit Rundown" video by Modern Drummer Official on YouTube, where host David Frangioni provides an in-depth look at Cunningham's setup.