Brand
Zildjian is one of the oldest and most respected names in drumming, with a history that stretches back over 400 years. Founded as a family-run cymbal-making craft, Zildjian has become the world’s leading cymbal manufacturer, setting the standard for sound, consistency, and musical expression across generations of drummers.
Zildjian cymbals are used in every style of music, from rock, pop, jazz, metal, and punk through to orchestral, marching, and world percussion. Their ranges cover everything from bright, cutting cymbals for live performance to darker, more complex sounds suited to studio and jazz playing. This breadth makes Zildjian a go-to choice for beginners buying their first cymbals as well as touring professionals and recording artists.
Beyond cymbals, Zildjian also produces drumsticks, mallets, and accessories, supporting drummers across their entire setup. The brand’s longevity, innovation, and close relationship with drummers worldwide have made Zildjian not just a manufacturer, but a cornerstone of modern drumming culture.
Category
Cymbals add accents, timekeeping, colour and dynamics to a drum setup. This category includes hi-hats, rides, crashes, splashes, Chinas and packs, each with different sizes, weights, profiles, alloys, hammering and finishes. Compare stick definition, wash, sustain, response, volume and how the cymbal will blend with the kit and musical style. A cymbal’s sound also depends on mounting and playing technique. Check the exact type and diameter, and remember that cymbal stands, bags and felts may need to be purchased separately.
Ride cymbals provide a defined playing surface for timekeeping, with a bell and edge that can add accents or crashes. Compare diameter, weight, profile, bow response, bell size, stick definition, wash, sustain and whether the cymbal is designed to crash as well as ride. Larger or heavier rides often provide more projection, while lighter models may open more readily and blend into quieter music. Check the exact series and finish, and remember that a stand, boom, felt and wingnut are separate unless the listing says otherwise.
Tags
Ride identifies a cymbal for timekeeping and bell work. Compare diameter, weight, bow, bell, stick definition, wash, sustain and whether it can also crash.
