DrumFaster

Zildjian A

The original Zildjian sound — New Beat hi-hats, Ping rides and Medium crashes that have anchored kits for the best part of a century.

The Zildjian A is the company's founding voice — bright, full-bodied and versatile, the sound most people picture when they think "cymbal". The 14" New Beat hi-hats, introduced in the 1960s with Louie Bellson, may be the most recorded hi-hats in history, and the Ping and Medium rides have anchored everything from big band to stadium rock.

Because the A range covers so much ground, it's the series you'll find most often in the Rig Vault's classic rigs — Bonham-era setups, 80s metal kits and modern touring rigs alike. Every documented A-series cymbal is below, with the drummers who play each one.

Zildjian A

Zildjian A in the Rig Vault

🥁 23 items documented👤 played by 8 drummers

Real setups documented piece by piece in the Rig Vault — every item links to who plays it, reader reviews and where to buy.

Most played Zildjian A gear

  1. Zildjian A 22" Ping Ride3 drummers
  2. Zildjian A 14" New Beat Hi-hats2 drummers
  3. Zildjian A 15" New Beat Hi-hats2 drummers
  4. Zildjian A 19" Medium Thin Crash2 drummers
  5. Zildjian A 24" Medium Ride2 drummers

Every Zildjian A item in the vault

Zildjian and related marks are trademarks of their respective owners. Drum Faster is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by Zildjian.

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Not sure what to pick? Ask the Gear Guru — free, honest gear advice for your style and budget.