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10 Best Hi Hat Cymbals 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Avedis Zildjian Company A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14 Inches

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,379
Finish
Sound Profile

Most important from
54 reviews

Finish
The cymbals are visually stunning and add great appeal to the drum setup.
Sound Profile
These hi-hats offer a crisp sound and a great 'chick' that stands out.

The Avedis Zildjian Company A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals are a great choice for drummers looking for a sound that balances clarity and richness. With a size of 14 inches and made from bronze, these cymbals are designed for a full-bodied sound that stands out. The unique hammered grooves in the bottom cymbal help to vent air quickly, resulting in a fast and clear 'chick' sound, which is crucial for keeping time in various music genres, especially jazz and rock. Drummers will also appreciate the striking, brilliant finish that adds visual appeal to their setup.

These cymbals excel in performance, but their bold sound may overwhelm softer playing styles, potentially making them less ideal for quieter acoustic settings. Additionally, being part of the A Custom range, they can be on the pricier side, which may not fit all budgets. The 5-pound weight is relatively standard, but drummers who prefer lighter cymbals might find these a bit hefty.

The A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals are perfect for drummers who want a crisp and colorful sound and can handle a more prominent audio presence. They will shine in live performances and studio recordings alike but might not be the best fit for those seeking subtlety or have budget constraints.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,379
Finish
Sound Profile

Most important from
54 reviews

Finish
The cymbals are visually stunning and add great appeal to the drum setup.
Sound Profile
These hi-hats offer a crisp sound and a great 'chick' that stands out.
#2

Avedis Zildjian Company I Family HiHat Cymbal Pair (ILH14HP)

Rating
10.0
Size
Finish
Sound Profile

Most important from
495 reviews

Size
Tone is in between a 16-inch thin crash and an 18-inch dark crash, with a rough trashy sound that provides a nice contrasting effect.
Finish
Very glad I took a chance buying online without listening first; it looks great and more importantly sounds great!
Sound Profile
Sounds great and is a great price!

The Avedis Zildjian Company I Family HiHat Cymbal Pair (ILH14HP) is designed to inspire musicians with its quality and performance. The 14-inch size is standard for hi-hat cymbals, making it versatile for various music genres. Crafted from B8 alloy, these cymbals offer durability and a bright, cutting sound, which is typical of this material.

The thinner weight of these cymbals allows for more washier and emotive sounds, making them ideal for expressive playing styles. Weighing only 1 pound (454 grams), they are easy to handle and install on a hi-hat stand. The copper finish provides a visually appealing look that can complement both traditional and modern drum kits.

The cymbals' bright sound may not suit all musical styles, particularly those that require darker, more subtle tones. Additionally, being crafted from B8 alloy, they might not offer the same tonal complexity as cymbals made from higher-end alloys like B20. This product is a great choice for drummers seeking a reliable and expressive hi-hat cymbal pair, especially for genres that benefit from a brighter sound signature.

Rating
10.0
Size
Finish
Sound Profile

Most important from
495 reviews

Size
Tone is in between a 16-inch thin crash and an 18-inch dark crash, with a rough trashy sound that provides a nice contrasting effect.
Finish
Very glad I took a chance buying online without listening first; it looks great and more importantly sounds great!
Sound Profile
Sounds great and is a great price!
#3

Avedis Zildjian Company A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14 Inches

Rating
9.9
Size

Most important from
118 reviews

Size
There is a noticeable difference between the 13" and the larger 14" and 15" sizes, with the larger sizes offering a bit more sizzle when playing open.

The Avedis Zildjian Company A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals are a popular choice among drummers looking for versatile and high-quality cymbals. With a size of 14 inches and crafted from bronze, these cymbals deliver a classic and bright sound that many musicians appreciate. The symmetrical hammering and traditional lathe finish contribute to a well-balanced 'stick' and 'chick' sound, making them suitable for a variety of music styles, from jazz to rock. This versatility is one of their strongest points, as they can easily adapt to different playing needs.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some drummers might find these cymbals a bit on the heavier side, which could affect their playability during long sessions. Additionally, while they are designed to cater to various musical genres, some players seeking specialized sounds for specific styles may need to explore other options. Lastly, the price point might be higher compared to entry-level cymbals, making them a more significant investment for beginners.

The Avedis Zildjian A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals are an excellent choice for drummers seeking a reliable, all-purpose cymbal that offers great sound quality. Those new to drumming or on a tight budget may want to weigh these factors before making a decision.

Rating
9.9
Size

Most important from
118 reviews

Size
There is a noticeable difference between the 13" and the larger 14" and 15" sizes, with the larger sizes offering a bit more sizzle when playing open.

Buying Guide for the Best Hi Hat Cymbals

Choosing the right hi-hat cymbals is crucial for any drummer, as they play a significant role in defining the overall sound and feel of your drum kit. Hi-hat cymbals consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand, which can be opened and closed with a foot pedal. The sound they produce can vary greatly depending on their size, material, and other factors. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best hi-hat cymbals for your playing style and musical needs.
SizeThe size of hi-hat cymbals is measured in inches and typically ranges from 12 to 15 inches. Smaller hi-hats (12-13 inches) produce a tighter, more focused sound and are often preferred for genres like jazz or funk. Medium-sized hi-hats (14 inches) are the most versatile and commonly used, offering a balanced sound suitable for various music styles. Larger hi-hats (15 inches) provide a louder, fuller sound with more sustain, making them ideal for rock or heavier music. Choose the size based on the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve.
MaterialHi-hat cymbals are typically made from different types of bronze alloys, such as B20, B8, or B10. B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) is known for its rich, complex sound and is often used in high-end cymbals. B8 bronze (92% copper, 8% tin) produces a brighter, more cutting sound and is commonly found in entry-level and mid-range cymbals. B10 bronze (90% copper, 10% tin) offers a balance between the two. The material affects the tonal quality and durability of the cymbals, so consider your sound preference and playing intensity when choosing the material.
WeightThe weight of hi-hat cymbals influences their sound and response. Light hi-hats are more sensitive and produce a softer, more delicate sound, making them suitable for jazz or acoustic settings. Medium-weight hi-hats offer a balanced sound with good versatility, fitting well in various music genres. Heavy hi-hats produce a louder, more powerful sound with a pronounced 'chick' when closed, ideal for rock or metal. Consider the genre of music you play and the volume you need when selecting the weight of your hi-hat cymbals.
FinishHi-hat cymbals come in different finishes, such as traditional, brilliant, or raw. Traditional finishes have a natural, unpolished look and produce a warm, complex sound. Brilliant finishes are polished to a shiny appearance, resulting in a brighter, more cutting sound. Raw finishes are unlathed and have a rough, earthy look, offering a darker, more complex tone. The finish affects both the visual appeal and the sound of the cymbals, so choose one that matches your aesthetic preference and desired sound characteristics.
Sound ProfileThe sound profile of hi-hat cymbals includes factors like pitch, sustain, and overtones. Higher-pitched hi-hats are more cutting and articulate, suitable for genres that require clarity and precision. Lower-pitched hi-hats offer a warmer, more mellow sound, fitting well in genres like jazz or blues. Sustain refers to how long the cymbal rings after being struck; shorter sustain is better for fast, intricate playing, while longer sustain suits slower, more open styles. Overtones add complexity to the sound, with more overtones providing a richer, fuller sound. Consider your playing style and the sound you want to achieve when evaluating the sound profile.

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