Table of Contents
History & Origins
Zildjian
Zildjian’s story dates back to 1618 in Constantinople when Armenian alchemist Avedis I, while attempting to create gold through alchemy, accidentally discovered a unique bronze alloy that produced extraordinary musical sounds. Sultan Osman II recognized the innovation and bestowed upon Avedis the surname “Zildjian,” meaning “cymbal maker.” In 1623, Avedis established his own workshop in Samatya, near Constantinople, crafting cymbals for the Ottoman court’s military bands and religious institutions.
The company remained in Constantinople for generations, with the secret alloy formula passing down through male heirs. By the 1850s, under Avedis II, Zildjian began expanding into European markets, showcasing their cymbals at events like the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. Political tensions in the early 20th century forced the family to relocate, with Avedis III settling in Boston in 1909. By 1929, the Avedis Zildjian Company was officially established in Quincy, Massachusetts, where they began collaborating with jazz drummers to develop new cymbal designs for emerging musical styles.
Paiste
Paiste’s journey began in 1901 when Michail Toomas Paiste, an Estonian musician and composer, established a publishing business and music store in St. Petersburg, Russia. The shop included modest instrument repair facilities where the first Paiste cymbals were crafted based on customer requests. The Russian Revolution forced the family to return to Estonia, where Michail’s son, Michail M. Paiste, developed the company’s focus on cymbal manufacturing.
World War II prompted several relocations – first to Poland, then to Germany as refugees. Finally, in 1957, Michail M.’s sons Robert and Toomas established the company’s permanent base in Switzerland. Under Robert’s leadership, Paiste developed the Formula 602 series in the late 1950s and the revolutionary 2002 series in the late 1960s, innovations that earned the company international recognition as a leading cymbal maker. The company expanded to the United States in 1981, with Erik Paiste, representing the fourth generation, taking over leadership in 2003.
Manufacturing Differences
When comparing how Paiste and Zildjian craft their cymbals, several key differences emerge in the materials used, how those materials are processed, and each company’s approach to shaping, hammering, and lathing.
Zildjian (Cast Process)
Secret B20 Alloy: Zildjian’s signature bronze alloy (approximately 80% copper, 20% tin, plus trace silver) is known as the “Zildjian Secret.” Only a select few employees and company owners have full access to the foundry where these castings are made.
Repeated Heating & Rolling: After being cast into ingots or “castings,” the metal is heated in a 1400°F oven, then rolled progressively thinner. Each time the blank emerges from the oven, it is manually fed through powerful rollers; this process can happen 5–6 times (or more), depending on the cymbal’s final thickness requirements.
Bell Press & Shaping: Once the casting is thin enough, a bell is pressed into the blank, followed by additional shaping in large presses (80–90 tons of force) to set the cymbal’s overall bow or profile. This step helps define the fundamental pitch and playability.
Hammering & Lathing: Zildjian uses automated hammering machines plus some specialized hand hammering for specific lines. Hammering sets much of the cymbal’s sonic character through metal tension and shape variations. The cymbal is then lathed to specific weight specs, exposing fresh metal and finalizing overtones.
Finishing & Quality Control: Depending on the line, cymbals may receive a brilliant buffing or a light protective coating. A final stamp (logo, model) and laser engraving are added before each cymbal is sound-tested. Any that fail this process are discarded.
This traditional casting and rolling approach means each Zildjian cymbal can exhibit subtle variations in pitch, overtones, and character from one piece to the next.
Paiste (Sheet-Based Approach)
Sheet Metal Alloys (B8, B15, B20): While Paiste does produce some B20 lines (e.g., Formula 602, Masters), the company is well-known for its pioneering use of CuSn8 “2002 bronze” (commonly called B8). They also developed a proprietary B15 alloy (Signature Series). Instead of casting and rolling their bronze in-house, Paiste sources rolled sheets from external foundries, which are then cut into round blanks.
Annealing & Bell Press: Blanks are heated (“annealed”) to soften the metal, then quenched, and pressed to form the bell. This step is carefully monitored to ensure consistent shaping across batches. Some lines require additional high-temperature passes to attain the correct temper.
Hammering (Pneumatic & Hand): Although Paiste uses pneumatic hammers to reduce physical strain and maintain broad consistency, each cymbal undergoes hand-guided hammering to fine-tune shape and overall sonic qualities. The artisan checks thickness and curvature frequently to ensure it meets “master cymbal” references.
Lathing & Tolerances: The blanks are lathed to fractions of a millimeter in thickness. Paiste’s approach is known for producing extremely uniform results, so two cymbals of the same model tend to sound very close to one another.
Finishing & Sound Checking: The edges are smoothed, logos and model designations are applied, and a protective coating can be added (depending on the series). Each cymbal is played and compared to a reference “master cymbal” to guarantee consistency in pitch, dynamics, and timbre. Imbalanced or flawed cymbals are destroyed.
Because Paiste gathers its bronze in carefully milled sheets and tests each cymbal against a sonic reference, Paiste products often have a reputation for near-identical sound within each line.
Core Contrasts
1. Cast vs. Sheet
Zildjian: Melts and pours its secret B20 (cast) bronze in-house, repeatedly heats and rolls to desired thickness, then shapes, hammers, and lathes.
Paiste: Buys pre-rolled B8/B15/B20 sheets, cuts blanks, anneals, and works the metal with pneumatic-plus-hand hammering.
2. Variability vs. Consistency
Zildjian: Cast cymbals can show subtle pitch differences, offering unique “voice” among otherwise identical models.
Paiste: Strict references to master cymbals yield tighter tolerances and near-uniform sonic profiles from cymbal to cymbal.
3. Alloys & Sonic Focus
Zildjian: Almost exclusively B20 for pro lines, prized for warm, traditional character and broad dynamic response.
Paiste: Famous for B8-based 2002 Series, plus B15 (Signatures) and select B20 lines (Masters, Formula 602). Their sheet-metal processes forge crisp, bright, consistent cymbals.
Each brand’s method yields distinct tonal palettes. Drummers often choose Zildjian for its nuanced warmth or Paiste for its glassy projection and consistency. Both approaches are the result of decades (or centuries) of refinement, reflecting each company’s priorities in sound, tradition, and manufacturing.
Sound Characteristics of Paiste Cymbals
Paiste cymbals are often praised for their bright, pure, and cutting tonal qualities, although the exact sound can vary greatly across different lines and alloys. From the classic CuSn8-based 2002 series to the B15 Signature cymbals and the newer PST lines, Paiste consistently emphasizes clarity, articulate response, and balanced projection. Below are several core elements that define Paiste’s overall sonic identity:
Bright, Glassy Tonality
One of the most recognized attributes of Paiste is a “glassy” or “shimmery” top end – a crisp definition that retains clarity through both light and heavy playing. In particular, CuSn8 ‘2002 bronze’ cymbals (e.g., 2002 series, PST7/8) project a vibrant, high-end “sheen” that many drummers find ideal for rock, pop, and other modern styles requiring bright cutting power. Even in lower-volume settings, these cymbals maintain a precise, focused sound without becoming overly washy:
2002 Series: Often described as energetic and “classic rock” sounding. They balance a surprisingly warm low-end undertone with a pronounced high register, making them suitable for anything from pop and blues to heavier rock.
PST7 Line: Uses the same CuSn8 alloy as 2002 but at a more affordable price point; described by Paiste as “bright, warm, and clear,” with a traditional finish for a refined, slightly softer feel.
Consistency of Pitch & Timbre
Many drummers note that Paiste’s manufacturing process—particularly for sheet-based lines—results in highly consistent cymbals. In contrast to some cast models from other brands (which may exhibit greater individual variance), Paiste cymbals are deliberately matched to “master” reference cymbals on the factory floor. This method yields:
Predictability Across Models: If you hear and like one Paiste cymbal in a specific series, you can expect another of the same make and size to sound very close in pitch and character.
Stable Pitch Response: Paiste often highlights that sheet-bronze cymbals hold their fundamental pitch even when played at louder dynamics, minimizing unexpected pitch “bending”.
Some drummers love this uniformity for live work or studio sessions where mixing and matching needs more reliability, while others may prefer unique, one-of-a-kind variations found in cast processes.
Bright vs. Dark Lines
Though Paiste is synonymous with brightness, not all their cymbals are purely high-pitched and glassy:
1. Signature & Signature Traditionals (B15/B20 alloys)
The Signature line (B15) retains a vibrant top-end yet can introduce more warmth and complexity than B8-based lines.
Signature Traditionals incorporate darker, more vintage undertones, featuring “smoky,” “buttery” timbres well suited for jazz, fusion, or acoustic settings.
2. Masters & Formula 602 (B20 alloys)
Masters Dark cymbals are described as “dark, smoky, and mellow,” with a narrower range and complex mix, perfect for lower-volume or more subtle expressive playing.
Formula 602 cymbals deliver a classic, warm, and pure tone—excellent for jazz, blues, and recording situations where nuance and refined overtones are essential.
By offering lines spanning bright and bold to warm and subtle, Paiste caters to different stylistic demands without sacrificing their trademark clarity.
Articulation & Dynamic Response
Paiste’s hammering, lathing, and alloy recipes create cymbals that speak quickly with a clean, immediate attack. Even their heavier models tend to open up easily at lower volumes, providing articulate stick response and a controlled wash. For instance, the Masters Dark Flat Ride or Signature Traditionals Flat Ride can produce a delicate ping and rapid decay, ideal for quieter, detail-oriented playing. In louder contexts, lines like 2002 or RUDE maintain a penetrating ping and cutting crash to be heard in rock or metal settings.
Key aspects of Paiste’s dynamic behavior include:
Quick Attack: Cymbals respond promptly to light tapping or heavier strokes.
Stable Pitch: Moderate to loud hits do not cause drastic pitch shifts, which can be beneficial in consistent live or studio environments.
Balanced Sustain: While many Paiste cymbals have a notable shimmering decay, they rarely become uncontrollable, even under more forceful playing.
Overall Impression
Whether it’s the brightness and power of CuSn8 2002s, the modern sheen of B15 Signatures, or the darker complexity of B20 Masters, Paiste’s emphasis on precise, consistent production shines through in virtually every series. Drummers looking for “clean, bright, and articulate” often choose Paiste for its unmatched clarity and uniform quality. At the same time, expanded lines such as the Masters, Signature Traditionals, or Formula 602 prove that Paiste can just as effectively deliver warm, vintage-inspired darkness suitable for jazz and acoustic environments.
In short, Paiste cymbals span from shimmering and powerful to mellow and smoky, all unified by a certain sonic purity and refined craftsmanship that set the brand apart. Regardless of style, there is a Paiste line to fit almost any musical situation—paired with the reliability of a brand renowned for consistent, fine-tuned instrumentation.
Sound Characteristics of Zildjian Cymbals
Zildjian cymbals are widely celebrated for their warm, musical voices and dynamic range—qualities that stem from a proprietary B20 alloy (approximately 80% copper, 20% tin, plus tiny amounts of silver) and centuries of cymbal-making tradition. Below is an expanded look at the sonic traits that make Zildjian’s sound instantly recognizable:
Warmth, Complexity, and Dynamic Nuance
One of the hallmarks of Zildjian is a warm, complex resonance that comes from their cast production method and meticulously guarded bronze recipe. Unlike many sheet-made cymbals, Zildjians often display slight tonal variances within the same model, providing each piece a distinct, individual voice.
Rich Overtones: Especially notable in lines like K Constantinople, which feature a dark, smooth timbre balanced by a penetrating wash. These cymbals are hand-hammered in multiple stages, producing a broad harmonic mix that’s simultaneously earthy and refined.
Dynamic Responsiveness: From quiet, delicate strokes to loud, forceful hits, Zildjians maintain a musical essence across volume ranges. This makes them equally appealing in subtle jazz sets or louder rock contexts.
Clear Stick Definition & Ride Qualities
Zildjian ride cymbals typically excel in stick articulation while retaining a warm cushion beneath each note. Models like the K Custom Special Dry Ride offer a complex, dry sound with a quick decay. Meanwhile, the A Custom line caters to more modern drummers needing a crisp, bright definition with extra projection.
K Series rides can have complex, darker timbres—favored by jazz, fusion, or any style needing nuanced tones.
A and A Custom Series rides lean brighter, with a clean, penetrating ping that easily cuts in rock, pop, and more energetic genres.
Explosive Yet Musical Crashes
When it comes to crash cymbals, Zildjian has a broad palette. Traditional A Zildjian crashes often deliver a balanced bloom of bright and warm overtones, while A Custom crashes are known for their quicker decay, glassy top-end, and brilliant finish. By contrast, K Series crashes lean darker, with a lush attack that quickly blossoms into a warm, smoky tail.
A Customs typically produce a focused, high-pitched explosion and then get out of the way quickly, ideal for modern rock or pop drummers seeking penetrating attacks.
K Cymbals may retain more complexity, swirling overtones, and a darker mood—particularly suited to jazz, fusion, or recording setups where a slightly more complex color is desired.
Full-Bodied Hi-Hats with Cutting Chick
Zildjian hi-hats often match well with a variety of genres, thanks to their balance of crisp definition and warm sustain:
K Sweet Hi-Hats offer a fuller, more resonant foot chick, and a darker overall timbre. Users describe their tone as warm and mellow, pairing nicely with both live and studio applications.
A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hats feature a unique bottom cymbal that produces a more pronounced chick sound, making them versatile enough for various musical styles.
Overall Impression
From the bright, quick-decay A Customs to the dark, complex K series, Zildjian’s vast array of lines suits practically any style or venue. Despite these differences, all Zildjian cymbals share a signature warmth, a finely tuned blend of overtones, and an organic feel that resonates with drummers worldwide. The secret alloy, detail-oriented production, and centuries of cymbal-making expertise ensure that drummers can find exactly the sonic character they’re looking for—an enduring, versatile voice that remains at the heart of Zildjian’s enduring legend.
FAQ
Are Paiste cymbals better than Zildjian cymbals?
The question of whether Paiste cymbals are better than Zildjian cymbals is subjective and largely depends on personal preference and the specific sound a drummer is seeking. Paiste cymbals are known for their bright, cutting sound which suits genres like rock and metal, while Zildjian cymbals offer a warm, complex tone ideal for jazz and fusion. Both cymbal brands have their unique strengths, making them both excellent choices depending on the musical context.
Which is better, Zildjian or Sabian?
Zildjian and Sabian are both leading cymbal makers, each offering a range of high-quality cymbals. Zildjian is renowned for its traditional craftsmanship and warm tones, whereas Sabian is praised for its innovative designs and versatility. The decision between the two often comes down to the specific sound and style a drummer prefers, as both brands produce great cymbals suited for various musical genres.
What cymbals do professionals use?
Professional drummers often use a combination of cymbals from different cymbal brands, including Paiste, Zildjian, and Sabian, based on their personal preference and the sound they want to achieve. Many professionals favor the high-end lines such as Zildjian’s K and A series, Paiste’s Signature series, and Sabian’s AAX series for their superior sound quality and durability.