What is the primary function of the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?

The 20 EFX is an effects crash designed to provide a trashy, biting sound with a quick decay. It is used for accents and adding unique textures that standard crashes cannot achieve.

What do the holes in the cymbal do?

The laser-generated cut-outs reduce the cymbal's mass and disrupt vibration. This results in a faster attack, a shorter sustain, and a 'trashier' sound similar to a china cymbal.

How does the volume of the 20 EFX compare to other cymbals?

It produces a medium volume level. This allows it to blend musically into a kit setup rather than overpowering other instruments or cymbals.

Is the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX suitable for loud rock music?

Yes, its biting attack allows it to cut through a mix. However, because it has a medium volume and smooth sustain, it may not be as dominant as a heavy power crash.

How does it differ from a standard A Custom Crash?

Unlike a standard A Custom Crash, the EFX version has cut-outs that make the sound drier and more 'trashy'. It decays much faster than a solid 20-inch crash.

What is the typical price for this cymbal?

The Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX typically retails for approximately £449. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Which famous artists use the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?

Mia Morris is a notable drummer known to use this specific gear in her setup. It is popular among modern drummers seeking versatile effects.

Can the 20 EFX be used as a ride cymbal?

While you can strike it anywhere, its design with cut-outs means it lacks the sustain and 'ping' required for traditional riding. It is strictly intended as an effects crash.

How does the sound compare to a China cymbal?

It offers the trashy attack of a china but maintains the smoothness and fundamental tone of the A Custom series. It is generally less harsh than a traditional china.

What material is this cymbal made from?

Like other cymbals in the A Custom line, the 20 EFX is crafted from Zildjian's secret B20 bronze alloy. This provides a balanced mix of highs, mids, and lows.

Does the 20 EFX come in other sizes?

While this specific model is 20 inches, Zildjian produces EFX models in various sizes within the A Custom and K series. The 20-inch version provides a deeper fundamental tone than smaller models.

How should I clean the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?

Because it has a brilliant finish, it should be cleaned with Zildjian's recommended cymbal cleaning polish. Special care should be taken around the laser-cut holes to avoid lint buildup.

Gear article

Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX Cymbal

The Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX is a specialized effect cymbal known for its laser-generated cut-outs and trashy, biting sound. It combines the refined characteristics of the A Custom series with the aggressive attack of a china cymbal, offering a unique blend of sizzle and smooth sustain.

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Overview and Design

The Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX is a large-format effects crash designed to deliver a specific sonic texture that sits between a traditional crash and a china cymbal. It is part of the long-standing A Custom series, which was developed in collaboration with Vinnie Colaiuta. The most striking visual and functional feature of the 20 EFX is the unique set of laser-generated cut-outs distributed across the surface of the cymbal. These holes serve to disrupt the vibration of the metal, resulting in a faster decay and a more complex, 'trashy' tonal profile.

Sound Character

This cymbal is characterised by a dark and trashy attack followed by a sizzling, smooth sustain. Despite the aggressive nature of the cut-outs, the 20 EFX maintains a strong and clear fundamental tone. It produces a medium level of volume, which allows it to blend into a musical mix rather than dominating it. The sound is often described as biting and dry, offering the quick response needed for punctuations and accents without the lingering overtones of a standard 20-inch crash.

Performance and Use Cases

The Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX is particularly suited for drummers looking to add 'quick flare' to their kit. Because it bridges the gap between a crash and a china, it is versatile enough for various genres including pop, rock, and fusion. Notable artists such as Mia Morris have utilised this cymbal for its distinct voice. Its medium volume makes it a practical choice for studio environments where controlled decay is often preferred.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other effect cymbals, the A Custom 20 EFX is smoother and more refined than many 'dry' alternatives. For example, the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash offers a much earthier, unrefined texture, whereas the Zildjian maintains the bright, polished shimmer characteristic of the A Custom line. Similarly, while the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash provides a boutique, dark character, the 20 EFX focuses on a modern, biting attack that is more consistent with contemporary pop and rock productions.

Artists who have used this item

Mia Morris
Drummer

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?: The 20 EFX is an effects crash designed to provide a trashy, biting sound with a quick decay. It is used for accents and adding unique textures that standard crashes cannot achieve.
What do the holes in the cymbal do?: The laser-generated cut-outs reduce the cymbal's mass and disrupt vibration. This results in a faster attack, a shorter sustain, and a 'trashier' sound similar to a china cymbal.
How does the volume of the 20 EFX compare to other cymbals?: It produces a medium volume level. This allows it to blend musically into a kit setup rather than overpowering other instruments or cymbals.
Is the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX suitable for loud rock music?: Yes, its biting attack allows it to cut through a mix. However, because it has a medium volume and smooth sustain, it may not be as dominant as a heavy power crash.
How does it differ from a standard A Custom Crash?: Unlike a standard A Custom Crash, the EFX version has cut-outs that make the sound drier and more 'trashy'. It decays much faster than a solid 20-inch crash.
What is the typical price for this cymbal?: The Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX typically retails for approximately £449. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Which famous artists use the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?: Mia Morris is a notable drummer known to use this specific gear in her setup. It is popular among modern drummers seeking versatile effects.
Can the 20 EFX be used as a ride cymbal?: While you can strike it anywhere, its design with cut-outs means it lacks the sustain and 'ping' required for traditional riding. It is strictly intended as an effects crash.
How does the sound compare to a China cymbal?: It offers the trashy attack of a china but maintains the smoothness and fundamental tone of the A Custom series. It is generally less harsh than a traditional china.
What material is this cymbal made from?: Like other cymbals in the A Custom line, the 20 EFX is crafted from Zildjian's secret B20 bronze alloy. This provides a balanced mix of highs, mids, and lows.
Does the 20 EFX come in other sizes?: While this specific model is 20 inches, Zildjian produces EFX models in various sizes within the A Custom and K series. The 20-inch version provides a deeper fundamental tone than smaller models.
How should I clean the Zildjian A Custom 20 EFX?: Because it has a brilliant finish, it should be cleaned with Zildjian's recommended cymbal cleaning polish. Special care should be taken around the laser-cut holes to avoid lint buildup.

Sources

Last updated: 2026-10-09