What is the unique 'Dark Matter' process?

The Dark Matter process involves a proprietary double-tempering method where the cymbals are subjected to extreme heat. This process creates the charred appearance and alters the internal structure of the metal for a drier sound.

How does the size of these hi-hats affect the sound?

At 15 inches, these hi-hats offer a larger surface area than standard 14-inch models, resulting in a deeper, 'meatier' tone and more volume. The larger size also provides a more pronounced 'chick' sound when closed with the foot.

Are these hi-hats lathed?

The Dark Matter 15" hi-hats feature an un-lathed bottom side. This lack of lathing contributes to the dry, metallic edge and controlled sustain of the instrument.

What is meant by the 'maturing' process?

After the double-tempering process, Dream allows the cymbals to sit for several months. This resting period is intended to let the metal settle into its final tonal state before being sold.

Is the sound of the 15" Dark Matter Hi-Hats bright or dark?

These hi-hats are fundamentally dark and aggressive. While they have a metallic edge that helps them cut through music, they lack the shimmering high-end frequencies found in traditional brilliant-finish cymbals.

Can these hi-hats be used for jazz?

Yes, their dry character and wide tonal range make them suitable for jazz, especially for drummers who prefer a darker, more complex stick sound. However, they are also aggressive enough for rock and fusion.

How do these compare to the Paiste Giant Beat 14"?

The Paiste Giant Beat 14" hi-hats are generally brighter and more 'classic' in sound. The Dream Dark Matter 15" is much drier, darker, and provides a more modern, raw aesthetic and tone.

What alloy are these cymbals made from?

Dream Cymbals typically uses B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) for their professional lines, including the Dark Matter series. This alloy is known for its wide frequency response and durability.

Do these hi-hats work well for recording?

They are highly regarded for recording because their dry sustain means they don't produce excessive 'wash.' This makes it easier for engineers to mix the drums without the hi-hats overpowering the overhead microphones.

How does the tempering affect the cymbal's appearance?

The double-tempering gives the cymbals a raw, dark, and almost 'burnt' image. This unique visual style is a direct byproduct of the heat treatment and is not a chemical patina.

Are these suitable for beginners?

While beginners can use them, they are professional-grade instruments priced around £439. They are generally sought after by intermediate to professional players who require a specific dry tonal character.

How do these compare to the UFIP Bionic Series?

The UFIP Bionic series is designed for high-volume projection with a very polished sound. In contrast, the Dark Matter series provides projection through an aggressive, dry, and raw metallic texture rather than sheer brightness.

Gear article

Dream Cymbals Dark Matter 15" Hi-Hats

The Dream Dark Matter 15" Hi-Hats are a pair of specialist percussion instruments known for their aggressive, dry, and metallic tonal character. Produced through a proprietary double-tempering process, these cymbals are designed to offer significant projection and a wide tonal range for both studio and live applications.

Dream Cymbals Dream Dark Matter Series Hi-Hat 15

See live prices

Background and Construction

The Dark Matter series represents a unique approach to cymbal smithing within the Dream Cymbals catalogue. These 15" hi-hats undergo a specific 'Dark Matter' creation process, which involves extreme heat treatment. Unlike standard cymbals that are finished relatively quickly after casting and hammering, the Dark Matter models are double-tempered. This process alters the molecular structure of the bronze, resulting in their signature charred, raw aesthetic.

Following the heat treatment, the cymbals are left to mature for several months. This resting period allows the metal to settle, ensuring the tonal qualities are locked in before the product reaches the end user. The construction is asymmetrical in its finishing: the top cymbal is double-tempered while the bottom side remains un-lathed, contributing to its distinct physical and sonic profile.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the 15" Dark Matter hi-hats is described as 'meaty' and exceptionally dry. Because of the un-lathed surfaces and the rigorous tempering process, the cymbals exhibit a metallic edge that allows them to cut through dense musical arrangements. Despite their dry nature, they are capable of producing a wide range of tones depending on the velocity and technique of the drummer.

The 15-inch diameter provides a lower fundamental pitch and more 'slosh' when played semi-open compared to standard 14-inch models, yet the Dark Matter processing ensures the stick definition remains crisp and articulated rather than washed out.

Practical Application

These hi-hats are designed as versatile tools for the modern drummer. Their ability to cut through high-volume stage sound makes them suitable for gigging, while their dry, controlled overtones are often preferred by recording engineers to reduce microphone bleed and excessive high-frequency 'sizzle' in the studio.

They are particularly suited for: * Recording: Where controlled decay and dry stick definition are required. * Live Performance: Where an aggressive, meaty sound is needed to compete with amplified guitars. * Practice: For drummers seeking a responsive pair of hats that react to subtle dynamic changes.

Market Comparisons

Within the professional cymbal market, the Dream Dark Matter 15" Hi-Hats compete with other dry, boutique-style offerings. They share tonal similarities with the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series, though they maintain a distinct 'meaty' thickness. Compared to more traditional cymbals like the Paiste Giant Beat 14" or the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi-Hats, the Dark Matter hats are significantly darker and more aggressive. While entry-level options like the Meinl HCS series focus on basic durability and brightness, the Dark Matter series is positioned as a premium, character-driven instrument for professional use.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the unique 'Dark Matter' process?: The Dark Matter process involves a proprietary double-tempering method where the cymbals are subjected to extreme heat. This process creates the charred appearance and alters the internal structure of the metal for a drier sound.
How does the size of these hi-hats affect the sound?: At 15 inches, these hi-hats offer a larger surface area than standard 14-inch models, resulting in a deeper, 'meatier' tone and more volume. The larger size also provides a more pronounced 'chick' sound when closed with the foot.
Are these hi-hats lathed?: The Dark Matter 15" hi-hats feature an un-lathed bottom side. This lack of lathing contributes to the dry, metallic edge and controlled sustain of the instrument.
What is meant by the 'maturing' process?: After the double-tempering process, Dream allows the cymbals to sit for several months. This resting period is intended to let the metal settle into its final tonal state before being sold.
Is the sound of the 15" Dark Matter Hi-Hats bright or dark?: These hi-hats are fundamentally dark and aggressive. While they have a metallic edge that helps them cut through music, they lack the shimmering high-end frequencies found in traditional brilliant-finish cymbals.
Can these hi-hats be used for jazz?: Yes, their dry character and wide tonal range make them suitable for jazz, especially for drummers who prefer a darker, more complex stick sound. However, they are also aggressive enough for rock and fusion.
How do these compare to the Paiste Giant Beat 14"?: The Paiste Giant Beat 14" hi-hats are generally brighter and more 'classic' in sound. The Dream Dark Matter 15" is much drier, darker, and provides a more modern, raw aesthetic and tone.
What alloy are these cymbals made from?: Dream Cymbals typically uses B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) for their professional lines, including the Dark Matter series. This alloy is known for its wide frequency response and durability.
Do these hi-hats work well for recording?: They are highly regarded for recording because their dry sustain means they don't produce excessive 'wash.' This makes it easier for engineers to mix the drums without the hi-hats overpowering the overhead microphones.
How does the tempering affect the cymbal's appearance?: The double-tempering gives the cymbals a raw, dark, and almost 'burnt' image. This unique visual style is a direct byproduct of the heat treatment and is not a chemical patina.
Are these suitable for beginners?: While beginners can use them, they are professional-grade instruments priced around £439. They are generally sought after by intermediate to professional players who require a specific dry tonal character.
How do these compare to the UFIP Bionic Series?: The UFIP Bionic series is designed for high-volume projection with a very polished sound. In contrast, the Dark Matter series provides projection through an aggressive, dry, and raw metallic texture rather than sheer brightness.