What material is used to make the Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats?

These hi-hats are made from B25 bronze. This alloy is designed to produce warm tones and a broader frequency range compared to standard B20 bronze.

Where are Masterwork Custom cymbals manufactured?

They are made in Turkey. The manufacturing process adheres to extremely high standards of traditional craftsmanship to ensure durability and tonal quality.

What is the finish on these hi-hats?

The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats feature a custom traditional finish. This finish contributes to their classic look and balanced, articulate sound.

What is the typical price for this cymbal pair?

The typical price range for the Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat pair is approximately GBP 178. This positions them as a professional-grade option at a competitive price point.

Are these hi-hats suitable for studio recording?

Yes, they are specifically designed for both every performance and studio session. Their immediate attack and warm tones make them highly controllable under microphones.

How does the 13-inch size affect the sound?

The 13-inch diameter provides a more agile feel and a slightly higher pitch than 14-inch hi-hats. This allows for faster response times and better definition during complex playing.

Can these be used as a primary hi-hat setup?

Absolutely, though they are also described as being great as a secondary hi-hat setup. Their versatility allows them to function in either role depending on the drummer's needs.

What are the weight characteristics of the Masterwork Custom 13?

These hi-hats are lightweight. This design choice enhances their agility and ensures they do not overpower other instruments in a mix.

How durable are Masterwork Custom cymbals?

They are described as extremely durable. The Turkish manufacturing process is intended to withstand the rigours of both live touring and frequent studio use.

What kind of attack do these hi-hats have?

The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats feature an immediate attack. This means the sound speaks quickly as soon as the cymbal is struck or closed.

How do these compare to the UFIP Bionic Series 13?

While both are 13-inch professional hi-hats, the Masterwork Custom 13 uses B25 bronze for a warmer, more traditional tone. The Bionic series often focuses on different tonal characteristics suited for high-volume settings.

What genres of music best suit the Masterwork Custom 13?

Due to their warm tones and broad frequency range, they are versatile enough for most genres. Their agility makes them particularly well-suited for jazz, funk, and fusion where articulation is key.

Gear article

Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat

The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat is a lightweight, agile pair of cymbals constructed from B25 bronze. Handcrafted in Turkey with a traditional finish, these hi-hats are designed to deliver warm tones and an immediate attack for both studio and live applications.

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Overview

The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat pair represents a high-specification approach to compact cymbal design. These hi-hats are distinguished by their B25 bronze composition, a material choice that provides a broader frequency range than the industry-standard B20 alloy. Manufactured to high standards in Turkey, the cymbals are built for durability across diverse performance environments, including intensive studio sessions and live tours. Their 13-inch diameter and lightweight construction make them particularly responsive and agile.

Design and Construction

Central to the Masterwork Custom series is the use of B25 bronze, which contributes to the cymbals' distinct tonal warmth and broad frequency response. The cymbals undergo traditional Turkish manufacturing processes, resulting in a 'Custom Traditional' finish that balances aesthetic elegance with sonic clarity. The lightweight nature of the pair ensures that the mechanical response is fast, allowing for intricate footwork and stick patterns without the sluggishness often found in heavier, larger hi-hat pairs.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat is characterised by an immediate attack and a warm, musical decay. Because of the 13-inch sizing, the pitch is naturally higher than standard 14-inch models, yet the B25 bronze prevents the sound from becoming overly harsh or brittle. The result is a crisp, articulate 'chick' sound when closed and a shimmering, controlled wash when played open, making them suitable for genres requiring precision and nuance.

Applications

While these hi-hats are robust enough to serve as a primary set for many drummers, they are specifically highlighted for their utility as a secondary hi-hat setup. In a dual hi-hat configuration, their agility and distinct frequency range provide a clear contrast to a larger primary set. Their portability and controlled volume also make them an excellent choice for smaller club dates or recording sessions where a broad, overbearing cymbal wash needs to be avoided.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to entry-level options like the Meinl HCS 13, the Masterwork Custom 13 offers a significantly more complex harmonic profile due to its B25 bronze construction and professional manufacturing. When compared to the UFIP Bionic Series 13, the Masterwork Custom tends toward a warmer, more traditional character. For players seeking a darker or more experimental sound, alternatives like the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch or Meinl Byzance series may be considered, though the Masterwork Custom 13 remains a versatile all-rounder in the mid-price professional bracket.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is used to make the Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats?: These hi-hats are made from B25 bronze. This alloy is designed to produce warm tones and a broader frequency range compared to standard B20 bronze.
Where are Masterwork Custom cymbals manufactured?: They are made in Turkey. The manufacturing process adheres to extremely high standards of traditional craftsmanship to ensure durability and tonal quality.
What is the finish on these hi-hats?: The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats feature a custom traditional finish. This finish contributes to their classic look and balanced, articulate sound.
What is the typical price for this cymbal pair?: The typical price range for the Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hat pair is approximately GBP 178. This positions them as a professional-grade option at a competitive price point.
Are these hi-hats suitable for studio recording?: Yes, they are specifically designed for both every performance and studio session. Their immediate attack and warm tones make them highly controllable under microphones.
How does the 13-inch size affect the sound?: The 13-inch diameter provides a more agile feel and a slightly higher pitch than 14-inch hi-hats. This allows for faster response times and better definition during complex playing.
Can these be used as a primary hi-hat setup?: Absolutely, though they are also described as being great as a secondary hi-hat setup. Their versatility allows them to function in either role depending on the drummer's needs.
What are the weight characteristics of the Masterwork Custom 13?: These hi-hats are lightweight. This design choice enhances their agility and ensures they do not overpower other instruments in a mix.
How durable are Masterwork Custom cymbals?: They are described as extremely durable. The Turkish manufacturing process is intended to withstand the rigours of both live touring and frequent studio use.
What kind of attack do these hi-hats have?: The Masterwork Custom 13 Hi-Hats feature an immediate attack. This means the sound speaks quickly as soon as the cymbal is struck or closed.
How do these compare to the UFIP Bionic Series 13?: While both are 13-inch professional hi-hats, the Masterwork Custom 13 uses B25 bronze for a warmer, more traditional tone. The Bionic series often focuses on different tonal characteristics suited for high-volume settings.
What genres of music best suit the Masterwork Custom 13?: Due to their warm tones and broad frequency range, they are versatile enough for most genres. Their agility makes them particularly well-suited for jazz, funk, and fusion where articulation is key.