What material is the Paiste Color Sound 900 18" China made from?

It is manufactured from CuSn8 Bronze, which is also widely known as '2002 Bronze'. This alloy is famous for its bright, energetic, and durable properties.

How does the black finish affect the sound of the cymbal?

The unique black finish makes the sound slightly drier and shortens the sustain. It also results in a more focused attack compared to the non-coated version.

Is the black coating on the Color Sound 900 durable?

Yes, Paiste's Color Sound finish is designed to be extremely tough and long-lasting. It will not chip, crack, or peel under normal playing conditions.

What is the typical price for this cymbal in the UK?

The Paiste Color Sound 900 Black 18" China typically retails for approximately £150. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

What kind of sound character does this China cymbal have?

It produces a dark yet energetic sound. The sonic profile is characterised by an exotic stick sound over a complex, trashy wash.

Is this cymbal suitable for recording?

Yes, it is highly suitable for studio recording sessions. The shortened sustain and focused attack prevent the wash from becoming overwhelming in a mix.

How does the playability compare to standard cymbals?

Despite the coating, it delivers an authentic feeling playability. It responds to the drumstick in the same way as a traditional bronze cymbal.

Can this cymbal be used for live performances?

Absolutely. Its energetic sound and focused attack ensure that it projects well in live environments, cutting through other instruments effectively.

What is the diameter of this specific model?

This specific model has a diameter of 18 inches. This size provides a good balance between explosive power and controlled response.

How does it compare to the standard 900 Series China?

It is based on the standard 900 Series China but features the Color Sound finish. This finish results in a drier tone and a shorter decay than the standard version.

What genre of music is this cymbal best for?

Because of its dark and trashy character, it is versatile enough for many genres, including rock, metal, and modern pop, where a distinct accent is needed.

Does the Color Sound 900 series include other colours?

While this specific article focuses on the Black finish, the Paiste Color Sound 900 series is known for offering various visual options across their range.

Gear article

Paiste Color Sound 900 Black 18" China Cymbal

The Paiste Color Sound 900 Black 18" China is a professional-grade effects cymbal crafted from CuSn8 bronze, commonly known as 2002 Bronze. It features a specialized black coating that refines the instrument's tonal profile, offering a focused attack and a complex, trashy wash suitable for both live and studio applications.

See live prices

Overview

The Paiste Color Sound 900 Black 18" China is an extension of the standard 900 Series, utilizing the same foundational craftsmanship but incorporating a distinctive aesthetic and acoustic treatment. The cymbal is manufactured from 2002 Bronze, a high-quality alloy renowned for its energy and clarity. The defining characteristic of this model is its translucent black finish, which is applied in a thin layer to preserve the natural feel and vibration of the metal while subtly altering its sonic properties.

Design and Construction

This cymbal follows the traditional China design with a prominent, squared-off bell and an inverted edge, which facilitates the 'trashy' explosive sound required for accent playing. The 18-inch diameter provides a significant surface area for projection. The Color Sound coating is durable and designed not to crack or peel, ensuring the visual appeal remains intact through heavy use. By using the same bronze found in Paiste's legendary professional lines, the 900 series maintains a high standard of playability and responsiveness.

Sound Character

The Color Sound 900 Black China is described as having a dark yet energetic character. The addition of the black coating serves a functional purpose beyond aesthetics; it slightly dampens the vibrations, resulting in a drier sound compared to the standard 900 series. The sustain is shortened, leading to a more focused attack that cuts through dense mixes. Users can expect an exotic stick sound layered over a complex, trashy wash that resolves quickly.

Applications

Due to its balanced nature and authentic feel, the cymbal is highly versatile. It is designed to perform reliably in live environments where its focused attack helps it be heard over loud amplification. Simultaneously, its controlled sustain and drier tone make it a preferred choice for studio recording sessions, where excessive wash can sometimes interfere with microphone clarity. It serves as a potent effects cymbal for drummers across genres seeking a dark, modern aesthetic.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other effects cymbals, the Paiste 900 Black China offers a unique middle ground. Unlike the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, which relies on raw surfacing for its dryness, the Paiste achieves its focus through the Color Sound coating. While budget options like the Gear4music Low Volume cymbals prioritise decibel reduction, the Color Sound 900 remains a full-volume professional instrument. It provides a more aggressive, 'trashy' bite than traditional hi-hats like the UFIP Bionic or Class series, functioning strictly as a high-impact accent piece.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What material is the Paiste Color Sound 900 18" China made from?: It is manufactured from CuSn8 Bronze, which is also widely known as '2002 Bronze'. This alloy is famous for its bright, energetic, and durable properties.
How does the black finish affect the sound of the cymbal?: The unique black finish makes the sound slightly drier and shortens the sustain. It also results in a more focused attack compared to the non-coated version.
Is the black coating on the Color Sound 900 durable?: Yes, Paiste's Color Sound finish is designed to be extremely tough and long-lasting. It will not chip, crack, or peel under normal playing conditions.
What is the typical price for this cymbal in the UK?: The Paiste Color Sound 900 Black 18" China typically retails for approximately £150. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
What kind of sound character does this China cymbal have?: It produces a dark yet energetic sound. The sonic profile is characterised by an exotic stick sound over a complex, trashy wash.
Is this cymbal suitable for recording?: Yes, it is highly suitable for studio recording sessions. The shortened sustain and focused attack prevent the wash from becoming overwhelming in a mix.
How does the playability compare to standard cymbals?: Despite the coating, it delivers an authentic feeling playability. It responds to the drumstick in the same way as a traditional bronze cymbal.
Can this cymbal be used for live performances?: Absolutely. Its energetic sound and focused attack ensure that it projects well in live environments, cutting through other instruments effectively.
What is the diameter of this specific model?: This specific model has a diameter of 18 inches. This size provides a good balance between explosive power and controlled response.
How does it compare to the standard 900 Series China?: It is based on the standard 900 Series China but features the Color Sound finish. This finish results in a drier tone and a shorter decay than the standard version.
What genre of music is this cymbal best for?: Because of its dark and trashy character, it is versatile enough for many genres, including rock, metal, and modern pop, where a distinct accent is needed.
Does the Color Sound 900 series include other colours?: While this specific article focuses on the Black finish, the Paiste Color Sound 900 series is known for offering various visual options across their range.