What is the typical price for the Paiste PST 5 N 14 Sound Edge Hi-Hats?

The typical price for these hi-hat cymbals is approximately £129.

When was the 'N' version of the PST 5 series introduced?

The updated PST 5 N series of cymbals was introduced in 2014.

What does the 'Sound Edge' feature do?

The Sound Edge technology involves a rippled bottom cymbal rim that prevents air-lock, resulting in a sharper 'chick' sound and increased articulation.

What kind of sound character do these hi-hats have?

These hi-hats are bright and strong when closed, and full-bodied with a cutting tone when played open.

Which playing style best suits these cymbals?

They are ideal for players with an articulated playing style who need their stick work to be clearly heard.

How does the PST 5 N compare to the Meinl HCS series?

The PST 5 N is generally considered a step up from the HCS 13 hi-hats, offering a more robust bronze construction and the specialized Sound Edge design.

Are these cymbals suitable for professional use?

While marketed as affordable quality cymbals, their defined and cutting tone makes them suitable for live performance and intermediate to professional rehearsal setups.

What size are these specific hi-hats?

This specific model is the 14-inch version of the PST 5 N Sound Edge hi-hats.

How do these compare to the Paiste Giant Beat series?

The Giant Beat series is a more premium, vintage-inspired product, whereas the PST 5 N is designed for modern brightness and affordability.

Can these hi-hats cut through a loud rock band?

Yes, they are described as 'strong to the ear' and 'cutting,' making them effective for music with high stage volume.

Is the bottom cymbal flat or rippled?

The bottom cymbal features the wavy, rippled edge characteristic of Paiste’s Sound Edge design.

What is the benefit of the 'N' revision in this series?

The 2014 'N' revision was designed to provide better quality and sonic definition compared to the original PST 5 line.

Gear article

Paiste PST 5 N 14 Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals

The Paiste PST 5 N 14 Sound Edge Hi-Hats are a performance-focused cymbal set designed for players requiring articulation and volume at an accessible price point. Introduced as an update in 2014, these cymbals utilise Paiste's proprietary bronze alloy and 'Sound Edge' technology to provide a sharp, cutting tone.

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Overview

The Paiste PST 5 N 14 Sound Edge Hi-Hats represent the 2014 evolution of the Paiste Sound Technology (PST) line. These cymbals are engineered to balance professional design features with affordability, making them a staple for intermediate drummers or professionals requiring a reliable secondary set. The 'N' designation refers to the updated manufacturing process applied to the series to enhance sonic clarity.

Design and Sound Edge Technology

The defining feature of these hi-hats is the 'Sound Edge' bottom cymbal. Unlike standard flat-bottom cymbals, the Sound Edge design features a wavy, rippled rim on the bottom plate. This prevent air-lock between the two cymbals, resulting in a significantly sharper and more pronounced 'chick' sound when closed with the foot pedal.

In terms of tonality, the PST 5 N 14 hi-hats are characterised as bright and strong. When played closed, they offer high levels of articulation, ensuring that intricate stick work remains audible. When played open, the cymbals transition into a full-bodied wash that is capable of cutting through loud stage mixes.

Performance Characteristics

These cymbals are particularly suited for musical genres that require a defined, cutting presence. Key sonic attributes include:

Articulation: High definition for rhythmic patterns and syncopated playing.
Volume: Strong projection due to the bright bronze alloy.
Versatility: While bright, the full-bodied nature of the open sound allows for use across rock, pop, and fusion genres.

Market Position and Comparisons

Positioned at a typical price point of £129, the PST 5 N sits between entry-level brass cymbals and professional-grade bronze series. Compared to budget options like the Meinl HCS 13 Hi-Hats, the Paiste PST 5 N offers superior projection and a more refined bronze alloy tone.

While they do not reach the complex, dark tonal characteristics of premium cymbals such as the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry or the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch, they provide a cleaner, more consistent alternative to low-volume practice sets. For drummers seeking a more vintage or heritage sound, the Paiste Giant Beat series serves as a high-end alternative within the same brand family.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the typical price for the Paiste PST 5 N 14 Sound Edge Hi-Hats?: The typical price for these hi-hat cymbals is approximately £129.
When was the 'N' version of the PST 5 series introduced?: The updated PST 5 N series of cymbals was introduced in 2014.
What does the 'Sound Edge' feature do?: The Sound Edge technology involves a rippled bottom cymbal rim that prevents air-lock, resulting in a sharper 'chick' sound and increased articulation.
What kind of sound character do these hi-hats have?: These hi-hats are bright and strong when closed, and full-bodied with a cutting tone when played open.
Which playing style best suits these cymbals?: They are ideal for players with an articulated playing style who need their stick work to be clearly heard.
How does the PST 5 N compare to the Meinl HCS series?: The PST 5 N is generally considered a step up from the HCS 13 hi-hats, offering a more robust bronze construction and the specialized Sound Edge design.
Are these cymbals suitable for professional use?: While marketed as affordable quality cymbals, their defined and cutting tone makes them suitable for live performance and intermediate to professional rehearsal setups.
What size are these specific hi-hats?: This specific model is the 14-inch version of the PST 5 N Sound Edge hi-hats.
How do these compare to the Paiste Giant Beat series?: The Giant Beat series is a more premium, vintage-inspired product, whereas the PST 5 N is designed for modern brightness and affordability.
Can these hi-hats cut through a loud rock band?: Yes, they are described as 'strong to the ear' and 'cutting,' making them effective for music with high stage volume.
Is the bottom cymbal flat or rippled?: The bottom cymbal features the wavy, rippled edge characteristic of Paiste’s Sound Edge design.
What is the benefit of the 'N' revision in this series?: The 2014 'N' revision was designed to provide better quality and sonic definition compared to the original PST 5 line.