What is the primary purpose of the Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX?

It is designed as an effects crash to provide a quick, trashy accent that decays faster than a traditional crash cymbal.

How do the laser-cut holes affect the sound?

The holes disrupt the vibrations of the cymbal, which shortens the sustain and adds a dry, 'white noise' character to the tone.

What is the volume level of this cymbal?

It produces a medium level of volume, allowing it to blend into a musical mix effectively rather than dominating the soundstage.

Does the 18" EFX maintain a clear pitch?

Yes, despite the trashy overtones created by the cut-outs, the design is intended to maintain a strong and clear fundamental tone.

Is the sustain long or short?

The cymbal features a short, sizzling sustain that is much quicker than a standard solid crash cymbal.

What finish does the Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX have?

It features a brilliant finish, which contributes to its bright, shimmering high-end response.

Can this cymbal be used for riding?

While primarily a crash, its dry character allows for short rhythmic accents, though it lacks the defined 'ping' of a dedicated ride like the Masterwork Iris 21.

How does the sound compare to a China cymbal?

It offers a similar 'trashy' bite to a China but typically with a smoother, more refined character that is easier to record and mix.

What genre of music is this cymbal best suited for?

It is versatile enough for pop, rock, jazz fusion, and electronic music where quick, explosive accents are required.

Is the A Custom EFX a dark or bright cymbal?

The manufacturer describes the attack as dark and trashy, though it retains the bright shimmer typical of the B20 A Custom series.

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

The Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX is typically priced around £339 at major music retailers.

Does this cymbal come in other sizes?

Yes, Zildjian produces the EFX pattern in various sizes, but the 18-inch model is a popular standard for its balance of body and speed.

Gear article

Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX Cymbal

The Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX is a specialised crash cymbal designed to produce a fast, trashy, and atmospheric sound. Part of the renowned A Custom series, it is distinguished by laser-cut perforations that alter the sustain and harmonic profile for a dry, explosive response.

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Overview

The Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX is a professional-grade effects cymbal that sits within the contemporary A Custom line. It is engineered to provide drummers with a 'white noise' texture that falls between a traditional crash and a china cymbal. Its primary functional feature is a series of laser-generated cut-outs that reduce the overall mass of the cymbal and interrupt the vibration patterns, resulting in a shorter decay and a more aggressive attack.

Design and Construction

Like other cymbals in the A Custom range, the 18" EFX is manufactured using Zildjian's secret B20 bronze alloy. It features the signature radical rotary hammering and a brilliant finish that characterises the series. The unique element of this model is the 'EFX' pattern of holes. These laser-cut slots are strategically placed to ensure the cymbal maintains a strong, clear fundamental tone while significantly increasing the 'trashiness' of the overtones. The build quality allows for a medium volume level, ensuring the cymbal blends into a mix rather than overpowering the rest of the kit.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the A Custom 18" EFX is described as dark and trashy with a quick, dry response. Upon being struck, the cymbal delivers an immediate explosion of sound followed by a short, sizzling, and smooth sustain. Because of the perforations, the sustain is considerably shorter than a standard 18" A Custom Crash. The sound is punchy and high-frequency dominant, providing a 'quick flare' that is useful for accents and staccato patterns.

Context and Comparison

Within the market for effects cymbals, the A Custom EFX is often compared to other dry or trashy options. While the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash offers a darker, earthier tone, the Zildjian EFX retains the bright, modern shimmer associated with the A Custom line. Compared to the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash, the EFX is generally more consistent and focused. While some drummers may look toward budget options like the Gear4Music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack for practice, the A Custom EFX is a dedicated performance tool designed for high-end studio and stage applications. It serves a different purpose than standard time-keeping cymbals like the Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats or the UFIP Bionic Series 13" Hi-Hats, acting instead as a textural highlight.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX?: It is designed as an effects crash to provide a quick, trashy accent that decays faster than a traditional crash cymbal.
How do the laser-cut holes affect the sound?: The holes disrupt the vibrations of the cymbal, which shortens the sustain and adds a dry, 'white noise' character to the tone.
What is the volume level of this cymbal?: It produces a medium level of volume, allowing it to blend into a musical mix effectively rather than dominating the soundstage.
Does the 18" EFX maintain a clear pitch?: Yes, despite the trashy overtones created by the cut-outs, the design is intended to maintain a strong and clear fundamental tone.
Is the sustain long or short?: The cymbal features a short, sizzling sustain that is much quicker than a standard solid crash cymbal.
What finish does the Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX have?: It features a brilliant finish, which contributes to its bright, shimmering high-end response.
Can this cymbal be used for riding?: While primarily a crash, its dry character allows for short rhythmic accents, though it lacks the defined 'ping' of a dedicated ride like the Masterwork Iris 21.
How does the sound compare to a China cymbal?: It offers a similar 'trashy' bite to a China but typically with a smoother, more refined character that is easier to record and mix.
What genre of music is this cymbal best suited for?: It is versatile enough for pop, rock, jazz fusion, and electronic music where quick, explosive accents are required.
Is the A Custom EFX a dark or bright cymbal?: The manufacturer describes the attack as dark and trashy, though it retains the bright shimmer typical of the B20 A Custom series.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The Zildjian A Custom 18" EFX is typically priced around £339 at major music retailers.
Does this cymbal come in other sizes?: Yes, Zildjian produces the EFX pattern in various sizes, but the 18-inch model is a popular standard for its balance of body and speed.