Who designed the Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China?

It was designed by the renowned Japanese drummer Akira Jimbo in collaboration with Zildjian. His goal was to combine the characteristics of crash and china cymbals into one versatile instrument.

What is the primary benefit of the unlathed surface on this cymbal?

The unlathed surface allows for easier crashability and contributes a vibrant attack. It also helps the cymbal project volume similar to a much heavier model despite its thin construction.

Is the 19" Hybrid China suitable for recording?

Yes, it is specifically described as being ideal for both recording and stage settings. Its balanced character ensures it captures well in a studio environment without being overly abrasive.

How does the volume of this cymbal compare to its weight?

Although it features a thin manufacturing profile, it projects volume like a heavier cymbal. This is primarily attributed to the character of the unlathed bell and centre section.

What kind of sound should I expect from this China cymbal?

You can expect a blend of a vibrant crash-like attack and natural, trashy China tones. It provides a complex, wash-heavy sound that is more musical than a standard 'clanky' China.

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

The Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China typically retails for approximately £429. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current stock.

Does the unlathed bell affect playability?

The unlathed bell provides a more focused and powerful projection. This allows the drummer to get a strong response even when playing with less force, compared to fully lathed alternatives.

How does this cymbal differ from a standard Zildjian K China?

The 'Hybrid' designation refers to the mix of lathed and unlathed surfaces. Standard K Chinas typically have more uniform lathing, whereas the Hybrid is designed specifically to incorporate crash cymbal traits.

Can I use the 19" Hybrid China as a main crash?

While it is an effects cymbal, its design encourages crashability. It can be used for occasional accents or as a secondary crash, though it still retains a distinct 'trashy' China finish.

Is this cymbal durable enough for heavy metal or hard rock?

Yes, because the unlathed bell helps project volume like a heavier cymbal, it can stand up to high-decibel environments. However, its thin edge means it remains responsive to lighter touches as well.

What is the benefit of the 19-inch size?

The 19-inch diameter provides a lower pitch and a larger 'sweet spot' for striking compared to smaller 17-inch versions. It offers a fuller, deeper wash that fits well in a variety of musical mixes.

What are some notable alternative cymbals to consider?

Comparable high-end effects cymbals include the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash and the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash. These also offer complex, dark, and 'dry' tonal characteristics.

Gear article

Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China Cymbal

The Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China Cymbal is a specialized effects cymbal developed in collaboration with Japanese drummer Akira Jimbo. It combines the explosive crashability of a standard cymbal with the complex, trashy overtones characteristic of a traditional China.

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Background and Design

The K Custom Hybrid range represents a collaborative effort between the Zildjian Sound Lab and renowned fusion drummer Akira Jimbo. The objective of the 19" Hybrid China is to bridge the gap between traditional effects cymbals and standard crashes. By blending specific manufacturing techniques, the cymbal aims to offer a versatile tool that functions across multiple musical genres without the one-dimensional nature of some heavy effects cymbals.

Construction and Key Features

The construction of the 19" Hybrid China is defined by its dual-surface treatment. It features an unlathed centre section and a lathed outer edge.

Key design elements include: - Unlathed Bell: The inner section maintains the raw character of the bronze, allowing for significant volume projection and power usually associated with heavier cymbals. - Lathed Edge: The outer portion is thin and lathed, which facilitates easier 'crashability' and a faster response. - Weight Profile: Despite its thin manufacturing, the cymbal is designed to project efficiently in high-volume environments.

Sound Character

The sound of the K Custom 19" Hybrid China is characterised by a 'vibrant attack' followed by the 'natural trashy tones' expected from a China cymbal. Because of the hybrid lathing, the initial strike has the clarity of a crash cymbal, while the decay carries the dark, complex, and slightly gritty wash of the K Custom series. It provides a distinct middle ground between a piercing effect and a musical wash.

Applications and Alternatives

This cymbal is designed for drummers who require an effects cymbal that can perform in both studio recording and live stage settings. Its ability to project through a mix makes it suitable for rock and fusion, while its thin edge allows for the nuance required in jazz or contemporary styles.

Compared to alternatives like the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash or the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, the Hybrid China offers a more aggressive 'trashy' edge. For drummers seeking a more traditional hi-hat sound, models such as the Paiste Giant Beat 14" or UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats provide a more standard rhythmic foundation compared to the aggressive accenting of the Hybrid China.

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Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China?: It was designed by the renowned Japanese drummer Akira Jimbo in collaboration with Zildjian. His goal was to combine the characteristics of crash and china cymbals into one versatile instrument.
What is the primary benefit of the unlathed surface on this cymbal?: The unlathed surface allows for easier crashability and contributes a vibrant attack. It also helps the cymbal project volume similar to a much heavier model despite its thin construction.
Is the 19" Hybrid China suitable for recording?: Yes, it is specifically described as being ideal for both recording and stage settings. Its balanced character ensures it captures well in a studio environment without being overly abrasive.
How does the volume of this cymbal compare to its weight?: Although it features a thin manufacturing profile, it projects volume like a heavier cymbal. This is primarily attributed to the character of the unlathed bell and centre section.
What kind of sound should I expect from this China cymbal?: You can expect a blend of a vibrant crash-like attack and natural, trashy China tones. It provides a complex, wash-heavy sound that is more musical than a standard 'clanky' China.
What is the typical price range for this model in the UK?: The Zildjian K Custom 19" Hybrid China typically retails for approximately £429. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current stock.
Does the unlathed bell affect playability?: The unlathed bell provides a more focused and powerful projection. This allows the drummer to get a strong response even when playing with less force, compared to fully lathed alternatives.
How does this cymbal differ from a standard Zildjian K China?: The 'Hybrid' designation refers to the mix of lathed and unlathed surfaces. Standard K Chinas typically have more uniform lathing, whereas the Hybrid is designed specifically to incorporate crash cymbal traits.
Can I use the 19" Hybrid China as a main crash?: While it is an effects cymbal, its design encourages crashability. It can be used for occasional accents or as a secondary crash, though it still retains a distinct 'trashy' China finish.
Is this cymbal durable enough for heavy metal or hard rock?: Yes, because the unlathed bell helps project volume like a heavier cymbal, it can stand up to high-decibel environments. However, its thin edge means it remains responsive to lighter touches as well.
What is the benefit of the 19-inch size?: The 19-inch diameter provides a lower pitch and a larger 'sweet spot' for striking compared to smaller 17-inch versions. It offers a fuller, deeper wash that fits well in a variety of musical mixes.
What are some notable alternative cymbals to consider?: Comparable high-end effects cymbals include the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash and the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash. These also offer complex, dark, and 'dry' tonal characteristics.