What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride?

The cymbal is defined by very bright and clean stick definition. It balances this clarity with the dark overtones typical of the K series.

Does this cymbal feature lathing?

No, this specific model features an un-lathed top and bottom. This design choice contributes to its dry, articulate sound and controlled sustain.

What type of finish does it have?

It comes in a Zildjian Brilliant finish. This high-gloss finish is achieved through a buffing process that adds a shimmery quality to the high frequencies.

How would you describe the bell sound?

The bell is described as loud and clear. It provides a strong, piercing tone that stands out distinctly from the rest of the cymbal surface.

Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?

While it has dark overtones, it is quite bright and defined. It is often preferred for modern jazz or fusion where stick clarity is more important than a large, smoky wash.

How does the un-lathed surface affect the playability?

The un-lathed surface makes the cymbal feel stiffer and reduces the 'wash.' This ensures that fast rhythmic patterns do not become blurred by build-up.

What is the typical price for this model?

In the UK market, this cymbal is typically priced at approximately £477. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument.

Which famous drummers use the Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride?

Mia Morris is among the notable artists associated with this specific piece of gear. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for session professionals.

Can this ride be used as a crash cymbal?

Due to its weight and un-lathed design, it is quite heavy and does not open up easily like a dedicated crash. It is primarily designed for rhythmic ride patterns.

How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series?

The K Custom Brilliant is much brighter and has more high-end projection. The Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series is significantly earthier and shorter in sustain.

What size is the cymbal?

This specific model has a diameter of 20 inches, which is the standard size for a versatile ride cymbal. It offers a balance between portability and tonal depth.

Is the K Custom louder than a standard K Ride?

Generally, yes. The Brilliant finish and un-lathed surface of the K Custom version tend to provide more cut and volume than the traditional K Ride.

Gear article

Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride Cymbal (Brilliant Finish)

The Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride in Brilliant Finish is a premium professional cymbal known for its bright, clean stick definition and loud bell. It features a unique manufacturing profile with un-lathed top and bottom surfaces, offering a distinct blend of dark overtones and high-end clarity.

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Overview and History

The K Custom series represents an evolution of the traditional Zildjian K line, incorporating modern hammering techniques to achieve specific tonal characteristics. The 20-inch Ride is a cornerstone of this range, designed to provide the control and articulation required by contemporary drummers. Unlike traditional K cymbals, the K Custom utilizes a heavier weight and specific surface treatments to enhance projection and clarity.

Design and Construction

This cymbal is distinguished by its 'Brilliant' finish, which involves a high-lustre buffing process. A key structural feature is the un-lathed state of both the top and bottom surfaces. This lack of lathing, combined with the K Custom hammering pattern, restricts the spread of the cymbal, resulting in a drier, more focused sound compared to fully lathed alternatives.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the K Custom 20" Ride is defined by contrast. It delivers exceptionally bright and clean stick definition, ensuring that every stroke is audible even in dense mixes. Despite this brightness, the cymbal retains the 'dark' overtones characteristic of the K lineage. The bell is notably loud and piercing, providing a clear musical contrast to the main body of the cymbal.

Target Audience and Usage

This ride is particularly well-suited for drummers who require precise stick articulation without excessive wash. It has gained popularity across various genres, including pop, rock, and fusion, where a clear rhythmic pulse is essential. Notable artists who have utilised this gear include Mia Morris. Because of its loud bell and controlled sustain, it excels in live performance settings where a cymbal needs to cut through amplified instruments.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to other professional offerings, the K Custom 20" Ride sits in a unique niche. Compared to the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat 14 Hi-Hats, the Zildjian offers a more controlled, less 'washy' experience. While cymbals like the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash or the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash focus on trashy or dry textures, the K Custom maintains a more polished, high-definition sound. For those seeking entry-level alternatives, the Meinl HCS 13 Hi-Hats or Gear4Music Low Volume packs offer affordability, but lack the tonal complexity and volume of the K Custom.

Artists who play it

Mia Morris
Drummer

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride?: The cymbal is defined by very bright and clean stick definition. It balances this clarity with the dark overtones typical of the K series.
Does this cymbal feature lathing?: No, this specific model features an un-lathed top and bottom. This design choice contributes to its dry, articulate sound and controlled sustain.
What type of finish does it have?: It comes in a Zildjian Brilliant finish. This high-gloss finish is achieved through a buffing process that adds a shimmery quality to the high frequencies.
How would you describe the bell sound?: The bell is described as loud and clear. It provides a strong, piercing tone that stands out distinctly from the rest of the cymbal surface.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?: While it has dark overtones, it is quite bright and defined. It is often preferred for modern jazz or fusion where stick clarity is more important than a large, smoky wash.
How does the un-lathed surface affect the playability?: The un-lathed surface makes the cymbal feel stiffer and reduces the 'wash.' This ensures that fast rhythmic patterns do not become blurred by build-up.
What is the typical price for this model?: In the UK market, this cymbal is typically priced at approximately £477. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument.
Which famous drummers use the Zildjian K Custom 20" Ride?: Mia Morris is among the notable artists associated with this specific piece of gear. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for session professionals.
Can this ride be used as a crash cymbal?: Due to its weight and un-lathed design, it is quite heavy and does not open up easily like a dedicated crash. It is primarily designed for rhythmic ride patterns.
How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series?: The K Custom Brilliant is much brighter and has more high-end projection. The Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series is significantly earthier and shorter in sustain.
What size is the cymbal?: This specific model has a diameter of 20 inches, which is the standard size for a versatile ride cymbal. It offers a balance between portability and tonal depth.
Is the K Custom louder than a standard K Ride?: Generally, yes. The Brilliant finish and un-lathed surface of the K Custom version tend to provide more cut and volume than the traditional K Ride.