Which Zildjian cymbal should I buy for crashes and effects?

For a straightforward crash addition, start by auditioning the Zildjian S Family 18" Thin Crash. At the supplied best new price of £153, it is also the least expensive of these three cymbals.

If you already have your main crash covered, compare the K 16 EFX (£353) with the K Custom 19 Hybrid China (£455). These are effects options rather than like-for-like alternatives to a conventional crash, so choose by the accent you need rather than the series name alone.

Listen to all three at comparable volumes, ideally alongside your existing cymbals. Pay attention to the initial attack and how long the sound hangs around: a cymbal needs to fit the music, not just impress on its own.