13" Dark Hats
Idea
Designed to recreate the old turkish sound from a different perspective
Durability
No obvious flaws in the hammering. Thin, even weight with no "soft spots".
Price
£170 aprox. Given zildjian charges nearly £400 for its "Constantinople" series, this is a VERY fair price for something thats actually closer to the sound of the old K's.
Features
As the name suggests, these hats are insanely dark due to the lack of lathing. They have a quick response, a tight chick and a lot of wash when allowed to open up. My experience with hats has taught me that you cant really take your foot off the pedal and leave them to their own devices while you play them. These however can be played open and uncontrolled without them misbehaving. The closed sound is tight, sharp and oh so dark, while the open sound roars and all of this is accompanied by a gorgeous, quick foot chick.
Contrary to zildjians attempt at the old K sound, byzances are both hand hammered and made in turkey.
Overall
If you're looking for something that'll fit well into jazz, then you better get your wallet out. If you want a dark, vintage K sound then these are for you. Despite the jazz crowd obviously being in mind when these were made, they fit well into everything i play, including metal/punk.
5/5
Top hat
Bottom hat