Zildjian K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride

Group: Rides
Type: Hybrid Ride
Size: 20 Inch
Series: K Custom
Weight: 2192g, 2322g, 2337g, 2353g, 2397g, 2400g (2006 Serial Number), 2401g (2006 Serial Number), 2403g, 2411g, 2415g (2011 Serial Number), 2426g, 2428g, 2439g, 2444g, 2454g, 2500g, 2524g
Median Weight: 2411g (n=17)
Years of production: ? - Present
Sound file: K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
K Custom 20" Hybrid Ride
Zildjian's Description: <<< - >>>
Review: "This attractive looking set of K Customs is the result of a collaboration between Zildjian and celebrated Japanese drummer, Akira Jimbo. The unusual look is due to each cymbal having two distinct playing surfaces, hence the name Hybrid. The outer area has traditionally finished K-style lathing, while the inner area and bell has a smoothly polished brilliant finish.

The two bands meet half way across the radius of each cymbal. So, for example, on the 20" ride the demarcation line is at about 5". The cymbals are medium weight and have light hammering, though not on the bells. The effect the dual surface has is to offer two different sound dimensions depending on where and how the cymbal is played.

The 20" ride combines the defined stick response and strong bell sound of the K Custom ride (which has the brilliant, unlathed finish all over) with the crash-ability and increased spread of a thinner, lathed cymbal. The idea is that the lathed outer section produces a softer and darker sound while the inner smooth section and the bell produce harder and brighter tones.

Of course, this happens with any cymbal to some extent, since the note becomes shorter and higher-pitched as you approach the bell. But with this hybrid design the distinction is more pronounced. There is a definite change of timbre as you cross the line between the two surfaces.

While playing near the edge you can crash and ride in traditional K manner - you can whip up plenty of wash while retaining a clear stick response. Then immediately you cross the border into the central area you get a pingier, harder stick definition, well before you reach the bell. It's certainly different..."

Review written by The MusicRadar Team ("Zildjian K Custom Hybrid Ride 20" review", musicradar.com, December 11, 2007)

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