Zildjian Z Custom

Introduction: First generation: 1994 - 2001, Second Generation (Redesign): 2001 - 2009

Background: The Z Custom series was introduced in 1994 as a successor to the original Z Series, intended for heavier musical styles such as Heavy Metal, Punk, and Hard Rock. These were again shaped by computerized hammers, but unlike the previous series, the cymbals were thinner and several models were lathed. Several models from the Z Series were carried over, including the Power Ride, the Mega Bell Ride, Dyno Beat Hi-Hats, and the China Boy. In 2001, the series was redesigned and updated with new hammering on all models, new series logos and model designations. The line was discontinued in 2009, and succeeded by the Z3 series.

Alloy: B20

Quality: Professional

Production: Like its predecessor, a computer-controlled hammering process gave Z Custom series cymbals their unique sound and look. The pattern, spacing, and thrust tonnage of the hammers were all stored in digital memory and could be repeated with a degree of precision never before possible. Hammering shapes included Convex Closed Hex, Concave Open Penta, Concave Five Point Star, and Convex Six Point Star. Early on, the hammering shapes from the Z Series were carried over. After 2001, the hammering used on all cymbals was a new Concave round pattern.

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  First generation 14" Hi-Hat bottom, convex six point star hammering

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  Second generation 14" Hi-Hat pair, with updated series and model designation, and round hammering.

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  First generation 18" Rock Crash, convex six point star hammering.

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  Second generation 18" Rock Crash, with updated series and model designation, and round hammering.

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  Second generation 20" China, with round hammering.

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  First generation 21" Mega Bell Ride, Concave Five point star hammering.

Company Description: Louder is Better. Z Customs can handle the pressure of driving, heavy music while delivering a bright, penetrating cymbal voice. As Hard Rock music has mutated into countless new forms, Z Customs have kept pace. They’re now better than ever, with state-of-the-art hammering, an exciting new look and enhanced sound. Z Customs walk the fine line between volume and musicality for drummers who do the same.

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Rides

• Ride - 20" 22"
• Power Ride - 20" 22"
• Mega Bell Ride - 21"
• Thrash Ride - 19"

Crashes

• Medium Crash - 16" 17" 18" 19" 20"
• Rock Crash - 16" 17" 18" 19"
• Projection Crash - 18" 19" 20"

Hi-Hats

• Hi-Hat - 13" 14"
• Dyno-Beat Hi-Hat - 13" 14"
• Mastersound Hi-Hat - 14" 15"

Splash

• Splash - 12" 14"

Chinas

• China/China Boy - 18" 20" (Boy was dropped from the name in 1997)

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