Paiste 404
404
Contents
Introduction: 1978
Discontinued: 1986
Background: Evolution of the B8 Dixie.
Swiss 404's made in 1978 will have the "Paiste 404" ink stamping in one line above the bell.
In 1979 they changed the stamping to look like the 2002 stamps with Paiste over 404.(see picture)
The German black label stamping stayed the same from 1978-81: "Paiste 404" in one line.
German black label 404s got serial numbers. Swiss black label 404s did not.
Early "black label" 404's were leftover restamped B8 Dixies.
Rogers distributed 404's in the U.S. from '79 to '81
Paiste took over when they opened their N.A. distribution center. '81 and later 404's came with the printed "brown label" (see picture) along with an expanded selection of models and sizes, see chart below.
- Paiste's budget B8 line, below the mid-range 505s and professional 2002s, but still made from the distinctive CuSN8 bronze... No longer in production, the 404s crop up from time-to-time on eBay - they are reasonably well though-of by today's drummers, most of whom believe the 404s to be far superior to currently produced budget models from any manufacturer...
Innovation: Affordable cymbals similar to the 505's.
Alloy: CuSn8 (Also known as "2002 Bronze")
Quality: Entry Level to Semi Professional. Paiste 404 have a good sound, they project and give a true cymbal feel. Made with Paiste know-how, they represent quality at a small investment. Perfect for the demanding student seeking sound value. (1)
Production: Similar to the 2002's & 505's
Applications: All applications, to include live and studio
Users: Beginner to intermediate drummers looking for something better than an off-the-shelf pack of brass rubbish that's still with their budget... Anyone looking for gig-able cymbals at bargain prices...
Sound: Not complex, but not displeasing to the ear...
Rides
Crashes
Hi-Hats
Information from: Todd Little
- Paiste "Six Cymbal Lines" Ad 1981
- Modern Drummer Equipment Annual, 1986
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