Zildjian 14" A-Series Mastersound HiHat

Like all of the manufacturer's current cymbal lines, the Zildjian A Series is produced entirely in the company's own factory in Norwell, Massachusetts. The cymbals are made from B20 bronze, the established standard in the premium segment and an alloy widely associated with a full, warm and complex character. Even more important to the signature sound of the A Series, however, is the manufacturing process. Unlike the darker K Series, which features more irregular hammering, the A Series uses a precise and consistent hammering technique. The clean lathing pattern, finished with fine tonal grooves, extends the cymbal's upper frequency response, while the wholly mechanical production process ensures tonal consistency throughout the range.

The Avedis Zildjian company is one of the world's oldest manufacturers of musical instruments. In addition to cymbals and gongs, the Zildjian range also includes drumsticks, percussion mallets, and accessories. The company's history dates back to 1618, when an Armenian, Avedis Zildjian, made his first cymbals from tin, copper, and silver near Constantinople. In the early 20th century, the company moved its headquarters to the United States, where a short time later the era of big bands and Swing music began. Zildjian worked closely with the most famous drummers of that era and over the decades earned an excellent reputation among Jazz drummers. Since Ringo Starr led the way more recently, Zildjian cymbals have also become increasingly popular among Rock drummers, and today the range includes cymbals for every conceivable genre, ranging from affordable entry-level cymbals to handmade models of the very highest quality.