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Paiste is synonymous with premium cymbals, combining cutting-edge technology with time-honored craftsmanship. This roundup showcases their iconic lineup, from shimmering Chinese cymbals to powerful rock ride sets.

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Reviews

Paiste 17" 900 Series Crash Cymbal

The Swiss-made 900 Series brings professional sound to every drummer's kit without breaking the bank. These medium-weight cymbals deliver authentic Paiste warmth with a touch of brilliance, whether you're playing solo or in a loud band. The hand-hammered 17" crash gives you just the right balance of volume and sustain for any room.

Paiste 20" Masters Mellow Ride

This 20-inch Paiste cymbal blends traditional French jazz styling with modern ride capabilities. The medium-light weight and low to medium volume make it versatile for both practicing and performance, while the surprisingly long sustain and smooth stick response add depth to your playing. The subtle bell character provides just the right amount of interest without overpowering the cymbal's fundamentals.

Paiste 22" Signature Traditionals Light Ride

The Paiste 22" Signature Traditionals Light Ride delivers a warmth and darkness that sets it apart from modern cymbals, with a subtle wash that adds depth without overpowering the sound. At just the right medium-lively intensity, it handles everything from jazz and blues to rock and reggae with remarkable versatility. The smooth edge and solid construction feel fantastic under sticks, while the integrated bell gives a rich, dark tone that's a joy to play.

Paiste Signature Power Crash Cymbal

The 20-inch Paiste Signature Power Crash delivers massive projection and brilliant tone, with a wide frequency range that cuts through even the loudest amps. Whether you're nailing heavy metal riffs or laying down subtle fills, this cymbal handles it all with its lively response and clean fundamentals. Classic Swiss craftsmanship in Signature Bronze gives it that unmistakable Paiste sound quality that pros trust for both studio and stage.

Paiste 20" Cymbal

These versatile cymbals combine a dark, rich tone with impressive dynamic range and sustained wash. The medium-thin construction produces a clear, washy sound that's both woody and silvery, making them perfect for sensitive yet powerful playing. Whether you're crushing on crashes or riding the sound waves, these Paiste beauties deliver the classic Bonham tone that keeps drummers coming back for more.

Paiste Signature Full Crash Cymbal

The Paiste Signature Full Crash delivers a brilliant, warm sound that cuts through mixes with ease. Handmade from their proprietary bronze alloy, these cymbals offer remarkable versatility in a 14" crash. While the surface features small dents and patina, the cymbal maintains its character without compromise. Notable for their superior sound quality, these Signature cymbals represent a significant investment in crashed metal craftsmanship.

Paiste 18" Signature Power Crash

When you need a crash that cuts through any mix while maintaining incredible musicality, the Paiste 18" Signature Power Crash delivers. Made from their proprietary Signature Bronze alloy, this cymbal combines powerful projection with exceptional sustain, while remaining surprisingly articulate for its size. Whether you're nailing heavy metal fills or adding delicate touches to a jazz arrangement, these cymbals never disappoint.

Paiste 2002 Power Crash 20-Inch Cymbal

Made from B8 bronze with a distinctive 20-inch diameter, this cymbal brings a classic rock sound to any kit, with a bright and full crash tone that works brilliantly as a complement to other Paiste 2002 rides and hi-hats. The medium to very loud sound range makes it perfect for cutting through the mix in genres from metal to soul, while its durable construction and Swiss craftsmanship have earned it a loyal following among working musicians and drummers looking to upgrade their crash collection.

Paiste Signature Full Ride 20" Cymbal

This versatile ride cymbal delivers a rich, musical tone with exceptional stick definition and controlled overtones. Whether you're playing soft jazz or loud rock, it handles everything with clarity and character. Users love its strong bell and powerful wash, though some find it a bit loud for quieter styles.

Paiste 22" Signature Mellow Ride Cymbal

This 22-inch ride has a warm, rich sound profile that's perfect for drummers who prefer a softer attack. At moderate volumes, it offers clear stick definition for precise timekeeping, while developing a complex wash tone when played with more force. The bell is forward and defined, blending well with the overall sound of the cymbal.

Paiste Color Sound 900 16" Crash Cymbal

This 16-inch Paiste cymbal combines medium-bright versatility with a warm, focused tone that cuts through various music styles. The medium-weight copper bronze construction delivers lively intensity and controlled sustain, while the optional Color Sound finish adds visual impact without sacrificing durability. Whether you're playing jazz, rock, or anything in between, this crash cymbal delivers consistent performance with its balanced mix of full and crisp attack.

Paiste 20" Signature Power Ride Cymbal

This hand-hammered 20" ride from Paiste's Signature series delivers a pristine sound with a bright attack and sustained wash. The traditional bronze finish and Swiss craftsmanship ensure every note rings with clarity and presence, making it an excellent choice for powerful playing styles.

Paiste Signature Mellow Crash Cymbal

This 17-inch cymbal brings a warm, understated presence to any kit, with a lively response that lets your technique shine through. The signature washy stick sound pairs beautifully with its mellow character, while the short sustain keeps things tight and focused. Whether you're tracking in a studio or nailing solos live, these cymbals deliver that signature Paiste clarity without overpowering the mix.

Paiste 22" 2002 Crash Cymbal

The Paiste 22" 2002 Crash delivers the classic rock sound that defined the genre, with a bright and warm tone that cuts through mixes effortlessly. Pairs beautifully with other Paiste 2002 cymbals, providing consistent sound quality that's identical from piece to piece. This versatile crash cymbal has earned its reputation among professional drummers for its clear, musical sound across various styles of music.

Paiste 19" Signature Power Crash

This Swiss-crafted cymbal combines brilliant sound with massive projection, making it ideal for both live performance and studio recording. The 19" Signature Power Crash delivers crystal-clear fundamentals and a wash-like sustain that cuts through even the most powerful amplifiers. Whether you're nailing heavy metal riffs or laying down delicate percussion, these cymbals deliver the musicality and consistency you'd expect from the highest-end drum accessories.

Paiste Giant Beat Thin Crash 20

Combining a vintage rock sound with responsive playability, these 20" thin crashes deliver warm tones with a breathy character. The medium sustain and low-medium volume make them suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from rock to jazz. Paiste's faithful recreation captures the big, brilliant sound of their 1960s originals while adding modern responsiveness for both stick and mallet techniques.

Paiste 900 Series Ride 22

The Paiste 900 Series 22" Ride cymbal brings together warm, clear tones with impressive sustain, making it a versatile addition to any kit. At just the right size for medium to loud volumes, this cymbal pairs bright stick definition with a practical 2002 bronze construction that won't break the bank. Its compact profile and smooth lathing make it equally at home in small gigs or studio sessions.

Paiste PST 7 Crash 19" Cymbal

A medium-weight crash cymbal with warm, traditional Paiste sound, the PST 7 delivers its signature bronze tone through a 19-inch diameter. Hand-lathed by Swiss craftsmen, these cymbals combine classic looks with durable performance, offering medium sustain and washy stick response. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budget-conscious player, these cymbals provide an affordable way to enhance your kit with a touch of Paiste quality.

Paiste 18" Signature Precision Crash Cymbal

This 18-inch crash cymbal delivers a bright, full sound with warm overtones. It works well across different playing dynamics and mixes nicely with other cymbals in a set. The medium-long sustain gives it more character than a typical crash, making it a versatile additions for both live performances and studio work.

Paiste Signature Classic Cymbal Box Set

This Swiss-made cymbal set combines the signature brilliance of Paiste's 1989 innovation with modern studio favorites. The included 14" Dark Crisp Hi-Hats and 22" Full Ride cymbal deliver that signature shimmer, while the 18" and 20" Full Crashes provide the depth you'd expect from a session-ready kit. The 16" Fast Crash adds versatility to the collection, making this set perfect for both recording and live performance.

Paiste Rude Big Sound Cymbal Set

If you like your cymbals to cut through a heavy metal mix like a razor, these are your new best friends. The sharp chick sound and pronounced stick response give your playing that classic punk/metal edge. At 14" and 20", they're compact enough for club gigs but loud enough to rock a stadium, though you might want to practice volume control first - some reviewers found them a bit too aggressive for their taste.

Paiste 900 Series Medium Cymbal Set

Made from 2002 Bronze in Switzerland with a traditional finish, these Paiste 900 cymbals deliver warm, full sound with controlled brightness. The hybrid construction merges hand-hammered detail with refined lathing for a distinctive tone that's both rich and responsive. Whether you're setting up a new kit or expanding your collection, this extended set offers exceptional value with every hit.

Paiste 18" 2002 Big Beat Cymbal

These cymbals blend the best of Paiste's 2002 heritage with modern improvements. The slightly darker finish and thinner weight give them a versatile voice that works great for both crashing and rides. Live or studio, they deliver big sound with excellent control.

Paiste PST 3 Limited Edition Cymbal Set

This impressive beginner-to-intermediate cymbal set delivers big-sounding presence with its modern stamped construction, while the free 18" crash adds valuable versatility to the pack. Priced right for new drummers, these Paiste PST 3 cymbals combine bright, clean tone with durable playability that impressed even the picky drummer in the review.

Paiste 2002 Giga Bell Ride Cymbal

Combining the iconic qualities of classic Paiste cymbals with modern progressive tones, the 2002 Giga Bell Ride delivers exceptional brightness and cutting clarity. At 18 inches in diameter, this medium-heavy cymbal produces a glassy ping that transitions into a bell-like wash with remarkable sustain. The controlled intensity allows for precise articulation across dynamic ranges, making it versatile for various musical styles while maintaining the signature "pingy" character that drummers have praised for decades.

Paiste 14" Signature Fast Crash

This 14" Paiste Signature Fast Crash delivers immediate, full sound whether struck lightly or forcefully, with a distinctive silvery quality and clean stick definition. The cymbal projects beautifully with its clean attack and short sustain, making it a versatile addition to any jazz or studio kit that requires precise, musical tones. While more expensive than some alternatives, users consistently praise its clarity and response time, with many noting it surpasses comparable crashes from brands like Zildjian in terms of speed and tonal precision.

Paiste PST 8 Reflector Rock Cymbal Set

The Paiste PST 8 Reflector Rock set combines beautiful vintage bronze character with controlled intensity and versatile volume. The hand-hammered cymbals produce bright, focused tones with surprisingly good sustain for their size. At a medium-heavy weight, they're powerful enough for live gigs but still manageable for tight playing.

Paiste Color Sound 900 Series Medium Cymbal Set

These Swiss-made cymbals combine brilliant sheen with a surprisingly warm tone. Whether you're dialing in tight hits or letting the crashes ring out, the 2002 bronze alloy delivers exceptional projection and clarity that lives up to Paiste's renowned quality standards. The bold color finishes add a striking touch that won't wilt under stage lights or weather the rigors of travel.

Paiste 14" Rude Hi Hat Bottom Cymbal

This bottom hi-hat brings serious volume to the mix without overpowering your setup. The heavy weight and pronounced stick response add character to every ride pattern, while the medium sustain keeps things tight and focused. The thick tone mixes well with both heavier Paiste and Sabian cymbals, making it a versatile addition to any kit.

Paiste 10" PSTX Swiss Bottom Hit-Hat

This 10" Paiste Swiss hat has a distinctively trashy sound with a noisy open character and impure chick tone. The washy stick response and warm, fuzzy quality make it particularly effective in electronic music and hip-hop settings. Despite its affordability, the cymbal delivers surprisingly decent sustain for its size and volume range.

Paiste 20" Signature Traditionals Light Flat Ride Cymbal

This flat ride cymbal follows Paiste's innovative 1960s design that eliminated the traditional bell. At 20 inches, it offers a medium-light weight that's both controlled and versatile. The dark, complex tone has distinctive silver highs and maintains clear definition even at soft volumes, making it perfect for acoustic settings and accompanying soloists.

Paiste 12 Inch Djx Pstx Hats

The Paiste 12 PSTX Djs 45 Hat brings a distinctive character to any kit with its trashy dry stick sound and crisp closing action. At just one inch tall, the cymbal packs a surprisingly powerful presence despite its compact frame. Its unique surface texture and Swiss-inspired construction add both visual interest and tonal complexity to your setup.

Paiste 17" 2002 Thin Crash Cymbal

This thin 17" crash walks the line between restraint and presence, with a surprisingly robust character that belies its delicate build. The integrated bell adds a touch of crystalline sparkle without overwhelming the mix, while the medium sustain gives your ride patterns just the right amount of room to breathe. Whether you're navigating a sparse rock arrangement or adding texture to a soft jazz ensemble, these cymbals have the versatility to become your go-to for those crucial crashes that define a track.

Paiste 101 Brass Cymbal Set

Crafted in Germany since 2005, these 101 Brass cymbals deliver big sound without breaking the bank. The traditional finish and precise mechanical shaping give each piece its own character, from the bright hi-hats to the powerful ride cymbal. Whether you're jamming with friends or acing your next gig, these cymbals will handle anything you throw at them.

Paiste 10" PSTX Swiss Splash

At just 10 inches in diameter, the Swiss Splash packs surprisingly loud volume and a distinctive trashy sound into a relatively thin cymbal. Its clean, brilliantly finished surface contrasts with the distinctive hole pattern that gives it that signature Paiste lathing. While some users report durability issues, the majority praise its crisp response and versatility in complementing crash, ride, and hi-hat sounds.

Paiste PSTX Swiss Hi-Hats

A versatile 14" hi-hat set featuring distinctive holes that create a trashy chick sound with dark tones. Constructed from 2002 bronze alloy, these Swiss-made cymbals deliver exceptional sustain and work well for electronic music and various playing styles. The set's stackable design makes it a practical addition to any drum kit.

Buyer's Guide

Paiste cymbals offer a rich tonal palette and precisecraftsmanship, making them a popular choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Understanding the key characteristics of Paiste cymbals will help you select the right pair for your playing style and musical needs.

Material and Construction

Paiste cymbals are renowned for their high-quality materials and construction methods. Bronze cymbals are made from a proprietary blend of copper and nickel, while stainless steel cymbals offer enhanced durability. The company's Paiste 2002 series features a traditional bronze alloy, while the larger 2002 Signature series incorporates a premium bronze formulation for improved sound projection and sustain.

Size and Shape Considerations

Cymbal size and shape significantly impact their sound and playability. Paiste offers various diameters and thicknesses to suit different playing styles. For instance, 18-inch crash cymbals provide versatile sound options, while 20-inch crashes offer more projection. The popular 2002 series features both traditional shallow cups and deeper bowls, allowing players to choose between bright, cutting tones and warmer, darker sounds.

Sound Characteristics

Paiste's cymbals produce distinct tonal qualities across the range. The 2002 series, with its slightly hammered surface, produces clear, focused tones with defined attack and moderate sustain. In contrast, the 2002 Signature series features a slightly darker, more complex tone with extended sustain and subtle harmonic overtones. Understanding these tonal characteristics helps match cymbals to specific musical genres and playing styles.

Playability and Maintenance

Playability factors include weight, balance, and feel under the sticks. Paiste cymbals typically weigh between 17 and 26 ounces, with options for both lightweight and heavier cymbals within each series. The hammered surface texture affects grip and stick response. Regular maintenance through proper cleaning and storage helps preserve cymbal finish and tone quality.

FAQ

What makes Paiste cymbals unique?

Paiste cymbals excel through their advanced bronze alloy formulation, which produces superior resonance and sustain compared to traditional bronze cymbals. The company's proprietary techniques, including the use of the AIA (Air Ionized Annealing) process and natural aging, enhance the cymbals' tonal characteristics and durability.

Their cymbals are available in a wide range of sizes and designs, from classical concert models to modern jazz and rock options. Each series is crafted with specific playing characteristics in mind, allowing drummers to customize their sound palette for different musical styles and preferences.

How do I determine which Paiste cymbal series is right for me?

Paiste offers several series tailored to different musical needs. The Classic Resin series is popular with jazz players for its warm, articulate tone, while the Evolution series combines aggressive attack with excellent balance and sustain for modern rock music.

Consider your playing style and musical genre when selecting a series. If you're not sure which series to start with, many music stores offer demonstrations, or you can visit the Paiste website for detailed specifications and sound comparisons.

What's the difference between natural aging and machine aging?

Natural aging involves stacking cymbals for several months to allow the metal to settle and develop their final shape and tone. Machine aging uses hydraulic presses to shape the cymbals, producing a more precise finish and consistent sound profile.

While natural aging takes longer, many drummers prefer it for the enhanced tonal complexity and wear characteristics it produces. Machine aging provides a more repeatable process and shorter production time, suitable for modern manufacturing needs.

How should I maintain my Paiste cymbals?

To maintain your Paiste cymbals, clean them regularly with a soft cloth after each use to remove sweat and debris. For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the surface finish.

Avoid dropping cymbals or striking them on hard surfaces, as this can affect their playability and tone. Store them in their protective cases when not in use to prevent scratches and damage.

Can I return cymbals if I'm not satisfied?

Most drum shops that carry Paiste cymbals offer a return policy, typically allowing returns within 30-90 days of purchase. The terms may vary between retailers, so it's best to check with the specific store where you're purchasing your cymbals.

If you're purchasing online, verify the retailer's return policy before making your purchase. Paiste cymbals are made to order, so returns may be subject to restocking fees or other restrictions.

What's the difference between Paiste's signature models and their regular production series?

Signature models, like the Chris Chaney or Raphi Smailan series, feature unique designs and specifications created in collaboration with professional drummers. These cymbals often incorporate special finishes or thicknesses not available in regular production models.

While regular production series offer versatile options for a wide range of players, signature models provide more specialized characteristics tailored to specific playing styles or musical needs.