AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Paiste 13" Signature Dark Crisp Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) ($568). Sabian 13" Signature Dave Garibaldi Jam Master Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 38 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Paiste 13" Signature Dark Crisp Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
13" Signature Dark Hi-Hat · Paiste
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
This is a 13-inch hi-hat from Paiste's Signature line, hand-hammered in Switzerland. You get a soft, deep tone and a controlled sound, so it suits you if you want a mellow hi-hat that works with many different kits.
Pros
- Hand-hammered in Switzerland, a mark of careful craft
- Soft, deep tone with a controlled sound
- Dark Crisp voicing from the Signature line
Cons
- At 13 inches, it gives a smaller hi-hat sound than larger sizes
87AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$568 now$568€509 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 13" ZBT Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 2004 - 2019
13" K-Series Hi-Hat · Zildjian
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
You get a 13-inch Zildjian K Series hi-hat with a regular finish. It is made for a deep, full chick tone and quick response, so it fits you if you want a hi-hat that reacts fast when you play it. If you want a K Series hi-hat with that deep chick sound, this one is worth a look.
Pros
- Part of Zildjian's K Series, a line built around a deep and full chick tone
- Quick response, so the hi-hat reacts fast when you play it
- Regular finish, the standard K Series look
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$591 now$591€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Spectrum Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat · Meinl
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
This 13 inch hi-hat is made from B20 Bronze and hand hammered, with a dark, earthy finish. You get a very controlled, dry sound with a soft, deep tone. It suits you if you want a hi-hat that stays tight and focused rather than loud and splashy.
Pros
- Made from B20 Bronze, a traditional cymbal alloy
- Hand hammered, giving each cymbal its own surface
- Dark, natural finish with an earthy look
Cons
- Its dry, controlled sound may not suit players wanting a loud, open wash
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$535 now$535€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat · Meinl
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
If you want a hi-hat with a very dry, earthy sound, this 13-inch Meinl Byzance is a good pick. It is hand hammered from B20 bronze and responds very sensitively, so it suits players who play with a light touch. Choose it if you want that dry, earthy character in a medium cymbal.
Pros
- Hand hammered B20 bronze construction
- Extra dry natural finish
- Very sensitive response to light playing
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$542 now$542€485 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 13" HHX Evolution Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
13" HHX Evolution Hi-Hat · Sabian
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These 13in HHX Evolutions are a serious upgrade for drummers wanting a crisp, articulate hi-hat sound. The contrasting top and bottom cymbals give you a ton of versatility, from tight stick clicks to a full, shimmering sizzle – perfect for modern pop, rock, and funk where you need both power and finesse.
Pros
- The hand-hammering delivers a complex, shimmering wash unlike many machined hats.
- The contrasting top/bottom cymbal design provides a wide dynamic range and articulation.
- Sabian’s Tone Projection technology ensures a quick, responsive feel for nuanced playing.
Cons
- The heavier bottom cymbal might feel a bit stiff for very subtle, quiet playing.
- The bright sound signature isn't ideal for all genres, particularly darker, more mellow styles.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$643 now$643€576 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 13" Signature Dave Garibaldi Jam Master Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
13" HHX H.M. Signature Hi-Hat · Sabian
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
This 13-inch hi-hat is built for wind players who need a crisp, controlled sound. Its natural finish keeps the tone clean so it fits perfectly in a big band or orchestra. The small size helps you play fast without losing accuracy, making it great for modern ensembles.
Pros
- Clear articulation cuts through dense orchestral arrangements
- Balanced sound blends naturally into the ensemble
- Compact 13" size enables fast and precise playing
Cons
- No specific material composition listed in description
- Lacks individual pickup or electronic control features
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 23Aug 23$779 now$779€698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat · Meinl
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These Meinl Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hats are seriously gorgeous. They deliver that classic, smoky jazz sound with a beautifully controlled chick and a shimmering complexity that's hard to find. If you're a jazz or blues drummer looking for a refined, vintage vibe, these are an excellent choice.
Pros
- Exceptionally responsive, nuanced chick sound due to thin profile and B20 bronze.
- Warm, dark, and complex tone ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage recordings.
- Hand-hammered finish provides a uniquely musical, shimmering quality.
Cons
- Thinness makes them potentially fragile; requires careful handling and transport.
- The dark tone may not suit heavier rock or metal styles.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$508 now$508€455 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Agop 13" Signature Mel Lewis Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Agop Signature Hi-Hat · Istanbul Agop
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These 13” Agop Signature hi-hats are a serious step up – Agop Tomurcuk’s final project really shines. The dry, focused sound is fantastic for jazz, funk, and anything needing articulate stick definition; they offer a vintage vibe without being overly stuffy. If you’re looking for a characterful, high-quality hi-hat that cuts through, these are a great choice.
Pros
- Hand-hammering creates a complex, nuanced tone absent in mass-produced hats.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full fundamental with excellent projection.
- The crisp, defined 'chick' sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
Cons
- The 'dry' sound might not suit players seeking a bright, shimmering hi-hat tone.
- 13” size limits versatility; less suited for genres needing a larger, washier sound.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$501 now$501€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 13" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Byzance Hi-Hat Medium · Meinl
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These Meinl Byzance 13 in hi-hats are a real step up in sound quality. They offer a beautiful, detailed shimmer and crisp stick attack – perfect for jazz, fusion, or any genre where you want a refined, articulate hi-hat voice. If you’re a serious player looking for a premium feel and sound, these are worth the investment.
Pros
- Exceptional stick definition thanks to the B12 bronze alloy.
- Complex, shimmering wash provides a sophisticated, nuanced sound.
- Hand-hammered lathing creates a lively, responsive feel.
Cons
- The 13-inch size limits low-end projection compared to larger hi-hats.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$501 now$501€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 13" Byzance Brilliant Serpents Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat · Meinl
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These Serpents hats are a real departure from the norm, offering a beautifully controlled and nuanced sound that's perfect for jazz, fusion, and more subtle genres. The Derek Roddy signature really shines through – expect a warm, responsive feel with a gorgeous, almost shimmering wash. They’re an investment, but if you’re after a truly unique hi-hat voice, these are hard to beat.
Pros
- Derek Roddy signature design delivers a uniquely musical, complex sound.
- B20 bronze construction provides warmth and sustain characteristic of high-end cymbals.
- Distinct top and bottom cymbal hammering creates nuanced chick and pedal response.
Cons
- Premium-priced, making them a significant investment for many drummers.
- The 'washed-out' tone might not suit heavier, more aggressive musical styles.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$501 now$501€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 38 13" hi-hat cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Zildjian 13" A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" A-Series New Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian74Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 12
Istanbul Agop 13" Mel Lewis Sign.1982 Hi-HatIstanbul Agop62Stable$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 13
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Traditional Series Light Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Light Hi-Hat Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet64Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 14
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Legend Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Legend Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
- 15
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Turk Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Medium Hi-Hat Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 16
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Sultan Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Hi-Hat Sultan Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$452€405$452€405Check ↗
- 17
Meinl 13" HCS Hi-Hat (Pair)13" HCS Hi-Hat · Meinl90Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Brilliant Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Xist Hi-Hat Brilliant · Istanbul Agop90Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 19
Zildjian 13" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair)13" I Family Hi-Hat · Zildjian87Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
- 20
Sabian 13" B8X Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" B8X Hi-Hat · Sabian81Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 21
Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 13" Hi-Hat · Paiste80Stable$98€88$98€88Check ↗
- 22
Paiste 13" 101 Brass Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" 101 Hi-Hat · Paiste77Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
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Meinl 13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat · Meinl71Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 13" Mellow Hi-HatZultan66↓ 4.0%$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 25
Millenium 13" Still Series Hi-Hat reg.Millenium64↓ 14.5%$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Zultan 13" Aja Hi-HatZultan64Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 27
Zultan 13" Raw Hi-HatZultan64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 28
Zultan 13" Rock Beat Hi-Hat MediumZultan64Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
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Meinl 13" Classics Custom Dark HHMeinl64Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 30
Zultan 13" Caz Hi-HatZultan64Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 31
Zultan 13" Heritage Hi-HatZultan64Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 32
Masterwork 13" Troy Traditional Hi-HatMasterwork63↓ 5.7%$184€165$184€165Check ↗
- 33
Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Dry Dark Hi-HatIstanbul Agop62Stable$329€295$329€295Check ↗
- 34
Paiste 2002 Classic 13" Sound Edge HHPaiste62Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 35
Zultan 13" Hi-Hat Medium Dark MatterZultan61↑ 5.9%$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 36
Masterwork 13" Custom Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$229€205$229€205Check ↗
- 37
Masterwork 13" Resonant Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 38
Ufip 13" Class Series Hi-Hat MediumUfip58Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
13" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 38 models we track, not a sample.
Median $334 — half of all 13" hi-hat cymbals here cost less.
median of 38 models · 13"–13"
How to choose the best 13" hi-hat cymbals
Articulation
Advanced players need hats that respond to the subtlest stick movements. We're talking about clearly defined chick sounds, crisp foot splashes, and the ability to create complex rhythmic patterns without resorting to overplaying. Muffled, washy hats just won't cut it.
Wash & Sustain
While we want articulation, a complete lack of sustain sounds brittle. The sweet spot is controlled sustain - enough to add body and complexity to your patterns, but not so much that it obscures the underlying groove. Too much wash muddies the low end.
Weight & Feel
A lighter, more responsive hat is generally preferred for advanced playing, allowing for quicker footwork and more delicate control. However, too light and they'll feel flimsy. Finding the right balance is key - it's about how the hat interacts with your stick and foot technique.
Timbre Complexity
Forget the generic 'bright' or 'dark' descriptions. We're looking for hats with a complex tonal palette - a blend of warmth, dryness, and a touch of shimmer. This allows for more expressive playing and adds character to your sound. It's about that subtle 'honk' in the midrange when you really dig in.
Top & Bottom Pairing
The interaction between the top and bottom cymbal is critical. Are they voiced to complement each other? Do they create a balanced sound, or does one dominate? A mismatched pairing can lead to an unbalanced and frustrating playing experience.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're beyond the basic chick-wash and looking for a 13" hi-hat that can actually talk to you. Forget the cookie-cutter sizzle - we're chasing nuance, responsiveness, and that dry, articulate edge that cuts through a dense mix. A 13" is a commitment; it's about finesse, not brute force. Let's find a pair that doesn't just sound good, but feels right under your sticks.
Don't chase the 'vintage' hype - a lot of those older hats were simply inconsistent. Spending a little more on a well-voiced, modern pair will usually give you more reliable performance. Be wary of hats marketed as 'versatile' - that's often code for 'lacking a distinct personality.' Listen to sound samples, but always try them out if you can.
A 13" hat is an investment in your groove - don't cheap out.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 38 13" hi-hat cymbals from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are 13" hi-hats really worth the hassle if I'm used to 14s?
Absolutely. The smaller size forces you to be more precise and dynamic. It's a learning curve, but it'll elevate your playing.
I'm struggling to get enough volume from my 13" hats. What can I do?
Technique is key. Focus on striking the hats with more precision and using your foot to open them wider. Mic placement and a decent preamp can also help, but start with your technique.
What's the difference between 'dry' and 'dark' hi-hats?
'Dark' usually implies a muted, low-pitched sound. 'Dry' refers to a lack of sustain and wash, emphasizing articulation and a clean, crisp sound. They're not the same thing.
I've heard about 'reverse' 13" hi-hats. What are those?
They're essentially a top cymbal mounted upside down, creating a more complex and nuanced sound. It's a bit of a niche thing, but worth experimenting with if you're chasing a unique tone.
Can I use 13" hi-hats in a loud rock band?
It's tougher, but not impossible. You'll need to be very deliberate with your technique and mic them well to cut through. It's more suited to genres where subtlety and groove are prioritized over sheer volume.





