AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Brilliant Hi-Hat (Pair) ($334). Zildjian 13" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair) gives you the most for the money at $218. 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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Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Brilliant Hi-Hat (Pair)
13" Xist Hi-Hat Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
You get a 13-inch hi-hat pair from the Agop Xist series, made of B20 bronze with a brilliant finish. The maker describes its sound as high-resolution, clear and always assertive, so it fits you if you want a cymbal that stands out. Its medium weight suits players who want a balanced feel.
Pros
- Made from B20 bronze, which is 80% copper and 20% tin
- Medium-weighted pair, a balanced choice for many players
- Brilliant edition finish from the Agop Xist series
90AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 13" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair)
13" I Family Hi-Hat · Zildjian
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
You get a 13" traditional hi-hat made of B8 bronze, part of Zildjian's I Family Series. It has a bright, defined chick sound, so it's a good fit if you want a hi-hat that sounds clear and crisp when the top and bottom come together. Its medium-thin top and medium bottom weights make it a solid pick for drummers who want a steady, everyday hi-hat.
Pros
- Made from B8 bronze, a material used for cymbals
- Traditional version with a bright and defined chick sound
- Part of Zildjian's I Family Series
87AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$218 now$218€195 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
This is a 13-inch hi-hat made from B8 bronze, the alloy used in the well-known Sabian B8 series that it succeeds. You get a hammered bell, a natural finish, and a medium strength, so it can work for many playing styles. If you want a hi-hat with a proven alloy behind it and a warm, complex sound, this one is worth a look.
Pros
- Made from B8 bronze, the alloy of the popular Sabian B8 series
- Hammered bell gives it a distinct look and character
- Medium strength suits a range of playing styles
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
The Zultan Mellow 13” hi-hats are a seriously clever bit of kit. They’ve managed to dial back the volume significantly without sacrificing that authentic hi-hat feel – the rebound is spot on. Perfect for gigging musicians needing to be mindful of volume or those wanting a quieter practice option, these are a great solution.
Pros
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex tone with good sustain.
- Significant volume reduction (up to 30%) ideal for quieter environments.
- Hand-hammered construction ensures consistent response and realistic feel.
Cons
- Mellow sound may lack the aggressive sizzle some drummers prefer.
- While versatile, its quieter nature limits its suitability for very loud stages.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$278 · Aug 17$267 now$267€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
The Zultan 13' Raw Hi-Hats are a seriously cool option for drummers seeking a darker, more controlled sound. They’re fantastic for jazz, funk, and anything needing a nuanced, earthy feel without excessive wash – a great choice for players wanting a unique voice without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and musicality.
- Raw finish minimizes overtones for a controlled, dry sound.
Cons
- Raw finish may require more frequent cleaning to prevent oxidation.
- Limited versatility; not ideal for very bright or splashy playing styles.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
These Zultan Rock Beat hi-hats are a solid choice for rock, pop, and heavier styles needing a crisp, cutting sound. They offer a good balance of projection and control for drummers looking for a more assertive hi-hat without the premium price tag of some top-tier brands. A great upgrade for intermediate to advanced players.
Pros
- Bright, assertive sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm core despite the brightness.
- Hand-polishing creates consistent stick response and shimmer.
Cons
- The aggressive sound might be too bright for very subtle or jazz applications.
- While well-made, the thinner weight may not withstand extremely heavy hitters.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$245 now$245€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
These Classics Custom Dark 13” hi-hats are a solid choice for drummers seeking a controlled, articulate sound with a warm foundation. They're really fantastic for genres like jazz, funk, and R&B where a crisp chick and a full, musical sizzle are essential. If you're looking for something that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy, these are worth a serious look.
Pros
- The B10 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- The dark finish reduces harshness, emphasizing the low-end frequencies.
- The 13” size offers a tighter, more controlled chick sound than larger hats.
Cons
- The 'dark' voicing might lack brilliance for brighter, more modern styles.
- While durable, the B10 bronze isn't as resistant to cracking as higher-end alloys.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$256 now$256€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
These Zultan Caz hi-hats are a real gem for jazz and fusion players craving a traditional, hand-hammered vibe. The lighter weight gives them incredible responsiveness, and the B20 bronze delivers a beautiful warmth without sacrificing clarity – a fantastic option for nuanced playing.
Pros
- B20 bronze provides a warm, complex harmonic profile.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and wash.
- Lower weight allows for quick, responsive footwork and chick sounds.
Cons
- The thinner profile might lack sustain for heavier rock styles.
- Caz series’ darker tone isn’t universally appealing; some prefer brighter hats.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$267 now$267€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
The Zultan Heritage 13-inch hi-hats are a fantastic option for drummers seeking a vintage vibe with a bit of punch. They're responsive and articulate, cutting through a mix nicely, and feel really well-built for the price. These are perfect for rock, funk, and soul players who want character without excessive expense.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex overtone profile.
- Hand-hammered construction ensures nuanced sonic character and responsiveness.
- 13-inch size offers quick, crisp stick definition and footwork.
Cons
- The assertive nature might be overwhelming for very subtle, quiet playing styles.
- B20 bronze can be prone to fingerprints and requires diligent care.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size13"
These Xist Dry Dark hi-hats are a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a vintage, articulate sound. The 13-inch size and hand-hammered construction create a really unique and controlled 'dry' feel, perfect for jazz, funk, and any style where you want a more intimate and defined hi-hat sound.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and nuanced tone.
- Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
- Short trashy attack provides crisp stick definition and a 'dry' feel.
Cons
- The 'dry' sound might lack the wash desired for certain genres.
- B20 bronze can be more prone to tarnishing than other alloys.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$329 now$329€295 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.
- 11
Paiste 2002 Classic 13" Sound Edge HHPaiste62Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 12
Masterwork 13" Resonant Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 13
Masterwork 13" Custom Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$229€205$229€205Check ↗
- 14
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Sultan Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Hi-Hat Sultan Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$452€405$452€405Check ↗
- 15
Ufip 13" Class Series Hi-Hat MediumUfip58Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 13" HCS Hi-Hat (Pair)13" HCS Hi-Hat · Meinl90Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 17
Zultan 13" Hi-Hat Medium Dark MatterZultan61↑ 5.9%$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 18
Masterwork 13" Troy Traditional Hi-HatMasterwork63↓ 5.7%$184€165$184€165Check ↗
- 19
Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 13" Hi-Hat · Paiste80Stable$98€88$98€88Check ↗
- 20
Paiste 13" Signature Dark Crisp Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Signature Dark Hi-Hat · Paiste87Stable$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 21
Zildjian 13" ZBT Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 2004 - 201913" K-Series Hi-Hat · Zildjian83Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 22
Paiste 13" 101 Brass Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" 101 Hi-Hat · Paiste77Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 23
Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Spectrum Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat · Meinl81Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 24
Meinl 13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat · Meinl71Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 25
Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat · Meinl76Stable$542€485$542€485Check ↗
- 26
Zultan 13" Aja Hi-HatZultan64Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 27
Istanbul Agop 13" Signature Mel Lewis Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Agop Signature Hi-Hat · Istanbul Agop75Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 28
Zildjian 13" A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" A-Series New Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian74Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 29
Meinl 13" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Hi-Hat Medium · Meinl74Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 30
Meinl 13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat · Meinl74Stable$508€455$508€455Check ↗
- 31
Sabian 13" HHX Evolution Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" HHX Evolution Hi-Hat · Sabian72Stable$643€576$643€576Check ↗
- 32
Meinl 13" Byzance Brilliant Serpents Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat · Meinl67Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 33
Sabian 13" Signature Dave Garibaldi Jam Master Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" HHX H.M. Signature Hi-Hat · Sabian67Stable$779€698$779€698Check ↗
- 34
Millenium 13" Still Series Hi-Hat reg.Millenium64↓ 14.5%$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 35
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Traditional Series Light Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Light Hi-Hat Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet64Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 36
Istanbul Agop 13" Mel Lewis Sign.1982 Hi-HatIstanbul Agop62Stable$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 37
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Turk Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Medium Hi-Hat Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 38
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Legend Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Legend Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
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
At 13", clarity is king. You want to hear every chick and foot splash, not a muddy blob. This is especially important if you're playing with a busy rhythm section.
Trashiness/Complexity
Intermediate players are starting to explore more nuanced sounds. A totally flat, one-dimensional hat won't cut it. Some 'trash' - a little unpolished edge - is good, but too much will just sound cheap.
Wash vs. Stick Definition
13" hats naturally have less wash than 14" or 15". Finding a balance where you get some body but still have crisp stick definition is crucial. A lot of it comes down to hammering and lathing.
Playability/Sensitivity
You need something responsive to subtle movements. A stiff, unforgiving hat will stifle your creativity and make complex patterns impossible. This is tied to weight and overall construction.
Durability/Headroom
Let's be honest, gear gets beat up. You're gigging now, so you need something that can take a few knocks and still sound decent. Thin hats will warp quickly, especially if you're playing with any force.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the beginner stage, you're starting to actually listen to your hi-hats instead of just making noise, and you're thinking about downsizing? 13" hi-hats are a sweet spot for a lot of intermediate players - tighter, more articulate, and surprisingly versatile. They're not for everyone, though. They can be a real pain if you're used to a big wash, but if you're chasing a drier, more defined sound, let's break down what to look for.
Don't fall for the 'vintage' hype. A lot of those old 13" hats are brittle and sound awful. Look for something relatively modern, well-lathered, and with a good, even hammering pattern.
Spending a bit more on a pair from a reputable brand is worth it - you're not paying for 'quality' necessarily, but for consistent construction and a usable sound straight out of the box. Cheap 13" hats often sacrifice hammering or alloy quality, resulting in a brittle, uneven sound that's frustrating to play.
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 harder to play than 14"?
They can be. The smaller diameter means less margin for error. You have to be more precise with your technique, but the increased articulation is a reward for the effort.
I play mostly heavy rock/metal. Are 13" hats too small?
It's a trade-off. They'll be tighter and less splashy, which can be good for cutting through a dense mix, but you'll lose some of that big, powerful wash. Experiment - you might be surprised.
What's the difference between 'trash' and just plain 'bad' sound?
Trashiness is a controlled amount of imperfections - bell tone, uneven hammering, a slightly raw edge. 'Bad' is just poorly made - brittle, uneven, with a dull thud instead of a crisp stick sound.
Should I buy top and bottom hats separately or as a pair?
As a mid-level player, buying a matched pair is almost always the better option. It guarantees a consistent sound and avoids the headache of trying to match two different hats.
What if I want a brighter, more cutting 13" sound?
Look for hats with a lighter weight and a more open lathing. Thicker hats and a tighter lathing will produce a darker, more controlled tone. Try to find a pair that's finished with a bright alloy.
