AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals for Professional 2026
The top pick is Sabian 13" Signature Dave Garibaldi Jam Master Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) ($779). Zildjian 13" A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) gives you the most for the money at $468. 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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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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
Zildjian 13" A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
13" A-Series New Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size13"
These 13-inch A-Series New Beat hi-hats are a fantastic choice for players seeking a modern, articulate sound with a touch of warmth. They’re ideal for funk, R&B, and contemporary pop where a clean, defined hi-hat sound is key—not so much for the vintage, wash-heavy vibe.
Pros
- Bright, shimmering stick sound with excellent articulation
- The 'New Beat' voicing offers a modern, crisp response
- A-Series bronze provides a warm, controlled sustain
Cons
- Can be overly bright for very vintage or mellow playing styles
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for beginners
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$468 now$468€419 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 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 ↗
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
Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Brilliant Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Xist Hi-Hat Brilliant · Istanbul Agop90Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 13" Byzance Brilliant Serpents Hi-Hat (Pair)13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat · Meinl67Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 13
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Traditional Series Light Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Light Hi-Hat Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet64Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 14
Istanbul Agop 13" Mel Lewis Sign.1982 Hi-HatIstanbul Agop62Stable$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 2002 Classic 13" Sound Edge HHPaiste62Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 16
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Sultan Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Hi-Hat Sultan Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$452€405$452€405Check ↗
- 17
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Turk Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Medium Hi-Hat Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$454€407$454€407Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Legend Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" Legend Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet59Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
- 19
Sabian 13" B8X Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" B8X Hi-Hat · Sabian81Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 20
Ufip 13" Class Series Hi-Hat MediumUfip58Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 21
Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Dry Dark Hi-HatIstanbul Agop62Stable$329€295$329€295Check ↗
- 22
Zultan 13" Mellow Hi-HatZultan66↓ 4.0%$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 23
Zultan 13" Heritage Hi-HatZultan64Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 13" Caz Hi-HatZultan64Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 25
Masterwork 13" Resonant Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 26
Meinl 13" Classics Custom Dark HHMeinl64Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 27
Zultan 13" Rock Beat Hi-Hat MediumZultan64Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 28
Zultan 13" Raw Hi-HatZultan64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 29
Meinl 13" HCS Hi-Hat (Pair)13" HCS Hi-Hat · Meinl90Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 30
Zildjian 13" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair)13" I Family Hi-Hat · Zildjian87Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
- 31
Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 13" Hi-Hat · Paiste80Stable$98€88$98€88Check ↗
- 32
Paiste 13" 101 Brass Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" 101 Hi-Hat · Paiste77Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)13" HCS Bronze Hi-Hat · Meinl71Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 34
Millenium 13" Still Series Hi-Hat reg.Millenium64↓ 14.5%$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 35
Zultan 13" Aja Hi-HatZultan64Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 36
Masterwork 13" Troy Traditional Hi-HatMasterwork63↓ 5.7%$184€165$184€165Check ↗
- 37
Zultan 13" Hi-Hat Medium Dark MatterZultan61↑ 5.9%$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 38
Masterwork 13" Custom Hi-HatMasterwork61Stable$229€205$229€205Check ↗
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
Response & Sensitivity
This isn't just about how quickly they react, but how they react. A professional needs hats that respond to the slightest dynamic shift - a whisper of a foot splash versus a crisp, defined closed sound. Lag or a heavy feel kills groove.
Chick Sound
Forget that muffled 'thud' you get from cheaper hats. We're looking for a clear, defined 'chick' with a quick decay - something that cuts through a dense mix without getting muddy. This is about articulation, plain and simple.
Sustain & Wash
While a quick decay is essential for the chick, a little bit of sustain and a controlled wash are vital for creating a full, musical sound. Too much wash turns into a sloppy mess; too little and they sound brittle.
Weight & Feel
The weight of the hats significantly impacts playability. Lighter hats offer more sensitivity, but can be harder to control. Heavier hats provide more power and projection, but require more effort. It's a balance.
Top & Bottom Pairing
It's not enough for one hat to sound great; the top and bottom must complement each other. A mismatched pair will sound uneven and lack character - a common pitfall with cheaper, mass-produced sets.
Buying guide
Let's be honest, most 13" hi-hats are novelty items, a cute aesthetic choice for a bedroom kit. But for the serious player - the one chasing nuanced articulation, a tight, controlled chick sound, and the ability to really shape the groove - a 13" can be a secret weapon. They're demanding, unforgiving, and require a level of finesse that separates the good from the great, so choosing the right pair is critical. This isn't about just grabbing the cheapest pair you see online, it's about finding the voice you need.
Don't be fooled by flashy finishes or marketing hype. 13" hi-hats are a premium investment, and you'll pay for it. Corners are often cut with thinner alloys, which translate to a dull, lifeless sound. Look for B20 bronze - it's the gold standard.
Listen carefully for evenness between the top and bottom - a slight imbalance can ruin the whole vibe. And seriously, don't skimp - these are the foundation of your groove.
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"?
Absolutely. They require more precise footwork and stick control to get the same volume and projection. The smaller diameter means less margin for error - you need to be cleaner and more deliberate.
I'm on a budget. Are there any decent 13" hi-hats under $300?
It's tough, but you can find serviceable options. Expect compromises - likely in alloy quality or overall responsiveness. Don't expect the same level of nuance as a higher-end pair.
Can I use 13" hi-hats in a loud rock band?
It's possible, but you'll need to work harder to be heard. They won't project as much as larger hats, so you'll need to compensate with technique and potentially some mic adjustments. They excel in more nuanced genres like jazz, funk, and R&B.
What's the difference between B12 and B20 bronze?
B20 is the standard for professional hi-hats - it's a blend of bronze alloys that provides a complex, shimmering tone. B12 is a cheaper alternative, but often sounds dull and lacks the same articulation.
I'm struggling to get a good chick sound. What am I doing wrong?
Check your technique! Make sure you're hitting the hats slightly off-center with a controlled, glancing blow. Also, the hats themselves need to be responsive enough - a heavy, thick hat will be difficult to chick cleanly.





