AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Paiste 14" Color Sound 900 Series Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) ($255). Paiste 14" RUDE Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 153 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 30, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Paiste 14" Color Sound 900 Series Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" 900 Color Sound Hi-Hat RD · Paiste
21 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size14"
These 900 Color Sound RD hi-hats are a fantastic option for drummers who want a bright, articulate sound with a distinctive look. They're incredibly responsive and easy to control, making them great for funk, rock, and even some jazz styles – especially if you prefer a bit more sizzle and clarity. They offer a lot of performance for the price.
Pros
- RD models offer a uniquely responsive, 'pingy' stick definition.
- B8 bronze provides a durable, bright sound suitable for varied playing.
- The 'Color Sound' finish adds visual flair and subtly alters the overtones.
Cons
- The B8 alloy isn't as complex or nuanced as Paiste's higher bronze grades.
- RD models can be a bit 'busy' for players seeking a darker, more controlled sound.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$255 now$255€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Dark Hi-Hat
14" Classics Custom Dark HH · Meinl
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
The Classics Custom Dark HH are a solid choice for drummers needing a darker, more assertive hi-hat sound. They’ve got a really nice, controlled stick attack and a clear chick, making them perfect for rock, funk, and heavier genres where you want to cut through the mix without being overly splashy. If you're looking for a dependable, good-sounding hi-hat without spending a fortune, these are worth a serious look.
Pros
- Warm, dark stick attack provides a unique, controlled sound.
- B12 bronze alloy delivers a complex, musical overtone profile.
- Well-latted construction ensures consistent response and durability.
Cons
- Limited versatility; not ideal for lighter, more nuanced playing styles.
- Can be a bit dark for players seeking a brighter hi-hat tone.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$259 now$259€233 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Dark Hi-Hat
14" Classics Custom Hi-Hat Po. · Meinl
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Classics Custom Po. hi-hats are a fantastic choice for drummers needing a loud, articulate sound with a definite 'crack.' They’re built to handle heavier music like rock and metal, delivering a punchy response without being overly complex. A solid, reliable hi-hat for the working drummer.
Pros
- The Brilliant finish offers a clean, professional look on stage.
- Meinl’s B16 bronze alloy provides a responsive, cutting sound.
- The aggressive attack delivers a powerful, driving feel for heavier styles.
Cons
- The aggressive sound may be too harsh for very subtle or quiet playing.
- The Brilliant finish is prone to finger marks and requires more upkeep.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$277 now$277€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Dark Hi-Hat
14" Classics Custom Hi-Hat Me. · Meinl
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Classics Custom hi-hats are a solid choice for a wide range of players. They offer a classic, musical sound that's not overly splashy, making them perfect for rock, pop, and funk drummers seeking a reliable and versatile hi-hat without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Warm, full stick response provides excellent articulation.
- Brilliant finish enhances visual appeal and reflectivity on stage.
- Meinl’s B20 bronze alloy delivers a balanced, musical tone.
Cons
- The medium weight might feel slightly heavy for lighter playing styles.
- Brilliant finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$288 now$288€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 14" Stratus Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" XSR Hi-Hat · Sabian
33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
The Sabian XSR 14 in hi-hats are a solid, dependable choice for drummers needing a bright, cutting sound without breaking the bank. They're a great entry point into the Sabian family, ideal for gigging musicians and students who want a consistent, reliable feel and sound.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a bright, responsive stick attack.
- The brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.
- Consistent weight distribution ensures predictable pedal response.
Cons
- The bright sound might be fatiguing for extended use in some settings.
- The XSR line isn't the most complex or nuanced hi-hat offering.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$422 now$422€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" 900 Series Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" 900 Series Hi-Hat · Paiste
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These 900 Series hats are a solid choice for drummers wanting a reliable, musical hi-hat. They’re great for gigging musicians who need a dependable sound that cuts through the mix without being overly aggressive - perfect for rock, pop, and funk, or anyone wanting a balanced, controlled feel.
Pros
- The B8 bronze delivers a warm, musical fundamental tone.
- Defined chick sound offers crisp articulation and responsiveness.
- Easy control allows for nuanced playing across various genres.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t as bright or complex as higher bronze alloys.
- The sound might be too dark for players seeking a shimmering tone.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$255 now$255€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" 900 Series Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" 900 Series SE Hi-Hat · Paiste
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Paiste 900 Series SE Hi-Hats are a solid choice for drummers wanting a warm, musical sound without spending a fortune. They offer a great balance of clarity and sizzle, making them ideal for rock, pop, and funk – anyone looking for a dependable, all-around hi-hat.
Pros
- B8 bronze provides a warm, controlled fundamental tone.
- Sound Edge on the bottom creates a unique, slightly trashy sizzle.
- Excellent chick sound with defined articulation and clarity.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn't as bright or complex as higher bronze alloys.
- Darker finish can make them visually blend in with darker kits.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$262 now$262€235 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" Color Sound 900 Series Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" 900 Color SE Hi-Hat BK · Paiste
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These 900 Color SE Hi-Hats are a great entry point into the Paiste world. The waved bottom gives them a fun, almost playful character while retaining a solid core sound. They're perfect for drummers wanting a balanced hi-hat that can handle a variety of genres without being overly expensive.
Pros
- The waved bottom cymbal provides a unique, splashy open sound.
- B8 bronze offers a solid, reliable response and durability.
- Sound Edge design delivers a crisper 'chick' sound than standard 900s.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn't as complex or nuanced as Paiste’s higher bronze alloys.
- The black finish can be prone to scratching and patina changes.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$247 now$247€222 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" RUDE Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Rude Sound Edge Hi-Hat · Paiste
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Rude Sound Edge hi-hats are a serious statement. If you're a hard-hitting rock or metal drummer needing a big, cutting sound with some unique character, these will deliver. They're built to take a beating and cut through a wall of sound.
Pros
- Delivers a powerful, raw, and energetic sound signature.
- The Sound Edge design provides unique wash and articulation.
- Paiste’s Signature Bronze construction ensures excellent durability and resonance.
Cons
- The aggressive sound may not suit quieter, more nuanced musical genres.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$489 now$489€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" RUDE Sound Edge Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Rude Hi-Hat · Paiste
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Rude Hi-Hats are a serious statement. They’re built for players who want that raw, powerful, and unapologetically loud sound, especially in hard rock and punk. If you're looking for a hi-hat that cuts through a wall of sound and delivers serious energy, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Produces a powerful, raw, and energetic sound signature characteristic of the Rude series.
- Uniform thickness across both cymbals ensures consistent response and volume.
- Paiste’s signature bronze alloy delivers a full, earthy tone with excellent projection.
Cons
- The aggressive sound isn't versatile for quieter, more nuanced musical genres.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$489 now$489€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 153 14" hi-hat cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Dual Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Classics Cust. Dual Hi-Hat · Meinl68Stable$259€233$259€233Check ↗
- 12
Zildjian 14" L80 Low Volume Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Low Volume Hi-Hat · Zildjian67Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 13
Sabian 14" AAX X-Celerator Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" XSR X-Celerator Hi-Hat · Sabian66Stable$429€385$429€385Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 14" Giant Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Giant Beat Hi-Hat · Paiste66Stable$444€399$444€399Check ↗
- 15
Zildjian 14" A Series Quick Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 1982 - 201214" A-Series Quick Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian64Stable$500€449$500€449Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 14" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" 900 Series Heavy Hi-Hat · Paiste63Stable$262€235$262€235Check ↗
- 17
Istanbul Mehmet 14" IMC Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Hi-Hat IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet63Stable$266€239$266€239Check ↗
- 18
Paiste 14" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" 900 Color Heavy Hi-Hat BK · Paiste63Stable$266€239$266€239Check ↗
- 19
Sabian 14" XSR Monarch Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" XSR Monarch Hi-Hat · Sabian63Stable$433€389$433€389Check ↗
- 20
Meinl 14" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Pure Alloy Custom Hi-Hat · Meinl63Stable$444€399$444€399Check ↗
- 21
Zildjian 14" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair)14" I Family Hi-Hat · Zildjian72Stable$217€195$217€195Check ↗
- 22
Meinl 14" Pure Alloy Soundwave Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Pure Alloy Soundwave Hats · Meinl62Stable$422€379$422€379Check ↗
- 23
Paiste 14" PST 8 Reflector Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" PST8 Reflector Edge H-H · Paiste · 3 finishes73Stable$210€189$210€189Check ↗
- 24
Sabian 14" B8X Rock Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" XSR Rock Hi-Hat · Sabian61Stable$440€395$440€395Check ↗
- 25
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 14" Heavy Hi-Hat · Paiste · 3 finishes76Stable$195€175$195€175Check ↗
- 26
Istanbul Agop 14" Traditional Medium Hi-Hat (Pair) Traditional14" Traditional Medium Hi-Hat · Istanbul Agop59Stable$511€459$511€459Check ↗
- 27
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Hi-Hat (Pair)14" Classics Extreme Hi-Hat · Meinl57Stable$288€259$288€259Check ↗
- 28
Istanbul Agop 14" Xist Brilliant Hi-Hat (Pair)14" Xist Hi-Hat Brilliant · Istanbul Agop55Stable$362€325$362€325Check ↗
- 29
Meinl 14" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy HHMeinl54Stable$284€255$284€255Check ↗
- 30
Meinl Pure Alloy 14" Medium Hi-HatMeinl54Stable$406€365$406€365Check ↗
- 31
Paiste 2002 Classic 14" Sound Edge HHPaiste54Stable$433€389$433€389Check ↗
- 32
Paiste 2002 Classic 14" Medium Hi-HatPaiste54Stable$443€398$443€398Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 14" Pure Alloy E.Hammered HatsMeinl54Stable$444€399$444€399Check ↗
- 34
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Black Bell Hi-HatIstanbul Mehmet54↓ 4.8%$444€399$444€399Check ↗
- 35
Paiste 2002 Classic 14" Heavy Hi-HatPaiste54Stable$477€429$477€429Check ↗
- 36
Meinl 14" Pure Alloy Benny Greb HatMeinl54Stable$511€459$511€459Check ↗
- 37
Zildjian 14" A-Series Mastersound HiHatZildjian54↓ 4.2%$511€459$511€459Check ↗
- 38
Zildjian 14" ZBT Plus Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 1998 - 200114" S Series Medium Hi-Hat · Zildjian53Stable$299€269$299€269Check ↗
- 39
Zildjian 14" S Series Mastersound HiHatZildjian53Stable$311€279$311€279Check ↗
- 40
Zultan 14" Mellow Hi-HatZultan53↓ 1.3%$351€315$351€315Check ↗
- 41
Paiste 14" 900 Colour Sound HH PRPPaiste54Stable$247€222$247€222Check ↗
- 42
Zultan 14" Alaris Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 43
Sabian 14" B8X Hi-HatSabian52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 44
Zultan 14" Hi-Hat 25Zultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 45
Zultan 14" Aeon Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 46
Zultan 14" Dune Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 47
Zultan 14" Caz Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 48
Zultan 14" Rock Beat Hi-Hat MediumZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 49
Zultan 14" F5 Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 50
Zultan 14" Q Hi-HatZultan52Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
14" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 160 models we track, not a sample.
Median $444 — half of all 14" hi-hat cymbals here cost less.
median of 160 models · 14"–14"
How to choose the best 14" hi-hat cymbals
Responsiveness
This is HUGE. Intermediate players are starting to dial in more complex patterns - chick sounds, subtle ghost notes, quick foot splashes. The hat needs to react immediately to your footwork, not feel sluggish or unresponsive.
Wash vs. Crispness
A good hi-hat has a balance. Too much wash sounds muddy, too much crispness can be harsh. We're looking for hats that offer a warm, full wash that doesn't bury the low end, while still providing enough 'stick' to cut through a busy mix. That sweet spot between defined stick sound and a pleasing wash is what you're after.
Top and Bottom Weight/Profile
The weight distribution and profile of the top and bottom cymbals significantly affect the sound and playability. A heavier top can create a more defined chick, while a lighter bottom can improve responsiveness. Knowing how these interact is key to controlling the hat's character.
Sustain & Decay
While shorter sustain is generally desirable for hi-hats (you don't want them ringing forever), the decay needs to be controlled. A quick, clean decay avoids muddiness, while a slightly longer decay can add warmth and complexity. It's about finding the right balance for your style.
Construction & Lathe Marks
The quality of the bronze alloy and the precision of the lathing process impact the hat's overall tone and feel. Less-expensive hats often have uneven lathing or use lower-grade alloys, which can result in a less consistent and less musical sound. Look for even lathing and consistent bell thickness.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner stage, finally getting comfortable with basic grooves and starting to explore some more nuanced hi-hat patterns? A 14" hi-hat is a sweet spot for a lot of players - not too big, not too small - but finding the right one can be tricky. It's gotta respond to your footwork, have a decent wash, and cut through the mix when needed. Let's break down some solid options for intermediate players who want to elevate their hi-hat game.
Don't chase the top-end brands just because they're popular. Many smaller, boutique companies are crafting seriously good hats at reasonable prices. Listen for that 'chick' sound - if it's weak or lifeless, it's probably a corner cut.
A slightly heavier action (more pressure needed to close the hat) can often be dialed in with pedal adjustment, but if the hat feels stiff, it's likely a construction issue, not a setup problem.
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 160 14" 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
What's the difference between B8 and B20 bronze?
B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) is generally considered higher quality and produces a brighter, more complex tone. B8 bronze (primarily tin) is cheaper, darker sounding, and less responsive - often found on entry-level hats.
My hi-hats sound muddy. What's wrong?
Could be a few things. Check your pedal tension, make sure your hats aren't overly dirty, and consider the weight and construction of the hats themselves. A heavier bottom cymbal can help reduce unwanted low-end frequencies.
Should I get a quick-release hi-hat clutch?
Absolutely. It'll save your foot and ankles during long gigs, and makes changing hats way easier. Trust me, your legs will thank you.
I'm playing in a loud rock band. Do I need heavier hats?
Not necessarily. It's more about articulation and clarity. A well-chosen pair of 14" hats can cut through a rock mix just fine, but you might want to prioritize a crisp, defined sound over a warm wash.
What's the deal with 'reverse cymbals' for hi-hats?
Reverse cymbals are simply cymbals that are thicker in the bell and thinner around the edge. They tend to produce a more controlled, drier sound, and can be a good option for players who want a more defined 'chick' without excessive sustain.
