AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Istanbul Mehmet 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Mehmet 14" IMC Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) ($266). Istanbul Mehmet 14" Tony Williams Tribute Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 14 models, 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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Istanbul Mehmet 14" IMC Bronze Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Hi-Hat IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
The IMC Natural hi-hats are a solid choice for drummers wanting a vintage-inspired sound without the premium price tag. The natural finish and IMC hammering combine for a responsive feel and complex wash, making them perfect for jazz, blues, and more nuanced playing styles where articulation is key.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones and sustain.
- IMC hammering creates a responsive, articulate stick feel.
- Natural finish allows for nuanced, evolving sonic character.
Cons
- IMC hammering might be too bright for players seeking a dark, mellow sound.
- Natural finish requires more frequent cleaning to prevent oxidation.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$266 now$266€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Tony Williams Tribute Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Tony Williams Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Istanbul Mehmet Tony Williams Hi-Hats are a serious recreation of a legendary sound – a complex, articulate wash with a vintage vibe. If you're a jazz or classic rock drummer chasing that Miles Davis-era feel and appreciate a meticulously crafted instrument, these are a worthwhile investment. They’re not for everyone, but for the right player, they’re magic.
Pros
- Exceptional stick definition thanks to precise hammering.
- B20 bronze delivers a complex, shimmering wash.
- Faithful recreation captures Williams' signature '60s sound.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- Sound leans towards vintage, limiting modern, crisp applications.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$829 now$829€745 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
These Black Bell hi-hats from Istanbul Mehmet offer a beautifully nuanced sound - think smoky jazz, mellow R&B, or even a darker rock vibe. The untreated bell provides a really articulate response, and the B20 bronze gives them a warm, full tone that cuts through a mix. They're a fantastic choice for experienced players looking for a sophisticated hi-hat sound.
Pros
- Rich, complex wash with a dark, controlled sizzle.
- Untreated bell delivers a focused, musical 'ping' without harshness.
- B20 bronze provides excellent projection and sustain.
Cons
- The darker sound might be too subdued for brighter genres like funk.
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for beginner drummers.
54AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$466 · Aug 17$444 now$444€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
These Black Sea 1623 hi-hats are a real treat if you're after that smoky, controlled sound – think jazz, neo-soul, or anything needing a sophisticated, understated feel. Mehmet's design really shines here, offering a unique response and a touch of old-world craftsmanship. They’re a serious upgrade for players wanting to move beyond generic, bright hi-hat sounds.
Pros
- Hand-hammered construction yields complex overtones and nuanced response.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, dry timbre lacking harshness.
- The 1623 series offers a uniquely controlled, articulate stick definition.
Cons
- The dark, dry sound might be too subdued for brighter musical styles.
- Hand-hammered cymbals can exhibit slight inconsistencies in playing feel.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$511 now$511€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Samatya Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Hi-Hat Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
The Samatya hi-hats are a real winner if you're looking for something quick and articulate. They’ve got a lovely, shimmery brightness that cuts through a modern mix – perfect for pop, rock, and anything needing a snappy, defined feel. These are built solid, too, and will hold up to gigging.
Pros
- Exceptional stick definition thanks to the B20 bronze alloy.
- Quick, responsive action ideal for intricate patterns and lighter playing.
- Brilliant finish enhances visual appeal and adds shimmer to the sound.
Cons
- Samatya series leans toward a brighter tone, limiting versatility for darker genres.
- Brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudges and requires more cleaning.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$484 now$484€435 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Traditional Series Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Medium Hi-Hat Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Istanbul Mehmet Traditional hi-hats are a real treat – offering a beautifully warm, controlled sound that's perfect for jazz, blues, and classic rock players. The hand-hammered construction gives them a fantastic feel and a really musical response; they’re a step up for those seeking a more vintage vibe.
Pros
- Warm, complex wash with a defined chick sound
- Hand-hammered lathing provides nuanced stick response
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a vintage, musical character
Cons
- Higher price point compared to entry-level hi-hats
- May lack the extreme crispness desired for modern, highly produced genres
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$484 now$484€435 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Legend Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Hi-Hat Legend Dark Series · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Istanbul Mehmet Legend Dark hi-hats are a real treat – beautifully hammered and possessing a gorgeously dry, controlled sound. They’re fantastic for jazz, funk, or any style where you want a sophisticated, nuanced hi-hat voice. If you're seeking a high-quality, expressive pair that cuts through a mix without being overly bright, these are worth a serious look.
Pros
- Hand-hammered B20 bronze delivers complex, nuanced wash.
- Dark series offers a uniquely dry, controlled response.
- The 'Legend' hammering pattern creates a shimmering, articulate stick definition.
Cons
- The dark, dry sound isn't ideal for brighter, more splashy styles.
- Premium-priced, making them a significant investment for some.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$484 now$484€435 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Legend Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Legend Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Legend Hi-Hats from Istanbul Mehmet are a real gem for jazz and more subtle styles. The B20 bronze creates a beautifully warm and controlled sound, and the hand-hammered lathing gives you fantastic response. If you're looking for a hi-hat that's more than just 'tick' and 'wash', these are a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Warm, complex wash provides a sophisticated, nuanced feel.
- Hand-hammered lathing offers a responsive, articulate stick definition.
- B20 Bronze alloy delivers a darker, more controlled tone than B8.
Cons
- The darker sound might be too subdued for louder, more aggressive styles.
- Premium-priced, potentially a barrier for beginner or budget-conscious drummers.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$484 now$484€435 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Nostalgia Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Nostalgia Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Nostalgia hi-hats from Istanbul Mehmet are a real treat if you're chasing that warm, vintage vibe. They’ve got a lovely, controlled stick attack and a beautiful, dark wash – perfect for jazz, blues, and classic rock players looking for a sophisticated sound without being overly splashy.
Pros
- Hand-hammered B20 bronze delivers a uniquely complex wash.
- Nostalgia series offers a darker, more vintage hi-hat articulation.
- The unlathed bell provides a controlled, musical sizzle.
Cons
- The darker sound might not suit brighter musical styles.
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$531 now$531€477 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Origin Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Hi-Hat Origin Dark Series · Istanbul Mehmet
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Origin Dark hi-hats are a really solid choice for players wanting a musical, versatile sound without venturing into overly dark territory. They're excellent for jazz, funk, and lighter rock – anyone needing a responsive and articulate hi-hat that isn't overly splashy. They’re a great entry point to the Istanbul Mehmet sound.
Pros
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex, and musical wash.
- The relatively small bell provides a focused, articulate chime.
- Medium weight construction offers a good balance of stick definition and sizzle.
Cons
- The 'dark' designation might be misleading; they're not as dark as some competitors.
- Might lack the aggressive cut needed for heavier, more modern genres.
48AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$466 · Aug 17$444 now$444€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 14 14" hi-hat cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Traditional Series Light Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Light Hi-Hat Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet46Stable$477€429$477€429Check ↗
- 12
Istanbul Mehmet 14" MC Jazz Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Hi-Hat MC Jazz Series · Istanbul Mehmet46Stable$484€435$484€435Check ↗
- 13
Istanbul Mehmet 14" Turk Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" Medium Hi-Hat Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet46Stable$484€435$484€435Check ↗
- 14
Istanbul Mehmet 14" 61st Anniversary Vintage Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" 61st Vintage Hi-Hat · Istanbul Mehmet46Stable$500€449$500€449Check ↗
14" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 160 models we track, not a sample.
Median $484 — 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
Hand Hammering
This isn't just a marketing buzzword with Istanbul Mehmet. You can feel it - the imperfections in the surface give them a complex, almost vocal quality that mass-produced hats lack. It adds a warmth and complexity that cuts through a dense mix.
B20 Bronze Alloy
They almost exclusively use B20, which gives them a darker, more complex tone than B8. B20 just has more 'meat' to it, more low-end thump and a richer sustain. It's not as bright as some modern hats, but the articulation is fantastic.
Feel & Wash
The action is consistently smooth and responsive, allowing for incredibly nuanced playing. The wash isn't overly splashy or chaotic; it's controlled and musical, which is vital for genres like jazz and funk where subtlety is key.
Sound Profile
Istanbul Mehmet hats generally offer a darker, more vintage-inspired tone. They don't scream for attention; they support the music. Think warm, buttery, with a controlled decay - perfect for laying down a solid groove without clashing with the rest of the band.
Build Quality & Durability
These are built to last. The hammering process isn't just for tone; it strengthens the cymbal. While they'll develop a patina with use, they're less prone to cracking or warping than some thinner, more brittle options.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Istanbul Mehmet 14" hi-hats. Finding the right pair is crucial - they're the rhythmic heartbeat of so much music. If you're tired of hi-hats that sound brittle or just plain lifeless, and you're looking for something with real character and a touch of old-world vibe, Istanbul Mehmet is worth a serious look. They aren't the cheapest, but they deliver a unique feel and sound you won't find everywhere.
Don't expect a super-bright, cutting sound from these hats. They're not designed for that. The price reflects the hand-hammering and the use of B20 bronze, so if you're on a tight budget, you might need to look elsewhere.
However, if you value a nuanced feel, a warm tone, and a cymbal that will age gracefully, Istanbul Mehmet 14" hi-hats are a worthwhile investment. Listen for that complex overtone series - that's what sets them apart.
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 14 14" hi-hat cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 160 in the category). 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 they loud enough for a rock band?
They're not going to be as aggressively loud as some modern, thin hi-hats. However, with proper technique and a good mic, they absolutely cut through a rock mix. It's about dynamics and articulation, not just volume.
What's the difference between the different Istanbul Mehmet hi-hat lines?
Each line (e.g., Masters, Tradition, Efféctive) has subtle variations in weight, hammering style, and resulting tone. Generally, Masters are the most expensive and meticulously hand-hammered, while Efféctive offers a more budget-friendly option with a slightly more modern sound.
Will they develop a patina?
Absolutely. The B20 bronze will oxidize and develop a patina over time, which is part of their character and adds to their complexity. You can clean them, but letting them patina is generally recommended.
Are they difficult to play?
Not at all. While they require a slightly different technique than some very loose, splashy hi-hats, they are very responsive and allow for a wide range of expression.
Can I use them for jazz, rock, and funk?
Definitely. Their versatility is one of their strengths. They're not a 'one-trick pony' - they'll work well in a variety of genres, though you might need to adjust your playing style to bring out their best qualities.
