AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Zildjian 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) ($589). Zildjian 14" Planet Z Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) gives you the most for the money at $132. Zildjian 14" K Constantinople Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 19 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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Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" A-Custom Hi-Hat · Zildjian
74 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These A-Custom hi-hats are a serious upgrade if you're after a refined, articulate sound. They're bright and responsive, perfect for players who dig that clean stick definition and a defined 'chick' – think session players, jazz, or anyone wanting a polished, professional feel. Just be mindful of their brightness if you lean towards heavier sounds.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and stick definition for intricate patterns
- Brilliant finish enhances visual appeal and reflects stage lighting
- A-Custom alloy delivers a balanced, musical 'chick' sound
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
- The bright sound might not suit heavier, darker musical styles
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$589 now$589€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" A Custom Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" K-Series Hi-Hat · Zildjian
74 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These K-Series hi-hats are a serious step up in sound and feel. They offer a beautifully complex, warm tone that's perfect for jazz, fusion, and players who want a sophisticated, nuanced hi-hat sound. If you’re a seasoned drummer seeking a premium, expressive hi-hat, these are worth the investment.
Pros
- Produces a warm, complex wash with shimmering highs.
- The B20 bronze alloy delivers a uniquely musical, responsive feel.
- Excellent pedal response and chick sound due to precise lathing and hammering.
Cons
- High-end price point makes them a significant investment.
- The darker sound isn’t ideal for all genres; lacks bright, cutting edge.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$600 now$600€539 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" A Series New Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" A-Series New Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian
53 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These A-Series New Beat hi-hats are a real step up—they deliver a crisp, modern sound with a fantastic sizzle that cuts through the mix. They're a great choice for rock, pop, and funk drummers looking for a more contemporary hi-hat voice without sacrificing that Zildjian quality and feel. A serious hi-hat for serious players.
Pros
- Exceptional stick definition thanks to the B20 bronze alloy.
- The 'New Beat' voicing provides a unique, modern sizzle.
- Solid, controlled chick sound with a responsive pedal feel.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- The heavier weight might fatigue players with a lighter touch.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$533 now$533€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" A-Custom Mastersound · Zildjian
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These A-Custom Mastersounds are a fantastic upgrade for drummers seeking a crisp, articulate hi-hat sound with a touch of sparkle. The Mastersound hole really adds a unique dimension to the chick, and the A Custom alloy gives a refined, professional tone. Ideal for modern pop, funk, and rock where clarity and responsiveness are key.
Pros
- Brilliant, shimmering top provides exceptional stick definition.
- Mastersound hole delivers a controlled, chick sound with surprising low-end.
- A Custom alloy offers a refined, musical wash and sustain.
Cons
- The brilliant finish shows fingerprints and wear easily.
- Can be overly bright for some players, especially in heavily dampened settings.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$554 now$554€498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" K Custom Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" K-Custom Dark Hi-Hat · Zildjian
48 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These K-Custom Dark hi-hats are seriously gorgeous sounding – a real step up in quality. They’re perfect for players wanting that mellow, sophisticated vibe without being muddy. If you’re playing a lot of jazz, neo-soul, or anything requiring nuance, these are a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Exceptional dark, warm tone perfect for jazz and fusion.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers complex overtones and sustain.
- Clean stick definition allows for precise, controlled playing.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- Darker sound may lack the bright sizzle some players prefer.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$689 now$689€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" K-Series Mastersound HH · Zildjian
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These K-Series Mastersound hi-hats are a fantastic blend of Zildjian’s signature warmth and a surprisingly crisp response. They’re perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, musical hi-hat sound for jazz, fusion, or any style where subtlety and nuance are key – think a drummer who really wants to shape their sound with their feet.
Pros
- Mastersound hammering delivers exceptional responsiveness and clarity.
- K-Series bronze provides a warm, complex, and dark tonal foundation.
- Chickin’ finish creates a beautifully nuanced sheen and shimmering overtones.
Cons
- The dark tone may not suit brighter, more aggressive musical genres.
- Mastersound construction isn’t as complex as fully hand-hammered K Custom models.
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Zildjian 14" I Family Hi-Hat Cymbal (Pair)
14" I Family Hi-Hat · Zildjian
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These I Family hi-hats are a solid choice for gigging drummers and students looking for a bright, articulate sound without a premium price tag. The B8 bronze delivers a consistent response and a lively chick, making them versatile for various genres from pop to rock. They’re a workhorse hi-hat that gets the job done reliably.
Pros
- B8 Bronze provides a bright, responsive feel and good durability.
- The medium-thin top offers a crisp, defined chick sound.
- Medium bottom provides a full, consistent foot splash.
Cons
- The B8 alloy isn’t as complex-sounding as higher-end bronze alloys.
- Can be a bit bright for players seeking a darker, more vintage tone.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$217 now$217€195 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" K Constantinople Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" K' Constantinople Hi-Hat · Zildjian
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These K' Constantinople hi-hats are the real deal – a benchmark for sound and craftsmanship. The warm, shimmering tone and responsive chick are perfect for jazz, fusion, and any genre where subtlety and musicality reign supreme. If you’re a serious player looking for a truly iconic sound, these are hard to beat.
Pros
- Exceptional 'wash' and shimmering complexity from the 2002 bronze alloy.
- The deep, responsive chick provides a truly articulate low-end thump.
- Traditional hammering creates nuanced overtones and a vintage character.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
- The complex sound may be overwhelming for players seeking a very dry, controlled feel.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$850 now$850€764 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" Planet Z Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Planet Z Hi-Hat · Zildjian
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Planet Z hi-hats are a great option for beginner to intermediate drummers looking for a reliable, bright sound without spending a fortune. The medium/heavy pairing gives you good control and a clear chick, making them versatile for a range of genres from rock to pop. They’re a solid choice for students or anyone needing a dependable hi-hat for practice and gigs.
Pros
- Solid brass construction offers a bright, responsive initial attack.
- Medium top/heavy bottom pairing provides a controlled, defined chick sound.
- Made in USA ensures consistent quality and Zildjian’s manufacturing standards.
Cons
- The bright sound may lack the darker, more complex tones of higher-end hi-hats.
- Brass finish is prone to oxidation and requires regular cleaning to maintain shine.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$132 now$132€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 14" L80 Low Volume Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)
14" Low Volume Hi-Hat · Zildjian
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
These Low Volume hi-hats are a fantastic solution for apartment practice or quiet gigs. The L80 alloy delivers a surprisingly musical response while drastically reducing volume – it's a great compromise for drummers needing to keep it down without sacrificing too much feel. Perfect for students, practice rooms, or anyone needing a quieter setup.
Pros
- Excellent volume reduction, approximately 70-80% quieter than standard hi-hats
- The Zildjian L80 alloy provides a surprisingly musical, defined 'chick'
- Consistent pedal response and feel for realistic hi-hat playing experience
Cons
- Sound lacks the full dynamic range and shimmering complexity of traditional hi-hats
- The muted tone might not suit all musical genres, particularly those requiring bright accents
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$277 now$277€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 19 14" 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 14" K Series Light Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair)14" K-Series Light Hi-Hat · Zildjian66Stable$716€643$716€643Check ↗
- 12
Zildjian 14" A Series Quick Beat Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 1982 - 201214" A-Series Quick Beat Hi-Hat · Zildjian64Stable$500€449$500€449Check ↗
- 13
Zildjian 14" A-Series Mastersound HiHatZildjian54↓ 4.2%$511€459$511€459Check ↗
- 14
Zildjian 14" ZBT Plus Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals (Pair) 1998 - 200114" S Series Medium Hi-Hat · Zildjian53Stable$299€269$299€269Check ↗
- 15
Zildjian 14" S Series Mastersound HiHatZildjian53Stable$311€279$311€279Check ↗
- 16
Zildjian 14" Z Custom brilliant Hi-HatZildjian53Stable$555€499$555€499Check ↗
- 17
Zildjian 14 1/8" K-Series Fat HatsZildjian53Stable$667€599$667€599Check ↗
- 18
Zildjian 14" K Sweet HatsZildjian51↑ 4.2%$578€519$578€519Check ↗
- 19
Zildjian 14" K Custom Special Dry HatsZildjian51↑ 4.5%$778€699$778€699Check ↗
14" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 160 models we track, not a sample.
Median $555 — 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
Heritage & Alloy
Zildjian's legacy is built on bronze alloys. Their A Custom and K Series are the most common, each offering a distinct tonal character - A Custom generally brighter and more cutting, K Series darker and more complex. It's not just about the metal; it's about generations of refining the hammering and lathing process.
Chick Sound
This is critical. A good chick isn't just loud; it's defined. Zildjian hats often have a fantastic 'snap' to them, a clear, almost woody articulation that cuts through even a dense mix. The K Custom Dark Hybrids are particularly known for their dry, almost muffled chick.
Wash & Stick Feel
The wash needs to be controllable, responsive to subtle foot pressure. Zildjian's thinner hats offer a looser, more flowing wash, great for jazz and fusion. Their heavier hats provide more control and a tighter, more defined sound, ideal for rock or funk. The stick feel is just as important - a good hat 'pops' cleanly.
Sustain & Decay
Zildjian's hats generally have a well-controlled sustain. You want enough to create a musical wash, but not so much that the sound lingers and muddies the mix. The Avedis series is known for its shorter, more controlled sustain, a great choice for busier playing styles.
Weight & Thickness
Zildjian offers a wide range of weights within the 14" size. Lighter hats are more responsive and easier to control for quieter playing, while heavier hats offer more volume and projection - essential for cutting through a loud rock band. This impacts the overall dynamics of your playing.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk 14" hi-hats. They're the pocket, the groove, the heartbeat of so many genres - from jazz and funk to rock and pop. Zildjian's been making them for centuries, and for good reason; they've got a history of nailing that sweet spot between wash, chick, and articulation. Picking the right pair is crucial, and Zildjian offers a surprisingly deep range, so let's break down what makes them tick.
Don't chase the hype. Listen to recordings, but try to play them if you can. Zildjian's range is vast, so consider your genre and playing style.
Spending a little more on a higher-end Zildjian like the K Custom or A Custom is usually worth it for the improved complexity and feel, but even their entry-level options are generally solid. Be wary of super-cheap Zildjian copies - they often cut corners on hammering and alloy, resulting in a lifeless sound.
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 19 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
What's the difference between A Custom and K Custom?
A Custom is generally brighter, more defined, and projects well. K Custom is darker, more complex with a warmer tone and a more 'organic' feel. It's a tonal preference thing, really.
Are Zildjian hats prone to cracking?
Like any bronze cymbal, they can be. Proper care - avoiding excessive heat, cleaning regularly, and storing them properly - helps immensely. It's a risk with any cymbal, though.
I play mostly rock music, which Zildjian 14" hi-hats should I look at?
The A Custom Rock or the K Custom Dark Medium/Heavy would be solid choices. You need something with a bit of weight to cut through a rock mix and a defined chick.
I'm a beginner, what's the best value Zildjian 14" hi-hat option?
The Zildjian S Series is a good starting point. They're affordable and offer a decent, consistent sound. Don't expect the complexity of a K Custom, but they'll get you started.
Can I use Zildjian 14" hi-hats with my electronic drum kit?
Technically, yes, but you'll lose a lot of the nuance and feel. The trigger response won't be as accurate, and you won't get the natural decay and articulation. It's better to use dedicated electronic hi-hats for the best experience.
