Choosing A Pair Of Hihats

When it comes to choosing a good pair of hi-hats for your drum kit, there are several factors to consider, such as the response and feel, the sound characteristics, the stick definition, and the chick sound.

Response and feel are crucial factors to consider when selecting hi-hats. The response refers to how quickly the cymbals react to your playing, while the feel is how comfortable and natural it is to play the hi-hats. Hi-hats with good response and feel allow for greater precision and control over your playing.

The sound of hi-hats can be categorized as either bright or dark. Bright hi-hats have a more piercing and cutting sound, while dark hi-hats have a warmer and more mellow sound. The choice between bright and dark sound largely depends on the musical genre and personal preference.

Stick definition is another essential factor to consider. It refers to the clarity and definition of each individual note played on the hi-hats. A good pair of hi-hats should produce a clear and distinct sound with every hit.

The chick sound refers to the sound produced when the hi-hats are played closed. A good chick sound is crisp and tight, providing a sharp and percussive accent to your playing.

Now let's take a look at the best budget models from some of the most popular cymbal manufacturers:

Zildjian:

• Zildjian ZBT 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian Planet Z 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian S Family 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian S Performer 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian A Series New Beat 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals

Sabian:

• Sabian XSR 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian B8X 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian SBr 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian SBR Performance 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian AA Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals

Paiste:

• Paiste PST 5 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste PST 7 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste Alpha 14" Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste 101 Brass 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste PST X Swiss 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals

Meinl:

• Meinl HCS 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Meinl MCS 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Meinl Hihat Cymbal Pair with Traditional Finish - 14 Inch
• Meinl Classic Custom 14" Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Meinl Hihat Cymbal Pair with Byzance Traditional Finish - 14 Inch

UFIP:

• UFIP Bionic Series 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• UFIP Class Series 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• UFIP Experience Series 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• UFIP M8 Series 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• UFIP Rough Series 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
  
  

Now let's take a look at the top 5 professional model hi-hats from these same 6 companies:

Zildjian:

• Zildjian K Custom Hybrid 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian K Light Hi-Hat 14" Cymbals
• Zildjian K Mastersound 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian K Sweet 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Zildjian Avedis 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals

Sabian:

• Sabian HHX Evolution 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian Artisan Elite 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian HH Vanguard 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian AAX X-Plosion 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Sabian HHX Groove Hi-Hat 14" Cymbals

Paiste:

• Paiste Signature Dark Energy Mark I 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste Masters Dark Hi-Hat 14" Cymbals
• Paiste Formula 602 Classic Sounds 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste 2002 Sound Edge 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Paiste Giant Beat Hi-Hat 14" Cymbals

Meinl:

• Meinl Byzance Extra Dry 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Meinl Byzance Foundry Reserve Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• Meinl Byzance Jazz 14" Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals
• Meinl Byzance Vintage Pure Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• Meinl Byzance Dual 14" Hi-Hat Cymbals

UFIP:

• UFIP Class Series Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• UFIP Bionic Series Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• UFIP Natural Series Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• UFIP Supernova Series Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"
• UFIP Tiger Series Hi-Hat Cymbals - 14"

Now let's take a brief look at the history of some famous drummers who were noted for their hi-hat playing:

Max Roach was a legendary jazz drummer who played with some of the greatest musicians of his time, including Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. He was known for his highly musical approach to playing the drums, and his use of the hi-hat to create intricate and dynamic rhythms. Roach's playing on tracks such as "Donna Lee" and "Koko" showcased his incredible technique and musicality on the hi-hat.

John Bonham was the drummer for Led Zeppelin and was widely regarded as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time. His use of the hi-hat was an integral part of his drumming style, as he used it to create driving and grooving rhythms that underpinned the band's sound. Tracks such as "When the Levee Breaks" and "Kashmir" are prime examples of Bonham's incredible hi-hat work.

Stewart Copeland was the drummer for the Police, a band known for their unique blend of punk, reggae, and jazz influences. Copeland's hi-hat work was a key element of the band's sound, as he used it to create intricate and syncopated rhythms that complemented the other instruments in the band. Tracks such as "Walking on the Moon" and "Message in a Bottle" showcase Copeland's impressive technique and musicality on the hi-hat.

Steve Gadd is a highly respected drummer who has played with a wide variety of musicians, including Paul Simon, Steely Dan, and Chick Corea. His hi-hat work is characterized by its precision and subtlety, as he uses it to create delicate and nuanced rhythms that support the other instruments in the band. Tracks such as "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" and "Aja" showcase Gadd's masterful hi-hat playing.

Ginger Baker was the drummer for Cream, a band known for their bluesy and psychedelic sound. Baker's hi-hat work was a crucial part of the band's sound, as he used it to create dynamic and driving rhythms that propelled the music forward. Tracks such as "White Room" and "Sunshine of Your Love" showcase Baker's powerful and aggressive hi-hat playing.

In conclusion, when choosing a good pair of hi-hats for your drum kit, it's important to consider factors such as response and feel, bright vs. dark sounds, stick definition, and the chick sound. It's also worth considering your budget, as there are a wide range of options available from different manufacturers. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, finding the right pair of hi-hats can make a significant difference to the sound and feel of your drumming.