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Zildjian Z3 Cymbals £170
Meet the third generation of Zildjian's rock staples
Adam Jones, Thu 30 Jul 2009, 11:50 am UTC
A pair of more conventional rides was included in the shape of 20" Medium Heavy and 22" Rock models. The 20" Medium Heavy ride gave an extremely bright stick sound over a light wash when played on the bow. A cymbal of this nature is probably destined to be played almost exclusively on the bell, where it asserted itself with a strong peal.
The 22" Rock ride was quite a slab of bronze and produced a bigger stick sound on the bow. The bell's response could truthfully be described as mighty – deep, rich, and completely separate from the rest of the cymbal.
Two sets of hi-hats from the six available completed the review selection. The 14" Mastersound hi-hats were bright and crisp and had a precise feel. Though they were stacked with high frequencies there was enough warmth present to prevent them from fizzing away in a high register like some heavier hats can.
The 15" hi-hats were even more exciting, giving a lower, warmer and louder response. There is something about the extra diameter of 15" hats which makes them more accommodating. Closed, they delivered a fat crunch that put backbone into backbeats. When half-open, the wash they produced was enough to power a small town, let alone a twin guitar backline.
In a word: fabulous.
Verdict
Z3 cymbals have a lineage stretching back for almost two and half decades. Drawing on this experience, Zildjian is demonstrating its determination to be ahead of the game with the Z3s.
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MusicRadar rating
Pros
Assertive, warm, musical and a pleasure to play. The 20" china and 15" hi-hats in particular are exceptional instruments.
Cons
The 'rock' heritage might put some players off - but you shouldn't let it.
Verdict
Z3 cymbals have a lineage stretching back for almost two and half decades. Drawing on this experience, Zildjian is demonstrating its determination to be ahead of the game with the Z3s.
Review Policy
All MusicRadar's reviews are by independent product specialists, who are not aligned to any gear manufacturer or retailer. Our experts also write for renowned magazines such as Guitarist, Total Guitar, Computer Music, Future Music and Rhythm. All are part of Future PLC, the biggest publisher of music making magazines in the world.
User rating
Where to buy
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Specification
Z3 Cymbals
- Price:
- £170
- Finish:
- Brilliant
- Cymbal Material:
- Zildjian Bronze (B20)
- Cymbal Type:
- Cast