NAMM 2011 witnessed a bunch of new cymbals and new lines from most of the biggest names in the industry. Sabian’s AAX Omni crash/ride hybrid, Meinl’s Classic Custom Series and Zildjian’s Ultra Hammered Z3 additions all caught our attention, but our favourite cymbal release goes to Paiste’s reintroduction of the Formula 602 Series.

“Back in 1959 Paiste launched a series that was destined to become one of the world's most revered in the history of cymbal making - Formula 602. Its fine, pure and always controlled musical tone was adopted by well-known drummers and percussionists including none other than Joe Morello, Art Blakey, Paul Motian, Ndugu Chancler, Jon Hiseman, Charlie Watts and a host more.”

“Formula 602s were especially coveted as the ultimate cymbal in jazz, the burgeoning beat and rock music of the times, avant-garde and acoustic genres of music for more than three decades.”

READ: Paiste announces return of Formula 602 cymbals

Liked this? Now read: The best drum gear of 2010

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