I was noticing my A custom hats had a little bit of shine to them that was overwhelming my LDC close mic. I acquired a set of K Dark 14" and they are just a tiny step lower with more of a wash when played half open. I wouldn't say 'dark', even in contrast to the A series. I would say 'tame'. I play a big rock and roll kit, the K dark seems to blend in a little more with that fat snare sound and massive tom spread. I still run nearly all A's as crashes, splashes and rides. I was worried the Dark hats would be too different, but it really does make for a meatier blend. I did notice they project into the microphones just fine, and man do they get a shade gnarly when you smash them half open. These won't replace my A series, but I do think they will be in my standard hats spot for quite some time. These are NOT 'dark' like you would think. They are more of a bold sound with the top rounded off. I don't hear quite the chink of the custom A's, but I also don't use a piccolo in main spot. I don't think they would 'cut' thru a mix on stage, like the A series, but they definitely aren't quiet. Once again, Zildjian has earned another thumbs up from me. Did I mention... they look downright sexy?