Ask any drummer at Sweetwater, and chances are we'll tell you that Zildjian represents the gold standard in cymbal making. In 1618, alchemist Avedis Zildjian was originally trying to make gold when he formulated what's arguably the best cymbal material on the planet. Zildjian still uses that secret alloy in every cast cymbal, and that's part of the reason that they've remained at the head of the pack for centuries.
With the most advanced technology and the largest and most diverse community of artists, Zildjian has been and still is at the forefront of every major innovation in music, creating the widest selection of sound choices in the market. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, Zildjian makes a cymbal that will excite your imagination and allow you to create the sounds you want to hear.
Zildjian Literally Means "Cymbal Maker"
In 1623, the Sultan granted Avedis the family name "Zildjian," which literally means "cymbal smith" and Avedis set off from the palace to start his own foundry. The alloy that he spent years perfecting is still being used today and is a closely guarded family secret. The metal possesses an extraordinary musical quality and tone that can be transformed into an almost limitless variety of superior-sounding cymbals for every genre. Combined with unmatched cymbal-making artistry, technology, and constant innovation, it's the reason why so many drummers around the world, as well as many of us here at Sweetwater, play Zildjian cymbals.
Collaboration and Innovation
Zildjian's passion for music and creating cymbals that help drummers make the music they want to make has earned them respect from drummers worldwide and enabled them to amass a legendary artist roster. Their deep partnerships and collaborations with these artists mean that with Zildjian, you will always be in front of new sounds and trends in recorded and live music.
Old World Concepts — New World Techniques
At the Zildjian factory, everything is done in service of the sound. A minimum of 15 people craft every Zildjian alloy cymbal. Certain series, including Kerope and K Constantinople cymbals, are meticulously handcrafted in small batches of 50–60 using a 14-step process. An expert team who has been there for decades tests each cymbal to ensure each one sonically fits within a certain spectrum, but at the same time is unique to accommodate for drummers' personal tastes.
Every cymbal is made with a careful balance of custom-built machines and skilled craftsmen. Rotary ovens heat the castings more evenly for consistency. Hydraulic rolling mills detect discrepancies up to 1/1000th of an inch! Zildjian also invented a computer hammering machine that allows Zildjian to create complex sounds with consistency and reliability that the age-old technique of human hammering cannot match.
There's a reason Zildjian cymbals are the most recorded in the history of music and continue to inspire drummers with new sounds for the stage, studio, and practice room. Zildjian cymbals are among the highest quality, most consistent cymbals you'll ever play. What's more, no matter your skill level, genre, or budget, you'll find Zildjian cymbals that work for you.
From the world's most popular and versatile cymbals, the bright A Zildjians, to the legendary dark and rich Ks, Zildjian provides a quality of sound that can only be found in a Zildjian cymbal. If you're looking to experiment with unexpected sounds, try the FX series. If you want brighter sounds, check out the B12 S family. And for low-volume situations, Zildjian has the L80s.
We've played virtually every type of Zildjian cymbal out there, and you won't find anyone at Sweetwater who wouldn't happily recommend their instruments to you. So whether you're grabbing your first Planet Z pack or have saved up for the A or K series cymbals you've always wanted, Sweetwater is your source for all things Zildjian. And if you're looking for some new sticks or a bag to carry your cymbals to the gig, then be sure to check out Zildjian's newly redesigned sticks and accessories.
