I originally wanted to get Zildjian A custom mastersound hats, but I found them to be too expensive. These hi-hats are excellent. They have a wonderful full sound. The chick sound is very nice and when played partly open, the sound is awesome. It's not as loud as the A mastersounds, so if you are looking for the same sound, but louder, try the AAX X-Celerator hats. They are wonderful hi-hats when played loud and softly, they have the control and strength I want, yet the sensitivity I expect in a top-of-the-line hi-hat pair. Then can sound metallic when closed light or slightly choked by the hi-hat felts. This can be good if it's what you're looking for, otherwise simply loosen the hi-hats felts and they get the full great sound again. Since I play in church they need to be sensitive, but since I also play hard rock, I need the strength I felt the AAX studio hats didn't have. I elected to go with the AAX Stage hats.

Best hi hats I've ever played! Everyday I love them more and more. Very, very crisp, penetrating, loud and powerful. Great hard rock cymbals when played slightly opened. Absolutely my fav cymbals. Sabian, you rock!