Paiste guy here, I'm a big fan of both the Sig Traditionals and Dark Energy hats and have recorded with both in 14". I found the DE line to have some lovely, rich tones with a nice edge of exotic "ice" to the sound that seems to sit well in the mix when played with a full band. The Traditionals are great for quieter, more open tracks and are warmer and softer.

Sound Creation dark 14" and also... the old stand by New Beat 14"

14" Sabian HHX Evolutions

14" Paiste Signature Sound Edge

Just won an auction on some 1960's New Beats. Looking forward to them arriving.

Who is Paiste? Never heard of him..

hahahaha :)

But on a serious note, I have quite a few hi hats from Zildjian..both 14" and 15" sizes. A's and various from the K series. For groove music, hats are very important so I feel like it's nice having some options. I'm not sure that I could ever settle in on one pair. I need like 6 or 7 pairs...rather I prefer this many to have options. Same way with ride cymbals.

Thumbs up on the auction.

Great post.In studio H-H's i use are vintage Zild. K istanbul and Cons. I have many sets of these sizes are from 13 7/8" to 15 3/4".I do sometimes mix these up say maybe 14" K top and 14" C bottom or 13 7/8 top and 14" bottom, ete.I do also used 2 pair of Paiste 2002's soundedge hats too a 14" and 15" sets.I got to hand pick these at Paiste's warehouse in ca.I was their for 6 hours putting these two sets together.When it comes to live playing Zild. New Beats...Mikey

if it comes to recording than i use my sabian 14" hand hammered regular hi hat.. best hats i have played very musical...

Thanks, I kept hearing how great these hats were so I decided to take the plunge. The ink is still visible that says, "Top Hi Hat New Beat"

Top Hi Hat weight = 887 grams, 1960s stamp

Bottom Hi Hat = 1134 grams, 1960s stamp

Looking forward to hearing them sing. Problem is they are my first Zildjians which means I will have to get others to keep them company so they dont feel outnumbered with the Paiste and Sabians :)