Zildjian FX 20" Classic China

Group: Chinas
Type: Classic China
Size: 20 Inch
Series: FX
Weight: 1587, 1733g
Median Weight: 1660g (n=2)
Years of production: 1997 - ?; Limited Rerelease of 20 (Autumn 2024)
Sound File: Zildjian FX 20" Classic China
Zildjian's Description: <<< - >>>
Review: "There was a time when I collected China cymbals; I just love that dark, mysterious tone. At one point I owned several—all different types, weights, designs, brands—and I still keep an ear out for them. But even with all of that experience, I've never heard a China cymbal as low and as nasty as Zildjian's new Oriental Classic. These cymbals take "trash" to a new level.

The design of these Chinas is a bit different. With a lip wider than a South American rain forest chief, the broad, upturned edge of the Oriental Classic gives it a unique appearance. You also have several easily accessible playing areas: the lip (with a dark and rancid sound), the bow (slightly more focused, good for ride patterns), and the bell (which actually has a bell-like sound). The bell rises up from the bow and then flattens, making mounting the cymbal upside down a breeze.

Both the 20" and 22" had a dark heart, the 20" just slightly higher-pitched but maybe even a hair trashier. The ride sound on both was nice, but the sheer presence of the crash sound was incredible. I mounted the cymbals upside down and horizontal, and the sound they projected was similar to a roaring ocean. Rolling on them with mallets was another experience altogether."

Review written by William F. Miller "Product Close-Up - A Zildjian Potpourri" (Modern Drummer, July 1997, pp. 43-44)

Artist/song where it can be heard: