Best Hi Hat Cymbals For Rock 2023

The hi hat cymbals are the backbone of the drum kit, supporting the rest of the percussion with their steady, repeated patterns. Although the term “hi hat” is used to describe the entire group of two or three cymbals, traditionally they refer to the one on the right of the drummer and the one on the left. These cymbals are used to play a wide variety of beats, from steady and strong to open and airy. They’re also used to accentuate and add energy to the rest of the kit.

With so many options available, choosing the right hi hat for you can be a challenge. That’s why we decided to do some research and find the best hi hat cymbals for rock drummers. These cymbals are durable, sound great, and are designed to stand up to the rigors of playing rock music. If you’re shopping for a new hi hat cymbal for your kit, these are the ones you definitely want to try out for yourself.

Our Editor’s Best Hi Hat Cymbals For Rock Reviews


Stagg BM-HR10 10-Inch Black Metal Rock Hi-Hat Cymbals

 Stagg BM-HR10 10-Inch Black Metal Rock Hi-Hat Cymbals

Key Features:

  • This hi hat cymbal is for rock and is 7.62 cm in height.

  • This hi hat cymbals for rock is 23.876 cm long.

  • The hi hat cymbals are 26.67 cm wide and are designed for rock music.

  • “The hi hat cymbals for rock are a great addition to any drummer’s arsenal. They offer a bright, cutting sound that is perfect for rock music. They are also very durable, so you can be sure they will last through many gigs.


Sabian AA 14″ Rock Hi-Hat Cymbals, Brass, (21403B)

 Sabian AA 14

Key Features:

  • This hi-hat cymbal is perfect for rock music, as it is powerful and penetrating. It will cut through the mix and be heard clearly.

  • These hi hat cymbals are designed for rock music and can withstand heavy hitting. They are also rugged and durable, making them a good choice for those who want a long-lasting cymbal.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are designed to produce a bright sound that is perfect for hard rock and other loud genres. These cymbals are made from a high-quality material that ensures a long life and durability.


Paiste PST 8 Reflector Rock Hi-Hats 14 in.

 Paiste PST 8 Reflector Rock Hi-Hats 14 in.

Key Features:

  • Hi-hat Cymbals – Pair”

    This is a pair of 14″ hi-hat cymbals that are great for rock music.

  • If you’re looking for a hi hat cymbal that will give you a classic rock sound, then the Paiste PST 8 is a great option. Made from the legendary 2002 bronze, these cymbals are refined through traditional hand-hammering and have a unique Reflector finish that gives them a great look.

  • The Paiste Sound Technology series cymbals are Swiss-made and known for their quality craftsmanship. They are attractively priced and considered to be some of the best cymbals for rock music.

  • when closed. They’re perfect for heavier styles of music like rock, metal, and funk.”

    The hi hat cymbals are 14 inches and produce a bright, defined tone. They have a clear, cutting open sound and a rich, meaty “chick” when closed. They’re perfect for heavier styles of music like rock, metal, and funk.

  • The Paiste PST 8 hi hat cymbals are made from the legendary 2002 bronze and are refined through traditional hand-hammering. They have a unique handmade Reflector finish that makes them perfect for rock.


Avedis Zildjian Company Zildjian A Rock Pack Cymbals 14” Mastersound Hi Hats, 17” 19” Crash & 20” Ride With ZKEY, (A0801R)

 Avedis Zildjian Company Zildjian A Rock Pack Cymbals 14'' Mastersound Hi Hats, 17'' 19'' Crash & 20'' Ride With ZKEY, (A0801R)

Key Features:

  • This set of hi hat cymbals is perfect for rock music. It includes two cymbals, a top and a bottom, that create a unique sound when they are played together. These cymbals are made of high-quality metal and are built to last.

  • These hi hat cymbals are perfect for rock music, and they come in a 14″ size. They’re made from a high-quality metal alloy for durability and great sound, and they have a brilliant finish that looks great onstage.

  • The 17″ A Medium Thin Cras hi hat cymbals are perfect for rock music. They produce a crisp, clean sound that is perfect for any rock song.

  • The “19” Medium Thin Crash cymbal is a great choice for rock drumming. It has a fast attack and a bright, cutting sound that is perfect for adding accents and color to your drumming.

  • This is a 20″ Ping Ride cymbal, which is a great choice for rock music. It has a bright, cutting sound that is perfect for creating a lively rhythm.


Dream Cymbals Energy Hi-Hat Cymbals

 Dream Cymbals Energy Hi-Hat Cymbals

Key Features:

  • The “Dream Cymbals Energy Hi-Hats” are a great choice for rock shoppers. They are made of a durable material that can withstand the rigors of rock music. They have a great sound that is perfect for the genre.

  • The Dream Cymbals Energy Series hi hat cymbals are designed for rock drummers. They are well-balanced with an un-lathed bell and Bliss-style micro-lathing. They deliver a slightly exotic sound, but with every characteristic rockers listen for. They also look amazing!

  • This hi hat cymbal is good for rock because it is flexible and produces a quality sound.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock come in 13″, 14″, 15″, and 16″ options.

  • The bell of this hi hat cymbal is not lathed, which concentrates the weight in the center of the cymbal. This makes it a good choice for rock music, where a lot of power is needed.


Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Sound Edge Pair Hi-Hat 15-inch

 Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Sound Edge Pair Hi-Hat 15-inch

Key Features:

  • The hi hat cymbals are made of a type of bronze known as CuSn8 bronze, which is also known as 2002 bronze. They have been made since 1971.

  • A shopper looking for hi hat cymbals for rock music would want a set that is versatile and can be used for a variety of genres. This particular set is good for classic rock, blues, punk, hard rock, and heavy metal. It can also be used for modern genres like crossover country, rockabilly, funk, and soul.

  • The hi hat cymbals are made of a high-quality material that produces a clear and warm sound. They are very precise and have high energy levels, making them perfect for rock music. They are also powerfully reliable and have great projection.

  • The hi hat cymbals are made of a type of bronze known as 2002 bronze, which is known for its durability. The cymbals are also designed to produce a wide range of sounds, making them ideal for rock music.

  • This hi hat cymbal is good for rock music, both live and recorded. It can produce a range of sound levels, from medium soft to very loud, making it versatile for different styles of rock, including classic rock, blues, punk, and hard rock.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are perfect for most modern metal styles, including crossover country rock, ska rockabilly, funk, R&B, soul, gospel, and modern hybrids rooted in those styles. With a versatile sound that can range from light and airy to heavy and driving, these cymbals are a great option for any rock drummer.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are brilliant, clear, warm, strong, musical, and very precise with high energy levels and powerfully reliable projection.


Sabian 41403X 14″ B8X Rock Hi-Hats

 Sabian 41403X 14

Key Features:

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are made of a high-quality alloy that delivers a crisp, powerful sound. They have a brilliant finish that looks great on stage.

  • These hi hat cymbals are great for rock because they have a clear and focused sound.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock have a bright sound.

  • The B8 hi hat cymbals are made of a B8 alloy and are designed for rock music. They have a bright and cutting sound.

  • These hi hat cymbals are for rock and are heavy on the top and bottom.


Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Sound Edge Top Hi-Hat 14-inch

 Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Sound Edge Top Hi-Hat 14-inch

Key Features:

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are made of CuSn8 Bronze, also known as 2002 Bronze. They have been made since 1971.

  • The cymbals are good for rock music, both live and recorded. They can be used for classic rock, blues, punk, hard rock, heavy metal, and most modern metal styles. They can also be used for crossover country rock, ska, rockabilly, funk, R&B, soul, gospel, and modern hybrids rooted in those styles.

  • The hi hat cymbals for rock are described as being brilliant, clear, warm, strong, musical, and very precise with high energy levels and powerfully reliable projection.


Meinl 15″ Medium HiHat (Hi Hat) Cymbal Pair – Pure Alloy Traditional – Made in Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (PA15MH)

 Meinl 15

Key Features:

  • The cymbal has a bright attack with a smooth feel. It is medium weight and gives you a full-bodied energy.

  • The Meinl Pure Alloy cymbals are designed for rock music and have a clean sound. They are made with fully lathed surfaces for a more expressive sound.

  • The cymbals are designed to produce a timeless sound that can take you back in time or provide a flash of clarity for today’s music.

  • This hi hat cymbal is great for rock because it has a reactive touch that creates smooth sounds. It also has a lot of sustain, making it great for rock.

  • The Meinl Hi Hat Cymbals for Rock are professional quality cymbals that are made in Germany. They are stamped with the Meinl logo and are laser engraved with the text “Made in Germany”. These cymbals are made with green energy and are produced in a facility that is completely powered by solar panels.


Sabian 14-Inch Paragon Hi-Hat Cymbals

 Sabian 14-Inch Paragon Hi-Hat Cymbals

Key Features:

  • This hi hat cymbal is good for rock music because it is medium-weight, which means it will have fast, crisp responses and clean sticking.

  • These hi-hat cymbals are designed with legendary RUSH drummer Neil Peart, and are perfect for rock music. They offer a great sound and are built to last.

  • These hi hat cymbals are great for rock music, but can be used for any genre. They are durable and produce a clear sound.


Best Hi Hat Cymbals For Rock Buying Guide

1. Sound: The sound of a hi-hat is the most important characteristic that you should look when buying a hi-hat cymbal. The sound of a hi-hat can be described in three words: crisp, cutting and bright.

For a good hi-hat sound, you need to look for a cymbal with a good amount of edge and some amount of bell to produce a full sound. The bell of the cymbal is the area closest to the bottom edge.

A drummers’ technique and the music genre also determines the kind of hi-hat sound that he or she prefers.

If you prefer a traditional sound and you play music styles such as rock, jazz and pop, then you should look for cymbals with more bell.

If you prefer a modern sound, then you should look for cymbals with more edge in them.

2. Stick Response: Stick response is important in any cymbal, but especially in hi-hats because they are played with sticks.

Hi-hats are played with two hats and each hat is struck with a different stick. So you need a cymbal that responds well to both of your sticks.

But remember that it is impossible to get a perfect balance between stick and foot response. So you should look for a cymbal that has more stick response than foot response.

This will enable you to get a better control over the cymbal. But if the stick response is too much and the foot response is too less, then the cymbal will feel uncontrollable.

3. Durability: Hi-hats get a lot of hits, so they need to be durable if they are to last long.

The material of the cymbals also affects the durability of the cymbals. For example, if you buy a pair of lathed cymbals, they will be more durable than straight-cast cymbals.

Thin cast cymbals will not last long because the thin material will break easily. But if you buy a pair of thick cymbals, you have to deal with a lot of overtones.

So you have to make the right balance between thin and thick cymbals.

If the cymbals are too thin, they will produce a lot of overtones which will make them unusable.

If the cymbals are too thick, then they will break easily.

4. Cost Effectiveness: Cymbals are one of the most expensive drum accessory, so you have to make the right balance between quality and price.

You can get a good pair of cymbals within your budget. But if you buy cheap cymbals, then they will not last long and they will produce too many overtones.

So make sure that you buy a pair of quality cymbals within your budget.

5. Size: The size of the hi-hats is also important. If the hi-hats are too big, then they will not produce a good sound.

If the hi-hats are too small, then they will not produce enough stick response. So make sure that you buy a pair of cymbals that are neither too big nor too small.


Hi Hat Cymbals For Rock FAQs

1. How do I choose the right hi hat cymbal for my rock setup?

There is no definitive answer, as the right hi hat cymbal depends on personal preference and the specific sound you are looking for in your rock setup. However, some tips to keep in mind when choosing a hi hat cymbal include:- Consider the overall sound you want to achieve with your setup. For a more aggressive sound, a heavier hi hat cymbal with a lower pitch may be a good option.- Pay attention to the material the hi hat cymbal is made of. Different materials will produce different sounds, so choose one that will fit the overall sound you are going for.- Consider the size of the hi hat cymbal. A larger cymbal will produce a louder sound, while a smaller one will be more subdued.- Try out several different hi hat cymbals to find the one that sounds best with your rock setup.

2. How do I properly set up my hi hat cymbal?

The first thing you need to do is find a stand that is the right size for your cymbal. Once you have the stand, you need to set up the tension on the cymbal. The tension is what determines how much the cymbal will move when you hit it. You can either use a key or a drum key to tighten or loosen the tension.

3. What are some of the best techniques for using hi hat cymbals in rock music?

Some of the best techniques for using hi hat cymbals in rock music include using a light touch to create a fast and sharp sound, using a heavy touch to create a deep and powerful sound, and using a combination of light and heavy strokes to create a variety of different sounds.

4. How can I get the most out of my hi hat cymbals?

There is no one definitive answer to this question. Different drummers have different techniques and preferences when it comes to hi hat cymbals. Some drummers may prefer to play the hi hat cymbals with a light touch, while others may prefer a more aggressive approach. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.

5. What are some of the common problems that can occur when using hi hat cymbals in rock music?

Some common problems that can occur when using hi hat cymbals in rock music are that they can get lost in the mix, they can be too loud, or they can be too soft.


Conclusion

There are many great hi hat cymbals for rock on the market. Our list of the best hi hat cymbals for rock will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.