Sabian HHX Groove Hats 14"

I am a huge advocate of the HHX line, and one of my favorite examples of why this line kills are the Groove Hats.  Funk and groovy rock/jazz are my favorite styles to play, and that is what these cymbals are marketed for.  They certainly deliver on all accounts, and are just amazing cymbals.  Everyone always reminisces about the old zildjians and classic hand hammered techniques etc., but to me these exhibit the pinnacle of fine cymbal production.  I picked up a pair used for a deal, and every drummer who has ever played on them admits how great they are.

These are dark, but also have bright overtones.  They are smooth and responsive, with possibly the best funky chick I have ever heard.  When riding with a pumping shoulder of the stick they are crunchy as anything, with a great dry wash sound when opened.  They feel so fat that all you want to do is make the other musicians cut out and give you a nice syncopated 8 bar break.  Just the sound of these alone is enough to encourage a non-funk player to play like Clyde Stubblefield.  The cymbal bell is also an option because of its applicability.  There are also coated forms of this cymbal, which I like a bit less but are a bit louder, brighter and possibly more versatile in louder harder types of music.  Both are great, just personal preference.

The only drawback is that these may be a little bit less vaeratile than other cymbals, such as the HHX stage hats, which are also unbelievable.  That being said, nothing beats the HHX Groove hats on their home court, when playing funky jazzy stuff.  These cymbals aren't cheap by any means, but I also suggest you at least try them at any cost.  As good as cymbals can get.