Hi Hat Care

[McShmoopy]

Hey guys, well during my playing just noticed I cracked some Zildjian Planet Z Hi Hats. Im buying some new Hats soon and Im just curious how I should make sure my next hi hats dont break. Im aware of how to take care of cymbals on stands.

It could just be that they were Planet Z's and they were fairly weak but a few pointers would be great.

[drumtechdad]

Well, Planet Zs were made of brass, so there's that. Brass cymbals will definitely crack more easily than bronze.

You don't say where the cracks are, so . . .

If you got cracks around the hole of the top cymbal, look for a clutch that is smooth (not threaded) in the area where the cymbal is held. Many modern clutches are made this way. Also, don't have the clutch grip the cymbal too tightly.

If you got cracks around the edge, all I can say is don't hit them so hard. Any cymbal will reach a point where it gives maximum volume, and it won't get any louder no matter how hard you hit it. It makes no sense to exceed this volume level. Not saying you do, just sayin'.

Also, we tend to hit the hats on the edge, which is a real no-no with rides and crashes. See if you can put a little angle to your stick, so more of the cymbal top is absorbing the blow.

For myself, I like big, heavy, loud hats--Newbeats. Been playing the same pair for over 40 years.

[McShmoopy]

Haha fair enough, and yeah they are on the edge.

As well as how hard Im hitting them would me tightening them all the way onto my clutch be a factor too?

[Pocket-full-of-gold]

Originally Posted by McShmoopy

As well as how hard Im hitting them would me tightening them all the way onto my clutch be a factor too?

If you're a hard hitter, it certainly won't help......too much shock to absorb and not enough cymbal movement to help dissipate it. Loosen that top hat a shade and allow it to move.

[McShmoopy]

Okay thanks guys, also another question, in most new h hat clutches the bottom locking nut has a feature where you can physicaly tight that with a drum key. I have the occasional problem of my Hi hats loosening over time, and I dont really want to buy a whole net clutch just for that specific piece.

Would they have this kind of locking nut available to buy seperately or do I need a new clutch?



Here's an example

[Pocket-full-of-gold]

I'm sure the part will be available, but I'm not sure if 'one size fits all' or not. I also doubt it'd be a stocked item...more like a special order (or replacement part order), but I'm guessing.

For what it is, personally, I think it'd be far less hassle to just spring for a new clutch. They will be stocked.

[drumtechdad]

The Pearl drop clutch (shown) is widely available.

[McShmoopy]

Fair enough, I could spare aside a few quid to get that, also purchased my new hi hats, Sabian Pro 14", should get them in a few days :D