Paiste

Paiste (pronounced Pie-Stee if you were wondering) is a Swiss based company and the 3rd largest cymbal manufacturer in the world, renowned for its precision and innovation in making both cymbals and orchestral percussion.

In terms of innovation Paiste have been instrumental in shaping the way we use cymbals today. A few of their breakthroughs include being the first company to use Chinese style cymbals (or chinas) on a drum kit, the first to create sound wave hi-hats allowing air to escape for a tighter sound, the first to create a flat ride which is now a must have for many jazz drummers, and the first use of colour coated cymbals in their sadly discontinued ColorSound range.

Some of the artists that swear by Paiste’s sound are session legend, and Quincy Jones’ drummer of choice, John “JR” Robinson; Iron Maiden’s Nicko McBrain; The Police’s Stewart Copland and his signature “Blue Bell” ride; all round drumming genius Vinnie Colaiuta with whom Paiste have just released the Formula 602 Modern Essentials line; and the late John Bonham and his iconic, giant Paiste gong.

As for the rest of Paiste’s product range there is a bewildering amount of choice. From their flagship Signature and Twenty ranges, to the rock and metal inspired Rude and Black Alpha series, there’s choice to satisfy both the weekend warrior and the percussion veteran.