I've tried a bunch of Zildjian hi-hats: K-light, K sweet, K Custom Hybrid, a Paiste 2002 Heavy hi-hat also, which are all great hats with their own specialities. But now I ended up at the A New Beats. These are the ones for me. First had a 14" which sounds great in the flesh and even better through microphones. I was curious what the 15" would do, and this one's an upgrade to a hat that I already thought was perfect. Just a great fresh sound, nice range between closed and opened without any funky ring, the wash is just smooth and fresh ... the hat sounds great quiet and loud ... pure playing pleasure!