Ive still got and am using a pair that I got when I was about 16. That's 32 years ago. I can't tell you about differences between different eras but I can tell you that they realy are very good sound wise, some different hi hats I've played just didn't sound as good, they sounded too 'clicky' on the stick. These have a nice well balanced tone too them, project well, and are suitable for any style. I think they were designed for louie bellson. Mine have developed a hair line crack (about half an inch) on the top one at edge, probably I dropped them. I hope someone can help with the other info you need here.

My primary hats are a set of New Beats that came with my first kit when I acquired it on May 1, 1977. I'm guessing that they were a mid-'70s set because there is no inked Zildjian logo, just the model with top and bottom designators that have long since faded. They are an exquisite set of cymbals … grab them if you can find some of that vintage.

I have two other sets that are also fine, but heavier as they get newer: A late-'70s hollow logo and a mid-'90s black logo.

As with any Zildjian, test alongside some of your current cymbals before buying if you can.

Al

The older new beats are going to be just slightly darker sounding than the newer ones will be.

The only way to know if you like them or not is to hear them for yourself. I will never buy a cymbal without hearing it in person. Weight, size or what ever just dont mean you will like it. A drum is a different story, you can at least try different heads and tune it, but cymbals do not have that luxury. Go to a tore, a real store and try them out.

thanks for the comments guys. i think i will go check them out.

Robyn check out the 15's too. You may like them. My first pair of NB's were 14's a used 60's set and kinda on the heavy side. Few years later I bought a pair of 15's new. They felt a bit lighter and swishy. I loved them. I now play a old set of Ludwig Paiste 15's that are pretty light. I hope to replace them with A 15's someday. But for now they are just fine. Happy shopping!!

Picked up some mid 90's New Beats recently and they sound great, didn't think they would being 'newer'. Not sure about what the newest versions are like. Wish I kept the 70's hollow logo ones though...

I don't know if I've ever heard a pair of 15" that didn't sound good. Just my opinion.

Curtis

Curtis wrote: I don't know if I've ever heard a pair of 15" that didn't sound good. Just my opinion.

I just bought a set of 15"s New Beat A's... my first set ever! I hope they sound half as good as yours do... I'll be a very happy camper.

John