DRUMANDSTAGE FORUM

Several years ago I was buying virtually everything that caught my eye. I had a boatload of Paiste cymbals and the idea was to have 6 full rigs of varying values and sizes for any conceivable gig. Looking back I know how silly it was, but as the time, I had the means and loved trying gear.

I remember watching a video on DCP's YouTube channel. The 900 Series had a gritty sound that contrasted all the other things I had, so I ordered them. Bear in mind that these are a bit pricier than PST7's.

When they came in I played them on the church rig for a few weeks, didn't really connect with them. They ended up in a cased ultimately I donated them to the church.

Last Sunday and this coming Sunday I a m playing at a church that is not my church home, and am using my home church's rig, including the 900 cymbals.

I am playing on hardwood floors, as opposed to a carpeted choir loft in my home church. Across the board; the hi hats are adequate but a little heavy for my taste. The crashes are too heavy to open with lighter sticking. I have grown to like the more responsive, thinner cymbals over the years and these are a little lacking in the dynamics I would prefer for the venue. Last and certainly least is the ride cymbal. Very likely the worst cymbal I have ever regularly gigged with. Very washy, lots of build up and seems to be a total lack of a 'sweet spot'. The hardwood floors are so reflective, that I am not even using the ride while visiting this church. It's just there because I have nowhere better to put it before I load out Sunday evening.

I had a similar experience with Meinl Pure Alloy cymbals. They sounded great in videos, but they are stiff and slightly harsh on the fly.

Of the Paiste stuff I've heard/played in person, I would have to say I liked the 900 series the least. Not because it was unpleasant or "cheap", but I also tend toward thinner, more expressive cymbals and rides that don't build up an overpowering amount of wash.

That said, if I was a heavier/louder player (more Metal/Hard Rock type), I could see them doing well for the sound, especially with a heavier ride. Same as with the Rude series.