Zultan 18" Raw China

I've tried a few cymbals from Zultan, and my impression is that they provide close to high end sounding cymbals at a very affordable price range. This china is no exception, with a unique, dry sound that works for many genres. I mainly use it for metal, and it definitely cuts through the mix. This cymbal has a lot of character in it's dark tone, which is mostly a strength, but sometimes weakness - my only complaint would be that it somewhat lacks the "straight forward" sound of a conventional metal china. When played more lightly in a jazz/fusion setting, the character and overtones of the cymbal plays to its advantage, providing a full and interesting sound.

All in all, the cymbal works great, so if you like the sound of it in demos, you won't be disappointed in person.

I would like to start this review off by saying that this is my favourite cymbal on my set (check "amendedband" on YT for a sound sample and a small review).
The cymbal is really thin and dry. Also - really trashy. I always wanted something like a Sabians AA holy china. This seems to be really close to that, but also is dry, a feat I really love about this cymbal.
The cymbal had a few, what I would like to call - linear scratches. But it has a raw finish, so maybe that is normal.
I have already owned this cymbal for 6 months and I always get a pleasant surprise every time I hit it.
A top quality sounding cymbal for an unbeatable price - recommend for anyone who is into heavier music.

I bought this cymbal after I'd previously spend £250+ on a "high end" 18" China, only to have it break at the edge within 8 months.
As I needed one quickly, and didn't have £250 on me at the time, I went for this thinking "how bad can a china sound?". I was pleasantly surprised when it arrived, and I actually prefer it to my previous china now!

It's got a very dry, trashy sound, with a quick decay, and it's LOUD. Looks pretty cool too with the raw finish. I've gigged it a few times since getting it too including an outside "tent" style festival stage, and a 100/150 capacity club. On both occasions I was competing with very loud guitar & bass, on the club night with no overheads, and on both occasions it cut through everything with ease.
The style I play is on the whole "heavy" and we're a loud band, and I've been pleased with the sound of it for the situation it's in. I imagine it would struggle at lower volumes though, and might sound overpowering over an Ed Sheeran Ukulele cover for example.

Very good cymbal for the money - would definitely recommend.