Zildjian Project 391 vs Paiste Signature 18' Crash Cymbal Comparison

Since its release, Zildjian's Project 391 has been unfortunately criticised by some as being a rip off of the Paiste Signature line. Both lines of cymbals are made out of a B15 alloy, giving them both the same distinct shimmer in their decay, however they do sound quite different when compared side-by-side. The Zildjian 18" crash has far more bite and is brighter, where as the Paiste 18" full crash is darker, mellower and more complex. I must say I am very impressed with the 391 line.

[randywoolum]

I'm a Paiste guy, but I will say, that's probably the best sounding Zildjian I've ever heard.

[LarsenAndersen]

It actually sounds like a Paiste Signature 18" Power Crash, much brighter.

[nickymooncymbals]

The zildjian sounds bad, like all their B8/B12 cymbals. It has a piercing shrill high end with little to no complexity. Paiste just knows these alloys better.

[jove]

Paiste. That zildjian sounds like a children's toy version of a Signature.

[topher]

I'm a Paiste guy. I will say though, if you don't care about brand these two exact cymbals complement each other very well.

[Solar.Geoengineering.Advocate]

the only trouble is, zildjian make amazing cymbals but they're not consistent at all. buy two identical zildjians and theyl sound different to one another. when you get a good zildjian though its truly a thing to treasure. paistes strenth is their consistency. you can get a pretty good idea from sound files online what you're gonna get and if you break one and order the same again you'll get it again.

[danieladamczyk]

The Zildjian sounds like a ZBT in comparison. It still really is just a cheap knock off of the signatures, only hyped because "Oh it's limited edition, it has to be awesome!"

[metallicsilver]

I prefer the Zildian!  It is a more distinguished sound.

[cancega]

Zildjian has spent 40 years imitating Paiste. The zildjian Amir is proof