Hi Ken,

The Istanbul's are good cymbals. I've always felt that they are a little rougher than the Zildjian's and Sabian's but not in a bad way. Some people feel they are not as good for this reason but others feel they are better because they don't always have that highly refined sound. It's very much a matter of personal preference. Some drummers who use Zildjian/Sabian/Paiste often have the odd Istanbul in their setup for added colour.

Having said this, the difference really isn't that massive. I would suggest that if you can find somewhere that stocks Zildjian's or Sabian's as well as Istanbul's, that will give you a chance to hear them side by side and make up your own mind.

I haven't really paid attention to the Bosphorus cymbals for a few years as I wasn't particularly impressed. They seemed to me to be poor versions of the bigger brands rather than trying to go for a character of thier own. However, they may have improved since then and I might be doing them a disservice. So if you've got the time I'd check them out and see what you think for yourself.

Hope this helps,

Greg

The Bosphorus are excellent. They have a "Traditional" line that is superb. No annoying rings or overtones. Just beautiful! I have the flat ride and an 18" thin crash that I use in addition to my Zildjans and Sabians. They fit right in there. It's all about personal preference. Don't order any cymbals. Always play them first before you make a decision. Every brand has cymbals that sound great and ones that suck. Just avoid the sucky ones!

A couple of years ago i went to namm to buy a dry ride cymbal.My A custom (zildjian)sounded good but i wanted a cymbal w/a dry,mysterious,breathy,exotic,almost sinister sound."Gaaaaahhhhhhh".The Zildjian's sounded generic,the bosphoros were more unique but didnt exite me.The Istanbul's (agop)floored me.i ended up buying 2 rides,hats and a china.Since then i sold the sizzle ride,now the other ride isnt giving me enough bell,so i'm buying a K constantinople tomorrow.Bottom line;Trust your ears and know that your taste is gonna change.I get tired of the same sounds after a couple of years!Still love the hats!!Good Luck!!

That's a good point. I hadn't thought about my tastes in cymbals changing.

I posted about that a number of years ago it seems. I since bought a set of Zildjian K's that I like a lot. I think one of the problems with buying high end cymbals is just finding them at stores to try out.

Ken

Hi Ken,Did i mention i LOVE my Istanbuls?A drummer friend of mine who has played everything and has great ears LOVES playing my cymbals (the only guy i let play my jewels)The Agop line speaks to me more than Mehmet's (Agop's brother)Agops' have the glossy coating.Just keep in mind what type of music you're using them for and if you play alot of styles then look for cymbals that have versatility.But if a certain cymbal speaks to YOU...dont ignore that!Also if your getting a great price,buy as many as you can afford,you can always sell em later and not take a big hit on resale.Oh yeah,Ufip makes some great cymbals too especially splashes.Cant go wrong w/ufip's.Did i mention i LOVE my Istanbuls?ps my main axe is fretless bass Dave