Some time ago, we received quite a sizeable package from our local Zildjian distributor. Knowing exactly what was inside (and it was the first time an instrument of this sort found its way to our HQ), we immediately started unpacking to share the test results with you as soon as possible.
We are testing the 20″ x 24″ Zildjian FX Gong Sheet
1. Test
We tested the 20″ x 24″ Zildjian FX Gong Sheet in our own recording facility. For this purpose, we prepared several different types of drumsticks and mallets to demonstrate the broadest spectrum of the sounds that this instrument has to offer.
2.Basic product specification:
- Manufacturer: Zildjian
- Series: FX
- Type: Gong
- Finish: Raw
- Material: Bronze
- Sound: Deep, dark, raw
- Total weight: Medium heavy
3.Product and sound:
The Zildjian FX series is known for containing many cymbals with unusual sounds, designs and purposes. It is no different as far as the gong we tested is concerned. At the beginning, we used a classic, soft felt mallet to play the instrument, to bring out from the cymbal the sound with the softest possible attack, and it did not turn out to be as easy as we assumed. It may be partly due to the felt tip, which was not as soft as we would have liked it to be. Anyway, despite the use of the aforementioned stick, a minimal level of stick definition was audible, which may not necessarily be a disadvantage and we assume that it can be significantly reduced using a softer stick model. Interestingly, the gong, depending on the place where it is hit, can bring out very different sounds while maintaining consistent, dark, low decay. Cajon brushes proved very inspiring when playing, which also emphasized the higher frequencies of the instrument, allowing for more fun and exploration, encouraging a more musical approach. As the manufacturer assures on the official website, the gong tested here is also suitable for playing with a drum kit. So we did not fail to check the sound with ordinary drumsticks. In this case, the attack and higher frequencies became the dominant ones, but the dark background remained unchanged.
To sum up, the 20″ x 24″ Zildjian FX Gong Sheet is a great instrument for playing solo and in the context of the entire drum kit. It is perfect for all kinds of sound experiments or classic use, to which this type of instruments has made us accustomed to. Another advantage is the relatively reasonable price. Highly recommended!
Producer: https://zildjian.com/
Distributor in Poland: MUSIK MEYER Central Europe
OUR VERDICT: 5 out of 5
Advantages:
- Very well-crafted
- Great to experiment with
- Good Value at a good price
- Great response to diffrent types of drumsticks
Disadvantages:
- None
Drummers and Drummerettes! It’s time to put the 20″ x 24″ Zildjian FX Gong Sheet to the most important test of all, i. e. the en.beatit.tv viewers’ test! Exclusively for you, we give you Max Psuja!